Let’s meet Shalom, a mechanical engineering student from Zimbabwe. By getting involved in clubs, earning an internship, joining the Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority and diving into research, she’ll show us how Idaho students mix academic opportunity and vibrant student groups into one amazing college experience. All yours, Shalom.
– Thank you for the introduction, Alex. When I was applying to Universities, I was looking at countries like New Zealand, Canada, and the Netherlands. America never crossed my radar. This changed when I met a recruiter from the University of Idaho. When he talked to me, it’s as if he already knew what I was looking for in a university, a small community, and a great support system. I’ve enjoyed the academic opportunities that the school offers. Most I learned about through an event at the beginning of the fourth semester called Palousafest. This is by far one of my favorite events on campus. I joined clubs like National Society of Black Engineers, American Society of Mechanical Engineers and Society of Women Engineers. I was the vice president of a student chapter of American Society of Mechanical Engineers in my sophomore year. In my second semester, I joined Alpha Gamma Delta to make connections. I then became the vice president of Academic Excellence. I love the student to teacher ratio on campus, and I’m able to make meaningful connections with my professors. I make it a habit to visit my professors at least once a week and they’re always happy to help. Last summer I participated in undergraduate research where I evaluated critique properties in aluminum sheet metal. After completing my junior year, I completed an internship at Applied Materials in Austin, Texas as a manufacturing engineer. When I came here, I never thought my life would turn out like this. Besides thriving in my studies, I have made meaningful connections with people on campus. I am the sweetheart of Tau Kappa Epsilon, and I love my fraternity brothers. The University of Idaho has definitely become a home away from home. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Shalom. You’re telling me that academic opportunities aren’t just found in classes, but in clubs, leadership, research and internships too. It’s awesome that the U of I hosts the street fair, Palousafest that got you all started. Thanks for sharing your story.
It’s time to meet Blake, an Idahoan and a big fan of Moscow. Blake is a senior originally from Hayden, Idaho, who’s studying theater performance with a minor in psychology. When he chose the U of I for the strength of the theater program, he had no idea that Moscow was equally unique. Blake’s excited to share his take on what downtown and the community have to offer. Take it away, Blake.
– Thanks, Alex. And hello, everyone. In high school I fell in love with live theater, and when I found out that the University of Idaho had such a great theater program and was so close to my hometown, I knew it was a place I would call home for the next couple of years. When choosing a school, you have to think about not only your degree, but where you’re gonna be living for the next four to five years. After meeting with my professors, I knew I was jumping into a strong program, but I was unaware of all the amazing things my community had to offer. After the first three days of college, my new friend group and I came to downtown Moscow to check out the cool local theater space, The Kenworthy, and to see our first show here. The downtown area has so many different things to offer. All kinds of restaurants, coffee shops, thrift stores. On Saturdays in the summer, Main Street is turned into a beautiful farmer’s market where you can find all the local produce and artist work you could ever want. There are also cultural events that happen at local parks and community connection events that happen all throughout downtown. On campus, you can find our arboretum or our small on-campus forests, which is great for an outdoor walk. And off campus, adventures can start at Moscow Mountain, but really, the outdoor opportunities are endless. Prepping to graduate has been tough. I’m excited for my future, but I’m really sad to be leaving behind such a great community. I know that after I go out and see the world, I’ll definitely find myself back here in Moscow. Well, that’s enough for me. I’ll go ahead and hand it back over to Alex.
– Culture, restaurants and community events just down the street from campus really connect the university to the city. I’d love to experience that Farmer’s market for myself one weekend or see a show downtown. Ciao, Blake.
Let’s meet up with Tori. She’s studying history with an emphasis in Europe, and pursuing a minor in German. But that’s not all. Tori is here to tell us about the massive amounts of outdoor recreation and community activities all within a short walk or drive from Moscow. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. When it came time to pick a college, I knew that I wanted to get out and be on my own, but not be too far away from everything and everyone that I knew. So being only an hour and a half away from my hometown of Coeur d’Alene, the University of Idaho seemed like the perfect compromise. Growing up in North Idaho, it’s almost impossible not to be involved in some sort of outdoor sport hobby or activity. I love that by attending the University of Idaho and living in Moscow, I get to not only continue the activities that I already love, but I get to explore new ones as well. Some of my favorite things to do here have been attend the weekly farmers’ markets and hang out and study with friends in the arboretum on campus. If you don’t already have an activity that you love, the Vandal Ventures Orientation Program is a great way for incoming freshmen to get to know other students, the outdoors and discover a new activity. The Outdoor Rec Program also offers great options for affordable rental gear and guided trips for all students and skill levels. It’s a great way to explore new activities. I love riding my bike or walking along the Laton Trail, paddle boarding near the neighboring town of Troy during the summer and hiking Moscow Mountain in the fall. Moscow and the University of Idaho are full of opportunities to explore the outdoors, which will leave you with lasting memories and enhance your college experience. And studying abroad this upcoming semester in Germany where I plan to continue all the activities that I’ve grown to love here in the world’s best backyard. Thanks for listening. Back to you, Alex.
– Tori, it sure sounds like it’s hard to be bored with outdoor activities in every season, and that Vandal Ventures Orientation sounds like a great way to get started in your first year. I’d love to spend more time exploring Idaho with Vandals like you. Thanks again.
Let’s dive into Lauren’s story. Lauren came to the U of I from Seattle about five hours away from Moscow, and she’s a senior studying ecology and conservation biology. She’ll share her passion for the environment, and how the U of I has supported her in her goal of becoming a marine biologist. Lauren, you are up.
– Thanks, Alex. Hello, everyone. Growing up, I always had a passion for the ocean. I would spend hours each day looking at the marine organisms and the tidal pools just blocks away from my house. My passion for the environment is what led me to study ecology and conservation biology at the University of Idaho. My college has an amazing amount of research and internship opportunities, from the Doris Duke Conservation Scholars Program, to forestry research done right on our experimental forest. I’ve had the opportunity to attend courses at the McCall Field campus, and now I’m working with professors to develop my own senior thesis project. The experiences at Idaho are endless, and I’ll achieve my dream of becoming a marine biologist because of the many internship opportunities my professors have helped me find. I’ve been able to work on a land asking sea turtle project in Hawaii, as well as intern at Cascadia Research Collective where I helped with their photo identification project of Hawaiian dolphins, conducted surveys on harbor seals, and responded to stranded animals. There are lots of opportunities for students to get outside and study the environment. The Taylor Wilderness Research Station where semester in the wild is taught is in the middle of America’s largest wilderness. The experimental forest is our working forest close to campus. These two classrooms are places where students and faculty can conduct original research in settings unlike any other. When I first started college, I never imagined having all of the opportunities to learn and engage with faculty and staff on campus. As I approach graduation and reflect on my experiences at the University of Idaho, I can honestly say that I’ve gained the knowledge and experiences applicable to my field. Thanks for listening. Back to you, Alex.
– Lauren, thank you for sharing the outdoor classroom. Sounds like amazing places to learn about the environment, conduct research and experience conservation in action. No matter where you go next, we know you’ll do well. Take care.
It’s time to meet Tess. Tess embodies Catholic U’s DC advantage. Washington DC isn’t just a political hub. It also has an amazing art scene perfect for students like Tess, a musical theater major with a politics minor. She came to Catholic U because it offers the best of both worlds, big city opportunities with small school community. You’re on, Tess.
– Thanks, Alex. When I was looking for a school, I knew I wanted to be in a big city, but I didn’t wanna give up on having that true college campus experience. I was immediately drawn to DC for its incredible opportunities in the performing arts. The Catholic University of America was able to offer the perfect blend of a big city school, while still offering that true campus community. Catholic U encourages students to pursue different interests while on campus, including things outside of their major. As a musical theater major, I have been able to really grow as a performer, while still being able to be involved in a number of clubs and student organizations on campus. Being in DC has also inspired me to pursue a minor in politics. I have loved focusing on US politics, and learning more about the policies and people who have an effect on my day-to-day life. With direct access to the nation’s capital, we as students get to watch history happen. Catholic University values hands-on practical learning, which gives students the opportunity to learn from and even participate in current DC politics. DC has so much to offer when it comes to opportunities for internships, cultural experiences, and just fun adventures. Going to museums, concerts, baseball games, and restaurants all around the city have been some of the highlights of my college experience. We even have our own metro stop, Brookland-Catholic University, making it even easier to get around the city. Catholic University has prepared me for the world after college. I’ve grown as a performer, and discovered a new academic passion. As I enter my final year here at Catholic U, I now have the skills and experience to really succeed in whatever path I choose. Back to you, Alex.
Wow, Tess. You’ve really made DC sound like an awesome city for a college student. Catholic University students get to experience the professional opportunities and entertainment offerings of the nation’s capital, all while being part of a friendly campus they can call home. Take care.
Let’s head over to meet Maysoon. She’s a freshman biomedical engineering major from Falls Church, Virginia pursuing a minor in mathematics, not to mention she’s also in the honors program. Maysoon is excited for the excellent STEM programs Catholic has to offer. On to you, Maysoon.
– Hey, everyone. I’ve always been interested in medicine and mathematics, and here at the Catholic University of America, I can study both. I’m a biomedical engineering student with a minor in mathematics within the pre-med track. Catholic University’s growing number of female students within the STEM programs makes it an excellent place for women to study these fields. One of the main reasons why I chose the Catholic University of America is for its excellent academics. The honors program is second to none. In addition to attending the lectures and labs, I’m also excited for the many experiences obtained through internships and connections. DC is full of them. Typically, people are surprised that I, a Muslim student, decided to attend the Catholic University of America, especially as an advocate for Muslims, but I see this as an opportunity to learn about those who are different than myself, while also teaching the truth about my religion. I’d like to explore our similarities while also admitting our differences and embracing them, rather than seeing ’em as a limitation. I look forward to becoming part of the Catholic University community. When I first visited campus and met staff and students, I felt welcome, especially through all the events hosted prior to classes. Our admissions team and campus tour guides made me feel instantly connected, and part of the Catholic University community. I fell in love with the open-minded and kind community, and the beautiful campus in the heart of the city. Catholic University’s strong engineering programs allow students to connect with their professors, obtain internships, and learn from experts. Prior to starting class, I had already met multiple professors and the Dean of the Engineering School. This is possible because of the small and tight knit community at the Catholic University of America. That’s all from me. Back to you, Alex.
Awesome. Good luck, Maysoon on your new journey at Catholic University. It is no lie that this campus is absolutely beautiful with all the greenery. We are all rooting for you. Take care.
Let me introduce you to Matthew. Matthew is a mechanical engineering major from Bernalillo, New Mexico. As if that’s not enough of a challenge, he’s also part of the Navy ROTC program at Catholic U, which he says receives incredible support from the university. Tell us more, Matthew.
– Hey, y’all. So growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in the military. I never lived near the water, so naturally I wanted to be in the Navy. I enjoy seeing how far I can push myself. In high school, I did scouting and martial arts, and now in college, I do Navy ROTC and spend my free time working out and doing endurance events. I enjoy solving technical problems and building things, which is what led me to mechanical and aerospace engineering here at Catholic U. When I’m not in ROTC events, in class, studying, or working out, I really enjoy teaching others about health and fitness. I work at the fitness center on campus, the Kane, where I’m a personal trainer and group fitness coach. I am also the president of the CUA Home Front Club here at Catholic U, which works to bring members of each ROTC branch and veterans together on campus. The Catholic University has been extremely supportive of the ROTC program here. I will be the second class to graduate and commission out of Catholic into the Navy. In the past four years, the program has grown immensely in numbers and support. Catholic offers to give us transportation for early ROTC mornings, pays for our room and board, and has offered up facilities here on campus for any exercises. I’ve been blessed with a lot of great opportunities here at Catholic U. It’s where I trained for my first endurance event, where I pulled all-nighters studying equations of motion and system dynamics, and where I met my fiance. I can’t wait to graduate, commission into the Navy as an officer, and see what’s next for me in life. I am so happy I got to spend my last four years of college here at Catholic U. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
That’s amazing, Matthew. We can’t wait to see what’s next for you either. From engineering classes, to ROTC events, to personal training, you’ve shown us the many growth opportunities Catholic U offers its students. Thanks again.
Let’s meet Darby. She’s a senior from Frederick Maryland, biochemistry major on the pre-med track with a neuroscience minor. Darby was drawn to Catholic University because of the professors and the endless opportunities. Wow, how does she do it all? Let’s find out now. On to you, Darby.
– Thanks, Alex. Growing up, I always knew that I wanted to be a doctor, but I also knew that I wanted to stay close to home, so my junior year of high school, I discovered the Catholic University of America, and was immediately mind-blown by the dedication of the professors and the opportunities that they offer here. My second week here on campus, I was offered a work study job in Dr. Rao’s T4 Bacteriophage Medical Research Center. This will be my fourth year with the research team, and it’s been an amazing experience. Right before the pandemic, we started researching COVID 19 to see what we could do to contribute to the study of it. Here at Catholic University, we are a nationally accredited research university, which means that students have the opportunity to research. Being a part of the team and learning a bunch of new things has been an amazing experience for me. One thing I cherish most about Catholic University is the chemistry department. They are so supportive, and like a small family to me. One of my professors is hands-down the best I’ve ever had. She has taught me how to be a powerful woman in STEM. Coming to Catholic University, I always knew that I would be academically supported, but I didn’t realize the impact my professors would have on me. I’m a professional rock climber, and my classmates and professors are so supportive with me to help me balance research and training. The Catholic University of America has become my home away from home. It’s located next to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Here at Catholic, my friends and I like to say, “The dome is home,” and it definitely is. Back to you, Alex.
– Darby, thank you for sharing your story. The chemistry department is definitely lucky to have such an active student in their program. We are so proud, and can’t wait to see you as a powerful woman in STEM. Take care.
Let’s kick it over to Javier. He’s a senior from Rockville, Maryland, double major in philosophy and English, and if that wasn’t enough, he is also minoring in theology. Let’s hear why Javier chose Catholic University, and what faith life is like on campus. Javier, the floor is all yours.
– Thanks, Alex. Funny enough, when I was approaching college, I set out to discover the meaning of life, so I picked the strongest program and philosophy I could find, a place where I can dive into the deep questions of purpose, happiness, and service, all in an open and cheerful community. Here at the Catholic University of America, I’ve grown deep roots in my Catholic faith. Specifically, I’ve discovered how engaging in my faith makes me deeply joyful and also aware of the needs of my community around me. For me, this joy stems from the awareness of the fact that I am a son of God, loved at the core of my existence from all time. I’ve learned this in my metaphysics and theology classes, but most importantly, in the rich sacramental life offered by Campus Ministry including multiple opportunities for daily mass, weekly confession, and adoration. Here, faith from our prayer and reason from our classroom are two complimentary ways by which we discover the impact we can have not only in these four years, but for eternity. For me, this joy has inspired me to become an RA, a resident assistant, and live and serve alongside my peers. The investment that Catholic U places in the faith of their students is unique, and it’s this that makes our campus a warm, welcoming, and cheerful place. After all, we are in the shadow of the most beautiful basilica in the country, and our neighborhood, Brookland, is also known as Little Rome because of all the religious houses, churches in our area, and especially our school. Being an RA, serving my fellow students has taught me that one of the greatest lessons in college isn’t so much what can I get out of a given situation, but instead what can I give, how can I serve? And there are countless opportunities to give of yourself and serve here at Catholic University. Back to you, Alex.
Oh my, thank you, Javier. Your story is so inspiring. We can learn a lot about personal reflection in our everyday lives, and I’m glad you found it here at Catholic University. Cheers, Javier.
Let’s chat with Jamie. She’s a junior marketing and entrepreneurship major from Garden City, New York. Jamie was drawn to Catholic University because of the lively city of DC, and the gorgeous new Bush School of Business. Jamie, you’re on, my friend.
– Thank you, Alex. I’m saying hi to you from my home at Catholic University. Since opening my first lemonade stand, I knew my future was business. I was drawn to the lively city of DC and the beautiful Bush School of Business. From the moment I stepped on campus, I knew I was home. One of the amazing opportunities I’ve been able to do here at Catholic U is started my own business. I turned a five figure profit in less than six months all at the age of 18. I felt unconditional support from my professors, who even offered to meet and advise me outside of the classroom. All first year students are assigned a mentor to help them navigate their first year. It’s a fantastic program. I have loved being a mentor myself, and helping students flourish. I even keep in contact with my mentor. And CACS, our Center for Academic and Career Success offers support, resources, and guidance for all students. I’ve also had the pleasure of serving on our Dean’s Student Advisory Council where we meet monthly with the Bush School Dean to discuss our classes, their structure, prepare for graduation, and offer insight into planning Bush School events. I have made some of my closest friends through my involvement in on campus activities, like being the class of 2024 senator, and SGA, our Student Government Association, and a Cardinal ambassador, where I volunteer as a tour guide in our admissions office. I know that Catholic University and the Bush School have equipped me with all the necessary tools to flourish in the business world after graduation, and no matter where life takes me, I can count on my amazing friends and community here at Catholic University. Once a Cardinal, always a Cardinal. Back to you, Alex.
That is incredible, Jamie. We are so happy you found your home away from home at Catholic University along with the amazing community here at the flock. Like you said, once a Cardinal, you’re always a Cardinal. Thanks again.