Okay, everyone, let’s meet Tanner. He’s a junior, a member of Beta Theta Pi, the Associated Students University of Idaho president, and a double major in philosophy and political science. He’s gonna tell us just how easy it is to find your crowd at the U of I. You’re up, Tanner.
– What’s up, guys? For as long as I can remember, I’ve always valued involvement within my community. In high school, I started my own club, and since coming to the University of Idaho, I’ve been highly involved in student life on campus. I became a member of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity of the Gamma Gamma chapter. In Beta, I instantly connected with my fraternity brothers. Shortly after, I became an ASUI senator, during which I had the opportunity to connect with students from all across campus. It was at this time when I truly fell in love with the amazing community here. I grew passionate about student involvement and wanted to help other students find their home here at the University of Idaho just as I did. So I ran for ASUI president to promote the student experience here at the University of Idaho. At U of I, there are limitless opportunities to get involved on campus. We have a great intramural sports system and rec center, awesome college traditions, and all first year students live on campus, making it easier to attend evening Vandal Entertainment activities. There are over 200 clubs and student organizations here. You can volunteer off campus. We also have a fantastic Greek system that has shown dedication to uplifting students, and is routinely involved within the community. Earning a degree from U of I is much more than another box check before going on to a career. It’s about the experience you had during your four years here. I know this because getting involved is what made Moscow my home way from home. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Tanner. Over 200 clubs and organizations any student could get involved with. That is amazing. I’m glad to hear there are so many options to explore. No wonder Moscow became your home away from home. It’s amazing. Thanks again.
Okay, everyone. Mary is here to take us through some amazing spaces for learning. She’s an alumni and a graduate student in computer science who studied in Moscow and at the campus in Coeur d’Alene. And she spent a lot of time with a robot named Larry. Let’s find out more.
– Thanks so much, Alex. Hi, everyone. When I first came to the University of Idaho, I was interested in everything and had no idea what to study. I had joined a business club in high school, so I decided to apply to the University of Idaho’s College of Business and Economics. One of the great things about U of I is how many opportunities there are. You can try everything. I joined several clubs on campus and got a job as a video editor for the biological engineering department. I got to spend time in the biodiesel production lab with the Clean Energy Club, help a friend with an ad campaign in the library’s video recording studio and learn about tech startups in the IRIC. As an undergrad here on the Moscow campus, I got to spend a lot of time in spaces like this, the Assistive Robotics Lab. When I transitioned to graduate school in computer science at the U of I Coeur d’Alene campus, I would study in a classroom right on the water, before going down to work with our 700 pound robot arm, Larry, in his lab downstairs from our office. I think every day we try something new. I’ve been grateful for all of the spaces U of I has provided to support learning how to tackle difficult problems. From labs to studios to classrooms, there are always resources available to help you find innovative solutions. We’ve had a lot of interest from employers based on the types of skills we’re building in our programs here, and I really feel that the program has set us up for success in the computer science and robotics industry. I never thought I would end up in a STEM field, but the University of Idaho made it possible for me by providing great programs and incredible mentorships. I’m excited to continue working and I can’t wait to see where the industry goes. That’s it for me. Back to you, Alex.
– Mary, it’s amazing to hear that all those learning spaces helped you refine the pursuit of your education, and even better, that the types of skills that you’re learning at the U of I are the kind that employers are looking for. Thanks again, Mary.
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.