First generation college students face unique challenges and can feel lost, isolated and alone when navigating a college campus. Riana, a first gen student majoring in nursing, is gonna share her experience as an incoming student and talk about the many resources available to support her on her journey. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex, hi, everyone. While looking for schools, CSUSB’s Nursing Program stood out from all the rest. I take pride in knowing that Cal State San Bernardino’s Nursing Program is nationally ranked and accredited. As a first generation student, it was scary entering into college, as I had no idea what to expect. That all changed once I got to experience orientation at CSUSB. The Office of First Year Experience went at their mission to make sure that all freshmen were well informed about CSUSB’s various resources, and that we had fun and made friends while doing so. One of the resources mentioned was supplemental instruction, which is additional instruction provided by students after lectures. The first time I intended a session is where I ended up meeting my now best friend. Thanks, CSUSB. Another first-year resource that made a significant impact was the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships. They helped connect me with scholarships I qualified for, which eased my mind. This campus offers a plethora of resources and activities to make sure new transfer and first-year students feel right at home. The Week of Welcome is a series of events where students are given campus tours to become familiar with their new home, and also given important information to help them on their journey. CSUSB’s resources and events geared towards first generation students has made me feel like a college student before I even took my first course. Being a nursing student is hard work. But what the unlimited support that I have received has made it that much easier to succeed. Getting to experience college as a CSUSB Coyote has been so much fun. Back to you, Alex.
– Great job, Riana. It didn’t take you long to acclimate to university life, thanks to resources like the First Year Experience and other welcome events. CSUSB’s I’m First Alliance welcomes all incoming first generation college students to participate in a series of transitional workshops designated to help you adjust to this new environment. And that is amazing, take care.
Let’s hear more from Evan, an entrepreneurship major who has already launched two successful businesses as an undergrad. Evan, take it away.
– Thanks, Alex, what’s up, everyone? Ever since high school, I knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur. I started reselling sneakers as a hobby, and once I graduated and came to Cal State San Bernardino, I turned my hobby into a full-blown business. I went from reselling sneakers from my local outlet stores to bringing in over a half a million dollars in revenue in a single year. The School of Entrepreneurship here, which is the first of its kind in California and one of fewer than 15 in the nation, has surrounded me with like-minded students and amazing professors and faculty who are always ready to hope. Now with my dedication to be an entrepreneur, I currently own two businesses. Ice Cold Sneakers, LLC and Rampage USA, LLC. Just this year, a business offered me equity in their company. And when I received this offer, the first person I turned to was Professor Abbott. We sat down, discussed the deal, and even offered to come with me to meet with the business so I could make the deal. Now, although I have a passion for entrepreneurship, there are other amazing programs, like Cybersecurity and the Hospitality Management Program. Both of these programs have professors that will guide you, like my professors had guided me. The resources and tools at my disposal have been incredible and have played a huge role in the growth and success of my businesses. Together, CSUSB works to prepare the leaders of the next generation and develop the graduates who are successful in their fields. For me, they did more than just show me how to start a business, so I know they will provide you with the skills, knowledge, connections, resources, and a deeper understanding of who you are as an entrepreneur.
– Evan, thank you for sharing your amazing story and congratulations on your success. Your experience illustrates how CSUSB provides students with excellent academic programs, coupled with unique experiential learning opportunities, bolstered by supportive faculty and mentorship. That was awesome, take care.
Let’s meet a student who went from having no clue about what she wanted to be, to a psychology major who’s conducting research and preparing to publish papers, and present at conferences all as an undergraduate. We’re going over to Camille at the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. Take it away.
– Thanks for that introduction, Alex. When I started looking for a college, I had no idea what I wanted to be. I chose CSUSB because I heard great things about their programs and professors, being close to home was just a bonus. As a psychology major, I searched for research opportunities pretty early on. Psychology at CSUSB is a rigorous program for both undergraduate and graduate school. However, it is giving me the experience necessary to be prepared for my graduate degree. There are tons of different research labs with great professors, such as the Infant and Toddler Lab School and the Center for Criminal Justice Research to name a few. We also have Psychology Honors where students pair up with a psychology professor to be their mentor for their last year. Not only does this allow students to network, but to conduct research. CSUSB has a whole week dedicated to research called the Meeting of the Minds, where I aspire to present my research. The research team I’m on is BEFAST, Building Executive Functions for Academic Success Training. This program gives me the honor to work with at-risk youth. We’re making connections with these students, learning about them, and they learn about us as well. Here at CSUSB, I’m learning how to conduct hands-on research and work with faculty and the community. One of the best parts about it is that I get to do this as an undergraduate. In the end, this research has helped me take the steps to become a published author and gain hands-on experience, like presenting at conferences. Whatever major you choose at Cal State San Bernardino, you won’t just learn about it, you’ll gain hands-on experience. Go, Yotes! That’s all for me. Back to you, Alex.
– Amazing job, Camille, and thank you for a truly inspiring story. There are so many research opportunities at CSUSB. You can refine your collaborative and critical thinking skills in honors programs and research labs, while clarifying your long-term academic interests and fine tuning your career options through internships and networking opportunities. Absolutely amazing, thanks again. Cybersecurity, hospitality management, and entrepreneurship are just a few of the emerging CSUSB programs that are having a big impact on students and the greater community.
This next speaker is a non-traditional, transfer student who has defied the odds. Communications major Tierra is a 32-year-old single mother who plans to run for governor someday. We’ll meet her to hear about the academic opportunities she found at CSUSB. You’re on, Tierra.
– Thanks, Alex, hey, guys. I’m a transfer student here at CSUSB. I was motivated to attend this university by a former professor and debate coach who graduated from here. He was living proof that CSUSB had the resources I needed. I’m 32 years old and an only parent of two daughters, so I could not risk the possibility of failure. I know, not your traditional student, but, hey. I always felt welcomed here on campus. In the future, I plan on running for California governor. Just weeks away from coming to this university, I launched an online campaign and podcast fighting for social justice and human equality. I was confident I had all the skills I needed to be successful. During my first semester here, I realized that could not have been further from the truth. This university has a writing and research center available to all majors, both graduates and undergraduates, which helped me acquire the skills I was lacking, getting me one step closer to my goals. Since attending CSUSB, I have learned how to effectively write and report news, launch a campaign and produce a successful podcast. I have also created media content, made my own business plan, wrote my own research proposal. This university has provided me with an opportunity to intern with the Prison Education Program, which taught me that reform is possible provided by an education. CSUSB ensures all students know how to analyze, critically think and research. The education I have received here at CSUSB has inspired me to continue my research and podcast arguing that race labels maintain racism. I want the world to wake up with Tierra Scott. And I want my daughters to go to college, not because I told them to, but because I did. I am defining the future. It has been nice showing you just a little of what CSUSB has to offer, and I invite you to come see for yourself. What’s next, Alex?
– Tierra, thank you so much for sharing. You are truly defining the future. The CSUSB educational experience includes strategies to help all students succeed, from advising and academic services, career and student success resources, and a variety of robust programs to involve them in the college experience. All right, take care.
Ah, the home of the Roadrunners. You are bound to catch an exciting game either on the field, diamond, court, or in the pool. That’s where you’ll find Emile, a junior Economics major from Belgium. Why Ramapo? Why Division III? Emile, it’s time for you to dive right in.
– Hello, Alex and hello everyone. I’m so glad to have you all here. As an international student from Belgium, I always knew I wanted to be a student athlete in America and Ramapo enabled me to fulfill that dream. Ramapo is home to highly competitive NCAA Division III athletics. My swim coach, as well as all of the coaches here always emphasize that our number one priority is our education. In fact, Ramapo student athletes consistently maintain an above average cumulative GPA. Ramapo cares about its athletes and makes sure we have access to top tier athletic facilities, personalized academic support, and priority registrations to make sure our classes fit with our practices and game schedules. Why Division III? Well, Division III offers a unique combination between athletics and academics. No one at the Division III is eligible to receive athletic scholarships, which means all the time and dedication we put into our sport is truly for the love of the game. And Ramapo sure knows how to make you feel supported as an athlete, especially with the community send off every time we make it to the NCAA tournament. Ramapo is home to highly competitive club and intramural teams. These club teams travel and practice just like the Division III teams. Dance, cheer, and ice hockey have all been very successful, with ice hockey placing third in the nation this past season. We also have club lacrosse, soccer, and even rock climbing. These club teams offer you the opportunity to have fun and improve without the commitment of being an NCAA athlete. Coming to America I never knew I would be able to combine academics and athletics so well, but that’s exactly what I was able to do right here at Ramapo. I already hold two school records and have received quality academic training. That’s all for me right now. Back to you, Alex.
– What great information, Emile. The Roadrunners have made more than 150 NCAA tournament appearances and club teams hold national and regional titles, too. With incredible athletic facilities, dedicated coaches, and a community invested in your success, I now understand why athletic alumni say, “Once a Roadrunner, always a Roadrunner.”
Danny is a Mathematics major, and you’re about to see why. He’s the perfect Roadrunner to talk about the more than a hundred diverse clubs and organizations on campus. He’s gonna add up all the opportunities to get involved on campus to multiply your fun. You’re on, Danny.
– Thank you for the introduction, Alex, There is no shortage of things to do here at Ramapo College, which is why I found it to be a perfect fit. When I came to campus, I became heavily involved across a variety of areas, including Public Safety Advisory Council, athletics liaison, national anthem singer, yearbook team, admissions team, and Student Government Association. Discussing and debating activities while also engaging in fun social activities. There is something for everyone. We have an active Greek life on campus. Or maybe you’d like to join the beekeeping club, Democracy Matters, the Roadrunner Pep Band, or become part of the College Programming Board and help plan events such as the Annual Spring Concert. Ramapo also offers a number of cultural clubs, such as the Black Students Union, the United Asian Association, and the Association for Latinos Moving Ahead. Some of the greatest conversations I had are with friends I made from getting involved. From where to get the best pizza, it’s New Jersey so there’s plenty of competition, to arranging tutoring support for classes. From when our athletics teams are playing and who is going to cheer on the Roadrunners, especially my personal favorite, our national champion ice hockey team, to where to hang out and have fun. And if you ever feel there is something missing at Ramapo, just stop by the Center for Student Involvement and create the club yourself. My college experience here at Ramapo has prepared me for higher education in graduate school at Columbia University. Ramapo has given me a future that is unlimited. And I learned that no matter where I am in life, I will always aim to leave an environment better than I found it. Throwing it back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Danny, I can’t believe you had time to share your story with all that you do on campus. The opportunities to get involved here are endless. And here’s a fun fact. More than 77% of the students at Ramapo voted in the last presidential election. With clubs like Democracy Matters and the SGA, it’s no wonder why. Best wishes to you as you head to the Ivy League. Take care, Danny.
Kaylee, a sophomore women’s soccer player majors in Elementary Education. And she’s gonna share with us why everyone here at Ramapo calls this place, “Home Sweet Po.” Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Coming from a small high school I knew I wanted to find a college that would support me not only academically, but provide me with a sense of community. After touring Ramapo, I knew instantly that they would provide me with both of these things. Ramapo first made me feel right at home through our Arching Ceremony, our most historic tradition. This is where first year students will meet and proceed through our symbolic Arch and be greeted by our president and upperclassmen. I personally got involved on campus through my involvement with the women’s soccer team. Ramapo’s women’s soccer team had me surrounded by a group of women that not only shared the same love for sport as I did, but the same determination. And I’m now grateful enough to call each and every one of them my family, The Elementary Education program here at Ramapo also introduced me to the community that we have. With me and my peers participating in similar field work, it caused us to rely on each other heavily for advice throughout this process. Ramapo also has several communities outside of the classroom. Students can get involved in many of our centers here on campus, such as our Women’s Center, Queer Peer Services, and our Multicultural Center. These are all great resources for our students to find themselves immersed within our campus. While many believe that graduation means your home at school is ending, Ramapo emphasizes their community even after you leave. Graduating seniors participate in our Arching Ceremony once again at graduation to signify the end of their journey here. Then, even after graduation, we received continued support through Ramapo’s alumni network. When I first came to Ramapo, I could have never imagined the acceptance that I would find myself immersed in and would’ve never thought that it would follow me past graduation. That is why when you’re here at Ramapo, it really is home sweet po. That’s all for me. Kicking it back to you, Alex.
– How incredible is that tradition, Kaylee. Arching when you enter and graduate certainly connects you deeply to Ramapo the community. Also named one of the top 25 disability friendly schools in the nation reinforces that commitment you mentioned. It seems like there’s something for everyone, including a strong veteran’s community, earning gold as a military friendly school. #HomeSweetPo is a pretty popular hashtag on campus, so we all need to go check out those social media accounts very soon. Take care, Kaylee.
Ramapo illustrates its commitment to career preparation with its Pathways program. Janea is a Business Management major from Cape May whose leadership experiences are preparing her to succeed in the business world. Janea, please take it away.
– Hi, everyone. Thanks so much, Alex. Whether you’re a transfer student or an incoming first year like I was, you might not be exactly sure what you wanna do once you get to college. For me, I talk to my academic advisors, my professors, and of course my friends. I finally decided to major in Business Management and minor in Marketing. I love how these areas of study allowed me to mix my creativity with my leadership skills to do something that I truly loved. The next question is, how do I get from college to succeeding in my future career? Something really unique about Ramapo is that they have built-in programs so that every student can graduate feeling prepared for whatever’s next in their journey. Every student is set up to complete the Pathways program, where they learn how to write a resume, prepare for interviews, and plan for their future. Our Cahill Career Center works with you as you apply to jobs in both on and off campus internships. As the peer intern for the Peer Facilitation program, I was able to create and lead a 40-hour training program with the goal to strengthen the leadership skills of over 100 student mentors on campus. Another student in this episode, the amazing Kaitlin who told you all about our beautiful campus and location, secured an internship with the prestigious Association of Research Institutes in Art History. There, she collaborated with organizations, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art on archival collections and public relations. Whatever your major is, Ramapo College has the tools to help you succeed in your future. I met so many amazing individuals who have given me advice and insight into my field. I’m truly excited for life post grad, and I can say that Ramapo College helped me get there. That’s all for me. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Janea, sounds like you are prepared for life after graduation. Ramapo’s Pathways program built into the curriculum is one of a kind. Being so close to New York City, there are over 350 companies that offer internships and hundreds more in the surrounding communities. We know internships matter and recent internships include “The Jimmy Fallon Show”, Google, and even the White House. It’s amazing. Those Roadrunners, they’re always on the move. Incredible.
Here is Juliana, a Jersey girl from Clark taking advantage of one of the many 4+1 programs at Ramapo college. Juliana will graduate with her bachelors and masters degree in just five years and become a special education teacher. Amazing. Juliana, we’re ready for your lesson plan.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi everyone. Ramapo was actually the first college that I toured. And on orientation night, I got to meet the faculty and advisors that would be guiding me through my next four years. I loved how I felt important right away. I wasn’t just a number here at Ramapo. I was a valued individual. Growing up the oldest of four and the daughter of a teacher, I always knew that I wanted to be an educator. I was blown away by Ramapo’s various, affordable, and proactive 4+1 programs. Since I knew I wanted to enroll in the Master of Arts in Special Education 4+1 program, I began taking graduate level courses as an undergraduate student. And I was able to save money by paying the undergraduate rate. In addition to Special Education, Ramapo offers 4+1 programs to earn your MBA, MSW, and MFA in Creative Music Technology and masters degrees in Data Science and Accounting. Knowing that I will have earned both a bachelors and a masters degree in just five short years alleviated the stress of having to apply to graduate programs as well as the cost of application fees. Students can apply to most 4+1 programs as incoming freshmen. Another great feature is that most undergraduate majors that offer graduate programs can become 4+1 by just connecting with your advisor early and setting up your coursework. I love how Ramapo’s connections with hundreds of K-12 districts that provide outstanding classroom experiences. Right now, I’m completing my full-time student teaching, and I can definitely see how what I’ve learned in the classrooms on campus has prepared me to be a successful teacher. I couldn’t feel more prepared to begin making a difference in the lives of my Special Needs students. What’s next, Alex?
– Juliana, thank you for keeping the family tradition going and becoming a teacher. Two degrees in just five years is a smart way to make yourself extremely marketable while saving money. Ramapo is consistently ranked one of the hundred best values in undergraduate education and recognized for its return on investment. For parents, an emphasis on affordability is really appreciated. Incredible. College isn’t just the four-year experience. It’s what prepares you for a lifetime of success after graduation.
Living on campus is a big part of the college experience. Just ask John, a Psychology major from Marlton, New Jersey. He’s an RA, and when you hear what he has to share you will understand why Ramapo’s Residence Halls consistently rank in the top 2% nationally. Take it away.
– Appreciate the introduction, Alex. What’s up, guys? When I first came to campus my freshman year, I was extremely nervous. I had never lived by myself before so I definitely did not know what to expect from the on-campus living experience. Within the first few weeks of living on campus, I began to see Ramapo as a second home. In the beautiful Residence Hall you’ll see an amazing community built by the hardworking Residence Life staff. You can’t help but feel like you’re part of the Ramapo Family. With four years of guaranteed housing for Ramapo residents, you develop bonds and friendships that will last a lifetime. I’ve been an RA for two years now and seeing the excitement on residents faces as they come back to campus every summer is something I will never forget. Amenities that come with living on campus don’t hurt either. Each room comes with its own AC and heating, microwave, refrigerator, and there are no communal bathrooms. Each student is also provided a free TV subscription and laundry facilities. You can easily walk to the Dunkin’ on campus from your suite or apartment, and there are always activities planned in the common areas for residents. Oh, did I mention you can have a car on campus for all four years? It’s no wonder why Ramapo College is consistently ranked as having the best dorms. When I first started here at Ramapo, I would’ve never imagined I would love it here as much as I do. Ramapo has not only provided amazing academic opportunities for me to pursue my future career, but also has provided a place that I can call home. No wonder why we say “Home Sweet Po.” All yours, Alex.
– Okay, so let me get this straight. Guaranteed housing for all four years. Bring your own car as a freshman. Every room, suite, and apartment has its own private bathroom and refrigerator and microwave and air conditioning? Hey, John, so when can I move in? With nonstop activities in each Residence Hall, three dining areas, plus Dunkin’ and Starbucks coffee and all of these amazing amenities, you’re right, John. This is the place to be. That was fantastic. Thanks again for sharing.VVVV