Okay, everyone let’s meet Dr. Addy. She is a planetary scientist who knows firsthand how UCF is making an impact in space. Here she’ll share how UCF was founded as a space university and has grown its ties to major space agencies and companies to help students and alums break into the industry. Addy, over to you.
– Happy to be here, Alex. If you want to conduct research and be at the forefront of humankind’s exploration of space, then UCF is where you want to be. Here at UCF, we ask the big questions and explore our expansive universe. Everything from the possibility of finding and characterizing planets around other stars, building spacecraft instruments to explore space and other planets near and far, finding water and resources on the moon, simulating planetary soils and studying space dust, which is one of my specialties, and it’s a bigger problem than you might think. Our proximity to the Space Coast and NASA’s Kennedy Space Center has allowed us to cultivate and provide talent for Central Florida and the growing US-based program for decades. Nearly 30% of Kennedy Space Center employees graduated from UCF, which has long been the top supplier of aerospace and defense graduates in the nation. UCF’s reputation as SpaceU is one of the reasons I was drawn to work here at UCF. We’re at the forefront of science and technology development. You can see the distant galaxies and the rings of Saturn from right here at Robinson Observatory on campus. Two UCF grads have gone on to become astronauts. The 50 yard line at our football stadium lines up on the same latitude as NASA historical Launch Complex 39A by design. Many of our faculty and researchers are NASA veterans, work on contracts with NASA and have contributed to some of the biggest and most important programs throughout US space history. There are 18 asteroids named after UCF faculty and researchers, including yours truly, and UCF even has an exoplanet named after it. In addition to the faculty and staff in our various departments, the Florida Space Institute based at UCF is made up of researchers and educators and works in partnership with other Florida universities. Our faculty and researchers are involved number of NASA missions, including future lunar missions, the ongoing OSIRIS-Rex and New Horizons missions, and our alumni have gone on to take giant leaps in the space industry with companies such as NASA, Boeing, Lockheed, ULA, SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic. In addition, it’s not just our faculty and researchers who get this hands-on experience. Students are involved in many of these projects throughout their time here at UCF. As we look to further explore the moon, pioneer onto Mars and expand our place in the galaxy, one thing is for certain, UCF students, faculty and alumni will be a part of turning possibilities into realities. The gateway to the moon and stars starts here at UCF. This is Addy Dove, signing off.
– Addy, that was awesome. Thank you. Wow. It’s incredible to see just how invested UCF is in developing research and a talent pipeline for the space industry and advancing out of this world scientific discoveries. It’s easy to see how the campus connections benefit former and current students. That was awesome. Cheers, Addy.
Next, we’ll meet Kiera. She’s a student athlete majoring in psychology and plays for UCF women’s basketball team. She’ll be sharing what it’s like to represent Knight Nation on the court while also having a chance to excel in the classroom so she can find success after graduation. Kiera, you are up.
– Thank you, Alex. Whether you’re cheering in the stands, playing on the fields or behind the scenes at stadium, there’s nothing like game day UCF. The Knights have skyrocketed into a powerhouse program known for winning championships, our undeniable style, loyal fan base, and a commitment to excellence in all aspects of the student athlete experience. We are the future of college athletics. Athletics at UCF expands beyond our dynamic football team, four time national champion cheerleading squad, Olympic gold medalist, FIFA World Cup champions, our alumni have gone on to succeed in the NBA, NFL, MLB, MLS and NWSL. As a student athlete, I’m so proud to put on the black and gold uniform everyday to represent Knight Nation because I know UCF has my back. I’m a prime example. I’ve torn both my meniscus and ACL all in the same knee and Knight Nation has never left my side. But it’s not just the fans in the stands, support services off the court help us excel in the classroom, and ensure that UCF lives up to a promise of guaranteeing jobs or graduate school admission for every student athlete who earns their diploma. If you dream about pursuing a career in the sports industry, UCF students have the opportunity to intern with some of the biggest names in the business, including the Orlando Magic, Orlando City Soccer, United States Tennis Association, and ESPN Wide World of Sports. You can also learn from the best in the UCF DeVos Sports Business Management graduate program, which is ranked as one of the top five programs in America. There’s really something special about this place and the bonds formed alongside the black and gold faithful. I can’t wait to see you guys on game day. Let’s go, Knights. Charge on. Thanks, Alex.
– Kiera, that was awesome. Thanks for giving us a sneak peek of what it’s like to be a student athlete at UCF. While it’s a big responsibility, it sounds like a fun and unique experience as a Knight that truly allows you to shine in the arena and in your studies. Cheers, Kiera.
Let’s head over and talk with Jillian. She’s a senior who’s working towards completing an Aerospace Engineering degree. You’ve already heard about UCF’s history in helping launch a booming space industry. And now Jillian will share all of the opportunities she’s had that are truly out of this world. Jillian, please tell us about it.
– Thanks, Alex. And hey, everyone. Growing up right here in Orlando provided me a unique vantage point of being able to watch the space shuttle skyrocket into orbit from my own backyard. It was this early exposure to engineering brilliancy, which fueled my passion for space exploration to this day. And it’s something very few get to experience in their lifetime. UCF has not only propelled my opportunities to participate in space-related research and internships, but they’ve supported me in my astronomical pursuits along the way. My experience at UCF has provided me with both the direction and skills necessary to pursue the career I’ve always dreamed of, becoming an astronaut. During my time here, I’ve also co-authored a paper that proves how water evolves on the surface of the moon due to solar radiation. And my most recent project was interning at the Florida Space Institute where I provided engineering support on spacecraft hardware for a sensor that launched on a real rocket. Through every part of my journey, UCF has helped me find the specific niche of space exploration that fits with my unique skillset. As an engineering student, you’ll develop industry sought out skills. This involves participating in projects like building and launching cube sets into space or even conducting research on a zero gravity flight. The Senior Design Capstone Project is also a great way to take what you learned in the classroom and apply it to real-world problems for entities, such as Boston Whaler, Coca-Cola, Mitsubishi, the Orlando Utilities Commission and Steelcase. There are even opportunities to participate in global programs like working with the German Aerospace Center to conduct advanced research on the next generation propulsion capabilities or hypersonic suborbital vehicles and reusable space vehicles, which I’m currently participating in. Right now, I’m tailoring my resume to fit the needs of a NASA astronaut program. Understanding how I can contribute to the mission is the first step in becoming an expert on it. Here at UCF, the opportunities are boundless and some might even say out of this world. That’s all for me, Alex, over and out.
– Copy that, Jillian. From your hands-on opportunities with local industry leaders, to taking part in innovative research projects, your story shows firsthand how UCF programs go above and beyond for its students. You are well on your way to achieving your dream of becoming an astronaut. That is so impressive. Cheers, Jillian.
. Last, but certainly not least, we’re going to hear from UFC’s President Alexander Cartwright. As a leader of a leading public metropolitan research university, he knows all that UCF has to offer. And someone who is a first-generation college student from The Bahamas, he knows the difference that an amazing university like UCF can make in its students’ lives. President Cartwright, please take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. As you can see, UCF is redefining what is possible in America’s public universities. At UCF, we get things done. It’s where students like you can excel. Faculty are renowned innovators and staff are committed to your success. And the resulting collective work improves our community, country and world. Higher education changes lives. I came to the US at 17 from The Bahamas, got my GED, and became the first in my family to attend college. The access to excellence that I had throughout my college enabled my success throughout my career. UCF is uniquely positioned to provide the same for you. Our world-class faculty shaped the future in our classrooms and laboratories and drive innovations in their disciplines to positively impact society. Technologies we couldn’t imagine a decade ago will soon become essential in our daily lives. And they’re being developed right here at UCF right now. Advances in healthcare, engineering, space exploration, photonics, theme park design, and performing arts are ongoing. And our students have a front row seat to it all. UCF students get the opportunities they need to earn success. We strive for excellence, both for and from our students, with our faculty and staff providing support to encourage every student to reach their full potential. Known for our partnerships with industry, UCF prepares students for their careers and for leadership. Our graduates provide the crucial talent for employers regionally and nationally. And many of our students start their careers as interns and then are hired by our industry partners when they graduate. Today, walking around UCF, you see the future of America. UCF celebrates our inclusive climate and diversity as the fuel for innovation, strength and resilience. We are a university for the future. The range of backgrounds, cultures, identities, and thought represented by our students, faculty and staff is incredible. Our diversity broadens our thinking and expands our horizons. And if that isn’t enough, UCF also has some of the best student life and traditions with over 650 student clubs and organizations and nationally recognized athletics. You will be able to pursue your passions here. There’s an African proverb that says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. “If you want to go far, go together.” I invite you to go far with us. UCF changes lives for the better. Join us on your college journey as we all reach for the stars together. Back to you, Alex.
– Dr. Cartwright, that was incredible. Thank you for being here with us, from opportunities to be immersed in a diverse community and engaged with cutting edge research to the chance to develop skills that can make you a leader in your chosen industry. UCF clearly offers the best for its students. Thanks again, Alex. Wow, I hope you had a great time like I did exploring the UCF campuses. As a top public metropolitan research university, UCF’s commitment to ensuring the success of students from all backgrounds and focusing on social impact truly shows in the work they do. UCF is a university for the future, an incredible place where you can live, learn, and achieve anything you set out to do. And the passionate faculty and staff are here to support your success. Thank you to the students, faculty, and alumni who shared their stories and gave us a glimpse of what life is like as a Knight. UCF is definitely a place where your college experience will be one to remember. Let me tell you, I’ve had a great time here in Orlando, Florida, checking out all the sites and things to do around UCF. And the best way to learn about campus is to visit. So come check it out for yourself. So as the Knights say here at UCF, “Go Knights and charge on!” Cheers, everybody.
Okay, everyone. We’re now heading over to UCF’s Rosen campus to meet Kathy Li. She’s in junior majoring in hospitality management. You are on, I’m excited about this one. Please take it away.
– Thanks for that, Alex. What’s up, everybody. When deciding on which colleges to apply to, I wanted to ensure that wherever I ended up would best prepare me for the industry that I’m so passionate about, while also including an inclusive and diverse community within the student body. In my search, I found the Rosen College of Hospitality Management at UCF, and I instantly fell in love with it. When my mom and I were participating in the college search process, she was actually the one who suggested we take a tour of UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management. All I said afterwards was, “As long as we get to go to Disney.” UFC’s hospitality students can easily access different internships, professional opportunities and networking experiences in one of the most popular tourism destinations in the world. As a hospitality student, I know that I’m getting the highest quality education I can at Rosen because the college has been consistently ranked among the best top five in fact, for years. We’re currently number one in the US and second in the world for hospitality and tourism studies. And with the colleges, 97% job placement rate after graduation, I will be able to immediately start my career with the confidence and skills I obtained from the incredible faculty with real world industry experience. Beyond Rosen, strong academics led by amazing faculty, unbeatable location and our community partnerships, I found that the people here have a strong commitment to celebrating culture of diversity, equity and inclusive excellence. What makes Rosen stand apart is its ability to deliver an education with a global perspective on every aspect of the hospitality industry. From event and entertainment management, to restaurant, food service and lodging. I can’t wait for the opportunity to apply everything that I’ve learned here in my experiences at the Rosen College and apply it to my professional career that I know I’ll be successful in. That’s all for me today. Back to you, Alex.
– What a story. So impressive. Great job. And thank you for taking part of the college tour. Take care.
Have you ever been to a student farm before? Well, get ready because that is where we’re gonna meet Karyn. She’s a senior majoring in environmental science and management with a minor in education. She’s gonna talk to us about something that makes UC Davis truly extraordinary. It’s unsurpassed efforts in sustainability, not just on campus but everywhere. Okay Karyn, tell us all about it.
– Thank you, Alex. During my college search in high school, one of the things that drew me into UC Davis was the university’s commitment to sustainability. I knew I wanted to go into the environmental sciences and I ultimately decided to attend UC Davis because they walk the talk. Pretty much anything you can win an award for in sustainability, UC Davis has got it. Award for academic programs, for green buildings and for public transportation. In fact, UC Davis has even won an award for multiple years in a row now for being the nation’s greenest university, we take a tremendous amount of pride in prioritizing natural resource and energy conservation, reducing our use of fossil fuels, shifting towards renewable energy sources and our ambitious zero waste goals. I feel at home at UC Davis because I’m surrounded by people who care deeply about the environment and enacting real world change. Our 23 acre student farm is a community where students can create, maintain and explore sustainable food systems. At the farm, students grow in many ways, learning from seasoned educators, from their peers and from themselves, they learn about sustainability through soils, crops, climate, and community. In the process, they gained systems-based thinking and doing skills needed to make a positive difference in today’s world. This program also addresses student food insecurity by connecting produce from the student farm to food access programs on campus. Through our campuses 5,000 plus acres, there are opportunities for students to gain real-world experience addressing the world’s most important environmental issues through an innovative program that’s near and dear to my heart called Learning by Leading, this internship program is run by the department that operates most of our outdoor spaces, the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden. It’s through this program that students across 12 different environmental restoration and education internships can engage with the community and transformer campuses landscapes into more beautiful and climate appropriate outdoor spaces. When I first joined Learning by Leading’s Waterway Stewardship internship as an intern, during my first year at UC Davis, I became familiar with land and water management concepts of sustainable environmental design, stormwater management, and native habitat restoration in an urban setting. Now as the coordinator for the Waterway Stewardship Internship, I have the opportunity to mentor budding environmental stewards and lead projects that promote sustainability on campus. Through the Green Initiative Fund, a campus program sponsored by UC Davis Sustainability, my staff mentor fellow coordinator and I were awarded a grant to purchase an electric gator. Our e-gator represents the initial transition to utility vehicle fleet that is not powered by fossil fuels. I’m proud to be a sustainable Aggie. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, thank you, Karyn. You’ve definitely made the case for why UC Davis owns the title, greenest university in the country. Just incredible to see all the ways they’re changing the way we think about the world around us. Thanks again, Karyn, great job.
Okay, now it’s time to meet Carlo. A double major in economics and finance. Carlo is going to dig a little deeper into all those extras that together, make up the Cincinnati experience. Things like this amazing view from Morgens Hall. Carlo, you are on.
– Hey everybody, I just finished up my first year at UC as an economics and finance double major. I was at first hesitant to go to a school in my hometown because I always wanted to experience places across the country. With UC being in my own backyard, it didn’t seem like this was the place for me to do that. But then I started learning more about UC’s incredible co-op program. I realized that I could have a number of co-op opportunities out of state because UC is so focused on experience-based learning. After learning about UC’s focus on co-op and real-world learning. I realized that this was the right place for me. UC has so many people friendly places to gather and study. In addition to the Lindner College of Business, which was my go-to grind spot because of the sick couch desk that they have. There’s Langsam Library, Tangeman University Center, several coffee shops right on campus, and so many other great places to hang out with friends. Last year, I lived in Morgens Hall, in a learning community on the fourth floor. This was perfect because everybody else on my floor was in the honors program with me. So we could easily gather to study and work on projects. I also lucked out because my roommates were some of the coolest guys that I’ve met in my entire life. So if you don’t even have a roommate lined up for this school year, I would say, don’t worry about it. Because sometimes being assigned a roommate, can lead to the best friendships of your life. If you’re looking for a late night burger or Mac and Cheese, Center Court is the place to go. Or if you just got out of a tough workout at the campus rec center, you’re going to want to head over to On the Green, because they will hook you up with some of the healthiest foods. Speaking of the rec center, did I mention that ours has been ranked number one in the nation? 212,000 square feet. That includes fitness equipment, a suspended running track, swimming pools, courts, workout classrooms, and a climbing wall. In high school, everybody is always looking forward to the summer. I know that UC is right for me because it’s summer right now, and I already can’t wait to get back on campus. Overall, I’ve had an amazing time at UC and I’ve been able to learn so much. I even landed a full-time internship with the help of the honors program. Now, I’m looking forward to finishing up my summer internship, and getting right back here on campus. What’s next Alex.
– Best of luck with your internship Carlo. You’ll be back on campus before you know it, and with so many great places to study, eat and hang out, it’s no wonder you can’t wait. As they say, we’ll see you around the quad. Cheers Carlo.
Next, we’re going to chat with Sergie. He’s an alum who will share his story on how UCF prepared him for success outside of the classroom and in the real world. He’ll provide insight on how UCF faculty and staff and even other classmates help ignite his passion for innovative ways to clean waterways. Take it away, Sergie.
– Thanks, Alex. I’m an aerospace engineer by trade and have now put those skills to use in my role as an entrepreneur. The roadmap to success is oftentimes not easy. However, with passion, persistence and ingenuity, anything is possible. Our company ecoSPEARS is committed to solving challenging needs in public, private and government markets. Early in my career, while working at NASA Kennedy Space Center, I was fortunate enough to work alongside the inventors of the SPEARS technology. Recognizing the global impact of this technology in the environmental sector, I partnered with a NASA Technology Transfer program and founded ecoSPEARS, a company dedicated to cleaning up contamination in our waters. During my studies at UCF, I was immersed in a dynamic community where everyone aimed to find the next breakthrough that would change our world. I was challenged to think creatively and stretch my skills while having the chance to be mentored by faculty who are still active in the industry, which allowed me to learn the different aspects of entrepreneurship that has brought me to where I am today. The support I received from UCF faculty taught me how to be a good mentor to others. UCF doesn’t just prepare students to succeed in the classroom, it sets them up to be high achievers in the workplace and have their own companies. The more students take advantage of all UCF has to offer, the better their odds of being a force of influence in their field. From partnership programs with local companies, such as the Lockheed Martin Work Experience program to resources the university provides, like the Business Incubator program, which has helped more than 350 local startups over the past 20 years. UCF can help you take charge of your career before you even graduate. While entrepreneurs constantly adapt to industry changes and challenges, I know the foundation that UCF has given me will allow me to overcome anything that comes my way. Back to you, Alex.
– Great story, Sergie. I love how UCF helped students take charge of their future no matter what industry they choose to go into. And the innovative ways Knights are impacting the globe, that’s amazing. That’s what really matters. Thanks again, Sergie.
All right, let’s head over to Alex, a senior who’s majoring in acting. He’s going to share about the vibrant arts community at UCF, from the various programs that are offered here, to the year round festivals and concerts that are sure to strike a chord. The stage is all yours, Alex.
– Thanks, Alex. I’ve been passionate about theater since high school and for the last decade, I’ve had the opportunity to work with so many amazing people across so many amazing stages, including a brief time that I took time off of college to be a full-time working actor in Chicago. And I knew that when I went back to college, I wanted to be somewhere that would enhance my acting abilities and also have a vibrant art scene. And I knew that UCF was that place for me. Getting involved at UCF is one of the easiest things that you can do, considering that there are so many ways to be involved with the arts, from painting, drawing, and pottery, to music education conducting in jazz studies. UCF is also an innovative leader in the industry with graduate programs and the themed experience. I’ve also loved to try new things to stretch my performance abilities, including hosting UCF’s official podcast called “Knights Do That” where I get to speak with Knights about what they’re doing locally and around the world to share their stories. It’s really the people that have made my time at UCF so special. And a lot of that can be contributed to the arts professors. They genuinely care about your success and your growth, and have so many real world connections that can help guide you into a successful career. One of the biggest ways that UCF prepares their art students to work in the industry is through the annual UCF Celebrates the Arts, a week long event where we take over downtown Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, where I’m standing right now. And the festival allows talented students and faculty to showcase creativity, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaborations through dozens of performances for the Orlando community. With opportunities like this, it’s no wonder UCF’s animation and video game design programs are ranked among the in the nation and that our alumni can be find on Broadway, behind-the-scenes at Pixar films and changing the game at EA Sports. UCF is nothing short of an amazing place with the most outstanding and creative people. Our passion drives everything that we do, and it has been an honor to be a part of this inspiring community as a student and future alumni. And that’s all for me. Back to you, Alex.
– You’re a rockstar, Alex, the arts program here sounds amazing and provide awesome opportunities for students to express their creativity. I can’t wait to see where your acting career takes you. It was great meeting you. Thanks again, Alex.
Next, we’re going to hear from Cassandra. She’s a master’s student studying interactive entertainment who’s going to tell us about UCFs hub for entertainment and digital arts at it’s downtown campus, which is close to some major gaming and tech companies. Cassandra, please take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. When I was searching for a university where I could continue my education, I wanted to choose a place that was well-rounded and had great opportunities both inside and outside of the classroom. I found exactly what I was looking for at UCF. I scoured the internet for the best graduate game design programs in the nation. And I found one right here in my own backyard. Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy, otherwise known as FIEA is located in the heart of downtown Orlando with easy access to great food, exciting events and entertainment, and some of Florida’s best theme parks. Here at FIEA, I’ve had the opportunity to learn new skills through hands-on experiences. From working on a professional motion capture shoot to serving as my capstone team’s project lead. With three tracks and seven different specializations, FIEA offers a tailored educational experience that places an emphasis on learning by doing, whether that’s in animation, 3D modeling, game design or programming. Small class sizes give students the one-on-one time with professors they need to build relationships and get quality guidance in pursuing their professional goals. FIEA was founded in 2005 with a mission to create high wage talent for the video game development industry. Fast forward to today, and Orlando is one of the fastest growing video game and simulation development hubs in the world. And in the very near future, gaming giant Electronic Arts will move all of its Florida operations and open up a brand new studio in Orlando’s Creative Village, right where UCF downtown and FIEA are located. Thanks to major partners like EA and dedicated faculty with impressive industry experience, FIEA graduates are prepared for life at the biggest AAA studios and the newest indie startups. Attending a graduate game design program that consistently ranks as top in the nation has helped to make me a better student, a better leader, and a better game developer. With the skills I’ve gained and the connections I’ve made, I’m excited to see what the future holds for me out in industry. Go Knights and charge on. Back to you, Alex.
– Cassandra, that was awesome. Thank you. Looks like you get to do some incredible stuff for FIEA and the location in Orlando’s Creative Village seems ideal for connecting to big companies like EA. Cheers, Cassandra.