Let’s catch up with Kobe, who’s living large on campus, and gives us new meaning to being immersed in college life. He’s a communications major, a natural leader who served as both student trustee and homecoming king. Kobe is all about inspiring others to succeed. It’s go time, Kobe, you are up.
– What’s up, everyone. Growing up, education was always a priority in my family. My mother would have me read and practice math often. Even now, I’m not the best at math, but it turns out I could write and read pretty well. This is why I chose to study communications. Through all my years in school, I found that I performed better in smaller classrooms, where the teachers know me by my name. With education being the highest priority, Kean University was a perfect fit for me. What really sold me on attending Kean University, was new student orientation. This gave me the opportunity to spend two days on campus with other freshmen. I was able to make new friends, explore campus, and get a overall feel for the university. That experience encouraged me to live on campus for the next four years. Kean University has some of the best freshman resident halls I have seen. Because I’ve lived on campus, I’ve had so many opportunities to participate in clubs, organizations, student events, and activities. Homecoming has always been one of my favorites, and I had to honor being crown Homecoming King. Being on campus actually inspired me to be more than just a student. So, I joined leadership organizations, became a student employee, and even became a new student orientation leader. My greatest accomplishment was serving as the student trustee, representing the student population and working with the board of trustees. Kean’s diverse community, prepares students for the real world. My next step is to go back to school, and get my MBA in business management. While doing so, I want to start a mentorship program and leadership development organization for underrepresented minority communities in New Jersey. My goal is to ultimately give students in these communities, resources and opportunities they need to reach all professional fields and increase diversity. Kean has taught me how to work with a diverse group of students. And I want to continue that line of work and foster growth, and instill confidence in minority students. Back to you, Alex.
– Way to go, Kobe. Thanks for telling us how fun it is to live on campus, and sharing your amazing commitment to lifting others higher. Your vision for developing professional mentorship opportunities is amazing. You’re a powerhouse for sure, and we can’t wait to see what you do.
Now, introducing Tom. He’s an architecture major who knows firsthand about Kean’s exciting Study Abroad opportunities. Tom studied in Rome, Italy for a semester where he became immersed in Italian culture and experienced its renowned architecture. He also enjoyed meeting new people and participated in a design competition centered on renovating Rome’s abandoned buildings, Tom, you are up.
– Thanks, Alex. Ciao, everyone. Ever since I was a child, I’ve always wanted to visit Italy. When I found out about the Study Abroad program, I knew Kean University was the right fit for me. There are two non-negotiables when it comes to Kean’s incredible architecture program. All first year, students have to draw everything by hand, and every student spends a semester in Rome. Studying architecture in Italy is like being a kid in a candy store. Rome is one of the most influential cities to architecture. And being able to see everything that we’ve learned about in our history classes firsthand, was indescribable. My classmates and I were immersed in the culture, wandered the city, and even got to engage with the community. While we were there, we entered an ideas competition for our studio project to think of different ways we could turn abandoned buildings into housing facilities. It was incredible. Italy is not the only option. Kean offers over 50 Study Abroad programs that are open to all students. These programs span across Europe, Asia, South America, and beyond. And if that’s not enough, Kean is the only public university in the United States to have a full campus in China. The best part, is that there’s no extra cost of tuition to study at our Wenzhou-Kean Campus. And all classes are taught in English. My biggest takeaway from the four months I spent abroad, is having the ability to connect with people who aren’t like yourself. We live in a globalized world, and it’s so important to look outward and experience all that the world has to offer. That’s all for me. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Tom. Talk about an adventure of a lifetime. It sounds like great fun to experience other cultures while earning college credits in your major, through Kean’s over 50 Study Abroad programs. And studying at Kean’s campus in China for the same tuition is an unbelievable opportunity. Tom, you’re now a bonafide global citizen. Take care.
Let’s learn about Kean’s cutting edge research opportunities with Hana. She’s a biotechnology, molecular biology major enrolled in Kean’s Accelerated Stem Program, earning her bachelor’s and master’s degree in just five years. A childhood heart condition, inspired Hana’s passion to discover new drugs, to treat cardiovascular disease. At Kean, she’s collaborating with faculty and classmates on leading scientific research. Hana, tell us more.
– Thanks, Alex. Howdy, everybody, and welcome to Kean Stem Program. I’ve always been interested in science since my amazing seventh grade science teacher, and I’ve been captivated by the medicinal world through drug discovery research. I have a heart condition called HCM, which had sidelined me from athletics at a young age. Due to this, I’ve always wanted to know more about heart conditions and what to do to help others. When deciding what university to attend, doing hands-on research early in my career, was the most important aspect to me. Here at Kean University, I’m able to conduct research in a lab at an extremely early point in my career. Being able to work with a partner, has truly taught me to be flexible with others, as well as helped me make great friends. I’ve been doing research under the mentorship of three different professors. My cohort and I synthesized dipeptidyl peptidase inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2, successfully coupling two main . Meaning, we were able to chemically create a compound that would potentially be able to enter proteins and peptides in COVID-19 patients. I presented my research to my peers at Kean’s Annual Research Day events where more than 1000 other students showcase the work they have conducted. Kean University has been designated as New Jersey’s first urban research university. Kean’s also on a path to achieve an R2 Carnegie designation, which would recognize our growing research program. Kean has truly prepared me already with a hands-on research experience. Industry recruiters find students here to be more than qualified due to our extensive expertise. I plan on graduating with my bachelors and master in science in our five-year program, and then proceeding to get an MD PhD, researching drug discovery within cardiovascular disease. I am passionate about the research I have already conducted and my future. Bringing it back to you, Alex.
– Hana, you are unstoppable. Sounds like your research into new drugs will help create medicines for people to live longer and healthier lives. Incredible that your maximizing Kean’s faculty mentorship, research days, and state-of-the-art laboratory facilities to help get a jump start on your life’s work. Here’s to you becoming a groundbreaking research scientist.
Let’s hear from Kara and Jason about their favorite spots on Kean’s main campus. Kara was a theater major who found creative inspiration in the changing seasons and natural beauty on campus. Jason was a business management major, who is the epitome of student involvement and enjoyed chillaxing to the sweeping skyline views of New York city. All right, you too, take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Growing up with two sisters, I’ve always had someone to joke around with. My family tells me I found my perfect career, acting. My experience here at Kean University has been a huge part of my growth as an artist. I make use of the campus’s D’Angola Gym, and enjoy scenic walks in either the falling autumn leaves or the blooming cherry blossom trees, finding creative inspiration anywhere you look. And because we’re so close to the city, my roommate and I planned many trips to New York city. I spend most of my time in Vaughn Ames. This building holds many great memories like performing in my first college play, Alphas Psi Omega Induction Nights, theater classes, and much more. What about you, Jason?
– I came to Kean University through the Educational Opportunity Fund Program, which helps students from disadvantaged backgrounds. And it has been a fantastic journey ever since. The great thing about Kean, is that there is always something going on, on campus. I got involved in many clubs and organizations, and was voted student trustee on the University’s Board of Trustees, and later president of the Student Government Association. The top floor of Hines Hall is definitely one of my favorite hangout spots on campus, ‘Cause you can sit out on the deck and see the New York city skyline. With a strange station right here on campus, my friends and I are able get to New York city in 30 minutes. And many of us have gotten jobs in internships, which is excellent preparation for our careers. I can’t wait to return to Kean and continue climbing higher in graduate school.
– That’s it from us back to you, Alex.
– Awesome, Kara and Jason. thanks for telling us about your best kept secret spots on campus to relax and get in the zone. How ideal, that Kean is close to New York city, a worldwide financial and entertainment Mecca. Keep climbing higher, and best of luck with your future plans. Look forward to seeing Kara on stage and on screen, and Jason in the boardroom, coming very soon.
Here at the University of Akron, students have all kinds of opportunities to enhance their education by getting involved in student organizations that match current interests or help them discover new ones. Let’s meet Jose. When it comes to getting involved on campus, he knows exactly how it’s done.
– Hey, thank you Alex. How’s it going, everyone? Growing up I always had a passion for traveling. I found pleasure in experiencing new places and cultures. Therefore, when looking for colleges, I knew I wanted to go somewhere I could be a part of a community of different people. I came across the University of Akron and since day one knew I made the right choice. The University of Akron has one of the best engineering programs in the nation, featuring a top of the line co-op program and state of the arts research facilities. This composes a small fraction of what Akron has to offer. We have a vibrant campus community that fosters diversity, inclusion, and involvement. As an international student I have always felt like I have a voice on campus. Plus engineering extracurriculars is extremely easy. Do you know that UA has more than 340 student organizations? From a high spirited Greek life to an award-winning sales engineering society, we’ve got everything that you could dream of. Taking part in these activities has allowed me to discover a myriad of my other interests and enhance my college experience. Attending the UA convinced me that college is meant to be more than just classes. A few peers and I even got inspired to create our own club. The International Student Organization. Believe it or not the process was extremely easy. Faculty and staff assisted us through the process and we are now proud to have more than 80 members. From allowing me to become president of my fraternity to a social media ambassador, this university has done more than just prepare me for a job. Thanks to the University of Akron, I’m now the courageous leader I have always sought to be. Alex, tell us what’s next.
– Thank you, Jose, for reminding us that the college experience is more than just academics. Through student organizations you have the opportunity to gain experience as leaders while simultaneously making your community a better place to live. Plus, as Jose showed, if there’s an impact you wanna make on campus, just start your own student organization.
In recent decades, Akron Zips athletic teams, cheered on by their devoted fans, the AK Rowdies, and Zippy, one of the country’s few female college mascots, have boasted Olympic athletes and brought home dozens of conference championships, individual national championships, and a men’s soccer team national championship. Running it over to Janay, a track athlete who recently helped her team win two conference championships.
– Thanks Alex. Hi guys. I’m from Akron, Ohio, born and raised. I graduated from high school in 2020 and decided to attend Akron that fall. Prior to attending Akron, I already had a personal connection to the university through my own interactions in family. I’ve always found a strong connection to helping others and working in a direct way. I knew that Akron and the connections I have here could help me to do this. I’m studying exercise science with the goal of physical therapy school. In addition to academics, I came to Akron for athletics to run track, which my major goes hand in hand with. It focuses on the body and its functions, which strengthens my understanding and ultimately aids my athletic progression. As an athlete it can be challenging, but also rewarding, especially with the family-like atmosphere. We push each other to be the best so when meets and competition come, we can perform our best. I’ve been fortunate to be a part of a championship winning team. Both our males and females tend to dominate in our given events. Most recently, our women’s team was able to win the indoor and outdoor championship, both of which I was able to contribute to with the 400 in four by four. The experience of trying to win a team championship and score points is one that brings us all closer as a team and shows how much we really want it. Akron has consistently been winning championships, notably in sports like soccer, and most recently men’s basketball and women’s swimming and diving. Through my experience in this major, I’ve learned what this field and Akron has to offer and the numerous opportunities available to me, both academically and athletically. That’s the end of my run, Alex, what’s next?
– Congratulations on your team’s recent championship, Janay, and a huge congratulations to all of Akron’s athletic teams that made their city and university so proud. It’s no doubt that Akron raises champions, and like we heard from Janay, it takes a community to raise each other up.
We’re gonna meet up with Owen, a senior communications student in the Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences who is such a charming personal story and a fascinating role at the university’s student run radio station. Owen, you’re on air.
– Thanks Alex. What’s up everybody. I hope you are doing well. I am a proud resident student here at the University of Akron, where I major in communication with a focus in public relations in a minor in news. The School of Communication is one of the many departments in the Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences and there are many clubs that students can join. I am a member and DJ of our college radio station, 88.1 WZIP Akron. We’re the world’s most listened to student run college radio station, and yes, you heard me right, the most listened to in the world. And there are a number of activities that students can join here at WZIP. You can be in underwriting, production, music programming, social media, and many, many more. Our TV station, ZTV, is student run as well and we have a number of originally produced TV shows and you do not have to be a communication student to join these extracurricular activities. If you’ve always pictured yourself on TV or the radio, this is the place for you. The experiences at the University of Akron not only prepare you for your career, but help you get involved in things you’ve always dreamed of doing. Being from Akron, Ohio I grew up listening to this station and have wanted to join WZIP since I was 10 years old, and if only I would’ve known 10 years later that I would be on air multiple times a week. I have learned so much through my experiences here at the University of Akron that I am so thankful for. You’re on Alex.
– Wow Owen, I bet your 10 year old self would be thrilled to see you living your dreams on WZIP. Akron’s media programs give students the chance to work real positions, from on-air DJ, to TV show producer, and to earn national awards. In fact, Akron’s ZTV has earned 12 Emmy awards and more than 50 nominations in the last 10 years. That is incredible. Thanks again.
We’ll hear from Brooke next, a biomedical science student and honors scholar who shares what has made her time at Akron, and in the Honors College, so rewarding.
– Thanks Alex. Hey everyone. Ever since I was little I knew that I wanted to go to the University of Akron. Their endless opportunities, connections with Akron area, and world class education made me realize that this university was the one for me. I want to challenge myself intellectually and surround myself with like-minded and engaged students. So I applied to the Williams Honors College. One benefit of the Honors College is the Honors Complex, where I lived my freshman year. There I met some of my best friends. The faculty and advisors associated with the Honors College also pushed me to excel, both in the classroom and the community. They provide me with opportunities to be involved in leadership training, organizations on campus, and projects my local Akron area. I get specialized education, priority scheduling, I even get to design my own research project. As a pre-med student I applied to medical school and those applications require many extracurriculars in addition to a great education. The Williams Honors College helped me to find these opportunities, both on campus and my local area. Not only did they help me complete my application, but they helped me get accepted into medical school. I was recently admitted into the Early Assurance Program that Northeast Ohio Medical University has with the University of Akron. I am so excited to venture there once I graduate. All the opportunities that the Williams Honors College offered greatly set me apart and helped me in every single step of my college career. Where are you taking us next, Alex?
– Wow Brooke, it sounds like you’re well prepared to head into medical school, especially with all the opportunities Akron has offered you. From leadership to research, Akron’s Early Assurance Pathway guaranteed Brooke a seat at a regional medical school where she can continue her studies. Opportunities like this will always keep Akron Zips rising.
Now we’re gonna meet Tyrone, a computer engineering major who’s gonna tell us all about his experience with student support systems and caring staff, as well as the tight knit community he’s found right here at the University of Akron. Tyrone, you’re up.
– Awesome. Thank you Alex. Hey, how’s everyone doing? After graduating high school, I knew I wanted to become part of a university that truly looks after its students. When it comes to the culture and community here at the University of Akron, it cannot be beat. From tailgates and sporting events, to residence life and academics, the Zips nation runs strong within the student body. When I first visited as an incoming first year student, I quickly felt that initial care from faculty and other students when I arrived. Just a few of the organizations I quickly became involved with include the Office of Academic and Retention Support, the Office of Multicultural Development, the Collegiate 100, and the National Society of Black Engineers. All of these organizations quickly showed me that they truly cared about the student population. That was something that really helped me feel welcomed in this strong tight-knit community. As a computer engineering major, I loved to hear that our engineering department is nationally ranked across the world. Our engineering department is big, but our advisors, faculty and staff are easily reachable. They are willing to help with any situation you may come across with, homework, class scheduling, office hours or exam study sessions. This makes my semesters move smoothly and I feel confident knowing I have support from professors. When I first got accepted into the College of Engineering and Polymer Science, I knew that this would become a tough major. Now, as a third year, and utilizing the support systems along the way, I have gained more confidence towards finishing my degree. I am now even taking part in my very first internship. The connections I have made along the way have helped mold me into becoming a great candidate for my major. Alex, take it away.
– Thanks Tyrone, students at Akron are surrounded by many amazing support systems that keep their dreams in sight, from academics and mental health to financial support and accommodations for individuals with disabilities. No matter the student, Akron will always be there for anyone in any situation. Since it’s founding in 1975, Akron’s Williams Honors College continues to be a community where students can be inspired by their professors and high achieving classmates with broad academic interests and achievements.
Let’s meet Shareef, an international business student who has taken full advantage of the professional development opportunities available to students in the University of Akron College of Business, a top 50 public business school. We’ll also hear about the college’s connection to the business community and it’s large network of alumni and community leaders. Tell us more Shareef.
– Thanks for that introduction, Alex, I’m so excited for you to be here on campus. What’s up everyone? Growing up 20 minutes south of Akron, I’ve been blessed with having the University of Akron in my own backyard. Akron’s convenience and affordability attracted me to apply, but the university’s nationally acclaimed business programs are what sealed the deal. What if I told you that I get a few steps closer to my degree every time that I attend a professional development event? Whether it be a required professional development course for freshman or resume building workshops held on campus, professional development is weaved throughout our College of Business’ curriculum. My personal favorite workshop has been learning how to introduce myself to potential employers in a concise introduction called an elevator pitch. Akron’s connections to local companies, such as Goodyear and Smucker, give business students key opportunities to explore the ins and outs of multinational corporations. This summer I’m interning at Goodyear’s global headquarters here in Akron, Ohio to learn the intricacies of the global supply chain. As a member of the University of Akron’s Student Ambassador Program I have the pleasure of interacting with the university’s expansive network of alumni and community leaders. Learning how to interact with successful individuals has been a highlight of my Akron experience. The University of Akron College of Business’ emphasis on preparing students to stand out in an evolving workforce has been apparent since day one. Akron has helped solidify my plans for the future and has given me a game plan on reaching my goals, such as landing an internship at Goodyear and making me extremely confident in my choice to attend the University of Akron and major in international business. What’s next, Alex?
– Shareef, thank you for sharing how your development as a student has resulted in numerous opportunities to be successful after college and in our ever evolving business world. Students like you show that taking advantage of all things that campus has to offer will guide you on a path towards success.