This is gonna be great. Now we’re gonna hear from Austin. Austin is a sophomore from Erda, Utah, and is studying information sciences and entrepreneurship. He’s a young entrepreneur and luckily for him, the University of Utah was ranked in the top 10 schools for entrepreneurship by US News and World Report. Okay, Austin, we all would love to hear what you’ve been up to.
– Thanks Alex. When I was searching for the right college to enroll in, I knew I didn’t want the standard college plan of school for eight months and work for four months. I knew I wanted to build something unique and something exciting during my time here at college. I chose the University of Utah because of the resources that they have available to student entrepreneurs like me. Back in high school, I had some previous experience deejaying and doing audio production. And I knew that I wanted to build a business around that passion. The Lassonde Entrepreneurship Department at the University of Utah made that idea possible. Lassonde is a nationally ranked entrepreneurship department and has been featured in plenty of academic and business journals. Lassonde features Lassonde Studios, which is a student dorm of about 400 student entrepreneurs, innovators and inventors. Here at Lassonde Studios, the motto is live, create, launch. And that’s exactly what they helped me to do. Lassonde offers networking events, funding, office space, and even branding and legal advice that helped me form and launch my company. And just like that, artist entertainment was born. Now a year later between a slew of on-campus events, private parties and weddings Lassonde continues to push my company to grow and expand day by day. The University of Utah is full of explorers, innovators and inventors. And we’re doing more than just addressing pain points and solving problems. We’re creating the future. The Lassonde 400 and by extension the entire university, wake up every day and decide to do something new, something exciting, something unique. This community works together to make The U the hottest spot in Utah. From cutting edge medical research, to Olympic level gymnast and beyond, The U is creating the stories that will last for generations. What’s next, Alex?
– Thank you, Austin. That is why they call this place, Imagine U. I’m really impressed by how much support the university gives to students starting their own businesses at no additional cost. You’ve already accomplished so much and we can’t wait to watch your business grow. Keep up the great work, take care, Austin.
Okay everyone, let’s get to know Alyssa. She’s a sophomore majoring in political science with a minor in business. And she plans to become a lawyer. The U offers 12 pre-professional advising tracks And Alyssa is gonna explain how The U’s pre-law program has put her on the path to achieve her future goals. Take it away, Alyssa.
– Thanks Alex. My education is the most important thing to me. As a first-generation student, I’ve been able to uncover the stepping stones to law school here at The U with the help of their pre-professional programs. I was looking for a university that was close to home because friends and family are everything to me. And one that also offered me the tools to be successful in my future career. The U has it all. It’s world renowned professors, diversity, welcoming culture and pre-professional programs were exciting to me as a prospective student. Th U offers professional advising and helped me learn the path that I wanted to take. I eventually joined the pre-law LEAP program. This three-year cohort program has brought me many friends who share my same interests and has also exposed me to what the law is really like. We’ve read books about supreme court justices, we’ve heard from many lawyers and judges about their daily lives, and we’ve also learned what to expect for law school. It is also helping me get an internship at a local law firm and preparing me for my future endeavors ahead. Of course, I’m still going on adventures around Utah and love going to concerts and games here. I never would have imagined that I would have so much fun while discovering myself and my passions in college. The U’s pre-professional advising programs and learning cohorts can help you on your personal journey to success. And that is why I love The U. I’m exactly where I meant to be. I can’t wait for law school because I know that the connections, mindset and skills that I’ve gained during my time here at The U, that I’ll be successful in whatever I put my mind to. That’s my story. Thanks for listening. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you so much, Alyssa. I loved hearing about how the LEAP program not only gave you access to professional development, but also strengthened your connection to the school community. We wish you luck on your path to law school. Thanks again.
We’re gonna hear now from Hallie, a junior majoring in health and kinesiology while minoring in music. The U is full of great students, not only from Utah, but from across the country and around the world. Hallie who calls McKinney, Texas home is gonna tell us about why she decided to come to The U.
– Thanks, Alex. And hey everyone. Growing up, I always heard stories from my dad and grandfathers about their time at The U. And let’s just say that I wanted it on the action. But getting here took many more miles than I imagined. As an out-of-state student from north Texas, I traveled further than most to get a college education. When my friends decided on schools in Texas, my heart was leading me elsewhere, to the University of Utah. This took a lot of courage since I knew zero people on campus, and that’s not an exaggeration. Over time, through living on campus, campus jobs and other organizations like university choir, I made some of the best friends that I could have hoped for and really made a home for myself here in Salt Lake City, which not to mention is home to some of the greatest natural wonders. It’s been exciting trying things I’d never done before, like hiking and skiing, and even driving through canyons. From spring break road trips to Zion National Park, summer days at Bear Lake, and post-class ski days at Park City, which is just 35 minutes away. The university is a great place to be for the adventurer. Part of what made my time here possible is the University of Utah scholarships for out-of-state students. They recognized my achievements in high school and made me feel like a valued member of the university. The university is all that I’ve dreamed of and more. It’s been fun taking classes in the same classrooms as my dad and working in the same pollings that my grandparents were in at my age. I’m so happy that I chose to come here and I’m super excited for my future here. So what’s next, Alex?
– That’s a great story, Hallie. Going to college far away from your family and friends is a challenge, but it’s clear your adventurous spirit has found a home here. I’ll have to check out The U’s array of outdoor recreation rentals so I can explore Utah for myself. This campus location is amazing. Thanks again for that.
Now, let’s hit over and meet Cort. He’s a junior majoring in biology and minoring in business. He’s an honor student on the pre-med track and is gonna talk to us about the teacher-scholar model at TCU. Cort, you’re on, my man.
– Howdy, everybody. I’m excited to share with you all my experience as a student at TCU. I grew up just outside of Fort Worth so I always had time to visit and fall in love with the city. From dancing at Billy Bob’s to showing cattle at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo. What really sold me on coming to TCU though, was the size and academics. TCU was the perfect size for me. It has the feel of a large university with competitive sports programs and extremely well-versed professors, but maintains all of the benefits and close relationships of a small school. My favorite part of classes at TCU is that they’re taught directly by professors who make students their top priority. Through the teacher-scholar model, professors value building relationships to undergraduate students like me, just as much as they do conducting research. Beyond having office hours each week, where they’re available to chat or answer questions, professors put in extensive effort outside the classroom. Not only does TCU offer ample opportunity to get to know professors, well, you can work alongside them. When you walk down the halls of Sid Richardson and Winston-Scott, the walls are covered with publications by professors and students alike. If you see publications that interests you, you can talk to that professor about their lab and apply to join especially as an undergraduate student. TCU also takes a very active role in preparing students for their lives after graduation. As a student on the pre-health track, I took a three hour course to learn about the application processes to medical, dental, physician’s assistant and veterinary schools. I wrote essays required for the applications and received extensive feedback from multiple professors to ensure that I presented myself in the best light possible. I underwent mock interviews to practice my interview skills and better get to know my health professional advisory committee members who write letters of recommendation. Never have I felt lost or alone in the process of applying to medical school. I’ve also had so many great experiences at TCU outside the classroom. From director roles of first year experience programs to executive member roles in student government leadership programs and many other on-campus organizations. All of my experiences and classes at TCU have taught me what it means to be a student and a global citizen. If you’re looking for a university with a close knit community, professors and students alike, I highly recommend you give TCU a look. Thanks for letting me share my story with y’all. Back to you, Alex.
– Cort, great job. That’s fantastic. The experiences you have here with your professors and fellow classmates sounds amazing. Thank you again. Cheers, Cort.
Okay, everyone. Now, it’s time to pick up the pace because I don’t know how this next student has time to catch her breath. Her name is Erika. She’s a sophomore, computer science major and mathematics minor. She DJs at the campus radio station, studied abroad in Panama, and chartered her own sorority. Erika, please fill us in on the experiential education you can expect at TCU.
– Gracias, Alex. I came to TCU because of the genuine connection I felt to the students, faculty and staff that I met on the tour. But what keeps me here is the passion and pride that everyone has for what they do. Reaching out or sending a simple email has given me so many opportunities from studying abroad in Panama as a freshman to being a chancellor’s host and wearing a cool purple blazer to volunteering around Fort Worth or facilitating Frog Camp or being a DJ at our KTCU radio station, just to name a few things. There is always an open door for new opportunities. We even have an idea factory that supports innovations dreamed up by our students. The only real limit is the 24 hours in the day. TCU has allowed me to take classes that challenge me to think critically about societal issues, historical perspectives, and the surrounding community. I have developed meaningful connections with all of my professors and they guide me as my mentors. As a STEM major, I have access to so many resources to explore my research interests, do community service or grow as a professional and as a person. Another highlight of my academic life at TCU is the John V. Roach Honors College. When I first toured, I heard that Bill Nye had just been a guest. So I wanted to see what the excitement was all about. I loved staying in the Milton Daniel Residence Hall and taking my honors classes. Here, I participated in meaningful class discussions and get to develop my own ideas about the world around me. Through in class learning projects and service learning in the community, our academic programs foster an environment of understanding between individuals. There are so many ways to learn what you’re passionate about at TCU. You might even make your mark by starting something new. You just have to ask. I hope you’ll visit us and experience for yourself all that TCU has to offer both in academics and beyond the classroom. Well, that’s my take on some of the academic aspects of TCU. Now back to you, Alex.
– Erika, wow. I’m impressed by your drive to not only follow a path, but your ability to chart your own path right here at TCU. Thank you for sharing your incredible experiences with us. I can’t wait to see everything you accomplished at TCU and in the STEM field. Take care.
Okay, everyone. Now, we’re counting on student body president, Paige to fill us in on leadership cultivation at TCU. She’s a senior majoring in finance and she’s become the leader she is today through a campus network and culture that encourages lifelong learning and dynamic growth. Paige, you’re on.
– Thanks, Alex. As soon as I stepped foot on TCU’s campus, I knew this place was like no other. Our community is incredibly engaged and all of our students are involved and self-motivated. In addition to classes, the average student is a member of at least a couple student organizations, whether they be Greek, academic, cultural, or volunteer in nature, there’s a place for everybody. TCU aims to cultivate not only well rounded students, but also world changers. And there are countless opportunities for leadership on campus. For instance, as a first year student, I knew next to nobody. I was able to make friends that were going to be leaders all across campus at my Frog Camp in Berlin, Germany, which was also my first time ever in Europe. These relationships have been invaluable to me. And every opportunity that I’ve had at TCU has only opened up more chances for me to make friends and to challenge myself. I have served in a variety of leadership positions, both on campus and within our community. And after four fantastic years, I’ve had the opportunity to serve as the student body president. I am so grateful for the opportunities that TCU has given me to develop into a more ethical, compassionate and driven leader. As a student, you can make a real difference on campus. One of the initiatives that I’m proudest of is the community comments. The pandemic hit universities hard. And first year students especially had a difficult time making friendships and building community in a safe way. And so the outdoor living room was born. I’ve also had the opportunity to work with the Race and Reconciliation Initiative to develop the Unity Cord. All graduating students have had the opportunity to our Unity Cord, which is the physical embodiment of the strength, resiliency, and TCU spirit that we’ve all channeled to get through this year. I’ve learned the value of hard work and a perseverance, how to cope with failure and also how to sell my ideas to others. This is such an exciting time in TCU’s history. We’re reconciling our past and stepping into an even brighter future. Coming to TCU will provide you the opportunity to become the very best version of yourself, all while making lifelong friends. Though my time as a student has come to an end, I am so excited to see what future generations of Horned Frogs are able to do with their time here. Back to you, Alex.
– Paige, that was fantastic. Awesome job. Thank you for sharing with us your experience as a student leader. Congrats on all your accomplishments and good luck in your career. Thanks again, Paige.
All right, everyone. Let’s head over to the Schollmaier Arena to meet Allyson. She’s a junior majoring in child development, and she dances with the Showgirls on game day. So she can definitely tell us about athletics and school spirit. Allyson, hit it.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone and welcome to TCU. One of my favorite TCU sayings is that, we have a small school field with big school spirit. So we get the benefits of attending a small university. You don’t have to miss out on any of the exciting traditions or atmosphere that come along with game days. Here at TCU, Horned Frog pride radiates throughout the campus. Speaking of Horned Frog pride, I always like to say that game days are the best days and there are tons of ways to be involved. As a member of the TCU dance team, better known around here as the TCU Showgirls is the greatest honor and privilege. I just finished my rookie season on the team and it has been an incredible experience. Full of hard work, sisterhood, and of course, tons of dancing. As a Showgirl, my game days are an up close and personal experience. During football season, we start our days at the beautiful Frog Fountain. Here, we get to see our friends and family and take lots of pictures. From Frog Fountain, we be on parade into the stadium. Then it’s game time. There is no better feeling than stepping onto the field wearing our iconic Justin Boots and gorgeous uniforms. Watch closely. You may notice that we make up to three uniform changes a game. The excitement and adrenaline in the Amon G. Carter Stadium is a feeling like no other. Looking up into the stands on game day, fills me with such excitement and pride. And the best part of it all is that I get to dance and cheer alongside my best friends. Some of my favorite game day traditions include our Riff Ram cheer, singing the alma mater and high kicks. High kicks are big in Texas. So when the Horned Frogs win, we kick for each point scored. Well, football season is an incredibly exciting time. The fun doesn’t just stop there. You’ll also find the Showgirls dancing and cheering at basketball and baseball games as well as community events. So no matter what time of year it is, there is always a game to see. And we love to see the stands filled with Frog fans. TCU is proud to compete at the highest level of NCAA Division I sports as a member of the Big 12 Conference. Our student athletes excel not only in their sports, but in the classroom and in our community. So on game days, whether you find yourself on the field or in the stands, there’s a place for you here at TCU. As always, go, Frogs and back to you, Alex.
– Allyson, great job. It’s so fun to hear about game days on campus. I can feel the excitement of the student section cheering on the Horned Frogs. Thanks again for that. That was awesome. Cheers, Allyson.
Salt Lake City is a hub for filmmakers, ballet dancers, and actors. Not to be out done by their professional peers, the students at the University of Utah are exceptional artists. I want you to meet T Pullen from Kentucky. They are a senior majoring in musical theater and minoring in photography. What’s going on stage and in the dark room T?
– Hello, beautiful souls. As a queer child, growing up in a small conservative town, I really learned the importance of dancing to the beat of your own drum, no matter what other people might think. Because of that, I marched 1200 miles to Utah to choreograph the dance of a lifetime, college. The department of theater is truly a remarkable place to embody a fierce expression of your eccentric self and see a metamorphosis in the world around you. Living and learning in a space that’s incredibly inclusive has allowed me to transform into a brighter, bolder and braver student, musical theater performer and human. I’ve sponged up countless opportunities because of this program. Performing in multiple stage productions with some brilliant people, I made some really special connections with. Invaluable leadership, working for the department of theater through work study, both helping me pay for tuition and gain vital experience. Being privileged to serve as the SAC collective representative, which is a student run organization dedicated to advocating for our peers through bonding, community service, and calls to action for change and pre-professional experience. I’ll be performing in Salt Lakes professional theater, this December, and doing an internship with them in the spring all before I’m done with college with some of my best friends. Every day is unique at The U. Because the musical theater program is newer, they’re constantly experimenting with masterclasses, workshops and performances. Our department is currently tackling tough conversations like inequity and representation in theater, and launching a season of new and inclusive plays, musicals and collaborative projects. And by 2023, U theater students will be getting standing ovations in a brand new, state of the art theater space. Learning to dance through life is a process. And because of The U, I’m confident I can choreograph through the challenges and celebrations of life. Let’s see your moves, Alex.
– I’m sure my moves have nothing on yours, T. Maybe mine might make the blooper reel. Thanks for sharing the opportunity U provides artists to both showcase their art and to delve into the history and theoretical frameworks that are just behind the scenes. Break a leg out there T, thanks again for that.
Salt Lake City has long been popular with startups in health nuts. Even the squirrels are fit here. Students at The U can explore the city with free public transit and Lexi is gonna tell us what makes this place so special for college students and young alumni. What’s the scoop on SLC, Lexi?
– Hello, everyone. And welcome to the University of Utah. Growing up in the State of Utah, I always had a great love for the outdoors. I love visiting national parks, camping, skiing, and hiking with my family and friends. And when it came time to choose a school, I really wanted to pick one that would allow me to do the things that I love while still having that traditional college experience. The location of our campus is really unique. The University of Utah is nestled between downtown Salt Lake and the Wasatch mountains. So students are able to enjoy both the outdoors and city life. There are so many cool things to do here, from hiking and camping, to visiting art museums and galleries. On the weekend, or even between classes, students can hike the living room trail, visit Olympic venues from the 2002 games or grab a bite to eat at one of the multitudes of restaurants, minutes away from campus. During the winter, you get to experience the famous Utah snow, which turns our city into a winter Wonderland and brings about additional activities like skiing and snowboarding, visiting the temple square, Christmas lights and outdoor ice skating at the Gallivan Center. Personally, my love for the great outdoors has only grown since living in Salt Lake. And with several major ski resorts, only a 30 minute drive away, over a hundred miles of hiking and biking trails, fishing and wildlife expeditions, it’s super easy to get your fix. All in all, no matter what your interests are, you’re certain to find someone on campus who shares that interest too. And you don’t have to travel very far to participate. I have loved attending The U and living in Salt Lake, and it’s definitely a city you wanna keep on your radar. What’s next, Alex?
– Very cool. Now while Lexi’s minors are in theater and chemistry, her majors are in health and kinesiology with a wilderness in emergency medical services emphasis. Her friends are really lucky to have her around on their outdoor adventures. Thanks for talking to us about the hidden gem that is Salt Lake City.
I’d like to introduce you to our alumnus of The U. Bryan graduated 2020 and earned his bachelor’s in film and media arts, entertainment arts and engineering, with a double minor in games and animation. The U is one of the top ranked schools for game design. And Bryan’s gonna share his incredible experiences studying and developing games.
– Thanks so much for that introduction, Alex. I’m standing here inside Building 72, home base to the entertainment and arts engineering department, where students are cultivating their skills into making the next hit video game. When I was young, I used to play with Legos and not so much in the traditional sense of building sets, but utilizing those pieces and making prototypes for board games. This was my real first taste into game design. My academic career was busy to say the least. When I started college, I launched my game company at the same time, I knew I needed a university that was gonna cultivate my interests. After a little bit of research, I found there was no better place than the University of Utah. They’ve over 99 published student games that are on a variety of platforms that you can download and play right now. Games that the students own. We’re not just students in this department, we’re independent developers, all working together to create something amazing. It’s a culture that just hits different, and not only from the incredible faculty and staff, but the vast diverse group of people you get to work with. Every single semester, we have something called the EAE play day. It’s a chance for the public to come onto campus and actually play what you’ve been working on. It’s a chance to not only show off your work, but get real user feedback. It is an essential part of game development and a skill that you’d use at a AAA company or as an independent. Whatever path you choose, know that you have a place here with the EAE family. I’m absolutely proud to be considered part of this amazing group of people. And I look forward to releasing more games in the future. And hey, we’re always looking for more gamers. What do you say, Alex?
– I can’t wait to play Bryan. What you’re doing is such a great example of how University of Utah students combine the technical and the creative. It’s fascinating how you bring real life gamers to actually test out your products and make them even better. Thanks for teaching us about this unique field of study.