Okay. Now let’s throw an O over to Riley and Bretten. They are twin brothers in their junior year studying business administration with concentrations in operational business analytics and entrepreneurship. These global scholars just returned from a summer in Italy and are ready to share their international adventures with us all.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex.
– we were big fans of UO growing up. So when we started our search for potential universities, we knew UO was the right choice.
– We wanted to study business and be a part of the Robert D Clark’s honors college. We attended an information session through the university’s global education Oregon, and we’re excited to study abroad. We’ve always had the desire to travel and learn more about other cultures.
– [Riley] After talking to our academic advisors and the global education Oregon staff, we decided to study wine marketing in Santa Italy for our summer term. While there, we studied sustainable marketing, intercultural communication and wine management.
– [Bretten] Our in-class projects replicated a hands-on practical business experience. We traveled throughout Italy and learned the culture, the history and the cuisine of many Italian regions.
– This program is just one of hundreds offered at University of Oregon. Whether you’re looking for an internship, a language program, or to study within your major, global education, Oregon can help you reach your goals and organize a plan.
– [Bretten] And with the launch of UOs new school of global studies and languages in the college of arts and sciences, the UO is opening up even more doors to be more globally minded, learn new languages and find solutions to some of the world’s greatest challenges.
– We knew our time at Oregon was going to be amazing, but that diversity and opportunities we were offered far exceed our expectations. Aside from international travel, we’re also part of the run club and the Warsaw business club.
– We’ve built incredible memories in the classroom, studying abroad and cheering on our ducks at sporting events. There is no better place than Oregon and as always, Go ducks.
– Okay. So who wouldn’t want to study wine marketing in the Tuscany region of Italy? Now that’s an international class project that I could get behind. And that’s only one of many opportunities for these ducks to take flight around the world. Thanks you two.
All right, everyone. Now let’s meet Gabby. She’s a junior studying business administration with a concentration in marketing and a minor in Spanish. Gabby, you’re on.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. When searching for colleges, I had no idea where I wanted to go. What I did know was that I wanted to go further from home so I can be in a new, exciting place to be more independent and find adventure. After touring the University of Oregon, from the academics to the amazing school spirit, I fell in love with everything it had to offer. The Lundquist College of Business stood out to me especially and I knew I wanted to major in business after hearing all about it. The college is ranked among the top 30 public business schools in the country. Now I’m a mentor for the Lundquist flight school setting up new business students for success. Lundquist has so many resources, such as Mohr career center, Braddock tutoring center and tons of business clubs to join. I especially love being part of the international business association. I’ve met people from all over the world. And the Lundquist college of business has a top three green MBA program. MBA students are well-prepared in environmental issues, sustainability and social responsibility for a career in the green job market. Oregon is also a worldwide leader in sports and outdoor product education and research offering a master’s degree in sports product management. I know I’ve made a great decision choosing the UO. I’ve had the time of my life here in Oregon, gathering knowledge from my courses and meeting some amazing people along the way. We can’t wait to see you on campus where you can start your own story. That’s all from me. Back to you, Alex.
– Thanks, Gabby. Wow. With all those resources at your fingertips, you are definitely going to be prepared for the competitive job market that awaits you after graduation. No doubt your career will take flight. Take care.
Next up we’re heading to UMBC’s new Center for Well-Being to meet Cindy, a junior statistics major who came to UMBC from South Korea. Cindy is gonna tell us about the ways UMBC supports the whole student to make sure they feel healthy, welcome and cared for, Cindy you’re up.
– Thanks, Alex, hi, my name is Cindy Um. I’m from South Korea and I moved to Maryland about five years ago. When I was a child, I looked at the map and thought that I’d like to visit other countries and become a global person with diverse experiences. Thankfully, I have wonderful parents who always support my ideas actively and taught me to live independently. Coming to America was very big challenge, but the support of my parents and my childhood dream would motivated me. And I was happy to find a community at UMBC that supports whole students. One example is the Global Ambassadors Program, a part of our wonderful Center for Global Engagement, which provides so many resources for students. As an ambassador I can help other international students better understand university service, such as on campus support for academic achievement, preparation for future job interviews and on campus employment. Last summer I participate in a webinar and wrote a guide book for new college students, including useful tips for adjusting American cultures, about the difficulties that they faced in the past. That’s just one way UMBC takes care of students. UMBC also offers space programming and steps, support centers of wellness, spirituality and health, including our brand new Center for Well-Being. And there are also endless exciting event throughout the year, including Homecoming and the big carnival. Meeting new people and having fun gives me new vitality and motivation when I feel homesick. Not to mention the UMBC community always welcomes me and makes me feel like family. UMBC always makes me feel welcome and supported me whole person. If you dream of becoming a global talent, come to UMBC and make your dream come true. Alex, back to you.
– What a great story, Cindy, it’s incredible to hear about how you feel on such a caring community waiting for you at UMBC. And to know that those resources really do cover all the bases, it makes all the difference in the world. Well done, Cindy, thanks for sharing your story.
Now we’re heading over to UMBC student inspire coffee shop, Oca Mocha, to meet Zion, a senior media and communications studies major who has a serious entrepreneurial spirit. He’s gonna tell us all about the music label he started and all the folks at UMBC who helped him make that dream a reality. We can’t wait to hear more Zion, please take it away.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. Growing up in a military family, I’ve always had a sense of adventure. I’m a transfer student and I’ve changed my major three times and throughout my entire journey, UMBC has provided me with the guidance and support that I’ve needed to succeed. As a creative, finding that balance between following your dreams and making a can be challenging. Thankfully though, UMBC champions great ideas and backs that up by helping students to pursue our unique entrepreneurial paths. I was inspired by the story of Oca Mocha, a coffee shop born in the UMBC classroom. And I felt empowered to pursue my own interest in the music and entertainment industry. Our media communications depart offers a wide variety of classes that help like-minded students to connect. It was in one of these classes where I met two friends who had helped create Nostalgia War Records. With the school’s backing Nostalgia has shot music videos, hosted talent showcases and collaborated with local artists. I love how I’m able to truly bridge my academic interests with my future profession at UMBC, The Alex Brown Center for Entrepreneurship is a great on campus resource, they offer workshops, panels and contests for student entrepreneurs. Through their services I have connected with professionals already working in the music world and gained valuable insights into the industry. So whether you’re looking to start an independent record label, a community driven coffee shop or any other idea that drives you, UMBC will make sure you have the skills and connections that you need to succeed. Because of my time here, I feel ready to work towards my dreams and goals after graduation. And that’s all for me, so I’ll send it back to you, Alex.
– Zion, you are truly making it happen. Thanks for telling us about how you built your label. It’s so inspiring. It’s so cool to think that you can grow your ideas like that right here at UMBC. Best of luck with everything Zion, take care.
All right, it’s time to meet Levi, he’s a junior English and media communications studies major and he’s here to share his story of the terrific professors who have helped him along the way. It’s no surprise that UMBC is consistently ranked highly for its caring professors. And Levi has experienced that firsthand. Levi, please take it away,
– Thanks, Alex, hi, everyone. Growing up in the small town of Cambridge, Maryland, I never gave much thought to college or even what I wanted to study. I was homeschooled at a young age and then attended a small tight-knit high school. Feeling like I really know the person teaching me and that they know me in return has always made a world of difference in my education. UMBC has been perfect in fulfilling that requirement for me. I’ve taken big lectures with hundreds of other students and I’ve also have taken discussion based courses with just five other people. Either way, I’ve noticed that professors from the whole range of class sizes show genuine care for their students. They keep open office hours where they’re ready to talk about class materials. Some even let you stop by just to hang out and talk about life. I remember venting about my first year of troubles to my Spanish teacher who listened intently. I even remember seeing a professor freestyle rap for his students before an exam. There are even a couple professors whose classes I’ve been able to take every semester since my first year. I’ve been able to see these professors growth and development just as they’ve been able to see mine. UMBC consistently ranks highly in undergrad education and innovation and this wouldn’t be the case without their ton of faculty, whether it’s through direct mentorship, setting up internship connections or just being around for you, they go above and beyond for their students. I came to UMBC as an undecided major and that was intimidating, but my professors were ready to meet me where I was and help guide my growth as an individual. Each day they provide an example of who you can aspire to be as an academic and as so much more. That’s my bit, back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Levi, that was great. It’s always good to know you have folks looking out for you and to have professors who understand you and find opportunities for you to grow as a person. It’s really, really special, best of luck with everything, Levi, take care. All right, everyone, look who decided to show up and say hi. This is True Grit, the mascot at UMBC, True Grit is amazing.
Next up we’re meeting Shea. She’s a junior and just started her first year Pharmacy studies where she’ll earn a doctorate and follow her dreams of working in healthcare. She’ll tell us more about the impact, the Honors College experience has had on her studies and success at the University of Montana. Over to you, Shea.
– Thanks Alex, hey guys, I’m a born and raised Montanan and also a legacy student at the University of Montana, meaning both of my parents are UM grads. My dad played football here. So I was raised with a deep love for the university of Montana, Go Griz. As a member of the Davidson Honors College and a pharmacy student, I’ve had an incredible academic experience at UM. Class sizes are small, experiential learning prepares me for success after college, there are amazing study abroad opportunities, and the professors really do take the time to get to know me as a person. Every part of the UM experience can be personalized to your interests. I’ve had the chance to tailor my Honors College experience, the classes that directly correlate with my love of chemistry and healthcare. Now more than ever, healthcare is a crucial part of society. I always knew that I was interested in a career in the medical field, but didn’t know which job would fit my skills until I was introduced to UM Skaggs School of Pharmacy. The program really prepares you to work as a pharmacist. The professors in the College of Health want their students to succeed and provide meaningful personal attention and professional mentorship. UM feels like a big university, but delivers personal experiences that you get a much smaller school. The relationships that I’ve built here are special. The faculty and staff have a genuine interest in what their students are doing and how they’re doing. The Honors College Dean participated in one of my projects where we delivered food to people who are experiencing homelessness, and my academic advisor checks on me often, not just when it’s time to register for classes, you don’t find that in many universities. Well, that’s my story, Alex, back to you.
– That’s an inspiring story, Shea, attending a flagship university can seem overwhelming, but when you connect with the people who share your interests and passions, you find the support to reach your goals. Connection with your faculty is really important, and it’s clear that those relationships have made a great impact on your success, great work Shea.
Okay, let’s hear from Jonathan, he grew up more than 2000 miles away in New York City and chose to attend Montana because of its unmatched outdoor recreation opportunities. Jonathan graduated with a degree in Wildlife Biology and a minor in Climate Change Studies. And we cannot wait to hear his story, Jonathan, how you doing?
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex, growing up, hiking, fishing, and enjoying nature. I knew I wanted to pursue a career in wildlife and natural resources, but I wasn’t sure how I’d contribute to some of the formidable environmental challenges that we’re facing. Then I found the University of Montana, studying wildlife biology at UM, puts you in the middle of cutting edge research and policy around wildlife, climate change and natural resources. UM is surrounded by millions of acres of public land, which allows students to get hands-on experience in a variety of ecosystems. Our classes take you into the field to collect data and meet with biologists, ranchers, and policymakers, people on the front lines of some of the most pressing conservation issues. UM students also have a ton of support for pursuing exciting internships. Internships that have taken me to the desert of Arizona to study endangered species, in the mountains of Montana, studying elk and wildfire, and working on policy in Washington DC. Being part of an active community of graduate students and professors who are leaders in their field create exciting opportunities for undergraduate students. My advisor professor Joshua Millspaugh invited me to join the Boone and Crockett Wildlife Conservation Lab. One of only a handful of its kind in the nation. I got hands-on experience studying the impacts of wildfire on mammals in Montana’s amazing Bob Marshall wilderness. And on the policy side, we lobbied the Montana State Legislature to pass a law, to make hunting accessible to Montana college students. UM was the first university in the nation to offer a joint program to earn a bachelor’s in wildlife biology and a master’s in public administration. The combination of science and policy experience that I’m gaining through this program has prepared me for a career to address some of those pressing natural resource challenges like climate change, sustainable energy and land and wildlife conservation. I’m thrilled to share my experience at UM, and now back to you, Alex.
– Wow, that was great. Jonathan is a prime example that not all UM classrooms are indoors. At the University of Montana students learn and gain experience by doing. Oftentimes in the wild places that surround Missoula. Now, Jonathan is a master student in UM’s top ranked public administration program. Best of luck to you and that Jonathan, and take care.
Well, our time at the University of Montana is coming to a close, but not before we hear from one more student. Katherine has had a deep love for Montana since she was young. So it only made sense that she made her way here for college. Tell us more, Katherine.
– Hi Alex, thanks for letting me share my story and some exciting news about the future of the University of Montana. I’m from Ohio, but I found my dream school here in Missoula. Growing up, my family called me inchoate, I even went to high school at the Cincinnati Zoo Academy. So when I was looking at colleges, the University of Montana stood out for its awesome biology and environmental program. Plus I fell in love with the vibe of the campus and community. My Griz Family has connected me with so many great opportunities. I volunteer at animal wonders, a local nonprofit, and I interned for the Clark Fork watershed Education Program. I’ve even taken a field course at UM’s Flathead Lake Bio Station, facilitated a virtual environmental exchange program for students in Vietnam, and earned a naturalist certification through the university’s zoological museum. Within 48 hours of arriving in Missoula, I was paddling down the Missouri River with the freshmen wilderness experience. And I had so much fun that I returned as a backpacking trip leader this year. I’m also part of a lot of clubs on campus, and loved the DHC ambassador team and Inter Varsity Christian Fellowship. So why choose UM? The university is awesome and it’s only getting better. We’re getting a new dining hall, new recital halls for our music students and the College of Forestry and Conservation is getting a whole new building, in all UM will see $61 million of improvements over the next few years. I’m so glad that I chose UM, thanks to the programs and faculty here. I’ve developed as a leader, scientists and advocate. Great opportunities, academics and adventures, also, which you here at the University of Montana. See you on campus soon, Go Griz. Okay, back to you, Alex.
– That was awesome, it seems like great things lie ahead for you, Katherine, and from the University of Montana. Thanks for giving us a sneak peek of UM’s future. I can’t wait to see how this place transforms over the next few years, cheers Katherine. Wow, what a view of the University of Montana, thanks to all the students who shared their stories, highlighting the amazing resources and opportunities that students enjoy here in Missoula and beyond.
Let’s meet Nate. Nate is a senior majoring in business finance. Before enrolling at the University of Montana. Nate served our nation in the military, and continues to do so with the ROTC Grizly Battalion. And Nate is gonna tell us more about his experience as a student veteran, Nate, please take it away.
– Thank you, Alex and hello everyone. Growing up, I knew pretty early on that I wanted to serve my country and leverage all the education, and opportunities for adventure that the United States military has to offer. Today, I have served in the United States Military for over 10 years in a variety of roles, and it has benefited my life more than I ever could have imagined. About two years ago, my wife and I moved here from Indiana to Missoula Montana, with the goal of experiencing all the great outdoor adventures Western Montana has to offer. I also moved here with the goal of finishing up my degree in business finance. The GI bill, along with the Army ROTC program here at the university of Montana will ultimately allow me to graduate completely debt free. Once I do graduate in the fall of 2021, I will commission into the Army National Guard with the State of Montana, where I will continue to serve my community and further my civilian career. I highly recommend the University of Montana, to veterans and those who would like to serve our nation’s military, UM offers a multitude of degrees that often appeal to veterans, such as four string conservation, wildlife biology, nursing, and business degrees. The ROTC Grizzly Battalion is also an exceptional program that will undoubtedly propel anyone forward in their military and civilian goals. And Missoula offers some endless and diverse outdoor experiences. Some of my favorites are the great hunting and fishing opportunities. During the summer, my wife and I love camping, fishing, trail running and enjoying all of Montana’s many great lakes and rivers. I am forever grateful to the University of Montana, the Army ROTC Grizzly Battalion in the great State of Montana for all the wonderful experiences and lessons learned. Now, back to you, Alex.
– Nate, thank you for your continued service. ROTC provides students with the opportunity to serve in the military while also having that traditional university experience. For students looking for help paying for college, the Grizzly Battalion provides a great educational benefit. Thanks again, Nate.
It’s time to hop across the river and visit Missoula College. This building opened in 2017 en-houses academic programs that specialize in workforce training. Let’s meet Jesse, a nursing student who found her calling and flourish with support from the Missoula College Community.
– Hey everyone, thanks for the introduction and welcome to the Missoula College River Campus. Like most new college students, I needed some time to figure out what I really wanted to study. So I started out here at Missoula College, taking my general education credits. After taking many classes, I clicked with nursing and soon I’ll enter the RN program here. I love the fact that Missoula College offers a smaller learning environment. It’s made me more comfortable asking questions in class, and Missoula College is different too, because the goal here is to prepare you for successful career, not just obtain a degree. We’re inviting and supportive of students from all backgrounds. I’m a single mother and the support and encouragement I’ve received here is what has allowed me to accomplish my goals. Students are also encouraged to take advantage of the workforce training that’s available here. There’s hands-on learning opportunities in multiple different programs, including construction and industrial trades, healthcare, information technology, social sciences, business, legal studies, and culinary arts. There’s actually an amazing restaurant run by the culinary students here in Missoula College. And it’s one of my favorite places for quick meal between classes. At Missoula college, you can access all of the same services that students on the main campus receive, including on campus living, attending athletic games, and even taking a couple classes at the main UM campus every semester, it’s a great value. This campus is one of my favorite places, I spend most of my time in the anatomy lab or studying or socializing at one of the desks overlooking the river, or even enjoying a nice walk outside in between classes. It’s a great mental break to prepare you for your next class. Thanks everyone back to you, Alex.
– Thanks for that inside look into Missoula college. Jesse, good luck with nursing school. The University of Montana offers such a variety of educational pathways for students from all walks of life. This certainly is a very special place to attend college.