Leadership is often about serving others and that’s something Valpo students strongly believe in. Take Lem, a junior enrolled in an early entry program to earn his bachelor’s and master’s degree in Healthcare Administration. He’s found his calling at Valpo as a Caps fellow and is interning for a nonprofit organization. Lem is able to make an impact in an area he’s truly passionate about. Lem, it’s time for you to take the mic.
– Alright, thanks for the introduction, Alex. Growing up, I’ve always had a passion for serving others and mother used to tell me that that was my calling in life. And as a first generation college student, I didn’t know the first thing about choosing a college, but I knew I had to attend a school that value service. Valpo a big focus on service and philanthropy, provide students with countless opportunities to serve. Each year Valpo students dedicate more than 247,000 hours to community outreach and service learning initiatives. One initiative is the Caps Fellowship Program hosted by the Institute of Leadership and Service. ILS is dedicated to preparing students for lives of leadership and service shaped around a sense of color. Last year, as a Caps fellow, I got the amazing opportunity to intern for a nonprofit organization. There I was able to take lead of some of the most substantial initiatives to address healthcare disparities and systematic racism in my community. Today, I’m the president of Alpha Phi Omega, better known as APO. APO is a national co-ed service fraternity that focuses on leadership, friendship and service. And APO members are provided with opportunities to develop leadership skills through volunteering on campus, within their communities or within the fraternity. After I graduate, I plan to serve underrepresented minority communities in Chicago to eliminate healthcare disparities and ultimately improve the health care system. The College of Nursing and Health Professions has prepared me with this rigorous health care courses and a plethora of leadership and service experience. Valparaiso University is not only committed to allowing students to find their true purpose and calling, also to provide a space designated for students to act on it within. And that’s why I love this university. Back to you, Alex.
– It’s great to see that Valpo has given you such a foundation for a life of service, Lem. From everything you’re already accomplishing, we know you’re gonna go on to make a difference in the world. You’re showing everyone that at Valpo, you’re truly part of something bigger and that’s amazing
It’s time to hear from a student who came to Valpo from 7,500 miles away. Anand is an international student from Nepal. He’s a junior pursuing a double major in Electrical Engineering and Physics. And he’s also in the honors college. Anand wants to keep up with the future of engineering and came to the right place for academic quality. Right after his freshman year, he was already researching for Brookhaven National Laboratory. Take it away, Anand.
– That was some introduction, Alex. Namaste and greetings everyone. With a wonderful family and upbringing, I’ve had some 7,500 miles from here, I wanted to find that same home away from home. And I got that here at Valpo. As an international student, what immediately sticks out to me is the ranking of Valpo in undergraduate engineering programs in the USA. The ranking is only bettered by the support and community I have received here at Valpo. With five undergraduate colleges and more than 70 different majors to offer, Valpo support and flexibility allows me to double major in physics and electrical engineering while also attending the esteemed Christ College, which is the Honors College at Valpo. While all of these degrees have specific requirements, my professors and advisors work to personalize my classes and tailored these degree requirements so that I can still graduate in just four short years doing what I want to do. The great thing about these majors are how dynamic they are. I remember back my freshman year when I was taking a gender and gym class, and now I’m teeing for that class this semester, and I’ve realized how it’s updated to reflect the current needs of the world. With this, Valpo continues to add programs, including Bioengineering, Mechatronics, Music Therapy, Data Science and so much more. Each of these are booming career fields of the current and future world. I can talk as much as I want about the amazing education that I received at Valpo, but these educations are equally valued by institutions all around. My freshman year, right after COVID hit, I was researching for the Brookhaven National Laboratory, thanks to my professors. Fast-forward to this year, I am interning for Eli Lilly, one of the biggest pharmaceutical companies in the world. I hope to see a bunch of you guys here make your name at Valpo. With that, the floor is yours, Alex.
– Wow, Anand, sophomore year and already interning for Eli Lilly. That’s an incredible accomplishment. And with two more action packed years in store at Valpo, I can’t wait to see what your future holds. Thanks again for sharing your story.
Meat Allison, the Student Manager of the campus coffee shop. She’s a sophomore in the College of Business. And in addition to keeping that caffeine flowing, she’s already had several opportunities to lead and grow in academics. The high success rate of Valpo business graduates gives Allison the security she needs to take the reins and pursue her passion. Go ahead and tell us more, Allison.
– Hey everyone. Here at Valpo I love that I have the opportunity to use my talents, to pursue my passion. Growing up. I was always told that I was a natural leader and had a knack for seeing the details that no one else saw. Little did I know that these talents would soon become my passion. When it came time for me to apply to college, I knew that I wanted a small, close knit community that still had opportunities for me to follow my passion in leadership and excellence. When I came to Valpo, I was so nervous. I knew what my passion was and I knew what I was interested in after college, but I didn’t know how to get there. The faculty works with students to find internships through connections, to develop the skills needed to be successful. I currently work as a student manager at Grinders, the campus coffee shop and had the opportunity to join the College of Business’s Dean’s Leadership Council. Because of these amazing leadership opportunities, I’ll be interning at my church as an incoming sophomore. Did you know, 100% of business students complete an internship before graduation? Enabling us to develop the skills and experience necessary to be successful in the workforce. The best part of being at Valpo is being secure in the knowledge that I will have opportunities after graduation. More than 90% of students have secured employment or enrolled in graduate school within nine months of graduation for nearly 30 consecutive years. Valpo has all the things necessary for students to be successful no matter their major. I know that when I graduate, I’ll be able to follow my passion and be successful. That’s all for me, back to you, Alex.
– Allison, thank you for showing us that being nervous before going to college is absolutely normal. You also show us that when you have passion, you can do anything. Kudos to you for managing to campus business in your sophomore year. That’s incredible. Thanks again for that.
Okay, sports fans, let’s head to The Dee Glenn Smith Spectrum to talk with Justin. A senior kinesiology major who plays on the men’s basketball team. He’ll tell us about the proud Aggie athletic tradition, and what it’s like to play in front of one of the best student cheering sections in the country. It’s all you Justin.
– Thanks Alex. And hi, everyone, I’m Justin! And I’m a student athlete on the men’s basketball team. I’ve always dreamed to playing college basketball at the highest level and Utah State has given me, just a kid for Moore, Oklahoma, that opportunity. College basketball at The Dee Glen Smith Spectrum is truly magical, both for the players and the fans. Utah State has one of the richest basketball traditions across the country. Our student section, the HURD, energizes the arena, the football field, or any other venue with iconic chants, taunts and cheers. But you don’t have to take my word for it. See in here our fans for yourself. Doesn’t that make you wanna join in and cheer for the Aggies? from our mascot, Big Blue, to Spectrum Magic, the athletics experience both as a fan and a player is the best in the country. Utah State fans have a lot to cheer about. We have 16 NCAA Division I teams that compete in the Mountain West Conference. Since 2000, our teams had won a total of 40 conference titles, with our basketball team winning two out of the last three. But being a student athlete isn’t easy, morning workouts, weightlifting, classes, tutoring, and traveling for games consume my time from August until April. Thankfully, Utah State has some of the best resources in the country, both from academic and athletic standpoints. The fueling station, the Nutrition Center for Student Athletes, is just below our weightlifting facilities, and provides healthy snacks to maximize our performance. We also have a study area at the Laub Academic Complex, which has a computer lab and a place to meet with tutors. Of course, most students here aren’t student athletes, but there are still tons of ways to compete or get active on campus. There are club and intramural sports, and lots of fitness classes and activities to help meet our fitness needs. The Aggie Recreation Center is an amazing new facility, funded by students for students to help meet our fitness needs. The ARC, as it’s called, is also home to USU’s world-class outdoor program, where you can get all the gear and skills you need to explore all of Logan’s incredible surroundings. I’m so glad I came to Utah State. The people I’ve met, the relationships I’ve formed, and the fun times I’ve had, will be etched in my life story forever. Before I came to Utah State, it was a place I knew very little about. Now, it’s a place I’ll never forget. Go Aggies! Back to you, Alex.
– Great job, Justin! Nothing but net on your segment. Sounds like Utah State fans have plenty to cheer about thanks to hardworking student athletes like you, congratulations on your successes, both on and off the court. That was awesome, take care!
One benchmark of a great research university is its membership in the prestigious Association of American Universities. And Texas was invited in 1929. Another benchmark is how much in research grants, a university attracts and UT attracts nearly $800 million every year. Jazzalyn a biology major is gonna tell us more about what it means to be a research university. Take it away.
– Thank you so much, Alex. When I first came to UT, I knew I wanted to do research, but I had absolutely no experience. I was nervous at first, but that’s when I found the Freshman Research Initiative. The Freshman Research Initiative is the nation’s largest undergraduate research program. After learning all my basic lab techniques during my first semester in the program, my confidence in my abilities grew, and I began conducting research on degrading plastic. I collaborated with a small group of researchers, worked with fungi, bacteria and even meal worms to degrade plastic. I love being able interact with fellow researchers, and since then, I’ve been able to give back to my lab through serving as a mentor and teaching assistant. In addition through my research, I’ve had so many unique opportunities. Such as summer fellowships, like the Inventors Program, poster presentations and research workshops. With the Freshman Research Initiative, you’re able to pick from up to 29 research streams. So whether your passion is biology or physics, there’s a lab here for everyone. Being a part of a program that can change the world truly makes me proud to be a Longhorn. When I first came to the university, I had no idea how far I would come with research. I’ve learned so much, not only about how to conduct research, but other really important lessons too. Like communication, leadership and teamwork. Research has become a real passion of mine and I plan to continue in the future. So that’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Well said Jazzalyn. And one more thing, research done at UT was key to developing vaccines against COVID-19. Talk about having a big impact on the world. That’s amazing. Take care.
UT is a first class public university. What does that mean exactly? It means they offer a first class education, opportunities for students at every level to do research at a Tier 1 University. And they produce alumni that are leaders in virtually every field. All while being affordable. Tea a radio television film liberal arts double major is gonna share some of the ways UT supports students through their academic journey.
– Thanks Alex. I still remember first time I toured the 40 acres. I was overwhelmed with the possibilities at my fingertips as a Longhorn. UT is truly a first class university from the library resources and research opportunities to the endless ways that students can get involved. I came to UT Austin as an international relations major, and I quickly found my way to Moody College of Communication. I’m so fortunate to have a full ride scholarship through the Dedman Distinguished Scholars Program, which is one of the largest endowments here at UT. This scholarship has granted me the financial freedom to truly explore what’s authentic for me. I’ve been able to take so many classes with professors who are passionate about the subjects they teach, which in turn inspires me. The staff and faculty at UT are always willing to help students. And if they don’t have an answer for you, they’re gonna connect you to someone who does. I’m so grateful that I’m able to explore my interests with the liberal arts, with my love for creative projects. I’ve even been able to edit raw footage from an Emmy winning TV show. Centers around campus offer free tutoring, writing assistance and career services. which is great if you’re looking for an internship. Experiences in Longhorn are truly invaluable. There’s something here for everyone with over 170 fields of study for students to explore. For me, the most meaningful experience has been working as a teaching assistant on campus. When I’m working in assisting students. I remember how grateful I am to be burnt orange. It’s true, what starts here, changes the world. That’s it from me. Thanks Alex. Hook’em.
– Congratulations Tea on being a Dedman Distinguished Scholar. It’s so cool that you’ve been able to explore your passions and take advantage of so many opportunities. That’s really what college is all about. That was great. Thanks again.
Okay, everyone. Now we’re gonna zoom out a bit and take a look at the amazing city of Austin. Consistently ranked as a top place to live in the US. Austin is a hub for government, technology and education with endless opportunities and adventures. Rylan, a civil engineering major is gonna tell us how living in Austin has made his college experience so memorable. Rylan you’re on.
– Thanks Alex. Welcome y’all. Being from Austin, I always imagined I’d have to leave my city to find my college adventure. Little did I know I was just minutes away from the most incredible university. One that I’m now lucky enough to call my home. The city of Austin boasts an incredible outdoor lifestyle. Lady Bird Lake, which is part of the Colorado River runs straight through downtown and is surrounded by trails. It’s a great place to hike, bike, run, kayak, paddle board, or take my dog for a walk. Here in Austin we’ve earned the title, Live Music Capital of the World. There’s never a shortage of venues and concerts to enjoy. Whether it’s on South Congress, 6th Street or Zilker Park, I never shy away from an opportunity to enjoy some incredible new food and artists. My favorite part about Austin is our amazing annual events. ACL Festival hosts world class bands in a two week long festival that has definitely been a highlight during my time here. Looking for something a little faster pace? Circuit of the Americas is the only Formula 1 track in the United States. And it’s just a quick drive from campus. With the 40 acres being only a couple of blocks from the State Capitol building, it can be hard to see where campus ends and the rest of the city begins. Central Austin’s wide array of restaurants, study spots and attractions are all easily accessible. Because of how I’ve grown to love this city, I got involved with Texas Wranglers. A campus organization that’s given me the opportunity to give back to the city I’ve gained so much from. We work with Easterseals of Central Texas, a Non-Profit organization, which directly helps underprivileged individuals with physical and occupational rehabilitation. Through my work I’ve gotten to meet inspiring people who have overcome extreme hardship, making me even more proud of the people who call Austin home. Thanks Alex. Back to you.
– Thanks, Rylan. Giving back to the community that you love is extremely admirable. It seems like there’s really something for everyone to enjoy here. And if your to-do list wasn’t long enough already, Austin is also home to the annual South by Southwest Conference, which celebrates the convergence of tech film and music industries. it’s definitely worth checking out. Thanks again.
Speaking of leaving an impression, we’re turning now to a Psychology and Theater major that got involved in several main stage productions as early as their freshman year at Valpo. It’s time to meet Mary. Now, a sophomore, who’s taking the initiative to have a full, exciting student experience. She’s proving that if you want something here at Valpo, you should simply go for it.
– Thanks Alex. I’m a current sophomore here at Valparaiso University, studying psychology and theater on a pre occupational therapy track. When I first arrived, Valpo welcomes me with open arms. Valpo’s campus size allows students to take initiative and the organizations that they are passionate about starting in their first semester on campus. From ministry teams, music ensembles, improv troupes, fraternity, and sorority life, and more, Valpo has something for everyone. As a theater lover, I was excited to get involved in several main stage productions as a freshmen. I’ve also been playing the trumpet for the last 10 years, which has always been a big part of my life. Here at Valpo, I can pursue that passion through performing in several of our capstone music ensembles, despite not being a music major or minor myself. This allows me to grow as a musician and connect with others who share my love for music. Here at Valpo, students can take ownership of their learning experiences and have many directions to go in. From our Core first-year program to Christ College, the Honors College. As a member of Christ College, I participated in one of the oldest traditions on campus, the freshmen production. This is a challenge put out to all first year honors college students to write, produce and perform a full-scale musical from scratch in just 10 weeks. From script writer to musician, there is a role in the production that requires every student’s skills. In the end, we all came together and created a production to be proud of. Valpo’s opportunities, such as these, allow me to not only build leadership and collaborative skills, but also give me the opportunity to take initiative in my own learning experiences while doing what I love. Back to you, Alex.
– Putting together a full length musical in just eight weeks, now, that’s something amazing. Mary, thank you for sharing that around here at Valpo, you don’t have to dream it, you can just do it. Take care.
Did you know the Valpo is ranked nationally for its engineering program and offers six different engineering disciplines. 2000 graduate Luke, saw life come full circle when he went on to get his PhD and then become a professor at Valpo. So all the research that he began as a student, he’s now able to carry it on with his students. It’s been life-changing. Luke, go ahead and tell us more.
– Thanks for the chance to share my story, Alex. I knew that I wanted to become a professor at a school like Valpo after I finished my PhD, because I had such an incredible experience here as a student. So to actually be a professor is a dream come true. Why was I so excited to come back and join the faculty at Valpo? For the chance to replicate my own Valpo experience, conducting cutting edge solar energy research as an undergraduate student. As a student, I worked with one of my professors for over a year, researching ways to turn concentrated sunlight into fuels that we could use to drive our cars, even at night when the sun is not shining. Because of the mentorship of my professor, pursuing this research became one of my greatest passions. I feel blessed to be able to share this passion with talented Valpo students in the James S Markowitz Solar Energy Research Facility, home of one of five solar furnaces in the United States. And the only one located at a primarily undergraduate engineering college. One of the most rewarding parts of conducting research with undergraduate students is seeing how excited they get when they experience concentrated sunlight for the first time. I love knowing that this experience could be life-changing for them and set them on a new career path. The coolest thing about my story is that it is not unique. There are many other professors here at Valpo with stories just like mine. We all came back to be professors at Valpo because this is such an incredible place. Well, that’s my story, Alex. It’s all yours.
– How cool Luke, that there is such a collaborative spirit between the professors and students at Valpo. And also great to know that the community here left such an impression that you came back. Thanks again for that.
Our tour of Valpo is almost done, but we still have one very important person to hear from. And that’s president Jose Padilla. He’s not just a figurehead, he’s actively involved in campus life and invested in each student’s success. You can say the same about his entire faculty. President Padilla, the floor is all yours.
– Thanks, Alex. I came here to be part of a great academic university where learning and our faith in God make us better persons, neighbors, and citizens. Valpo is a great Lutheran university, but it’s open to all beliefs and religions. They welcomed me as its first Catholic and Mexican American President ever. At Valpo were small yet mighty. Our intimate size will prevent you from falling through the cracks. You’ll get the attention and respect that you deserve. You’ll be the top priority of our dedicated faculty and staff. Now, Valpo may not be the place for somebody who wants to coast because here we’re gonna make you break a sweat. We’re gonna push you to do things you never thought you could do. Things otherwise you’d have to wait for until graduate school or your first job. For example, doing cutting edge research in our nationally ranked College of Engineering, being accepted as a freshmen and our Physician’s Assistant Program, to advocating before Congress. I had a junior in political science help me write letters to Congress. Now I’m a former lobbyist and her letters were among the best I’ve ever seen. At Valpo we build you for speed so that in your first job, you’re not just along for the ride, you’re the driver. You’re not just the ripple, you’re the splash. You’re not just the echo, you’re the one busting through the sound barrier. We also build you to be servant leaders. Our excellent academic programs will give you the wisdom to put your faith into practice. You’ll not only have a career for life, but a life where the value of others exceeds the value of your paycheck. At Valpo, where beacons that will show you the way so that once you graduate, you’re gonna show others the way. Back to you, Alex.
– Thanks so much, President Padilla. Based on what you said and everyone we’ve talked to on our tour today, this really is a small but mighty school. A place where you can be part of something bigger, where you can build connections for life and make an impact from day one. We really appreciate you sharing that. Well, this tour has flown by, right? And I’ll be honest, it’s a tour I won’t forget. Who else is inspired by Valparaiso University? I wanna thank the incredible students, alumni and President Padilla who gave their time today. And as you can see, everyone has something unique and personal to share, but there’s something to picking up on in each story, an awesome sense of community and energy. Hopefully soon, you’ll get a chance to tour Valpo for yourself, until then, please check out their website to get more information. This is one of those schools you’ll definitely wanna keep on your radar. Hopefully we’ll see on campus real soon. Cheers everybody.