Let’s go see what Aurod is up to. Aurod is a Mathematics major studying Data Science specializing in infectious diseases. He’s gonna tell us about how one-on-one attention from his professors helped him find his calling and his place at Tarleton. Aurod, you are on.
– Thank you for that introduction, Alex. Hey, what’s up y’all? Growing up, I was always told to focus on my Math and Science, but I didn’t think that my career goals would lead me to such a place where I would meet lifelong friends and amazing faculty mentors. I had several options for college, but Tarleton really stood out over the others. Great faculty to student ratio, great personal attention. Here at Tarleton, students know they’re a name, not a number. My first year, I learned I wanted to study infectious diseases, and my professors and mentors guided me to the right major and path. During my first semester, I was introduced to the vast world of research by a Mathematics research professor whom I currently conduct undergraduate research with. Since then, my life has never been the same. I have conducted research with several faculty members, had the opportunity to work with the university president, and even created the Student Research Association, an organization revolving around faculty-student research. Tarleton’s personal attention for each student and how much each faculty member genuinely cares is why all students succeed. I connected with professors across campus who not only helped me succeed academically, but helped my peers achieve what they thought was impossible. Tarleton has given me so many opportunities and my professors have strengthened me through their advice and encouragement. I know that no matter where I am the gates here at Tarleton will always be open, and I will forever bleed purple. That’s all for me. Take it away, Alex.
– Wow! It’s so great to learn about your student research and see that faculty are willing to take you under their wing. It’s evident that your work is gonna change the world.
We’re gonna hear from James, a Biomedical Science student from Flower Mound, Texas. From the moment James became a Tarleton student, he was connected with mentors who have helped guide his journey to ensure success. James, it’s all you.
– Thanks, Alex. What’s up, everyone? Growing up, I always knew that I wanted to pursue a career in the medical field, and that all starts with the proper education. While searching for the best college, I came across Tarleton and immediately knew that this was the right place for me. I was greeted with all kinds of student support. At Duck Camp, I had two Tarleton transition mentors who helped me build confidence and taught me all the traditions. When I started my first semester, I was assigned two more peer mentors who had the same major I had. My incredible mentors offered in depth solutions to all my questions and I really owe it to them for my accomplishments. Here at Tarleton, we have knowledgeable and understanding professors who strive for students not only to finish with the high grade, but also to completely understand the subject. Working with Tarleton professors has been a pleasure, and I know that they’re positioning me for success. In addition, we have many great resources to ensure each student’s success. Academically, we offer the Tutoring and Learning Center, Math and Science clinics, supplemental instruction, and much more. When it comes to paying for school, 85% of Tarleton students receive some sort of financial aid and we have over 500 scholarship opportunities. Over half of our student body is first generation and our Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and International programs offers resources that encourages an equitable, accessible, diverse, and inclusive campus culture. Tarleton is committed to making sure all students receive everything they need for the best college experience. I serve as a Tarleton transition mentor and peer mentor to give back the support that has helped me become successful. Tarleton student focus approach had made my experiences amazing, and I know that I’m prepared for my future and can handle any obstacle that comes my way. Thank you so much for listening to my story. Over to you, Alex.
– Thank you for sharing your story, James. You’re evidence that every Tarleton Texan can reach their full potential. But the real question is, how do I get some of those Duck Camp overalls? That was awesome. Take care.
Let’s chat with Madison. Madison is a senior Kinesiology major. She’ll tell us about her experience working directly with patients and how her time at Tarleton has prepared her for the next step after college. Madison, it’s all yours.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex, and hello everyone. Being a fourth generation Tarleton Texan, I knew I wanted to get as much out of my time at Tarleton as possible. Tarleton has helped prepare me for my future career as a healthcare professional through hands-on learning experiences. Tarleton really stands out with its emphasis on hands-on learning. Across all majors, students get real world experiences as a part of their degree program. As a Kinesiology major, our hands-on models and Anatomage Tables enable us to study in depth. Our classes incorporate a lecture and lab model where we learn the material and the procedure and then have the chance to safely put it into practice using equipment in class. The Kinesiology Lab is another great resource as it provides the opportunity to gain experience with real people who come into the clinic. An observational internship is also incorporated into our degree plan to give us clinical experience in our career setting, which is a huge asset when it comes to applying for secondary programs and jobs. More examples include our year long Teacher Residency Programs, the Tarleton Agricultural Center’s working farm, the Phage Lab where students get to research viruses, and our broadcast journalism studio where students get true to career experience in news production. These experiences prepare Tarleton students for success beyond graduation and into their career. Our professors also do their very best to ensure that we succeed. Through all of these experiences, I’ve learned what professionalism looks like and what it takes to become a good student and clinician. After graduation, I plan to attend chiropractic school and specialize in working with children or athletes. I can’t wait to give back to my future community all of the skills, compassion, and resources that I’ve been given at my time at Tarleton. Well, that’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Madison, thanks for telling us all about the different opportunities to get hands-on experience, both in Kinesiology and across campus. It’s clear, Tarleton students are ready to succeed in any career field.
Let’s say hi to Lillie. Lillie is a sophomore and Education major who lived in Hunewell Hall as a first year student. Here’s Lillie who’s gonna walk us through life on campus and all the options students have just steps from their home away from home.
– Hey, everybody and thank you for the introduction, Alex. One of the biggest aspects of college is living on campus. What your dorm will look like, who your roommate will be, all of the activities that take place in between. Tarleton State University provides a welcoming living and learning environment and gives you a home feeling that not a lot of universities have. Living on campus, everyone on my floor became my family. We went to every event together, cheered at every home game, and started our own traditions within our friend group. We even had cookouts in the kitchen of our building with our resident leaders. Everything on campus is within walking distance and very easily accessible. The Dining Hall and the Student Center are right in the center of campus and both provide a wide variety of eating options, including national chain restaurants, and both make for great study and hangout spots. You’re also in close proximity to mental health and physical wellness resources with our campus recreation, aquatic center, and our student health and counseling center. You’ll probably see me and my friends at the rec playing volleyball together. I can say without a doubt That living here at Tarleton has been one of the best experiences of my life. I’ve made lifelong friends and countless memories. Tarleton has given me a second family. I know I can count on my friends and residential leaders to be there for anything I may need, even if it’s just somebody to walk to class with. That’s all for me. Alex, wanna join us on campus?
– Absolutely. It’s clear to see why anyone would wanna live here and you’ve made so many great friends along the way. Maybe I’ll run into you at the rec. Thanks again, Lillie.
We’re heading over to meet up with Magnolia, a graduate student majoring in Communication Studies. Magnolia is a spirited Tarleton Texan and you’ll soon see why she is the perfect person to tell us about Tarleton’s deep rooted traditions, spirit, and of course, the Purple Poo. Take it away, Magnolia.
– Thanks, Alex. Here at Tarleton State University, the gates are always open and I want to give you a full Tarleton welcome. I am so honored to share my Tarleton story and show you how our deep rooted traditions and spirit make Tarleton such a special place. I immediately knew that Tarleton was home and a place to connect for a lifetime. During my time here, I served for two years as a member of the Purple Poo. The Purple Poo is a secret organization, the oldest sphere organization in the state, established in 1921. They dressed from head to toe in colorful clothing and disguise their voices to conceal their identities. Graduating seniors unmasked in the spring semesters at the Purple Poo Reveal. The Purple Poo embodies a physical rendition of the spirit of Tarleton. So when you see them, those are my brothers and sisters. When it comes to tradition, Homecoming Week is jam-packed with them. From lighting of the smoke stack, launching the ducks, and yell contest to welcoming home our proud alumni at one of the state’s largest bonfires. And we can’t forget about the parade and football game. Homecoming Week is your ticket to Tarleton tradition. We’re pretty big on spirit. We wear purple on Thursdays and we do not walk on the grass, ever. And we love to show our pride by holding our states up hand gesture. Traditions at Tarleton are unique and unmatched. They unite us and foster a sense of belonging, and I will carry those experiences in my heart for life. Make it no secret that whatever your goals are, you will reach unfathomable ones here at Tarleton State University. I am so honored to share this special place that I call home with all of you. Hey! Oscar P! Back to you, Alex.
– Wow! The energy, spirit, and rich traditions are one of a kind. I can clearly see why Tarleton bleeds purple. I’m definitely gonna need to come back for homecoming. Thanks, Magnolia.
This wonderful student Emilio is a business management and finance major, but he’s gonna tell us more about what it means to be a St. Peter’s Peacock. I simply cannot wait, Emilio, it’s all yours.
– Hello and thank you, Alex. Here at St. Peter’s University, I’m a part of an amazing campus community full with eventful basketball games, open mic nights, game nights, and meetings with our clubs and organizations. During my time here, I’ve been invested within my double major, Business Management and Finance. The Frank J. Guarini School of Business has an amazing ambiance to study and hold group interactions within the collaboration commons area. Students come here to work on projects, and interact with peers across campus. This area also holds a course for the Goldman Sachs College Collaborative that I was a part of this past year. Throughout my time here, I took advantage of everything this campus has to offer as a full-time student leader. Some examples were being the president of my class, resident assistant, President of the Association of Latino Professionals for America, and the school mascot for our amazing March Madness run. Throughout all of my experiences, I was able to meet our state governor, hold an internship with Johnson & Johnson, and build amazing relationships that will last a lifetime. St. Peter’s invest in all of its students and relationships with outside partners. Some of these examples can be our newly-renovated areas, such as our athletics arena and new dorm room facilities. Peacocks make sure that we can all flock together in a great manner. If you guys would like a nice fun fact, St. Peter’s University is the first number 15 seed to ever reach the Elite Eight in tournament history. Now, imagine being on the core for that one. And if you guys would like, I can show you some historic dance moves as the school’s mascot. Now, back to you, Alex.
– The school mascot? Emilio, I am honored to be in your presence, and those were some pretty sick moves. Thank you for sharin’ the Peacock spirit.
Let’s head on over to meet Tanesha, a nursing student in the accelerated program. Tanesha will tell us exactly what it means to take part in an accelerated program, and why it drew her to St. Peter’s University. Tanesha, take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi everyone, I’m an accelerated nursing student at St. Peter’s University, and I’m so excited to be in my final semester of nursing school, and it’s been quite the journey, but one well worth it. This particular nursing program is designed for students that already have a bachelor’s degree, but are looking to obtain a Bachelor’s of Science in the field of nursing. What drew me to the program was the affordability and the fast-paced 15-month curriculum. When I started my first semester, I felt overwhelmed by the thought of how much I had to learn, along with the fear of falling short when delivering quality patient care. Thankfully, I had the support of my professors and my amazing cohort to encourage me and practice my skills, whether it was in our skills lab or in the clinical setting. As the program progressed, my knowledge base grew. The more I learned, the easier it became for me to bridge a gap between what I read in the textbooks, and what I saw during my clinical rotations. It struck me one day as I sat in my doctor’s office for my recent annual physical, and I was fully aware of all the procedures and techniques that my nurse was using. From listening to my heart and lung sounds, to taking vitals, and even being cognizant of positions that could alter my blood pressure readings, like crossing my legs. These are all things I never thought about prior to nursing school. I’m grateful that St. Peter’s provides a hands-on learning environment for students to develop their skills. I can truly say that this program has helped me develop a newfound perspective on my personal health, and the knowledge that I now have as a future health professional. Back to you, Alex.
– Tanesha, it is wild to hear the story of how you have advanced through this amazing program so far. Next time I’m feelin’ a cold coming on, I know exactly who to call, thank you so much for sharing your story.
Okay, everyone, let’s meet Rodolfo. He is a business management major here at St. Peter’s, and he’s gonna talk to us about the opportunities he’s received here at St. Peter’s University. Okay, Rodolfo, it’s all yours, take it away.
– Thank you for the introduction, Alex. Hi, everyone. Education is very important to me, so I knew my next step after high school was college. I seriously came to St. Peter’s University and raved about the business department. St. Peter’s is known for business, with its MBA program in Business Administration being ranked among the top three in New Jersey. So, I knew it would be the perfect fit. I currently have a year-long internship offered by The Center for Career Engagement Experiential Learning or CEEL. At CEEL, they shape you to become a professional in this competitive marketplace. This was the first time this internship was offered at the university, so why not take on the challenge? Outside of business, I’ve become heavily involved in campus ministry. Campus ministry is a comforting place for several reasons. You’re able to go there to do homework, talk to the campus minister, and meet new friends. There are tons of community service opportunities available. You can organize a clothes closet and help out the food pantry. They also offer retreats. I was fortunate enough to take part in two of them. The point of these retreats is to temporarily disconnect from your surroundings, and spend time with others seeking the same thing you are. We have fun activities, improve our spirituality, and foster everlasting friendships. St. Peter’s has helped me help others, and score an internship at a Fortune 500 company. New York Life, here in Jersey City. I’m interning as a junior analyst, performing data analysis, gathering data for financial reporting and assistant with repetitive procurement activities, With original opportunities offered for growth and development, it’s your choice what you want to do at SPU. Bye, everyone. Thank you, Alex, and throwing it back to you.
– Rodolfo, thank you for taking us through your experience as a student here at SPU. Your story about getting involved in campus ministry and connecting with others through several retreats is absolutely phenomenal. A big congrats on all your accomplishments, thanks again, Rodolfo.
Now we’re gonna meet Cliff, a hardworking student studying computer information systems. Cliff is a little bit more than familiar with this university and campus, and he’ll tell us why. Take it away, Cliff.
– Thank you, Alex. I’m a transfer senior and a legacy student, which means that I’m a son of an alumni. I felt compelled to return, but starting fresh was quite nerve-wracking to say the least. I quickly got my feet wet when I attended the involvement fair, which takes place at the beginning of every school year. On this day, I discovered the many clubs that I’m a part of now. I also discovered that despite the several ethnic clubs on campus, there was still one missing. And so, I took the initiative to revive a club that was once active, the African Students Association. What I love most about St. Peter’s is that it’s a very diverse campus. Many of our students are minorities, and the first endemic families to attend college. Programs such as The Educational Opportunity Fund and Trio, cater for students who may need any additional academic and financial support. St. Peter’s embodies what it means to be in Jersey City, the most ethically-diverse city in America. Don’t believe me? There are tons of ethnic restaurants near campus that represents the diversity of Jersey City. The location of our campus makes it convenient to access all these places. As I near the end of my collegiate career, I can’t express enough gratitude to St. Peter’s. I’ve learned that the support of community rallying around you can propel you to greater heights. I want to work in cybersecurity, and I have no doubt that I will succeed. Because St. Peter’s has equipped me with the tools to make it so. Over to you, Alex.
– Cliff, I love that you have settled into your own here at St. Peter’s University, and are enjoying every ounce of opportunity that is provided to you through clubs and involvement, programs of support, and of course, the food trucks. Thanks again, Cliff.
Let’s meet Michael. A local student from Jersey City studying finance. Michael grew up in this booming city, and knew St. Peter’s was the perfect place to pursue his studies, and receive the best opportunities possible. All yours, Michael.
– Thank you, Alex. Hey, what’s up everyone? I grew up here in Jersey City, not too far away from campus. So, St. Peter’s has always been a part of my life. I was surprised by how easy it was to find that I was more than just a number within St. Peter’s. I experienced this after my first year when I lost my job during the pandemic, and had to take a semester off. I was scared of falling behind and felt stuck. My professor reached out to me, encouraged me, and ensured that I was educating myself throughout the semester. Inspired by that experience, I returned to school with a completely different mentality, which changed the course of my time here. The environment at St. Peter’s made it easy to excel. Each professor got to know me, and most importantly, remembered me. I’ve had the opportunity to work with companies because of staff reaching out to me saying, “Hey Mike, I think you’d be a perfect fit for this opportunity.” Many people fear that they’re battling college on their own. At least that’s what I thought when I started. St. Peter’s made me realize that my professors care and want to see me grow. Most of them look forward to reading those emails that say, “Hey professor, I just got offered a full-time position.” When I realized that, it made it so much easier to ask for help, which opened up so many doors for me. And that’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Michael, it is so impressive to hear all that you have achieved in your time here at St. Peter’s, and we can’t wait to see what’s next in store for you. Thanks again for sharing.