Okay, we’ve heard a lot about UTSA’s campus culture. It’s time to hit the books and start talking about academics. Here to get things rolling is Joshua who’s gonna tell us about the UTSA Honors College. UTSA students are preparing for their future careers by learning from top faculty in their classes and by participating in out of the classroom experiences. Take it away, Joshua.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. During my senior year of high school, I knew I wanted to study electrical engineering. My goal was to attend a university where I could stand out and make a difference. After touring several colleges, I knew that attending the University of Texas at San Antonio can make that goal a reality. I decided to enroll in the UTSA Honors College, and I’m so glad I did. The UTSA Honors College has helped me tremendously, both in terms of standing out as an engineer and growing as a person. My first year in the program granted me the opportunity to participate in the honor study abroad in Costa Rica. There, I was fully immersed in a new culture. I even made a lifelong friend on the trip. The Honors 101 class gave me the push I needed to seek out research opportunities here on campus. That was a single best career decision I’ve ever made. UTSA is a Tier 1 research university with tons of programs for undergraduate researchers. One of those programs funded by the National Science Foundation is how I got my start in the Unmanned Systems Lab. Today, I’m a published author in a peer-reviewed electrical engineering conference and had the opportunity to present my research in DC. This past year, I led a team to first place in the Excellence in Senior Design, Electrical and Computer Engineering showcase where we competed against a dozen of the best schools throughout Texas and New Mexico. Now I look forward to continuing my education and research by enrolling in UTSA’s new graduate program in artificial intelligence. And thanks to the Honors College for helping me along the way. Back to you, Alex.
– Thanks, Joshua. It’s wonderful to know that highly-motivated undergraduates like you can join Honors College no matter what their major is. And the Honors College staff and faculty will help them to develop a customized experience based curriculum to fit their career goals. That is amazing. Thanks again.
Let me introduce you to Kaitlyn. She’s a junior majoring in Marketing with a minor in Languages. Kaitlyn is active in the university’s TRiO Student Success Services program and the American Sign Language Club. She’s gonna talk about why living on campus is a great foundation for your UTSA experience. Take it away, Kaitlyn.
Thank you, Alex. I hope you all are doing amazing today. I want to share with you why I chose the University of Texas at San Antonio. Growing up with a single mother and six brothers, I always knew that when I was ready to leave the nest, it would have to be for a place that felt like home. And I have to say there is no better way to make campus feel like home and to start college with a strong foundation other than to live there. At UTSA, there are a variety of on-campus housing options. They range from common residence halls to apartment-like living spaces. When you live on campus, you’re already super close to amenities such as our dining halls and the campus recreation center. In my experience, the best part about living on campus are the resident assistants, or RAs, who work hard to ensure that students experience college life to the fullest, both socially and academically. When you live on campus, you’re always in the middle of all of the action. Some of my favorite events happen during a back-to-school celebration called Roadrunner Days. During the first two weeks of classes, the university’s schedules tons of interactive events to welcome in the new school year. Students living on campus get to take full advantage. I enjoy this time because there are an abundance of opportunities to get familiar with the campus and meet new people. I have made countless connections through living on campus. And after graduation, I plan to go abroad to utilize the skills that I have honed here at UTSA. Birds up, Alex.
Great job, Kaitlyn. It’s easy to see that living on campus has greatly enhanced your Roadrunner experience, and it’s so awesome to know that you paid that forward by becoming a resident advisor yourself. Thanks for telling us about what on-campus life is like at UTSA.
Let’s meet Rashad. He’s a senior majoring in cybersecurity. He also plays safety for the UTSA football team. As a student athlete, Rashad has definitely experienced Roadrunner spirit and he is also given Roadrunner Nation a lot to cheer about. You’re up, Rashad.
– Thank you, Alex. Hey, everyone. I chose UTSA for many reasons. First, I wanted my majors to involve technology and our cybersecurity program, one of the best in the nation. Second, I wanted to play football, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to do just that. Finally, being from San Antonio, it was an added bonus to stay close to home and help build the UTSA athletics program. I made the decision to commit to UTSA when I was 17. Looking back, it was the best decision I could have made. UTSA athletics is full of passion. That fits who I am and the character of my family. Our coaches and staff make me feel supported, both as a student and as a athlete. Just one example of that unwavering support is the Roadrunner Athletics Center of Excellence. It’s our hub for building our strength and balancing our lives as student athletes so we can succeed in school and on the field. Let me tell you, Roadrunner spirit is unbelievable. It’s a vibe that you can feel when you’re on campus or at a game. Campus life really comes alive when there is an event of some kind going on. Playing in Alamo Dome, things can be pretty rowdy, especially when you have 40,000 fans all screaming at the top of their lungs. When I’m on the field and I hear that roar Roadrunner spirit, it’s like nothing else. I have learned a lot in my time here. This university has given me resource to be successful in whatever I do in life. The future for UTSA and for me is bright. Back to you, Alex.
– Your future is bright indeed, Rashad, and that Roadrunner spirit from all the students was truly rowdy. What do you think, Rowdy? Thanks again, Rashad, and go Roadrunners.
It’s time to meet Farah. Farah is a senior with a double major in Finance and Management. She’s gotten a strong business education thanks to her professors in the Alvarez College of Business and the college’s ties with the local industry. But what really made her UTSA experience special was getting involved on campus. Tell us more, Farah.
– Thanks for that introduction, Alex. Hi, y’all. Growing up, I had quite literally wanted to be everything, from a doctor to a lawyer to even the president, but the one thing that I knew for certain was that I wanted to continue my education. When I got to UTSA’s campus, this school helped me find my passion and from there, this campus felt like home. During freshman orientation, the orientation leaders emphasized the importance of getting involved on campus. They talked about how influential it would be to having a great college experience. And like every freshman at first, I ignored this. Fortunately, UTSA requires freshmen to have a peer mentor, and mine encouraged me to join at least one organization. When I did, I had the time of my life. I met my best friends and I started becoming more connected to the university community. I joined student government, academic organizations and groups on campus that had absolutely nothing to do with my major, just for the sake of growing as a person. Joining these organizations help me not only find my passion, but also land my two internships. With over 350 academic and non-academic organizations and numerous activities on campus, UTSA offers countless ways to get engaged. UTSA also has many traditions. I may be biased considering I did help create it, but one of my favorites is Light the Dome. This was something we started at the football conference championship game to show support for the team. Looking back at little freshman Farah, I would tell her that getting involved isn’t scary. You get what you put into your college experience, so take advantage of your time here. That’s a little bit about my journey. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Farah, for sharing why getting involved is so impactful. I’m so happy to know that you found your best friends and also some great opportunities because of your involvement with Student Government, Business Student Council, Spirit Advisory Board, and other campus organizations. Take care, Farah.
Okay, let’s meet Chloe. Chloe is it junior majoring in Geography and Environmental Sustainability, and she hails from right here in San Antonio. Chloe loves her hometown and UTSA. She’s also a second-generation Roadrunner. And she’s the perfect person to introduce us to this great university and this great city. Kick us off, Chloe.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. Bienvenidos. Welcome to the University of Texas at San Antonio. I came to UTSA because I loved the idea of staying in my hometown while attending a nationally-recognized institution. UTSA is my father’s alma mater, and at his graduation, my mom dressed me up as a UTSA cheerleader. Years later, when I found that photo, I knew I wanted to follow in my dad’s footsteps and become a Roadrunner. UTSA is a great university in a thriving city. The school has tons of clubs and organizations that connect you to San Antonio. For example, I’m one of the co-community service coordinators for UTSA’s Black Student Union. Through my local ties, I plan events that bring students together from all over to work with organizations throughout the city. San Antonio’s also a great city to live in. During the holidays, you can visit the River Walk and see our famous Christmas lights. There are hundreds of events throughout the year for you to attend, a personal favorite being Fiesta. This 10-day celebration occurs every spring and includes a carnival, parades and other events across the city. If you’re seeking places to visit, San Antonio is filled with unique historical sites. When you went to unwind, San Antonio has amazing parks and and live music venues. Also, UTSA’s main campus is located right across the street from an outdoor shopping center and an amusement park. Lastly, if you love food, San Antonio has some of the best food in the state. From our Tex-Mex to our barbecue, UTSA has taught me so much in such a short amount of time. After I graduate with my bachelor’s degree, I plan to continue my education right here and get my master’s degree in either geography or urban planning and make my alma mater proud. Come check it out for yourself. Haste luego. Birds up.
– Mucho gusto, Chloe, and fantastic job. It’s wonderful to hear about the strong ties between UTSA and San Antonio, and how great cities and great universities support each other and their community. And I will definitely be back to celebrate Fiesta, so please save me a spot on the UTSA parade float. Viva Fiesta.
Now, let’s head over to meet up with Alex. He’s a senior, Psychology Major from Auburn, Washington and is going to tell us more about what the city of Abilene offers students. From local businesses to the up and coming downtown, we want to know all about the community surrounding Abilene Christian University. Tell us more, Alex!
Hey, Alex, cool name! When it comes to my experience as a first generation student, ACU nailed it. I fell in love with the campus, the city, and the people of Abilene during my first visit. With about 5,200 students, we’ve created a community that just as much belongs to our city as it does our campus. Abilene is just the right size to provide students with a sense of community no matter where they go in Abilene. For me a big part of my community is my fraternity. Whether it’s restaurants and hangouts around town or getting together for intramural games late at night on campus, Abilene is a great place to gather with friends. ACU alumni are making their mark all over this town. There are concerts on the rooftop of The Grace Museum, Art Walks, and plenty of characters and scenes from your favorite children’s books around the Storybook Capital of America. Or for something closer to campus, Allen Ridge is the new up and coming development across the road with restaurants and places to hang out. The city of Abilene is just the right size for those that want to be a part of a big community with small town vibes. You quickly learn that the many coffee shops around town are the place to study and spend time with friends after class – the perfect balance of caffeine and fellowship. Abilene is a safe and life-giving community that has helped shape who I have become. Its friendship with ACU continues to equip me and other students with opportunities to grow and serve locally while enjoying all that it has to offer its citizens. I may just be one person, but change starts with a love for others and a supporting community to grow in.
Alex, that was awesome! Abilene offers the perfect combination of local and mainstream businesses with that Western charm. Also, this city is constantly growing and adding new developments for college students to enjoy with their friends. Thank you so much, Alex.
By now, we hope you’ve seen that ACU is a Christian campus dedicated to combining world class academics and authentic relationships in a Christ-centered environment. [On-drey-uh] Andrea, a Junior, Business and Psychology major from Odessa, Texas, is going to share how her student experience, teaches her, about other cultures and continues to shape and grow her faith. Andrea, the floor is yours!
Thanks, Alex, and welcome everyone! My freshman year in high school, I came to visit Abilene Christian University and stood at Jacob’s Dream. Back then, I couldn’t have imagined just how much of a home ACU would become – one full of amazing opportunities for spiritual growth. The Chapels in Moody first introduced me to ACU’s amazing multicultural organizations where I have become so involved as an event coordinator, leading with the chaplain and other officers. In addition to campus-wide chapels, we also have small group chapels every morning at 11. These smaller groups help me be intentional in my faith and teach me ways to live an abundant life. On Friday’s we worship! Praise Day Fridays pull us all together midday and Midnight Worship brings us to life at night. I also love the Missions Week ACU hosts each year for students to meet with organizations that serve local communities in Abilene, around the States, and abroad. I had the chance of a lifetime to use my nursing major for, showing me that I can make a difference anywhere. There are three values we stand by at ACU: proximity, participation, and purpose. These values are supported by the diverse selection of chapels across campus that appeal to many interests and places of calling, allowing us to have conversations about our faith and purpose at those intersections. Being a student at ACU will teach you to go outside your comfort zone socially, spiritually, and academically. Like God spoke to Jacob through his dream, represented by our beautiful statue, I’ve learned that no matter where I go, he is by my side and will show me my purpose. There is a place just for you here at ACU! Back to you, Alex!
Andrea, thank you for sharing how ACU strengthens your spiritual formation. There’s always an opportunity to be a part of ACU’s faith-based message through Chapel, a mission trip, or being involved in a student organization. I hope your spiritual journey continues to grow even richer, Andrea! Thank you!
Alright, your residence hall is just the beginning to the social life you’ve been waiting for. Let’s meet Jared, an Education Major in his senior year from Hamlin, Texas. He made connections through the full intramural sports program at ACU and those friendships continue to shape his undergraduate experience. Jared, take it away!
Thanks, Alex! I always knew I wanted to be a Wildcat, and I haven’t looked back. During my time here, I have developed close friendships and had unforgettable experiences. I’ve loved every minute of college, especially since I plugged into ACU’s student life! Though I knew I was coming to ACU, I didn’t know anyone else when I got here. It turns out there are lots of ways to get connected that we learn about during Wildcat Week. I found my connections in my major and began making friends that pushed me out of my comfort zone. I even signed up for intramural football. It has been one of the best decisions in my undergraduate experience, because I have made so many amazing friends! We’ve attended church camp together, taken trips to their hometowns, celebrated birthdays, and so much more! There’s more to intramurals than football – in addition to all of the classic sports, we also have esports, dodgeball and swimming competitions, just to name a few. With over 100 student organizations on campus, there’s opportunities for everyone to be involved somewhere. And CAB is always doing something around campus to keep us living in the moment and enjoying life as a student body. ACU’s dedication to these programs shows how much our faculty and staff care about not only our academics, but also our life outside of the classroom. Student life has impacted me more than I thought it would. It has introduced me to people I might not have met otherwise and shown me how to be involved and build a supportive community of friends! Back to you, Alex!
Thanks, Jared! I loved hearing your story about finding your place and your people on campus. The social life experiences offered at ACU really allow students to be well-rounded and get the most out of their college experience, all while forming lasting relationships. Thanks again, Jared.
Okay, everyone, we’re going to meet Madi of Wylie, Texas, who is currently pursuing her master’s in Convergence Journalism. She’s going to highlight her experience as a D1 basketball player and what it felt like to win the conference championships to go all the way to March Madness! Passing it over to you at Moody Coliseum, Madi.
Thank you, Alex! Hey, everyone! From the first time I picked up a basketball, I knew I wanted to play Division 1 sports. It was my dream to play for a championship and be a part of something bigger than myself. When I committed to play basketball at Abilene Christian University, I knew I was joining a successful program led by a coach with a winning mentality. I learned very quickly what a championship mindset looked like. My upperclassmen teammates played a huge part in my development as a player and a person. My first season was full of ups and downs, but we won our conference, and that championship carried us to our March Madness appearance that year. It was such a surreal feeling and the best moment in my basketball career. The support we receive from the community make it all the more special. ACU has 17 teams competing in the Western Athletic Conference for our fans to cheer on. Among them, we claim 64 NCAA national championships. That’s the 5th most national team championships in NCAA history. Every day I get to go to school and practice in an environment committed to helping me become the best version of myself so that I can serve the Kingdom. Our athletic department is committed to developing the best programs in the best facilities out there. We are so excited to play on the new court in the renovated Moody Coliseum. Our new locker rooms, gyms and coaching spaces amplify the commitment to our programs here. There’s something different about ACU and the community that surrounds it. The way you can see God working through the Athletics program and the difference each athlete brings to their team is something so rare, but you find it here at ACU. Back to you, Alex.
Madi, thank you for sharing the excitement of Abilene Christian University’s basketball and athletic programs. I’m so glad that ACU’s supportive community and world class facilities continue to elevate your experience as a faith-inspired D1 athlete.
Let’s head over to meet Mckenzie, a senior Communication major from Sunnyvale, Texas. She’s going to share more about what makes this 116-year-old university so special and what this means.. Go ahead and tell us all about those strong Wildcat traditions, Mckenzie.
Thanks for that introduction, Alex! As a 4th generation Wildcat, my love for the traditions and mission of this school runs deep. Growing up, I heard countless stories about ACU, so I was beyond ready to make my own experience here. As soon as I started my ACU career, I got involved on campus. Being a part of ACU’s traditions has easily been a college highlight. It means so much to experience ACU’s longest standing tradition, Sing Song, the nation’s largest all-school a capella competition. It’s one of the biggest events on campus each year and is highly competitive amongst students. I have absolutely loved being a part of the action that brings the production to life as a Sing Song director and the thrill every time I’ve stepped on stage as a hostess during my time here. Another one of my favorite ACU traditions is homecoming weekend! It incorporates all of the campus pride of a Purple Friday and rolls right into the gameday fun. Students, alumni, families, and even the Abilene community all come out for our annual homecoming parade, tailgate, musical, and football game. It’s a great time to flash your WC hand sign. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities ACU has given me. From leading as president of my sorority, to experiencing ACU traditions like Candlelight Devo that I’d always heard my family talk about. There is truly something for everyone to get involved in and be a part of here. Although I always pictured myself coming to ACU, I could have never imagined just how impactful my time here would be. The people, traditions, and experiences at ACU are one of a kind. That’s all from me, now back to you Alex!
Mckenzie, thanks so much for sharing your ACU roots and teaching us about the favorite campus traditions! It’s so awesome you’ve continued a family legacy and lived out your Wildcat dreams through campus-wide events like ‘Sing Song’. I hope your senior year at ACU is something especially memorable.