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.
Now let’s hear from Christin at the Stone Family Center for Health Sciences in downtown Evansville. The Stone Center, a multi-institutional facility specifically designed to create an academic experience that inspires the students to develop a collaborative approach to healthcare, which will prepare them better to serve the healthcare needs of the future. Christin is currently in her third and final year here, and will graduate in just a few months as a Doctor of Physical Therapy. Take it away, “almost Dr.” Christin.
– Thanks, Alex. When I was a senior, I applied to about a dozen colleges, all with a direct entry physical therapy program. When I heard that at UE, I would have the opportunity to curate my undergraduate degree, study abroad, learn from exceptionally acclaimed clinicians, study in a leading edge facility, I was sold. UE met, matched, and exceeded my hopes and aspirations. I pursued a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus in Spanish and Exercise Science. This merge of my passions has continued to remain present in our Physical Therapy Program’s free outpatient physical therapy clinic, Ace Care. This clinic has an interdisciplinary approach, and includes students of many graduate and undergraduate majors, as well as includes Spanish speaking students so that we can talk directly with our patients to provide the best and most comfortable care. The best part, this clinic is entirely free to our patients, run by student-lead volunteers, and the only of its kind across the country. UE provides many pathways for healthcare careers. You can choose from several undergraduate degrees with direct entry, including nursing. UE has strong undergraduate degrees in biology, chemistry, and exercise science, which prepare students for graduate programs offered at UE and everything from medical and vet school. My UE experience has been exceptional. This university has not only set me up for success, but has encouraged me to seek growth, change, and excellence in all that I do. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Christin. It is amazing to hear about all the opportunities for majors in the health sciences from undergraduate through doctorate programs. The educational opportunities at UE really open up a lot of doors. Great job, Christin.
All right, everyone, let’s meet Aarsh, he’s a junior biology major on a pre-med track, but he’s also taking full advantage of UMBC’s amazing location, right between Baltimore and Washington, from entertainment to internships, sports and the entire Baltimore College down network at his fingertips, Aarsh has the inside scoop on everything the area has to offer. Aarsh, please take it away,
– Thanks for the introduction Alex. Growing up in India, I was always fascinated by Hollywood and especially the schools I saw on this big screen. I always had this dream of attending an American institute and experiencing the culture over there. In the fall of 2019, my dream came true. UMBC is nestled perfectly in the heart of the East Coast with a number of transportation options at our fingertip. We’re within a short distance of major cities, such as New York, Philadelphia and even the capital, Washington, DC. This makes it for a perfect spot for me. I have friends living in New York and I visit them every chance I get because it’s so easy to go to. I also love to visit DC and take photos with my friends there. In fact, I did a 25 year wedding anniversary photo shoot there during the Cherry Blossom Festival. As an international student, having the ability and the accessibility to visit such iconic places literally makes for a dream come true. In addition to such amazing places around UMBC, we are also in the center of a growing health economy, which provides plenty of opportunities for employment and internships. We are in the ideal location surrounded by some of the world’s biggest research institutes, which provides a great opportunity for many of our students here. Our region is perfect for fans of art, culture and sports and numerous other fun and fulfilling activities, not to mention a ton of other college students. UMBC really brings the world to you. No matter where you come from or what major you choose, or even if you come here as undecided, you’ll always find a home away from home here at UMBC. That’s it from me, take it away, Alex.
– Wow, thanks, Aarsh for showing us around the neighborhood. It’s amazing how many opportunities are within such easy reach of UMBC’s campuses in Baltimore and outside of DC. It’s hard to decide what to do first, best of luck explaining it all Aarsh, very well done, take care.
Next, we’re gonna catch up with Alex. Alex is a senior majoring in Sociology and minoring in Women’s Gender and Sexuality Studies. They grew up a few hours away in Pullman, Washington, and they’re gonna share with us how they became involved in student government and Greek life at UM, Alex, over to you.
– From one Alex to another, hey, everyone, I’ve spent my college years getting involved and enjoying our campus community. Growing up, both my parents have PhDs. So they wanted me to focus on getting a positive college experience rather than one specific thing about a university. When I toured UM I felt so comfortable on campus and I liked all the social and academic options. So Montana became my new home. The first thing I wanted to do on campus was get involved in student government. I started as a student Senator and I had the opportunity to learn all about the inner workings here. I also became a member of Greek Life and it’s the best decision I’ve ever made. UM is all about growing the students as people, both in and outside of the classroom and getting involved is a great way to do that. Through ASUM I learned about collaborations, civic duty, and how just one person can make really big changes. Through Greek life, I learned how to be a part of a community. We give back to both campus and Missoula through our philanthropy events, my house held events for the local humane society and my WCA. And I learned how good it feels to support a course you care about. With everything I’ve learned in my courses and through student government and Kappa. I know I’ll be successful after graduation. I’ve already made connections in fields I’m interested in and I’ve learned that I don’t have to focus on just one thing. I’m passionate about a lot of things, and I have the confidence to follow those passions wherever they lead me. I’m so happy I chose UM ,and I’m so excited to continue making the most out of my final year. What’s next, Alex?
– Alex, thank you for that passionate insight. At large flagship universities like UM, there are numerous opportunities to get involved. Student government and Greek Life are great ways for students to develop leadership skills while meeting new friends that can last a lifetime. Great job, Alex, take care.
Now we’re heading over to University of Montana law student, Alex, who came here for the exceptional program and fell in love with the campus life and the City of Missoula. He’s gonna tell us what it’s like to be a Griz. That’s what these students are known as, and give us our first view of life on campus.
– Thanks Alex, and love the name. So after finishing my undergraduate degree in Ohio, I moved out west and never looked back, surrounded by beautiful mountains and mere hours away from incredible national parks, Missoula is the perfect place to call home. Finding Missoula was a pure stroke of luck, situated midway between Yellowstone National Park, where I met my future wife and Glacier National Park, truly the most beautiful place in the lower 48. Missoula just made sense. And the fact that there’s a world-class university here just made it all the better. As the flagship university in the State of Montana, UM brings together students passionate about critical thinking, problem solving, social justice, hard sciences, and the arts, and provides a community where they can bond, learn and grow. And with alumni ranging from Montana Supreme Court justices to Senator Mike Mansfield, you can rest assured that your future goals are within reach with an education from the University of Montana. Being a part of the University of Montana community offers ample benefits like attending lectures, art exhibits, and nationally touring concerts. Hearing U.S Poet Laureate joy Harjo, read her own work in-person was as easy as walking across campus to hear her speak. Movies on the Oval, basketball games, local bands, it’s all happening here on the UM campus, thanks Alex, who’s next?
Thanks Alex, we are off to a great start finding the right place to pursue your goals is so important. It’s impressive that you can balance your law studies with the vibrant campus life and find time to enjoy all that Montana has to offer. That was fantastic, thanks again, Alex.