Get ready to meet Jane. She is a junior majoring in sociology, and she’s going to talk about the impact that research has on her studies here at the university. Jane, take it away.
– Hey, y’all. My name is Jane, and I’m from Colorado Springs, Colorado. And I chose the University of Oregon because I felt like I was more than just a number. In other words, I was a person before I was a student. And now I’m here studying sociology and art. Being a part of the social sciences department is something I’ve been really grateful for. I’ve always loved challenging myself academically and my peers and professors have made that really easy to do. There are quite a few majors to choose from. Some of our most popular are economics in general social science. But I found my home in the sociology department. I’ve always loved studying the world and the people in it. And lucky for me, that dream has become a reality here. I’m able to work with classmates who also want to deep dive into that research as well. Everyone in this department is incredibly passionate about what they’re doing and that’s what connects us. Whether it’s through the sociology club or a history class, it’s completely up to you. I always thought research was something that only graduate students could do. But here at the University of Oregon research is ingrained in you the second you step foot on campus. In fact, three quarters of our student population is involved in research. It’s not just for stem majors either, but for all of us, social science majors as well. My classmates and I get to research and study underlying social issues or how one portion of society functions all while connecting that data directly to the community around us. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do in college, but I knew I wanted to work with everyone around me. And something that makes the UO so special is just that, the people. I’m able to study what I love while having fun and making meaningful connections. And that’s something that I’m really grateful for. But that’s it for my story. Throwing it back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Jane, for showing us that research doesn’t only belong in the lab. Here at the university, anyone can engage in research. From biology and chemistry to sociology, there really is a chance for every student to explore what interests them, and that is awesome. Thanks again.
Next, let’s move over to the school of music and dance where we will meet Natalie. She’s a senior who’s drawing her way to two degrees, a bachelor’s in music percussion performance, and a BA in music theory. Natalie is going to tell us why this school is a rocking place for students to be.
– Thanks for that introduction, Alex. From a young age, I had this dream of in an orchestra, not piano, but percussion. And so freshman year of high school, I joined band and knew that this is exactly what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. The University of Oregon was the only school I applied to because I knew that this was a school for me. After auditioning at the school of music and dance I felt completely at home in the percussion section. The professors we have here are internationally renowned. Here in Eugene, we have an amazing music scene for all genres. Because of the connections I have at the UO, not only am I a student, but I’m able to make my music a full-time career. I played with the Eugene concert choir, the Elsinore theater and orchestra next, a group that plays live music with the Eugene ballet company. But the UO doesn’t just Excel in music performance. We offer degrees in music history, music theory, jazz performance, pop music, dance, and so much more. The UO offers amazing performance opportunities for non-majors too. We have three rock and acapella groups you can join, various dance programs, no matter your experience and opportunities to enjoy almost 300 concerts and events each year. I’ve also been invited to travel internationally as a tour percussionist. Because of the amazing comradery we have here it was so easy for me to get involved. I will cherish all the memories I’ve made. Next for me is a lifetime of happiness, success and personal growth, all thanks to the opportunities and networking provided by the UO. That’s all from me. Take it back, Alex.
– Awesome, Natalie. Whether you are a musician or not, you can definitely get down with the programs in the school of music and dance. That was fantastic, Natalie. Take care.
Time to head over to Zach. Zach is a sophomore majoring in linguistics and Japanese, and he can’t wait to tell us about his experience at the UOs college of arts and sciences. The floor is all yours, Zack.
– Thanks Alex. Hello everyone. The University of Oregon was always my first choice. The students and faculty are so warm and inviting and an environment where we could be open, honest and friendly with each other was very important to me. And I felt that from the moment I stepped on campus. One aspect of the university that has been very important to my learning is not only how invested the faculty are in their fields of study, but how interested they are in sharing that knowledge and getting students excited about their particular fields. Many of the faculty are conducting research with undergraduate students, something that I’m very excited to be a part of starting this year. When it comes to the humanities and linguistics in particular, this kind of research, combining many different fields, such as sociology, psychology and linguistics can help us understand each other and make the world a better place, which is a large driving force behind humanities research here at the University of Oregon. Humanities at the UO will open up a wide range of career possibilities for me. From being able to work at a Japanese company abroad to translation work, or even being able to work full time researching as a professor, this field helps me understand the different perspectives and ways in which people think and express themselves. Although my college career has taken me in many exciting directions, I’m now able to visualize what I want out of a career for myself. Thanks to the humanities in particular I now have a plan and I’m excited to make a difference in the lives of people, both foreign and domestic. Thank you so much for listening to my story. Now back to you, Alex.
– Thanks Zach. The humanities certainly do provide an opportunity for students to go into a wide range of careers after graduating. Obrigado.
Okay. Let’s meet Jared. Jared is a senior studying math and computer science with a minor in music technology. And he’s here to share with us his experience in the Clark honors college at the UO. Jared, please enlighten us all.
– Hey, thanks Alex. So when I started looking at schools, there were a lot of different paths that I wanted to pursue. I have widely varied interests, so it was important for me to find somewhere that I could take part in diverse and interdisciplinary study that reflects all of my passions. I am currently a math and computer science major with a minor in music technology. And I’m also enrolled in the Clark honors college. Taking classes in the honors college has been an incredibly rewarding experience for me, as the small class sizes and intimate discussion-based lectures have allowed me to dive in deep into the topics that I’m passionate about. The opportunities that the honors college provides for engaging with course content on a deeper level have also been incredibly rewarding. And I’m extremely grateful for all my honors professors who have acted as both my advisors and guides throughout my academic career. The honors college has also been a really great resource for me in helping me to find additional scholarship funding and research opportunities. And I’m so grateful to be surrounded by so many fellow students who are equally as engaged and passionate about their fields of research. Speaking of research, research has been a huge part of my time at UO. It was actually what led me to find out about the accelerated master’s in computer and information science program and the reservation of graduate credit programs, both of which allow students to begin earning graduate credit during their undergrad careers. And with these programs, I plan to then continue on to pursue either my master’s or PhD in computer science. I’m really grateful for all the opportunities that UO and the honors college had provided me. And I think it’s been really great to see how no matter what your interests are, there’s always a way to combine the things you love to make something unique and new. So that’s all from me. Thanks Alex. Back to you.
– Thanks, Jared. It sounds like the honors college is a great choice for students who might be looking for that small college vibe, but with all the resources you can get from a large research university. Now honors students can connect with their professors, peers and find amazing academic opportunities just like Jared.
Okay everyone. Let’s meet Amy. She’s in her senior year studying public relations here at the UO. Amy will be talking about this stunning campus nestled in the Willamette valley and its proximity to some of the most breathtaking landscapes here in the Pacific Northwest. Amy, please take it away.
– Hey everyone. I’m so excited to share my experience here at UO. I grew up just outside Portland and wanted to stay in state for the college experience, but wasn’t sure what career I wanted to pursue or what to expect coming to UO. Where I’ve ended up is completely different from what I expected. And I’m so happy it all put out the way it did. I’ve met so many people here who inspired me to find what I’m passionate about, which I’ve discovered is being outdoors. Eugene is definitely unique place. There are hiking trails, climbing gyms, parks in the Willamette river. And if you go a little bit out of town, there’s waterfalls, mountains for skiing and the beach. Eugene is just a few hours away from Smith rock, my favorite place in Oregon. I’m only a two-hour drive from Portland, one hour from the coast, a few hours from skiing in Ben and exploring the redwoods down in Northern California. Living in the Pacific Northwest has given me the opportunity to pursue self-reflection and figure out what I love to do. The UO prepared me for my past two internships, which helped me find balance in my life. Feeling confident about my experiences allows me to focus my energy on my passions, which I’m so excited to keep exploring. Had I not chosen to go to UO three years ago and met the people I did, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I learned to go with what feels right and be open to new experiences. Everybody’s college experience is different and mine is a lot different than expected, but I wouldn’t want it any other way. Back to you, Alex.
– Amy, thank you for showing us around this beautiful state of Oregon. What an amazing place to call home while you’re studying. I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to hit those hiking trails. But before we do, let’s learn a bit more about this university. Thanks again for that.
Next up is Cara. She’s a senior studying product design with minors in art, entrepreneurship, food studies. And she can’t wait to tell you about student life and how she got involved here on campus. Welcome Cara. You are on.
– Hey everyone. When I started looking for a college, I had no idea what I wanted to be. I knew I was interested in being creative and trying everything. After touring the University of Oregon and seeing all there was to do here, I knew this was the place for me. My first week on campus, I pursued two on campus jobs, a theater stitcher, and a social media digital strategists, and got both. Being a theater stitcher is where I was first exposed to the incredible world of design. The designers I worked under taught me more about myself, my interests and my dreams. Between my work experience and taking engaging art classes at UO is where I found my passion for product design. I’ve also taken advantage of two study abroad opportunities at the UO, the pre-freshman program in London and the food studies program in Sienna, Italy. Both of these programs gave me the opportunity to create lifelong connections with new people and places. All of these on-campus opportunities have been made possible because of the accessible education center at the UO. I have needed accommodations and support throughout my educational journey. The AEC provides support and ensures I have the tools I need to be successful. One of my favorite things about UO is the many ways to get involved on campus. The ASU street fair is one of my favorite events. The whole community comes together in support of food and fun. And 13th avenue is lined with students and vendors all day long. When I chose to come to the University of Oregon, I never could have guessed how much I would learn and experience. The UO has been a place where I’ve been able to gain hands-on experience both on the job and in the classroom while working on my dreams. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Cara. It’s so cool you found your passion for product design by putting yourself out there and using campus resources. Thanks for sharing your journey. Sounds like getting involved in student life has its perks, especially when those perks include street fair food. Sign me up, please. Thanks again for that.
Okay. Let’s meet Erica. She’s a senior studying business administration with a concentration in marketing. She’s here to tell us about the perks and fun of living in the residence halls and how she used her passion for business to connect with people on campus. The floor is all yours, Erica.
– Thanks Alex. And Hey everyone. I grew up in California and knew that I wanted to leave to experience something new. Although we never visited the campus before committing, University of Oregon was a really easy choice for me because of the wide range of programs offered, great athletic teams and a ton of amenities for students to enjoy. My freshman year, I lived in an academic residential community, which we refer to as arcs. I was in a business arc where I got to live and go to classes with students in my major. Living in the residence halls was super fun and definitely a highlight of my college experience. Although choosing housing can seem difficult and a little scary, don’t worry. UO was here to help all students find the best housing option for you. We have 10 different residence halls to choose from, with more than 15 arcs. UO offers academic support for all students living in the residence halls. We have multiple study lounges, faculty members living in the residence halls and faculty fellows who are a great resource if you have any questions or just want to talk. The study lounges are really nice if you’re up working late and don’t want to disrupt your roommate, or if you’re looking for a fun place to study and hang out with friends. Not only does UO care about students’ success academically, but they also want to see you excel outside the classroom. The campus hosts all kinds of events and activities such as end of the term pizza parties and solving escape room competitions. UO is more than just attending classes. It’s about finding your place within our tight knit community, studying what you’re passionate about and building long lasting relationships all while being a duck. I am forever grateful to be a part of the flock. That’s it from me. Go ducks and back to you, Alex.
– Thanks Erica. Sounds like there’s plenty of opportunities to make friends on campus, meet others who share your interests and find your spot in the flock. The UO community is big, yet you’ll still find your own small groups of friends for life right here. Thanks for sharing.
Okay. Now let’s head over to meet Souhail. He’s a senior studying advertising with a minor in entrepreneurship. Souhail is also a major foodie. Who’s better to show us all the sweet snacks and meals that UO has to offer. Take it away, Souhail.
– What’s good everybody. I came to the University of Oregon because I was impressed with a wide variety of the programs that were available here and not at any other schools. I’m talking to the location, the culture and in the environment were all motivating factors for why I decided to come to the U of O. But aside from that, the food here is incredible. At the EMU, there’s an abundance of dining options, pizza or , a comforting bowl of soup and grilled cheese, or maybe you’re looking for something gluten-free and vegan. Maybe you just want some coffee and a place to study. No problem. Our 14 dining locations offer you a place to kick back, meetup, hide out and fuel up with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. You can practice your own culinary skills at one of our community kitchens or come to Unthank Hall, which is also home to our student welcome center. The campus has all kinds of foods that are stadiums, nothing better than some crispy fries at a basketball game. Or you can link up after a football game at our hotspots on campus. These spots are meant to bring people together and celebrate the fun parts of college over food. Oregon has taught me about the power of community and day by day, I’m learning to cherish it that much more. In a world that continues to go more and more online, I hope to continue to forge real life relationships and make meaningful memories that last. All right, Alex, back to you.
– That was awesome, Souhail. The food scene at the UO is incredible. And it’s great to hear the dining halls use locally sourced ingredients. Amazing. I’m looking forward to grabbing something to eat and kicking it on campus as soon as I finish up here. Thanks again.
Last but certainly not least, it wouldn’t be a proper campus tour if we didn’t introduce you to the one, the only The Duck. He is a foul of very few words, actually, none at all, because he doesn’t speak. But his well toned wings from doing so many pushups at football games tell the story of the UO success, not only on the playing field, but also in the classroom. Wow, Duck, I can see why you’re loved by so many people and one of the most recognized college mascots in the entire nation. Sports Illustrate even ranked you second among the greatest mascots in college football history. Now that’s something we’re shaking your tail feathers for. Thanks again for that. The University of Oregon, everyone, this was such a fun tour. I’d like to thank all the amazing passionate students we got to meet today for sharing their stories. Looks like they’re all set to achieve incredible things here at the UO and beyond. What a great group of students and what a wonderful campus. Well, that’s all the time I have for now, but I highly encourage you all to check out more about the University of Oregon for yourself. This place is incredible. Trust me when I say it’s even better in person. Bye, everyone. Until next time.
Okay everyone, I can’t wait for you to meet these students. We’re gonna head over to the Bruce D. Nesbitt African American Cultural Center to hear from Kennedy. Who’s a sophomore on a pre-med track in the College of Applied Health Sciences. She’s so impressive in so many ways including her level of involvement on campus. There are well over 1000 student groups here, everything from academic and athletic to cultural and just plain social. And if you don’t see what you’re looking for, you’re empowered to start your own official group. As you’ll hear from Kennedy, that’s exactly what she did. Kennedy, please take it away.
Hi everyone. As a first-generation college student I didn’t really know what to expect when my family moved me to campus my freshman year. One of the best things about my first week on campus was Quad Day. Quad Day is where hundreds of registered student organizations set up tables across the main quad to invite people to join. There’s really something for everyone from ultimate Frisbee, to volunteer opportunities, to creative writing. Seeing all of the possibilities inspired me to start an organization that I saw a need for on campus, a pre-med mentoring organization.
Many people assume that pre-med students personally know a doctor or have doctors in their family. For a lot of people including myself, this isn’t the case. I was telling a friend this as we we’re leaving Quad Day and he said that I should start an organization. So, I did. Months later, my small idea turned into an official registered student organization called Mentors in Medicine. We help pre-med students get exposure to medicine through research, volunteering, and mentoring. Some of the other organizations I’ve been involved in have had a huge impact on my college experience. My freshman year, I quickly got involved with two of the culture houses on campus, the Bruce D. Nesbitt African American Cultural Center or the BNAACC and La Casa Cultural Latina.
One of my favorite memories is the Annual Black and Latino Woman Summit. This summit consists of different sessions surrounding wellness, academic success and preparing for our future careers. This was an incredible experience because I was able to connect with different students and faculty and talk about critical issues and how to be allies for one another. I grew up in a neighborhood in Chicago where most of my peers don’t even consider college as an option and I wanna do whatever I can to help change those perceptions. As a student here, I advocate for increased college enrollment and retention as an ambassador for the Office of Minority Student Affairs.
I am also a resident advisor with university housing. I love being a Resident Advisor because I’m able to guide students in their transition to Illinois by really connecting with them and being a resource. The residents on my floor are all friends and it’s a really welcoming community. It has meant everything to me to be able to help other first year, first-generation and historically underrepresented students.
After I graduate, I plan on attending medical school and becoming a family medicine physician. I want to serve underrepresented minority populations in Chicago to eliminate healthcare disparities and ultimately improve the healthcare field. The University of Illinois has prepared me academically with the rigorous science courses and interdisciplinary curriculum, and socially with the culturally diverse organizations that I’m a part of. Well, that’s just a small piece of my story here at U of I. Thank you for having me share it. Back to you, Alex.
Thanks for sharing your story Kennedy. It’s really inspiring because it’s never just about you. You’re always looking for ways to include and help others, which is what involvement and inclusion are all about here on campus. Thanks for sharing. Bye, Kennedy.