Let’s pivot to where this campus is headed. Evan’s going to tell us about the defining research being done right here on this campus. He’s a triple major in biology, chemistry and biochemistry from Lubbock, Texas with a passion for scientific research and his work in the ‘NEXT Lab’. ACU is home to the Nuclear Experimental Testing Lab – or NEXT Lab – and the first university-based molten salt research reactor. Take it away, Evan!
Thank you, Alex and howdy everyone! Before coming to ACU, I wanted to attend dental school and become an orthodontist. Little did I know that a few years later I would forget dental school, add two more majors, and find immense satisfaction in the field of research. I’ve been greatly influenced by ACU’s resources and commitment to undergraduate research. Since my freshman year, my professors have provided guidance and hands-on experience on projects that seek to solve worldwide issues. For example, on just one of my projects, I’m studying microbes from the deepest cave in Texas. I hope to isolate antibiotic compounds from these microbes that could combat the global antibiotic resistance crisis. If that’s not exciting enough, I also work for the Nuclear Energy eXperimental Testing Laboratory, or NEXT Lab. The NEXT Lab provides a unique undergraduate research opportunity that allows us students to not only further develop our skills and knowledge, but also contribute to projects that aim to provide clean energy, water, and radioisotopes for cancer treatment. It is so rewarding to see your work be incorporated into the project. ACU’s professors believe in preparing you with great experience and shaping your interests to make an impact on the world. It’s because of ACU that I was able to take my experience and spend a whole summer on cancer imaging research as an intern at MD Anderson. But it’s not just the NEXT Lab. Research is happening all across campus, in every college and major. Wherever you find your passion, you’re going to find opportunities to dive deeper into the subject and contribute to its progress. I am so prepared and excited for a future in research, and I thank ACU for all that it has allowed me to experience as an undergraduate pursuing what I enjoy. I’ll send it back to you, Alex.
Wow, Evan! That is super impressive. The NEXT Lab really is a career-changing opportunity available to ACU students as early as their freshman year. I love how ACU continues to support your aspirations and provide you with unforgettable experiences in your field. Good luck with your upcoming research, Evan.
From Pensacola, Florida we have Maurica, a Journalism Major in her junior year. She’s going to tell us about her experience as an out-of-state student and how ACU’s residence halls created a home away from home her freshman year. Tell us about it, Maurica!
Thanks for the introduction, Alex! I always knew I wanted to leave my hometown in Florida and see what else was out there, but who would’ve guessed I’d find myself 13 hours away from home? As an out-of-state student, making ACU my home was really important to me, and Residence Life did not disappoint where it mattered most. I admit being so far from home was difficult at first. However, I was surrounded by an entirely new community with exciting activities like football games, volunteering and student government events to keep me engaged and building relationships. I’m still involved in a lot of things here on campus. I’m the historian for the Black Student Union, a member of the debate team and because I believe so much in the power of our community on campus, I’m the Senior Resident Assistant at Barrett Hall. Speaking of, you’re going to love our residence halls. At ACU, all first and second year students live on campus. We have a brand new Freshman Village in the works with the opening of Bullock Hall this past year and the new addition of Wessel Hall, which will also house our Honors College Living and Learning Community with a faculty-in-residence. Residence life is such an amazing way to be involved on campus. Between hall events and lobby hours, living on campus creates a close-knit community for all of our students. I love the years I’ve spent on campus being a part of the community here and helping build it for each incoming class. I’ve learned so much about myself and serving others while working in Residence Life. While I’m a year away from graduation, I hope you’ll find me advocating for others and sharing more stories about my time at ACU. Back to you, Alex!
There really are so many different ways to build your community at ACU! Maurica, it is amazing how you continue to give back to the organizations that have such a powerful impact on you. Keep it up!
Let’s hear from Aspen, a junior from Amarillo, Texas! She’s going to tell us all about ACU’s academic resources for every student interested in a health profession. Take it away, Aspen!
Thanks, Alex! Hey, guys! When I started looking for a university, I knew I wanted two things – professors who know their students on a personal level and a pre-med shadowing program. That made Abilene Christian University the perfect choice for me. My professors are invested in me and my success. I’m very involved at ACU as a tutor and teaching assistant for the biology and chemistry lab. I also participate in department research, lead ACU’s Honors Council, and volunteer in the Abilene community. All of these activities require their mentorship and knowing me well enough to see my strengths and guide me toward them, whether it’s contributing to their own work or shadowing local physicians and surgeons. While we’re serious about our studies here, there’s a balance to keeping a social life too. I continue to lead in my hobbies as the secretary of the Sanctify hip hop dance team and the treasurer for the Pickleball Club. I love that my extracurriculars keep me active while my academics prepare me for my future. Through the Center for Pre-Health Professions, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in another culture on a medical mission trip to Guatemala. During this trip, I shadowed dentists, family physicians, and physical therapists. One of the great points of ACU is that there are a multitude of similar opportunities for missions and service across all 164 areas of study. With all the areas of study available, it’s easy to find your passion. I came to ACU as a pre-med student, but my experiences in the classroom have shown me that I want to teach at the college level. My advisors and professors are thrilled to share their advice with me. I look forward to supporting future students in the same way I’ve been supported here. I’m proud to be a Wildcat! Back to you, Alex!
ACU has so much to offer. Aspen, thanks for sharing about the excellent academic opportunities here. Not only does ACU have amazing Christian faculty, but this university offers so many unique ways to deepen your learning outside of the classroom. Thanks, Aspen!
It’s time to meet the man, the myth, the legend…Joseph! Joseph is a junior at ACU originally from Edinburg, Texas and is no stranger to the spotlight. He is excited to share more about his time as an on-camera sports reporter. These experiential learning opportunities greatly prepare him for his future goals. Let’s go, Joseph!
Thank you for the introduction, Alex! I learned early in life to let my faith and values steer me. With help from my parents, friends and mentors, I recognized that Abilene Christian University was where I wanted to spend the next chapter of my life. ACU’s emphasis on experiential learning combined with faith-centered community attracted me to become a Wildcat. Not only do I love gaining real-world experience in journalism and mass communication, I take pride in maintaining my foundation in Christ while gaining an education that opens doors for me to reach my professional goals. Since freshman year, I’ve been building my media personality brand through ACUTV as a premiere on-air talent on ESPN+ and as a reporter for LakersNation.com. Through ACUTV, your dream of being the next broadcaster or producer comes alive as early as your first semester. You have incredible all-around access to everything from talking on camera, holding a camera, and producing a live ESPN College Gameday! An education at ACU is more than just earning a degree. It’s more about applying what you learn in the classroom to the real world. And it happens in every department and program across campus no matter what you’re studying. You get a taste for what your professional career may look like, how to build long-term connections, and why it is important to value your experience beyond the classroom. That’s my story, back to you Alex.
Keep it up, Joseph! You’re a great example of how students can live out ACU’s experiential learning opportunities. ACUTV, KACU Radio station and The Optimist Newspaper provide hands-on learning for all journalism students. ACU offers so many opportunities for on-camera talent like you, Joseph, but don’t take my job! Thanks again.
Alright y’all, it’s time to meet Liv. She’s a sophomore nursing major from Carrollton, Texas and spent her first year diving into all that the exceptional community ACU has to offer. Let’s hear all about it, Liv!
Thanks, Alex! Hey y’all! As I was touring colleges, I found myself looking for a college that felt like home, a place where I could find community. When I reached Abilene Christian University, I knew it was that place. And my first year experience proved it over and over again! As a freshman, I participated in so many ACU events on and off campus, including Freshman Follies, a freshman-only lip-sync competition held during Family Weekend each fall; Sing Song, one of ACU’s most-loved traditions; and my sorority. Freshmen and sophomores are required to live on campus, really making ACU your college home. We have an exciting new Freshman Village to center that first year experience. The new residence halls house men and women and includes plenty of study spaces, hangouts and kitchens, even an outdoor one. ACU is an amazing place to make memories. Whether it’s walking the Lunsford Trail with my friends or late night study sessions in Brown Library, I feel loved and seen. It’s no surprise that ACU is ranked Number 8 in the nation for First-Year Experience by U.S. News & World Report. Our community is like no other, taking our college experience beyond the classroom and career preparation. At ACU, our professors care deeply about our personal and professional development. As early as our freshman year, we’re taking part in their research, stepping in front of the camera or joining them in the field as they mentor and guide us. They’re a part of the relationships that will last a lifetime. I experienced so much my first year, and I barely scratched the surface. I couldn’t ask for a better college home. That’s all from me! GO WILDCATS! Back to you, Alex.
Sounds like you had a FULL year! It’s no wonder ACU has been recognized year after year for their first-year experience and how it encourages students to pursue their passions. You’ll develop meaningful connections here – from international student organizations and academic groups to intramurals and Greek life, there’s something for everyone. Great job!
Allow me to introduce MJ, a journalism major from Pembroke, Massachusetts. MJ is a recent graduate of Quinnipiac University who right after graduation landed a dream job as a sports anchor in Texas. He’ll share with us some of things students can take advantage of in and out of the classroom at QU. You’re LIVE MJ!
Hey there future Bobcats! Welcome to *insert filming location* When I came to Quinnipiac I knew what I wanted to be when I got older. The voice you hear broadcasting games from the press box or the face you see on TV reporting from the sidelines…I had the passion – I just needed some help getting there. And man am I glad I chose Quinnipiac to help, because now I’m working as a Sports Anchor at the NBC affiliate in Wichita Falls, Texas! During my time at QU, I took what I learned in the classroom from professors who have real-world experience in their field — and applied those lessons through our extra-curricular programs. By the time I graduated, I was able to create an amazing portfolio. I even had the opportunity to work alongside media professionals covering division one athletics on the Nation’s biggest stage! Quinnipiac is consistently ranked as the number one university in the country for job placement after graduation. Our students leverage a growing web of successful alumni — scattered from Boston to LA — to find top internships and land great jobs. One of the best parts about our Bobcat Family is how it all translates well beyond your time on campus. Staying in touch with former classmates, professors, administrators, and other alumni, everyone is willing to help each other find and build success long after college is over. That’s why we call it being a Bobcat for life!
My best memories at this University came from my time as a student journalist. The opportunities to hone my craft set me apart from my peers at other institutions when it came to the job search. And the same can be said for whichever major you decide to pursue. It’s almost time for me to get back on air – so Alex, take it away!
Great work MJ! I loved hearing about how the experiences you had and relationships you built at Quinnipiac helped prepare you for where you are professionally today. With over 60,000 alumni who are leaders in their respective fields, QU offers a global network that will support you professionally throughout your lifetime. Thanks MJ!
Let’s head over to Quinnipiac’s North Haven campus which houses the schools of Education, Health Sciences, Law, Nursing and the Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine. Here you’ll find some of the most innovative health care facilities in higher education. Maria, a fourth year medical student, will share how Quinnipiac is launching the healthcare careers of tomorrow.
Thanks for that great introduction, Alex! I’m excited to be here to share why coming to Quinnipiac was the best decision I ever made. When entering college, I was unsure of what the future had in store for me. I wanted a career in science, but didn’t know exactly what route to take.
Whether you’re interested in treating patients, conducting medical research or some other aspect of health care, QU has a pathway for you. Thanks to the amazing faculty and mentors at Quinnipiac, I quickly realized I was destined to become a doctor. As an undergrad, I was able to get hands-on experience in many of the state-of-the-art facilities that simulate patient care scenarios.
Being able to work interdisciplinary with students from the Schools of Health Sciences, Nursing and Medicine, I experienced how student-centered and supportive Quinnipiac faculty and staff are. Quinnipiac’s Netter School of Medicine quickly became my first choice for medical school and my professors, along with my incredible premed advisor, helped successfully prepare me for the application process.
Now in my fourth and final year of medical school, I can confidently say Quinnipiac has prepared me for a career in healthcare. As a future doctor working on an interdisciplinary team, it was so valuable to have the Schools of Medicine, Health Sciences and Nursing all on one campus. I’m currently entering the application cycle for my neurology residency, where I’ll have the opportunity to train on how to manage disorders of the brain. No matter where I end up, I’ll always be appreciative of the amazing opportunities I had at Quinnipiac as an undergrad and medical student. I’m grateful for the unwavering support they have provided throughout my journey and like I said before: Quinnipiac is the best decision I ever made.. Back to you, Alex!
Way to go Maria! Good luck on your residency! Quinnipiac doesn’t just offer state-of-the-art facilities in an integrated, interdisciplinary setting, they also have numerous strategic partnerships with healthcare providers throughout the country to provide students opportunities for clinical experience and jobs after graduation. Thanks again Maria!
From immersive internships, research sites and global engagement opportunities that emphasize the interconnected world we share, Quinnipiac is helping students make an impact locally, nationally and around the world by helping them become enlightened and compassionate global citizens. Let’s meet Hannah, a junior Behavioral Neuroscience major to talk about the service mindset in Bobcat Nation. Take it away!
What a wonderful introduction, thank you Alex! When I toured Quinnipiac University, I knew this was my home away from home. At QU, we value community, not only locally but globally. Quinnipiac offers many opportunities to give back by supporting communities near and far! On campus, I’m a Resident Assistant, helping to create a safe and welcoming community with my residents! Through my role, I’m able to run programs and create lifelong friendships with people in my hall. My passion for science led me to becoming a QUADS mentor, which stands for Quinnipiac University Advancing Diversity in Science. This interdisciplinary program gives me the chance to mentor Connecticut high school students in developing science skills and knowledge. I’ve been able to share my passion for science with the next generation of scientists! One of the most memorable experiences of my college career was taking part in a week-long faculty-led course in Costa Rica. We worked with local partners to provide a health screening clinic for a Blue Zone community. My role was taking blood pressures, something I’ll do a lot in my career! Quinnipiac offers numerous opportunities to support the communities around us, which I’ve loved doing my whole life. There are student organizations such as the Community Action Project and Habitat for Humanity, events like the Big Event, which is our biggest, one-day student run service project, and QTHON, our dance marathon that raises funds and awareness for Connecticut Children’s Hospital. As team captain for our American Sign Language club, it was amazing to help raise over $125,000 last year. Quinnipiac strives to nurture and positively impact internal, local, and global communities. I feel I’ve been able to make an impact on those around me and I’m so happy I was able to show you around my home away from home, back to you Alex!
Thanks so much for sharing how you’ve been able to make an impact on campus, around Connecticut and in Costa Rica. It seems like students have a lot of service options they can choose from so they can make an impact. Thanks for sharing Hannah!
Look who we have here? Quinnipiac’s Boomer the Bobcat is here to help introduce Zach, a graduate student working on his MBA, and captain of Quinnipiac’s perennially Top-10-ranked hockey team. Let’s head over to the M&T Bank Arena, home to QU’s men’s and women’s basketball and ice hockey teams. Zach will share how the athletic and school spirit runs deep across Bobcat Nation. Drop the puck Zach!
Thanks Alex! Hey everyone whats going on! When I was young, my dad put skates on my feet before I ever tried shoes. I always knew I wanted to play college hockey at one of the top programs in the NCAA. Quinnipiac University has provided me with that great opportunity while meeting some incredible people along the way. From the moment I first stepped foot on campus I could feel the passion for our sports teams. On the quad, in the classroom, or at a game it is hard to escape the sea of navy and gold. The sounds of games and events surround our campus. I love going to watch one of our 21 division one sports teams compete at our beautiful athletic facilities. No game better showcases Quinnipiac’s athletic spirit than our men’s ice hockey game against our rival, Yale. I will never take for granted the feeling of stepping onto the ice and hearing the roar of the crowd as they overwhelm our opponents in a sea of gold. Our student athletes excel in the classroom just as much as on the playing field. All 21 of our varsity programs consistently have 3.0 GPA or higher and we’re consistently represented on our conferences’ All-Academic teams. Quinnipiac University has provided me everything I dreamed of since my dad first put me in that pair of skates. I could not have asked for a better college experience as a student athlete. Back to you Alex, and Go Bobcats!
Right on Zach! It’s awesome to know that Quinnipiac’s student-athletes don’t just excel on the playing field – or in your case, on the ice – but also in the classroom. Good luck this season and hopefully you guys make it back to the NCAA Frozen Four once again. Great job!
With 6,000 undergraduate students and 3,000 graduate, law and medical students, Quinnipiac is a “right size” university, offering small classes, close relationships with faculty, and individualized learning that supports students’ success. Here we have Sean, a second year student from Wallingford, Connecticut to talk about some of his experiences of personalized learning and support at QU. Sean, it’s all you!
Thanks Alex, and hello everyone! Looking for colleges, I knew I wanted an environment where I could take advantage of many opportunities- academically, and through engagement in the student community. I found Quinnipiac to be bustling with possibilities, fused with the support of its ambitious people. From the moment I stepped onto campus, I felt the support of the entire Quinnipiac community. When I moved into my Living Learning Community, I was able to connect with other students in the Communications 3+1 accelerated dual-degree program. That same support extended to academics, where the small class sizes allowed for closer interactions between myself and my Professors. Our professors care deeply about their students both in and out of class. Speaking of life outside of classes, at Quinnipiac, I’ve found supportive communities through student organizations. I’m involved in Student Government Association, The Legends A Cappella, American Institute of Graphic Arts Quinnipiac, and the Student Artists League, a new organization I founded with the help of other students and a staff member from the Office of Student Engagement. Whatever your goals are, Quinnipiac is here to help you be successful. From my first-year academic coach and peer catalysts who work in The Learning Commons, to personalized academic advising and top-ranked career development, to access to over 140 student organizations- Quinnipiac has supported me in accomplishing exceptional things – and I’m just in my second year!
This semester, I’m working as a student employee in QU’s Office of Marketing and Communications. I’m able to apply what I learned in my communications courses, and it’s just another example of the many opportunities and support Quinnipiac has for its students. It’s safe to say, Quinnipiac University has supported my ambitions every step of the way. Back to you, Alex.
Thank you Sean! I loved hearing about how you took advantage of Quinnipiac’s extensive variety of programs and services dedicated to students’ intellectual, emotional and social development. Great job!