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.
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.
Now it’s time to hear from Cierra who’s studying business. With a focus on earning an affordable degree, she knows just how important philanthropy is to the campus culture at UCF. She’ll share how scholarships and financial aid were easy to access and have helped her during her time at UCF. Cierra, please take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, guys. The power of philanthropy can truly be life-changing for a college student. It certainly was for me. 50% of first time and college students at UCF graduate with no educational debt, which is far better than the national average. Access to scholarships and financial aid are a big reason why UCF remains an exceptional and affordable university. In my time at UCF, I’ve been able to join many student organizations, connect with mentors at the College of Business, interact with top Orlando business leaders and gain impactful marketing internship experience. None of this would have been possible if it wasn’t for the financial support I received from UCF and the donors who help ensure our success. One of the tenants of the UCF creed is community. And that is embodied in the backing that our students receive from their own classmates, our 335,000 alumni, and from our biggest supporters from companies like EA who help endowed a scholarship to encourage inclusion in gaming, to a facility funded by Lockheed Martin dedicated to training the next generation of cybersecurity programmers, to record-breaking gifts, resulting in transformational impact. Every year, UCF distributes millions of dollars in scholarships, and on our annual day of giving in the spring, we see the impact that every donor and every dollar can have. By opening doors and removing obstacles through philanthropy, we empower our students to rise to their potential and achieve their dreams. I believe in community and supporting those who support me. One day, I plan to give back to UCF as a tribute to those who helped me achieve my goals. Thanks for listening. Now back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Cierra. You did amazing. It’s great to see how UCF instills the importance of giving back and paying it forward in its Knights and how the emphasis provides students with the support to succeed. Thanks again, Cierra.
. 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. Now, let’s head over to meet up with Garrett. Garrett is a junior from Columbus, Ohio, double majoring in computer science and mathematics with a minor in environmental science. Garrett can’t wait to tell you about campus life and all the opportunities for getting involved at Tulane. Garrett, we have questions and you have answers. Please, take it away.
– Thank you, Alex. And hello, everyone. Like many Tulaneans, I entered my college search looking for a stunning campus in an exciting city that was new to me. I also wanted a friendly, driven, and passionate student body in a collaborative learning environment, inclusive to all. Coming into my third year here, I’ve seen time and time again how perfectly Tulane lies at the intersection of each of these qualities to create an engaging and unique student experience. Students come from all 50 states and from over 50 countries to attend Tulane. My freshman year suite mates were from San Francisco, Philadelphia, Chicago, and Memphis. We were assigned randomly, but students can also apply to an RLC, learning communities built around a shared interest. Another way that I connected with other students was through my first year seminar class, “Tides”. I took a 15-person class on the causes and consequences of sea level rise my very first semester. It finished with a kayaking trip through a bayou that inspired me to pursue environmental studies as a minor. At Tulane, you will never be bored. Campus programming plus concerts, speakers, and festivals, like our very own Crawfest, our student-run music festival that features over 20,000 pounds of crawfish. Just across the street is the incredible Audubon Park and beyond that is the Fly, a river view park along the Mississippi where students go to watch the sunset on Fridays. My time at Tulane has given me so much more than just an education. I’ve developed amazing friendships with people from around the world. I’ve grown a valuable network across an inspiring and diverse community. And I’ve learned so much from each student I’ve encountered along the way. All thanks to the unique opportunities that Tulane and New Orleans have provided me. Throwing it back to you, Alex.
– Garrett, that was awesome. It’s so fun to hear about the collaborative environment and eclectic campus programming that truly allows students to create lasting friendships and relationships with one another. Fostering these connections with your peers really allows Tulane students to have an immersive campus experience. Thanks so much, Garrett.
Okay, everyone. Next, we’re gonna meet Patricia who’s gonna tell us how Tulane has worked in recent years to become more diverse and to better support BIPOC, first generation, and other underrepresented students. Patricia, you’re on.
– Hi, y’all. I’m a senior on the pre-law track from Birmingham, Alabama. I’m so grateful that Tulane pointed me in the direction of my true passion. I grew up in the birthplace of the civil rights movement, but my studies here at Tulane made everything come full circle. This past semester, I took “Preventing Discrimination as a Business”. This determined my drive to become a civil rights attorney. From friends to professors, I’ve learned the importance of diversity on campus. Diversity in thought, in experience, and in culture. Tulane understands in order to make our campus more inclusive for all, we must first create a more equitable experience for our BIPOC, first generation, and other underrepresented students. On the student life side, Tulane supports offices such as Caroline Barber Pierre Center for Intercultural Life, which houses the Office of Gender and Sexual Diversity, the Office of Multicultural Affairs, and the Office of Religious Life. Academically, Tulane has a Center for Academic Equity, supporting students through enrichment opportunities and need-based support. Some CAE programs include the resource lending library, first gen mentorship, and grant funding. Another support system is the Goldman Center for Student Accessibility, which provides testing, housing, and other accommodations. Students always have a place on campus to claim as their own. With our intercultural center stores open at all times, we want our student and to feel comfortable as soon as they step on our campus. From the multicultural leadership retreat at the beginning of the school year, to events throughout the year, we work to create true community on our campus. Being part of a university that is working to become more inclusive and supportive for all, makes me proud to be a Tulanean. And I can’t wait to see what our future holds for us. Back to you, Alex.
– Patricia, it’s incredible hearing the passion you bring to Tulane, and I have no doubt you will make a killer civil rights attorney. And thanks for telling us how Tulane is working to become more inclusive for all students. Cheers, Patricia.
All right, now let’s meet Bethany, a senior majoring in finance and accounting, and minoring in architecture. She’s gonna tell us how easy it is for students to connect with their professors, which isn’t something you’ll find at every school. Bethany, please take it away.
– Hey, y’all, I’m a senior from Dallas, Texas, and I’m studying finance and accounting. When I’m not in class, you can find me working in the admissions office, helping students as a TA, and staying involved in Greek life. I also raised a black lab named Forrest to become a service dog through a Tulane program called TUSTEP. At Tulane, we have an eight to one student to faculty ratio. I saw what that actually meant when it came to figuring out what I want to do with my life. I started school determined to become an architect, but I quickly realized it wasn’t for me. Before my sophomore year started, I began looking into other majors, and I was stressed about how I would get into my classes and still graduate on time. My worries were quickly resolved upon reaching out to my academic advisor. She helped me get in touch with faculty in the business school, and I had professors calling me over the summer to talk to me about my career goals. When I officially decided I wanted to study finance and accounting, I was put in touch with the registrar, Colette, and she worked tirelessly to get me into every class I wanted. One of those classes happened to be taught by her sister, Christine, the head of the accounting department. Today, I’m lucky enough to work in the same building as Colette, so I see her all the time. We even grab coffee together every once in a while. Christina’s been my professor for two of my accounting courses and I TA for her every semester. These women have been influential to my success at Tulane and they truly embody what the school means when we talk about approachable and helpful faculty and staff. What’s next, Alex?
– Thank you, Bethany. I loved hearing your story about how wanting to switch your major landed you a cool job TA-ing, and as an undergrad. Really impressive stuff. The relationships between students and faculty at Tulane really do go a long way. Thanks again, Bethany.
Next up, we have the one and only Mickey Mickle. How great is that name? Mickey is a sophomore from Birmingham, Alabama, majoring in political science with minors in French and Africana studies. She’s gonna tell us about research, internships, and the resources that go along with supporting students through those opportunities. Mickey, the floor’s all yours.
– Thanks for that introduction, Alex, I applied to Tulane as a pre-med student, but the months leading up to my first semester, my career path took a complete 180 and I switched to pre-law. After years of preparing for a STEM-heavy course load, I had no idea how to navigate the world of social sciences and liberal arts. Despite my worries, I met Dr. Mahoney who taught a course on leadership in New Orleans. We developed a close relationship and at the end of the semester, Dr. Mahoney hired me as a research assistant for a project in conjunction with Christopher Clark and Nadia Brown, researching black women in legislative caucuses. Her research was directly in line with my areas of study in political science and Africa studies. I now help her study voting records to find these women’s influence on their fellow Congress members, and how they will impact future legislators. Next semester, we’ll have the opportunity of a lifetime and we’ll interview congresswomen to get direct insight and knowledge for our research. By spring semester, I gained another position with the Newcomb Institute reproductive rights internship. And I submitted my application to be a digital development intern for the podcast, “Black Feminist Rants”. BFR is a reproductive justice podcast that discusses activism and black feminism while centering the experience of black women and femmes navigating social justice spaces and the world. In just one year, I was able to find internships in research positions that allowed me to explore my fields hands-on. These opportunities are widely available here at Tulane and we make it so easy to balance them with your course load. I’m so honored to be a part of such incredible projects. Thanks so much. And back to you, Alex.
– Wait, Mickey. You’re telling me that research isn’t just someone in a lab coat doing science stuff? It’s that and more? Wow, that’s awesome that Tulane encourages and supports students to do research and internships of all kinds no matter what year in school you are. Thanks, Mickey. That was fantastic.
It’s time to meet a Louisiana native. Lindsey is a senior at Tulane originally from New Iberia, Louisiana, and is a proud Cajun. She’s excited to talk to us about the amazing experience going to college in New Orleans can offer and how Tulane is working to bring more talented students from their home state to campus. Let’s go, Lindsay.
– Thanks Alex. Hey, y’all. I’m from a small Cajun town in southern Louisiana. So if there’s one thing I can confidently say, it’s that I know good food. Since being here, I’ve had the opportunity to explore the cuisine, culture, and community that makes the Big Easy feel like home. New Orleans has more restaurants than one could possibly try in the span of a college career. And I have an ever-evolving list of places to try before I leave. Here, food calls for celebration. Each year, Louisiana hosts over 400 festivals around the state. 130 of which are held in New Orleans. One you might have heard of is Mardi Gras, but there are countless other food festivals like Crawfest and and Mac and Cheese Fest. And Tulane’s location in uptown New Orleans is perfect, ’cause we’re close to the action, but not right by Bourbon Street. Part of what makes Tulane so unique is our location in Louisiana. To further commitment to our home state, Tulane launched a new program to support Louisiana students like me. Thanks to the “Louisiana Promise”, any resident under qualifying circumstances has the opportunity to graduate with no loans. On top of this, Tulane opened the Louisiana Center for College Access to provide free college readiness courses to aspiring first generation college students. As a tour guide, I get asked why I chose Tulane, a lot. What I answer instead is what I’ll miss about being a Tulanean. The random street car rides get beignets at midnight on a Tuesday, wondering if there’ll be a jazz band in our dining hall during football season, and the endless joy of being swept up by the food and music of the city. Alex, tell us more.
– Awesome job, Lindsey. You are a great ambassador for Louisiana. I love that Tula is working to keep more great students, like you, in state. And I can’t wait to come back and visit one of those food festivals sometime soon. That was awesome. Take care.
Next up, we have Lance, a senior from Mobile, Alabama, majoring in communication and anthropology, and minoring in French. He’s gonna tell us about the thriving art scene at Tulane and in new Orleans. Let’s hear it, Lance.
– Hey, y’all. Back in high school, I was a part of my school’s choir and I spent a good bit of my time singing. Coming to college, I knew I wanted to continue my involvement with music, whether it be through academics or extracurriculars. Here at Tulane, the arts are accessible to all students regardless of their major. Although I didn’t end up majoring in music, I still had the opportunity to stay involved. During my first year, I became a member of Green Envy, one of Tulane’s seven acapella groups. Through Green Envy, I’ve had the opportunity to perform at many Tulane events like festivals and commencement. And I’ve also performed at many local New Orleans events like Pelicans NBA games. You can always find live music on Tulane’s campus and across the city of New Orleans. Some of my favorite music festivals include Voodoo Fest and Jazz Fest. We love our music here and we appreciate the rest of the arts just as much. In fact, Tulane offers dance, theater, and studio art majors taught by industry leaders. If you’re interested in the arts, you’ll have the opportunity to take classes ranging from acting to ballet to glassblowing. I’ll have you know, Tulane is home to the largest glassblowing studio on any college campus in the country. When you come to Tulane, you’ll have every opportunity to get involved with the arts in any way you’d like. I may have spent my time singing and jamming out to some great music, but who knows what you’ll accomplish once you’re here. All right, y’all. That’s all from me. Alex, take it away.
– Whoa, Lance. It is amazing learning how you were able to continue pursuing your passion in music, even though you wanted to major in something else. There really are no limits to what you can do right here at Tulane. Thanks again, Lance.