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.
Next we’ll hear from Drew, an exercise science major who came to Akron from out of state. He’ll share how he knew that Akron’s College of Health and Human Sciences was the right place for him to study and gain experience in his undergraduate major before heading to grad school for his doctorate in physical therapy. Drew, you are on.
– Thanks Alex. What’s up everyone? I knew from the beginning of my time in high school that I wanted to leave my home state of New York when it came to attending college and the most important thing for me was finding a campus that feels more like a family than anything else. I found everything that I was looking for here at the University of Akron. The location is unlike anywhere else for health science students. This area provides us connections to the Cleveland Clinic, Summa Health System, and tons of independent practices that you will have the opportunity to take a practicum or shadowing a rotation in. I personally work as a physical therapist aid at a nearby outpatient clinic. I got this opportunity strictly through a reference that one of my professors made. The professors here will not only help you learn in the classroom, they will connect you with great internships, co-ops, and job opportunities with many employers who hire Akron graduates. I am heading to grad school next year to pursue a doctorate in physical therapy. The career services that Akron provides to its students in preparing them to apply and attend graduate school are unmatched. And for those entering their fields, the extensive alumni base will make it easier than ever to find jobs. The location, knowledgeable faculty, and overall support that the university gives truly sets each and every student up to thrive in the post university world. I came here to the University of Akron to learn about the world of exercise science. I was successful in doing that here and on top of that, gain the connections to experience that world as a student firsthand. That’s all I got for you guys today. Take it away. A-man.
– Thanks D-man, it’s great to hear that you were able to discover everything you were looking for at Akron. Finding the right college for yourself is a big, big deal and thank you for reminding us that stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to great rewards.
Now we’re going to downtown Akron, just a block from campus where Alex is waiting for us. Alex recently graduated with a degree in biomedical engineering and minors in applied mathematics and chemistry. During her time at Akron, Alex made the most of her home away from home. She loved living on campus and exploring the city. Take it away, Alex.
– Thanks Alex. Hi everyone. I always knew I wanted to be in Northeast Ohio because of the strong engineering presence in the area. The University of Akron had everything I was looking for, and even better, a wonderful community that I’ve been grateful to call home for the last four years. Akron boasts experiential learning, research and amazing professors that have helped me complete my biomedical engineering degree to the fullest extent possible. I also graduated as a Williams Honors College Scholar, which allowed me to live in the honors dorms by freshman year. It also exposed me to real life topics outside of my field of study and connected me to my tight knit group of friends from day one. My classes were all smaller, which allowed me to form study groups and friendships that lasted for all four years of college. When I wasn’t in classes, I found myself in multiple student organizations, working and volunteering at a local hospital, spending time at our amazing rec center, cheering on the Zips at sporting events, and exploring all that the city of Akron has to offer. The city of Akron is absolutely amazing and downtown is a short walking distance away. We have the Art Museum and Lock 3 Park with ice skating and igloos in the winter. Watching the Akron Rubber Ducks play at Canal Park is a great way to escape any stress and relax for the day. Akron has prepared me for my career through rigorous coursework and career development opportunities. I’m now working in a lab at a university where I’ll be attending grad school in the fall. I couldn’t have done it without my friends, amazing faculty, and most importantly, the experiences that Akron has given me. Thanks for listening. Alex, take it away.
– What an amazing downtown, thanks for showing us around Alex. Beyond always having something to do in the city of Akron, throughout the year, the connections between the university and the city has enabled students to find valuable learning experiences at the thousands of area businesses, including many fortune 500 companies, that’s amazing.
The University of Akron prides itself on its role in the local arts community and next up we’ll hear from Larry, a dance major who’s gonna tell us his experience as a fine arts major. Whether you wanna study dance, music, or the visual arts, Akron’s programs provide excellence in teaching and experiences to build confidence in your craft. Let’s hear from Larry.
– Thank you, it’s great to be here, Alex. When choosing the right college I started to look around and fell in love with the University of Akron. Attending college can lead you to many different adventures and being involved to depend solely on putting yourself out there. I quickly joined the dance program and with the help of the other dancers I learned the ropes and saw what Akron has to offer. From Robs Dining Hall to various events around campus, there’s plenty to get involved in here on campus. Within the dance program I was able to join the Terpsichore Dance Club, where I got the chance to become closer with my fellow dancers and put on shows for the community, along with showcasing some of our dynamic student choreography. While attending Akron I was able to perform in a commercial. Being able to represent the University of Akron was a fulfilling opportunity. Being one of the only schools in the country with a national center for choreography, provide some classes with a chance to work with national choreographers around the world. Seeing how many chances were presented to me to become involved more with Akron’s dance program was astounding and only set me up to be excited for more events to come my way. Alex, take us back.
– With all that Akron has to offer its dance students, I’m sure I’ll see you on Broadway someday soon, Larry. Thank you for that. With creative faculty, stellar art, music and dance schools and a performing arts hall that features internationally known artists, Akron is leading a new era of art and culture for the region and beyond.
Let’s meet Cecilia, a chemical engineering major with minors in mathematics and polymer science and engineering. She’s gonna tell us all about the exciting opportunities for undergraduate research and the support system she’s found here in Akron’s College of Engineering and Polymer Science. Cecilia, please take it away.
– Thank you, Alex. Hi everyone. I always knew that I would come to the University of Akron. My hardest decision was figuring out what engineering field I wanted to major in. Akron is ranked number one in the world for polymer science and plastics engineering and there is so much more than that. Mechanical, biomedical, chemical. There is no limit to what an engineering degree can be. Akron didn’t just tell me this, they showed me all the possibilities. I quickly realized that there were support systems around every corner. Faculty, staff, and alumni who offered their wisdom and resources without any hesitation. I soon found myself immersed in undergraduate research, developing a process to cultivate algae for biofuel in an undergraduate student government, working to build community and enhance the student experience. I became a member of the Alpha Delta PI sorority. Volunteering and raising awareness for the Ronald McDonald House charities by collecting pop tabs and organizing campus events. And I even got certified as a Zumba fitness instructor to teach classes in our rec center. From expanding our academic reach to strengthening soft skills, there are a plethora of organizations, design teams and opportunities at Akron. I’ve been able to attend national engineering conferences and design team competitions. I’ve even worked at fortune 500 companies through our co-op program. I’ve learned so much more than what I set out to study. At Akron I’ve been able to foster relationships and build a strong network, which has allowed me to grow into an engineer, prepared for any challenges and propel me into a successful career. Wherever I go, I love that I will be forever a Zip. Thanks for listening everyone. Back to you, Alex.
– Cecilia, it’s great to hear how you can explore your interest in sustainability, through your research on algae and biofuel. What an incredible experience, mixing your passion with your research experience can only make the world a better place to live, work and play. Good luck as you continue your journey.
I’d like to introduce you to a very special guest, Evangel University President Mike Rakes. President Rakes is deeply passionate about helping students develop spiritually, mentally, and socially. With new programs, projects, and building campaigns Evangel is truly becoming a university of the future. President Rakes, please take it away.
– Thanks Alex. This generation of students has a deep desire to make their life count, to use their time in a meaningful way. However, education alone is not enough. Something else is missing. And in these uncertain times where we are experiencing troubling global issues and challenges, the world needs difference makers. That’s why you need more than just an education. You need life transformation and truthfully that’s the secret sauce here at Evangel. There’s a transformational experience waiting for you here. At Evangel we believe followers of Christ should intentionally set their personal career trajectories toward every vocation in the world. Evangel University prepares you for the significant work that you will accomplish. And every one of our graduates, not only experiences personal transformation, but has the skill of being innovative in whatever vocation they choose. With the compassion of God’s Spirit and the courage to innovate our graduates get jobs upon graduation. Evangel has generated business executives, professional athletes, teachers, artists, musicians, accountants, attorneys, and non-profit, and church leaders worldwide. At EU you’ll become a lifelong learner, a confident communicator, and a real-world problem solver. Business owners in fortune 500 companies are all experiencing accelerated changes in their businesses and they’re looking for sharp, young minds to innovate responses to the challenges. Here, you’ll gain the skills you need to do just that. Our faculty members have decades of experience in business, research science, education, artistic expression, practical ministry, and theological study to help you build a strong foundation for your future. Evangel University will help you find yourself and make an impact right here and right now and use your life to make the most remarkable difference possible. As you consider your college options, we invite you to be a part of the amazing community and culture here at Evangel University. Take it away, Alex.
– Thank you, president Rakes. In just the first year of Dr. Rakes’ tenure as president Evangel saw a record number of donations, the adoption of a new mascot, Valor, and the completed construction of many major campus upgrades. The future certainly looks bright for the Evangel Valor. Thanks again, Dr. Rakes.
Let’s meet Allison who recently graduated from EU’s doctor of education program through EU online. Evangel’s virtual option provides a flexible, affordable path to education, which has allowed Allison to advance your career while directing a high school drama program, and raising two daughters with her husband. All yours, Allison.
– Thank you, Alex. Learning has always been a part of my life. I began my teaching career 16 years ago immediately after my undergraduate degree, I pursued my master’s degree. And since that time, my husband and I have had two beautiful daughters. And then a few years ago, I began to feel stagnant in my educational journey. And that’s when I heard about Evangel University’s doctor of education program. I was drawn to the program because of the accessibility of the online courses while still fulfilling my role as a full-time teacher, theater director, mother, and wife. The course design, dissertation timeline, and faculty support were also really appealing. I knew I would really have a chance to get to know my professors and my advisor. A major highlight of the program was the networking. I met so many innovative educators in my area. I have a wealth of support and resources at my fingertips from working closely with my cohort. Though, the coursework was online, the summer residency on campus provided an opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations of issues facing education with my cohort members. I quickly formed lifelong connections. Even after completing the program, I love supporting this amazing group of educators and asking for their support as we all continue to grow. The knowledge I gained in my dissertation research experience has opened doors for me to speak at conferences, provide professional development for districts and surrounding states, and continue to build an arts integration initiative in my own district. Most importantly, through my time at Evangel, I have been able to grow in my field and provide my students with the very best education possible and model a living example for my daughters of the importance of lifelong learning. That’s my story, Alex. Back to you.
– Thank you for sharing, Allison. With numerous graduates receiving District and State Teacher of the Year Awards and Distinguished Administrator Awards, Evangels education graduates like Allison Excel in the workplace. And that is awesome, take care.
Up next, we’ll meet Dalton. A student who is making a difference, compassion, and innovation are the bedrock of the Evangel experience. In fact, because of its partnerships with local and global organizations and its many service trips, EU is known as the compassion university. One of the Evangels main partnerships is with Convoy of Hope, an international disaster relief organization providing food and resources to communities around the globe. Take it away, Dalton.
– Hey everyone. As a Florida native, I had never heard of Evangel University before. It wasn’t until a family friend told me about EU and encouraged me to go on a visit that I immediately fell in love with this community, traveling a thousand miles away to a college where you know no one can be quite intimidating, but once I experienced a community overflowing with joy and with open arms, I knew I had found my family. Some of my best moments have been here at Evangel, but I’ve experienced some challenges as well. One of those hard moments came the spring semester of my freshman year. I had learned that my grandmother who raised me through high school was diagnosed with an advanced form of breast cancer. I felt the need to go home and care for her. And this would have a significant effect on my studies. In a major show of support, the university rallied around me to get me home in a few days and stay on track with my classes. Evangel also provided the ability to return the next semester. And I was welcomed again with open arms. An ethos of compassion is central to the heart and vision of Evangel University. With an overflowing wellspring of love and caring, Evangel prioritizes empowering students to better our campus, our surrounding community, and the world through outreach opportunities through our crosswalk student ministries team, our global connections trip, and our center for compassion, a partnership between Evangel and Convoy of Hope. Evangel has been so formative to the way that I want to lead, to serve, and love those around me. I’ll be pursuing my master’s degree here at Evangel in clinical mental health counseling. And I hope to bring my licensed professional counseling services into the mission field to serve the world just as Jesus did. Back to you, Alex.
– Thanks for your story, Dalton. It’s awesome to hear how Evangel students are equipped to make an impact in the world through service and integrity. Evangel takes pride in cultivating a culture of lifelong learning for all students.
It’s easy for Evangel students to quickly find their place on campus through EU’s wide variety of campus organizations Amariah built lifelong relationships through her involvement at Evangel. We can’t wait to hear all about it. It’s all yours, Amariah.
– Thanks Alex. I am so happy to be here. If you would’ve told me years ago that I would end up in Springfield, Missouri living my best life, I wouldn’t have believed you. During my senior year of high school I had no idea where I wanted to go next, but right here and right now I can’t imagine being anywhere else. Evangel University made it so easy to acclimate to college life. At EU, you can’t turn a corner without finding a community to join. Of course, there are academic communities. As a marketing major I’ve experienced amazing comradery in the business department. As for extracurricular involvement, one of my favorite organizations is activities board or as we like to call it AB. AB’s job is to cultivate community through campus-wide events. Each semester AB host a variety show and a historic venue in downtown Springfield featuring live music, sketch comedy, creative videos, and a huge costume contest. As an AB member, I even had the opportunity to create a unique event with my team. If you are someone who loves making people feel at home, then AB is the place for you. But the fun doesn’t stop there. Community engagement goes far beyond annual traditions. Whether you are walking down the sidewalk or hanging out in your dorm room, Evangel community can be found all across campus. Your peers become your pals and your friends become your family. I can’t begin to express how God has used Evangel to impact my life. At EU, you don’t just walk away with a degree, you walk away empowered and equipped to make a global impact. If you choose EU, know that a life of love and belonging is waiting for you. See you at our next event. Take it away, Alex!
– Thank you, Amariah. From joining the student investment group, which manages a more than $1 million portfolio on Wall Street, to traveling with the heart song worship team, or to throwing campus wide events with activities board, there is a place for you on this campus right here at Evangel. Thanks again, Amariah.