So now let’s head over to the Lindner College of Business, where information systems and finance major Alejandro, can’t wait to talk to us about how UC’s top ranked academics go hand in hand, with its commitment to career preparation. Take it away Alejandro.
– Thank you, Alex. Hi everyone. I chose to come to the University of Cincinnati for one simple reason, this. This is the incredible Carl H. Lindner College of Business. And this is where a lot of the magic happened for me. I knew this was the right place when I discovered UC offered more than 400 academic programs, many of them nationally ranked. And when I learned more about this impressive city. In fact, I come from the enrollment and sign my apartment lease before I ever stepped foot in Cincinnati. When it comes to career prep, UC excels. Cincinnati’s co-op and internship programs rank among the top five in the nation. Everything from career coaching sessions, to meeting with your advisors, to studying abroad, to catching up with friends for a quick coffee, it’s all here. Cincinnati’s unique Bearcat promise, ensures that every student graduates with a degree in one hand, and a career plan in the other. Which is a good thing, because Cincinnati has a vibrant startup ecosystem for hungry entrepreneurs, not to mention companies like Proctor and Gamble, Kroger, and other Fortune 500’s. I can attest that experience-based learning is key for professional growth and success. Experience-based learning will challenge you and help you apply all the concepts you learn in class to a real professional role. It will also help you feel confident you’ve chosen the right career. I always tell people I don’t want to wake up and say, I gotta go to work, because work shouldn’t be work. It should be your passion. Cincinnati has not only prepare me to be a successful businessman, but also to become a version of myself beyond what I would have ever imagined. My business fraternity Alpha Kappa Si, helped me to grow my network, and also to meet what I already call lifelong friends. At UC, I learned that a college education is much more than learning skills for a job, or fulfilling requirements. It’s a platform, that will help you become the best version of yourself. Now back to you Alex.
– Alejandro, that was so cool. It’s so great to hear, that Cincinnati has helped you with the soft skills like etiquette and networking. In addition to providing hands-on learning and solid academics. It’s clear you’ve already found your passion and a path to success. Thanks Alejandro.
All right, everyone. Let’s head over to University Pavilion, where the office of admissions and UC’s Roar tour guides welcome over 10,000 future Bearcats annually. Among them is Bryce, an organizational leadership major with an eye towards a future in higher education. Bryce is going to tell us a little more about what UC focuses on, innovation and impact called Next Lives Here means to him. We’re all ears Bryce.
– Thanks Alex. When I was looking at universities, I was looking for an adventure. This was my opportunity to branch out, leave my hometown and experience life in the city. When I toured UC, I was so excited to learn about the opportunities available to students, both on and off campus. Outside of the classroom, I’ve had the pleasure of serving as a Roar tour guide, as well as a new student orientation leader. I remember the college search being such an exciting time for me. I wanted to help new students picture themselves at UC, to decided if it would be a good fit for them. Through these opportunities, I learned more about Next Lives Here, the university’s strategic direction. I’ve had the chance to directly contribute to this, by sharing my experiences with future students. These are the students that will go on to make their mark here at UC, and bring forth a new generation of Next Lives Here. An era of innovation, impact and inclusion. Life in the big city is full of adventure. When choosing a college, I knew I wanted to go somewhere that would set me up for success. And the university’s urban setting has been a huge part of making that a reality. UC supports its students in developmental thinking, with a focus on lifelong goals. One way to do so is the Bearcat promise. UC ensures that each of its students graduates not only with the diploma, but what the resume, and career plan as well. I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside my professors and faculty on projects with Cincinnati based community organizations like Matthew 25 Ministries, and the Ronald McDonald House. I worked with these organizations to evaluate and improve their volunteer programs, and gain transferable skills along the way. After graduation, I plan on pursuing a career in higher education, so I can keep impacting the next generation of college students. That’s my Cincinnati story. What’s next Alex?
– Bryce, thanks for sharing the impact UC has had on you. It’s clear higher ed is the right field, and that you are well-prepared to make an impact. Next really does live here. Thank you so much for sharing your story with us Bryce.
Now let’s meet Camryn, a human development major and a student government leader, for her insights into how equity, inclusion, and community impact, and are realized here at UC. Camryn’s going to tell us about how she’s personally experienced community here, and how she’s helped to create it. Take it away Camryn.
– Thanks Alex. If I had to describe my experience at the University of Cincinnati in one word, that’s easy, community. From the moment I stepped foot on campus, I felt at home, and found safe spaces in the university’s identity based centers, offices and student organizations. The pride I feel when I walk into these spaces and can say, this is my home, is indescribable. As a Darwin T. Turner scholar, a scholarship program that promotes academic excellence, fosters diversity, and provides leadership and service opportunities. I have been very fortunate to be a part of a community of students, committed to service, and promoting social change on and off campus. With the support and guidance of university mentors, I have been able to take this knowledge forward, and create an infinity space in the form of a book club for women of color, focused on community, creativity, and conversation. The book club empowers black and brown voices, by promoting the narratives of women of color to unite women across the campus. Of course I’m proud of my personal example, but there are so many examples of UC making a positive impact. From UC Serves, to study abroad trips, with opportunities for students to do things like improve local water quality, or provide health care to local populations. As a leader in undergraduate student government, I have been driven to promote the diverse array of cultures on our campus student body. This has allowed me to help with, and attend signature events like World Fest, Akuabah, Qwampka, Thiemba, the spring break tour, equity and inclusion week, and awareness for abilities week. I have witnessed the power of belonging, and have thrived in UC environments that promote diversity inclusion and empowerment. Back to you Alex.
– Camryn, that was so inspiring. Your book club is sure to be just the start of many such efforts, creating positive change. Thank you for leading and learning. With people like you making a difference, our future looks brighter than ever. Thank you Camryn.
Now, let’s meet two incredible UCF alums, Albert and Mrudula. They took their passion for engineering and turned it into a career that helps make a difference in people’s lives every day. It’s stories like theirs, that show the impact of a UCF degree on not only the community, but the world. Take it away Albert and Mrudula, we can’t wait to hear about the work you do.
– Hello, everyone, Mrudula and I have seen firsthand how UCF fosters an environment where people can work together to change the world one idea at a time. I came to UCF wanting to use engineering to help others. And what started at the kitchen table as a graduate student has now turned into a full team and facility dedicated to empowering children and adults in the limb difference community through bionic prosthetics.
– Limitless is one of the many areas at UCF that allows for true collaboration across so many different disciplines. I’ve always loved that the perspectives of everyone from artists and designers like me, to scientists and entrepreneurs are equally valued and cherished here.
– [Albert] From our start in 2014, Limitless has continued to grow its mission and impact and building accessibility technology. Limitless launched the very first US clinical trial for 3D printed prosthetics for children and our new medical research has led to a partnership with the Mayo Clinic. From tech to video games, we continue to partner with industry leaders. Each partnership adds a diverse voice and new creativity to amplify the mission. While we continue to re-imagine what prosthetics can look like, our UCF students are in the lab helping drive forward new innovations.
– I never thought places like UCF existed, where I not only got real-world experience for my own major, but I got to work with people from so many other majors as well. It’s places like these, where you can come up with ingenious solutions to problems that make real impact because diverse perspectives lead to revolutionary ideas.
– UCF taught me to dream big. Take it from me, whichever major you choose, you can use what you’re learning to change the world. That’s all for us.
– Back to you, Alex.
– Albert and Mrudula, what an inspirational story hearing about how you wanted to innovate something that betters lives and how the education and experiences here at UCF set you up for success is so motivational. Thank you so much for sharing that. Cheers, guys.
Next, we have Kristy, an Assistant Professor of Biology who specializes in coastal research, which is a big deal in Florida. She’s going to tell us about her work with the environment and how UCF’s focus on local research has the potential to better the world. Kristy, you’re on now.
– Thanks, Alex. Florida is certainly famous for its beaches, but the state also has many other ecosystems to explore. From the coastlines to the heart of Central Florida, UCF’s location is a major asset for students who want to participate in field research, while learning beside some of the best and brightest scientists working to conserve the environment around us. I was specifically drawn to UCF to join the National Center for Integrated Coastal Research. Here I work with researchers from diverse study areas to find solutions to pressing issues like sea level rise and the harmful algal bloom caused by red tide, both which impact Florida’s number one industry, tourism. Addressing these issues head on could potentially prevent millions of dollars of lost revenue for Florida communities. Our center’s efforts showcase just a few of the initiatives that have received national recognition for their impact. UCF strides in solar energy have been recognized with several awards by the US Department of Energy. And we even harvest our own honey at the UCF Arboretum as an official Bee Campus USA. Our Marine turtle research group partners with the US Fish and Wildlife Service and has established a permanent research facility on the Space Coast. UCF research has also led to the ban of certain sunscreen ingredients due to their harmful impacts on coral reefs. Our biologists and engineers are working tirelessly to find new ways to protect Florida’s threatened coral reefs. These fragile ecosystems are not only important to the health of the ocean, they also generate billions of dollars in local income, provide more than 70,000 jobs and protect the state’s shorelines from storms and hurricanes. Everyone at UCF recognizes the importance of protecting our planet and it all starts right here in our own backyard. When you attend UCF, you’ll have unique opportunities in the classroom, in the sand, out on the water and in the wild. We’re ready for you to come join us in shaping the future of our home. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Dr. Kristy, that was great. From sea to solar, UCF seems like a great place to study ways to better understand and protect the world around us. Talk about making an impact. Thanks again, Dr. Kristy, for all the important work you and other researchers at UCF do for us.
So get ready for a great episode, everyone. Welcome to UCF, this is the college tour. Let’s get to it, you all ready? Adam is a two-time UCF grad who turned his dreams into reality. He’s gonna tell us more about how Knight shaped the Central Florida community and fuel Florida’s talent pipeline. That means they earn jobs after graduation, and have career paths right here in Central Florida. He’ll also give us the details on how UCF prepares you to succeed in the classroom and in your career. Take it away, Adam.
– Thanks, Alex. As the Engineering Innovation Principal Architect at Lockheed Martin and a two-time UCF grad, I’m a proud Knight who has grown up, went to college, started a career, and is raising a young family in Orlando. When I was young, I always loved video games, but when I got older, I wanted to find a career that could allow me to use video games and link it back to my family’s long military history. That led me to my dream job, where I create simulators, where we teach people how to fly planes or how to operate a tank successful using those tools. At UCF, you’re setup for some amazing opportunities, thanks to the pipeline established by UCF, across multiple industries, including hospitality, space, cyber, healthcare, digital arts and entertainment, and of course, my area of expertise, simulation and training. UCF has extensive industry partnerships. For example, Lockheed Martin has a college work experience program where Knights can work with real professionals working on real projects that have a real impact. If you’re a student in that program today, you could be working on the latest virtual reality technology or a strength and safety boosting exoskeleton. Additionally, UCF hospitality students are located right in the heart of Orlando’s tourism district, which has neighbors like Disney, Universal, Marriott, and the Orange County Convention Center. UCF’s downtown campus is located within walking distance of City Hall, the Courthouse, and a lot more. UCF’s main campus is next to a 1,000-acre research park where some of the most cutting edge companies are developing technology across aerospace, lasers, and medical research. That means you’re gonna have the connections needed to land your first internship, and put you on a path of a successful career. Nothing compares to the real-world impact I had at Lockheed Martin, and nothing compares to being a UCF Knight in a metropolitan city like Orlando, where the opportunities for discovery, creativity, and success are infinite. Back to you, Alex.
– Adam, that’s incredible. It’s great that UCF is so close to many industry leaders, giving students hands-on experience and a leg up on the competition when they graduate. I think we’ll definitely continue to see Knights doing cool things and going big places. Thanks again, Adam.
It’s not easy being the first in your family to go to college or to know your direction. Well allow me to introduce Karina. She graduated in 2011. Today, she’s helping so many kids get the education they deserve. She’s a passionate advocate for her community. I’ll let Karina give you the full story.
– I can’t believe it’s been 10 years since I graduated from UC Davis. I hope my story of how I got there and how I got here will help you in finding your pathway. My parents immigrated from Mexico to Willows, California, a small agricultural town with three streetlights. My oldest sister Olga was the first in our family to go to college. So I knew that I wanted to follow her example. So I studied hard and joined the Educational Talent Search Program, a federally funded program that helps low income and first-generation kids get into college. I wanted to live on campus and meet students from different places and cultures. When I got there, I was shocked by how many bikes were on campus. There was so much activity everywhere. I struggled academically at first and that was really scary, but I looked for help and found so much support around me. I took advantage of office hours. I found services to have your papers reviewed before submitting and I joined a Latina sorority. Many of my pledge sisters came from similar backgrounds and they really helped keep me going. My grades improved dramatically. These girls are still my best friends. I imagined a career in education, maybe as a counselor. So I decided to major in community regional development. It completely expanded my horizons. I later applied for an internship through the University of California Washington DC Program. Four days after graduation, I was working for the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics, little did I know that would be the stage for a career that has taken me to so many places. In California, I worked as an advisor for Educational Talent Search, the same program that had helped me get into UC Davis. I then spent some time on the corporate side as a recruiter, helping Fortune 500 companies find talent, but then I got into politics and all that I learned up until that moment in the classroom and on the job was exactly what I needed to make that leap. In 2018, I was elected trustee for the Sacramento County Board of Education. Today I’m the in the city of Sacramento. If you’re wondering about your own path, here’s my advice, explore, be curious, challenge conventional thinking. It’s okay not to know what you wanna do. You never know what jobs are out there anyway, learn all you can, do all you can for yourself and for others, that will help you find your way and prepare you for wherever you go. And in my experience, there’s no better place to do that than UC Davis.
– Karina, what an inspiration. I can’t even begin to imagine how many lives you’ve touched. You’re living proof that you don’t have to decide between succeeding and helping others. And you’ve got so much ahead of you still. Thank you for all your work and for joining us today. Take care, Karina.
– [Alex] Welcome everyone to University of Cincinnati, top five in the nation for co-op and internships. An impressive ranking for sure. But one that makes a lot of sense, considering the fact that UC invented cooperative education more than 100 years ago. And while experience-based learning remains at the core of a UC education. Cincinnati’s innovative spirit and can-do attitude is reflected in everything, from its vibrant, big-league hometown to it’s one-of-a-kind, award-winning campus. I’m your host, Alex Boylan, and over the next half hour, we’re gonna take a closer look at the places, faces and features that make Cincinnati special. From a student who grew up just around the corner, to one who hails from another corner of the globe, to accomplished alumni who continue to make their mark. You’ll hear their personal stories and some of the many reasons that nearly 50,000 students choose UC. Welcome to Bearcat’s nation. This is “The College Tour”. Okay, let’s head over to UC’s internationally-renowned College Conservatory of Music, or CCM as it’s usually called. Did you know that CCM regularly takes on one of the top spots in Playbill Magazine’s list of top most represented colleges on Broadway? Well, Miles probably did. A double major in music and business, Miles found a unique opportunity at UC, and one that has allowed him to pursue and excel at, both of his passions. Just wait until you hear about the experiences he’s already gained as a student. It’s all yours, Miles. Take it away.
– Hey, thanks Alex. I remember during my senior year, I was accepted to 14 different universities around the nation. I wanted the whole college experience, meaning a university that encourages professional and creative growth, while allowing me to combine my passions of business and music. See, I’ve been a trumpet player for over a decade now, and I knew I didn’t wanna give that up when I went to college, ’cause I wanted a career that’d be fulfilling and creative. The University of Cincinnati provided me just that. See, UC invented cooperative education, and it’s still one of the best. Ranking top five in the nation, UC’s Co-Op Program started in the College of Engineering in 1906. And at the time it was considered experimental, but it was soon being copied by schools around the world. Now today, UC’s experiential learning opportunities are not limited to one college, or a handful of programs. It’s available to every single Cincinnati student. And students at co-op, work in organizations like Apple, NASA, Disney, and places as close as Downtown Cincinnati, to as far as Japan. And because students earn while they learn, they graduate with less debt. In addition to UC’s commitment to experiential learning, having the opportunity to learn and collaborate with internationally-renowned faculty and staff at the College-Conservatory of Music made choosing UC a no-brainer. Now one of my favorite things about my first year on campus, was the Career Fair. While many universities provide extracurricular opportunities to get involved on campus, UC’s organizations and clubs provide you with the core, industry-specific skills to make an impact in your community, but also just to meet cool people. Over the last two years, I’ve been able to take advantage of these opportunities, like host my own radio show, with UC’s very own student media outlet, Bearcats Media. Or coordinating monthly panels with the university Honors Program to integrate first-year students with university living. And it was through the involvement in these UC organizations that I gained the skills to be a competitive candidate for internships around the world. Locally, I intern in the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra as a marketing intern. Where I was able to interview Grammy Award winning conductors, artists and composers, and promote digital concerts. And nationally, I worked with JP Morgan Chase as an Advancing Black Pathways fellow. Where I learned the fast paced environment of a corporate business. Now, I’m working with the global distribution department with NBC Universal, as an international marketing and publicity intern, where I get to share and promote their award winning TV shows and blockbuster films. UC makes sure that the education you’re getting is not just skills for a job. It’s about finding your passions, getting real world experience, and preparing you for the skills to do more than what you thought was possible. Back to you, Alex.
– Miles, what an inspiring story. It’s almost unfair that someone is that talented on both sides of the brain, but seriously, we’re so glad you found Cincinnati where it’s possible to craft an academic plan as individual as you are. Thanks again Miles.
Okay, now let’s join. A’jiana, a criminal justice major, for a closer look at Cincinnati’s one of a kind award-winning campus. The New York Times called it, the most ambitious campus design program in the country. And it’s no wonder, this pedestrian friendly beauty surprises at every turn, mixing classical architecture, with modern style. Tell us more A’jiana.
– Thanks, Alex. The uptown campus of the University of Cincinnati, is home to about 47,000 students. And is full of well-known traditions, photo ops spots, and hidden gems. Listed among the world’s most beautiful campuses. UC’s beauty can be seen not only through its striking architecture and landscaping, but also their student life. So, let’s start with location. Campus is roughly 253 acres. And just two miles from Cincinnati’s vibrant downtown. One of my personal favorite spaces on campus is Sigma Sigma Commons, which also happens to be the largest green space. Here we host our annual Red and Black Bash, which is a concert that’s free and open to all UC students, the Sigma Sigma Carnival, and hammocking areas for a nice breezy day. Just up main street is Nippert Stadium, home to the best student section in the nation. And when there’s no varsity games or practices going on, students are free to use the stadium. Whether that be throwing a frisbee, running the stairs, or just cutting through to get to class. UC is also home to great artistic performance too. Cincinnati’s top ranked college Conservatory of Music, offers more than a thousand musical and theatrical performances each year, the most in Ohio. And many are free to UC students. Just across Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, is UC’s east campus. Home to its four healthcare colleges. Pharmacy, nursing, medicine and allied health. East campus is also home to UC’s clinical affiliates, UC Health, and Cincinnati Children’s Medical Hospital. Cincinnati Children’s is ranked among the top five in the nation. And UC Health provides the regions only level one trauma center. And just down the road from UC’s east campus, you’ll find Cincinnati’s 1819 Innovation Hub, and it’s soon to be completed Digital Futures building, both a part of Cincinnati’s growing innovation district. Already one of the best cities in the Midwest for startups, Cincinnati is becoming recognized for its unique partnerships between industry and university, and as a destination for top talent. But more than anything, campus spirit and UC’s sense of community are what made me a diehard Bearcat. I chose UC, because it’s a global leader in experience-based learning. It offers a top tier education, and numerous opportunities post-graduation. And it’s provided me with a true home away from home. UC ensures that it has a space for everyone to be unapologetically themselves. Well, that’s my story back to you, Alex.
– Thank you A’jiana. While it’s true there’s nothing like actually being here, A’jiana’s given us a great snapshot of Cincinnati, the campus. We’re so glad you found your home here, take care.
You all are gonna love this next segment. Let’s hear from Phillip. He is a journalism major who’s excited to share what traditions make being a Knight so special. From major campus and community events to iconic sites, Phillip is gonna give us a rundown on what you can expect from your time at UCF.
– Thanks Alex. Hi, there, going to college is an opportunity for growth, discovery, innovation, and comradery. And here at UCF, you’re brought into a community full of exciting and inspiring traditions that allow you to make friends, make memories and make the most of your college experience. One of the best things that draws people towards UCF is our big spirit and our big energy. And ever since being a Knight myself, it has been so much fun to be able to participate in all these amazing traditions here on campus, from sharing in the bounce house and making a splash of the reflecting pond, talking about diversity and inclusivity around campus. Actually, one of the biggest traditions that we have here on campus is our annual Spirit Splash every homecoming week. Now the events so popular, actually, that it was bought at number one for one of the best college traditions in the whole nation. At this fall event, students would run right into the reflecting pond to catch hundreds of ducks. But that’s only the tip of the iceberg. You’ll also won’t want to miss out on Symphony Under the Stars, which is a concert held at Memory Mall. So make sure you grab a blanket and pack of picnic for a night to remember. Or if you’re feeling more adventurous, we also have our Universal Knights because what’s a better study break, then hanging out with a whole bunch of Knights while riding roller coasters. Another fun tradition we also have is our Pegasus Palooza, which is at the start of the fall semester, where you can participate in social, academic and service opportunities to help you find your place on campus. We also have our Diversity Week, which is a cultural celebration where students can connect with one another and celebrate our differences together. And we even have our Research Week where you can check up on all the cool innovation and technologies by our UCF undergraduate and graduate team. As you can see, there are countless opportunities for you to have a great time here at UCF. It has been such an honor to be able to be a Knight here myself and have all the diverse good friends I have, which I now call family, participating in all the fun events and activities here has just been amazing. That’s what being a Knight is all about. Back to you, Alex.
– Phillip, that was fantastic. It looks like there are so many fun and exciting things to do at UCF. I mean, how fun does Spirit Splash look, but what’s really cool is how many options there are for students of all interests, from research to music. Thanks for sharing that with us, Phillip.