Let me introduce you to Carter, a Commercial Music major with a concentration in Engineering and Production from Wisconsin, who will talk about opportunities in the Tiffin Arts Program from singing, production, musicals, dance, marching band, concert band to lights and backstage setup, and even the management of the local amphitheater. Here’s Carter. ♪ I live in a state of melancholy ♪ ♪ Choly, choly, choly ♪
– Thanks for that intro Alex. Since I was young, music has always been something I’ve been eventuated by. Whether it be listening to Michael Jackson’s “Off the Wall” in my parents’ car, or hearing a John Williams score in the movie theater and getting goosebumps from that. Music was always something that I gravitated towards. I heard about Tiffin University’s music department from my high school choir director and a Grammy nominated sound engineer. Tiffany seemed to be the place where I could pursue music in a more contemporary style whereas most programs are a bit more old fashioned and classically oriented. I also wanted to find a place where I could do a combination of different things. Through Tiffany’s Creative Arts Institute, I’ve recorded an album with my band, Behind the Times. ♪ Sky looks like an ocean when you’re far, far ♪ Toured as the lead vocalist and keyboardist and the fun fusion band, Word on the Street, had leading roles in the past three musicals, directed a kid’s choir and worked as a studio manager. Wearing all these hats just would not have been possible at another university. Tiffin is a unique place that allows you to hone your skills in a variety of different areas. Encouraging this sort of versatility is a common theme across campus as a whole. Many of the students here are involved in extracurriculars. And because we’re such a small school, the students here must be able to multitask and participate in a variety of different capacities in order for campus life to even exist. Currently, I’m interning at the Chicago Recording Company, the most prestigious recording studio in the Midwest. It’s there that I’m working alongside industry professionals and building off of the groundwork that Tiffin has provided me. I’m incredibly thankful for my time here at TU and I’m really excited for this next step too. Well, that’s my take. What’s up next on the track, Alex?
– Thank you, Carter. It sounds like you have the playlist all lined up. Congratulations on your internship and experience, what a great starting point for your career. Thanks again for sharing your story.
Let’s talk to Tyler, a Sports Management major with a concentration in Athletic Administration from Cincinnati, Ohio, who will tell us about TU’s competitive spirit. Tyler, pass a deal.
– Thanks to Alex. What’s up guys. Growing up in Cincinnati, I never really know what I wanted to do in my life. And my mom was really big on education and she was trying to get all three of her kids to go to college and make some of their lives. I found the love of education through sports. I traveled to University on a full ride scholarship. After season ending injury with me tearing my hamstring, I was losing the love for the game that kept me pursuing my education. Eventually I entered a transfer reporter in search of a different path. That’s when I heard from Tiffin University’s head coach reaching out to recruit me for the team. I didn’t know what I wanted to do my life, I just know to play football. I was blown away how close knit and family-oriented Tiffin University is. 75% of our campus population is involved in the athletic program. As a senior and a leader on this football team, I’ve seen us do remarkable things. I’ve seen us win back to back conference championships, make the playoffs. Oh, and most importantly, we beat our biggest rivals, twice in a row. Tiffin University has helped me enjoy my academic journey. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else in the country competing for a great athletic program and acquiring my business degree in sports management. The biggest thing Tiffin University and the athletic program has taught me, in the end is to be the best man or person you can be in the end. And that’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Tyler. It seems like your competitive spirit for football has made a run for your academic spirit as well. Thanks for sharing your story. When it comes to Tiffin Arts program, Tiffin University is not the traditional music school. TU has built a business side to the music program to commercialize it and bring a management aspect alongside performance.
Tiffin University offers more than 50 degree granting programs through the School of Arts and Sciences, School of Criminal Justice and Social Sciences, School of Business and the Creative Arts Institute. Each program is focused on the practical work in the field so that when TU students walk across that graduation stage, after four years of immersive hands on study, they will be prepared for a much bigger stage. Here’s Grace’s story. A native of Farmington Hills, Michigan, who’s majoring in Forensic Psychology and minoring in Addictions Counseling. Take it away.
– Thank you, Alex. Hi everyone. Ever since middle school, I knew I wanted to be a lawyer. After a history class debate, which I of course won. My teacher stopped me and said, “I’m not sure what you wanna do, “but it would be pretty outrageous “if you didn’t look into going into law.” So if you’re that teacher now and you’re seeing this, thank you. Combining my love for law and behavioral analysis, I knew forensic psychology was a major for me, but it is scarcely offered. That was until I found Tiffin University, the leader in the field of forensic psychology. Tiffin University created the forensic psychology program prior to the American Psychological Association, even having a designation for it. Attending law school is my biggest priority as a first generation college student. I wanna break the curse of living paycheck to paycheck and provide generational wealth. I also wanna show women in criminal justice, what they’re capable of by becoming one of the 37.4% female lawyers in the United States. Tiffin University provides an amazing classroom experience, high profile speakers, experiential learning opportunities and impressive internship opportunities. Many students perform their internship at the Washington Center to potentially receive security clearance. This helps great lean securing full-time employment after graduation. Most of my professors have had one or more positions in the field, so they share firsthand experience and show us what to expect. Along with amazing stories, I’ve received overwhelming support from my professors. After just one year of attending Tiffin, I’ve had internship and paid position opportunities. Not only am I gaining knowledge and experience, but also lifelong connections. Tiffin is helping me reach my goals while also providing unconditional support to help me get there. My case is closed. What’s next, Alex?
– Sounds like you have a plan Grace. You’ve made it to Tiffin University. Now, anything is possible. With more than 75% of students competing in NCAA division to athletics, there is an undeniable competitive spirit on Tiffin University’s campus. It’s that spirit, that scrappiness and desire to scale any obstacle that stands in the way of achievement that fuels these athletes. At TU, coaches are equally as passionate about building character and molding successful students who have the stamina to compete long after the games are over.
Lemme introduce you to Mya, an Admissions Counselor at Tiffin University from Sycamore, Ohio. Mya always has a warm smile and is ready to share all the wonderful things Tiffin University and the city of Tiffin has to offer.
– Thanks Alex. Hi everyone. Being from a small town near Tiffin, I’m no stranger to the great thanks Tiffin University has to offer. In high school, I even took a few college credit courses here at TU. Now my role here as an Undergraduate Admissions Counselor allows me to help prospective students make Tiffin their new home. When I joined Tiffin University, I was welcome with open arms. Being a smaller campus in a small city, Tiffany University allows you to truly connect with those around you. The close-knit family environment is one of my favorite things about it. I’ve made connections here that will be with me for a lifetime. Off campus the city of Tiffin truly has a lot to offer. There’s a lot of history in Tiffin, so take time to walk around and see what makes Tiffin as great as it is. If you’re a food and coffee lover like me, Tiffin really can’t be beat. For great coffee and a combo, Bailey Wicks is a must. During the warm summer months, there’s a splash pad open to our community and the Frost-Kalnow Amphitheater, where they host live performances. For great food, you should check out Madison Street Tavern, owned by a Tiffin University alum, and Tiffin University’s own Wall Street Pub and Grill. For the ice cream and pizza lovers, two locally owned options include AJ’s Heavenly Pizza and Little Hugo’s ice cream. There are also plenty of parks and recreational spots in the area such as Hedges Boyer park. Get active and have fun at the sand volleyball and basketball courts and don’t forget about disc golf. Overall Tiffin is a wonderful place to live. Allow yourself to explore and grow into who you are. So come discover it for yourself and become the dragon the world awaits to see. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Mya. And you brought up to use mascot, the Dragon, the best kind of mascot I can think of for a college. What a great community for Tiffin University. Looks like I know where I’ll be eating later on. Thanks again, Mya.
Each college student is unique, and we don’t all swing right into higher ed after we graduate from high school at 18. Just ask Wes. He’s a junior majoring in business finance. Wes has the perfect story to share about how he found his place here at Adams State University. Okay, you are up. Please take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. At Adams State University, it’s never too late to continue your great story. As a nontraditional student in the school of business, I found the support I needed to pursue my academic and professional goals thanks to so many great friends and family here. I’ve worked in retail, accounts payable, attended community college and two art schools. I was happy but not satisfied when my wife and I moved to Alamosa. We’re both working at Adams State now, where we found the campus and community welcoming and accepting, like an extended family. I work in the alumni and foundation office, where we have visits from alumni and future alumni every day. It was these alumni that inspired me to pursue my academic journey. Now in my 40s, I’m enrolled as a student. I found exceptional support from my colleagues all across campus, whether it’s financially through the many grants and scholarships or academically with encouragement from professors like AJ Webb. AJ is a Adams State alum and former student athlete, so he understands what it is to be a Grizzly. He continues the tradition of genuine caring professionalism, and his humor and teaching style made me look forward to coming to class. Whether you’re a traditional student straight out of high school or just young at heart like myself, I’m sure you’ll find that ASU is a great place to write the best chapter of your life. In the words of Winston Churchill, success is not final. Failure is not fatal. It’s the courage to continue that counts. Go, Grizzlies. Back to you, Alex.
– Great job. Your story is amazing. Thanks again for sharing.
Students from all kinds of different latitudes and altitudes find their place at Adams State. Tyreik is a kinesiology major who moved from sea level in Louisiana to grab the best life has to offer at 7,500 feet. Take it away, Tyreik.
– Thanks, Alex. Hello, everyone. Growing up in my hometown, I knew I wanted to leave and find adventure and experience things I never really got to experience. I’m from a little town in Louisiana where people don’t even really think about college. My great-grandmother always told me, “Never let anyone determine your future and take the wonders away from you.” Those words always stuck with me. In pursuit of finding a college where people didn’t judge me because I came from a different background, didn’t care about my race, and just wanted to learn more about me and my culture, I found Adams State. I was offered a football scholarship, and during my campus visit, after just a couple of hours, I knew Adams State was my home. Majoring in kinesiology is one of the best experiences I’ve had here at Adams State. I’ve gained relationships with professors, strength trainers, and even the community itself. I’ve always been invested in learning how to properly improve myself and others. Working with the kinesiology department helped me with that a lot by showing me how to better analyze the body through testing. Student involvement is essential at Adams State. And I think a lot of the students appreciate the connections. Adams State has multiple events that go on throughout the year that help students get involved, like many parties on the green, bingo night, or drive-in movies. Whatever major you’re looking into, it won’t just be some boring lecture after lecture here at Adams State. Getting involved with the lesson and gaining experience through activities is what you’ll find here. I never thought of college like this would accept a boy like myself from the South. Not only did Adams accept me, but everyone helped me succeed and be better prepared for my field of work. That’s it for me, Alex. Take it back.
– Kinesiology or any major, Adams State goes way beyond the classroom lectures to make your education memorable. Tyreik, that was fantastic. Take care.
Adams State started out as a teacher’s college 100 years ago, and it’s still a great place to become an educator. Just ask Rebecca, who started her senior year as a theater and education major. Take it away, Rebecca.
– Thanks for that introduction, Alex. Hi, y’all, I’ve always loved theater. Throughout high school, I had amazing educators that expanded my outlook, and I wanted to follow in their footsteps. So I started looking for a degree that would allow me to pursue my passion for theater and my inspiration to teach. For those wanting to teach, Adams State offers a unique degree that allows you to take both English and theater classes. With a BA in theater, secondary English licensure degree, our graduates are fully qualified to teach both English and theater. And 100% of our graduates have found employment as teachers. I discovered a life-changing program that I grew to love over the next four years. Beginning in my first year, I was already able to apply to design for productions. Meanwhile, I flourished in my classes because of 16-to-one student faculty ratio. I’ve developed lifelong connections with my professors on campus. And I’ve been involved in all kinds of events. The theater program is where I’ve spent most of my time on campus, but I spent plenty of time studying in our Nielsen Library private study rooms. Adams State University offers dedicated student support. We have the same resources that larger universities offer but without the extreme competition or price tag. I have found so much support during my time here, and I feel truly cared for by every person I’ve interacted with. Adams offers affordable tuition, outstanding scholarship opportunities, and a high-quality education, all in the beautiful San Luis Valley. Thanks to my time at Adams State University, I am prepared to become an educator and theater artist. Not only do I know that I am capable of doing anything, I now know more about myself and how I want to impact the world. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Rebecca. Sounds like you’re having a great time on campus with its state-of-the-art theater, great professors, and fellow students and activities who contribute to your college experience. Adams State helps your personal growth as well as your academic success. Good luck, Rebecca.
Adams State has a long history of success in track and field, cross country, and running in general, which continues today. Let’s meet Nicole, a graduate who’s about to start her master’s study in exercise science. She’ll share with us how athletics and academics fit together at Adams State. Take it away, Nicole.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. I’ve been running track and cross country since I was 11 years old. So when it came time to look for a college, I looked for somewhere where I’d be pushed to become the best runner I could be while also getting my degree. I’ve been able to chase both athletic and academic success. Small classroom sizes made learning personal, and caring professors helped me get my cellular and molecular biology degree, even when I had to travel for meets. Running here at Adams State has been an amazing experience. One of my favorite memories is winning the NCAA Division II Cross Country National Championships in 2021. But it hasn’t been all running in school. There are so many fun things to do in the San Luis Valley, especially if you enjoy the outdoors. My teammates and I love to visit the Great Sand Dunes National Park and the hot springs nearby. In addition, there are tons of hikes in the mountains and lots of little towns to explore. Not only is Adams State great for sports, our driving purpose is to provide equitable access to education for all. As Colorado’s premier Hispanic-serving institution, Adams State draws on its rural location in the San Luis Valley to serve and empower all of its students, especially those from historically underserved populations. Looking back on my undergraduate experience, I found that college here is more than just education. I’ve not only gained knowledge and skills for a career, but also life skills which have helped me to become a well-rounded person. Luckily, my Adams State story is not over yet. I plan to chase excellence in exercise science master’s program and in cross country and track for two more years. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, athletics, academics, and beautiful natural wonders wherever you look. You must have loved your first four years at Adams State since you’re sticking around for your master’s. Nicole, best of luck.
Adams State recognizes and rewards hard work. Whether you never really thought you’d go to college, or you always planned on it, Jazmine and Jaqueline know Adams State makes resources available to keep you on your academic path. Ladies, the mic is all yours.
– [Both] Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone.
– Growing up, I never really pictured myself going to college. Maybe it’s because of the stereotypes given to my community or because everybody told me it was too hard. At five years old, my sisters and I began to learn what work was by helping our mom with her weekly jobs. When we were 12 years old, we began working in the potato fields. Our senior year of high school, we were overwhelmed about how we were going to afford college. So we applied to 100 scholarships and were granted a full ride at Adams State and became a part of the CAMP program. We came into college with no family background in higher education, so it was a very difficult adjustment. The CAMP program taught us to be proud of our background and helped us be successful both in building relationships and academically.
– Thanks to our experience in the CAMP program, we were able to build friendships and have guidance through our freshman year. The SSS TriO program also checked up on us and gave us support. As first-generation students, Adams State taught us that there are programs and institutions out there designated for people such as ourselves.
– The SSS TRiO program checked on us and provided support. We learned that with self-discipline, support, and focus, we can beat the stereotypes and become what we aspire to be. I am fortunate enough to say that my sister and I are graduating debt-free from Adams State. The sweaty days working in the fields and cleaning hotel rooms taught us to be humble and appreciative towards the educational system in this country. We learned to take advantage of the resources that help us grow. We thank Adams State for the lifelong friendships we gained and the unforgettable moments that we will always cherish while our time being on this campus.
– [Both] That’s our story. Back to back to you, Alex.
– Very impressive, Jazmine and Jaqueline. So glad Adams State helped you magnify your strength and complete your college career. That story was amazing. Take care, ladies.
Beginning college can be an intimidating experience for anyone, especially for folks who don’t have a history of higher education in their families. As Jasmina found out, Adams State is a place where you’ll feel welcome and comfortable no matter what your background. Take it away, Jasmina.
– Thanks, Alex. As a first-generation college student, the college admissions process was intimidating. I had no idea where to go or how my family could afford my education. When the Adams State admissions counselor visited my school, she told me about the opportunities they have, and I took a chance. The Adams experience is completely unique to you. Mine includes studying sociology and communications, being in student support services, member of Christian Challenge, work study as student ambassador, orientation leader, and activities coordinator. In my classes, my professors encourage open discussion. With our class size, I am always comfortable contributing. In communications, we learn about the media industry and have a lot of creative freedom when doing hands-on projects. Outside of the classroom, I’ve had many opportunities to be involved on campus, one of which is my time working as a student ambassador, where I give tours to prospective students and their families. I get to share my great appreciation for campus and everything it has to offer. Getting to work in the admissions office has allowed me to learn about the college application process while always staying up to date on the demographics of students we serve. Create your own Adams experience through clubs, lectures, cultural celebrations, or campus and community events. If you can’t find something for you here, then you’re simply not looking hard enough. As a Hispanic-serving institution, campus is rich for diversity, and we pride ourselves on inclusivity. A few years ago when I moved into my dorm room, I didn’t know who I’d become, but I found faith, met the most incredible faculty and staff, gained lifelong friends. And I’m confident my education will lead me to a successful future. That’s my Adams experience. Back to you, Alex.
– Jasmina, thank you for sharing your experience. It’s amazing that at Adams State, students can customize their experience through events, clubs, classes, and more. It sounds like such a friendly, welcoming place. Thanks again for sharing your story with us.