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.
You’ll hear a lot of students say The U feels like a family. For Samantha the overlap between the university and her family is quite literal. Family tradition may have peaked her interest in coming here, but she has forged her own path as a biology major and researcher. What’s your story, Samantha?
– Hey Alex, and welcome to The U. I come from a strong line of University of Utah alumni, starting with my grandpa back in the 1970s and my parents who met here. After my older sister, the torch of Utah’s spirit has been passed to me. Being a top tier one research university, I knew that wherever my education went, it was going to be one of the best in the nation. I’m extremely lucky to say that I have been placed in one of the prestigious research labs here on campus. I am currently working as an undergraduate researcher in the Dr. Michael Warner Lab, where we work in epigenetics, studying the molecular mechanisms behind phenotypic plasticity, which is essentially how genetic material can express itself differently based off of developmental conditions experienced. From the moment I interviewed with Dr. Warner, I knew that this was the place I wanted to work. He’s super engaging as a mentor to me and always make sure I have the support I need to use his research to forward me in my studies. I get the unique opportunity to lead my own project, focusing on the prevalence of diet and metabolism in this phenomena in tiny little microscopic worms called nematodes. As a biology major, I could have just learned the basic science and be sent on my way to a typical college. But the University of Utah focuses on how learning can be deeper than just simple knowledge and open incredible career starting opportunities for all of its students. Even those who are just starting out their journey like myself. I am definitely very lucky to go to such a beautiful school. Don’t you think Alex?
– I’m with you, Samantha. Your research in epigenetics sounds absolutely mind blowing, and I can’t believe you’re already leading your own project as a sophomore. It’s evident that The U not only supports you in gaining knowledge, but in creating and discovering it as well. Thank you very much for your contributions.
We’re gonna check in with Miles a sophomore from Roy, Utah. Even though he’s been at the University of Utah for a brief period of time, he’s already making the most of it. Not only for himself, but for incoming students as well. Tell us what you’ve been up to Miles.
– Thanks Alex. Hi everyone, after high school, the number one thing I wanted to do was get involved in college. So that way I could get more of that college experience. I’m so glad that I decided to start this next chapter of my life here at the University of Utah. As an orientation leader, the number one piece of advice I give to each new student is to get involved. Whether it be in Greek life, student government, the Union programming council, or intermural sports. There’s so many opportunities to find a sense of belonging, especially for new students. The Freshman Ambassador Board is a great way to get connected campus life. In fact, FAB helped me jumpstart my career in the Union programming council, now as an assistant director on the arts and special events board. I’m also a member of the red army practice squad for the women’s basketball team, where I got to help play and practice against the team to help them prepare for games. No matter what you like, there’s a place here for you at The U. I love being a student at the David Eccles School of Business, especially the business scholars program, where I’ve made so many great connections and mentors. The classes and professors give you a great space to take the knowledge you’ve learned in class and give it a real-world application. I’ve been able to start my own business, Royal Cakes, customizing sneakers. While hundreds of other students were able to start their own businesses here at The U as well. Regardless of your major class or interests, there’s an opportunity to get involved here at the University of Utah. We’re only here for a short time, so we may as well make the most of it, right, Alex?
– I couldn’t agree more Miles. With over 600 student organizations, how can you help but get involved at The U. It’s obvious that this place has a welcoming and engaging student body. We all really appreciate your insight. Take care. Utah is known for its deserts, but the university boasts three swimming pools and a 33 person hot tub on campus.
It’s now my pleasure to introduce you to Jenny. Jenny’s path to The U was pretty unique and she is living proof that it’s never too late to do what you love. Unless of course, you’re one of the dinosaurs she’s studying. Jenny, tell us about where you came from and where you are going.
– Thanks Alex and hello everyone. I knew that when I was ready to take the leap and change my career, I wanted to go to the University of Utah. I went from a background in fashion design, product development and art to geology and research. Growing up as a Utah native, I’ve had the most beautiful geology right here in my backyard. Because the University of Utah is a research facility, I’ve had the opportunity to learn from world-class researchers who are doing groundbreaking research and are extremely active in their field. For example, I’ve worked on a Zeiss microscope to image allosaurus bones and study how they grow for the Natural History Museum, which is right here on campus. I also studied ancient Roman shipwreck cargo to identify the origin of deposits and did top secret work for the Department of Energy. And if I told you, well, you know the drill. At the University of Utah, I’ve had a variety of experiences, from whipping up some blender code at a department, coffee hour, sending it over to the Marriott library, to the 3D printing lab. And the next day I could be out on the great Salt Lake kayaking with my girlfriends. I’ve learned inclusion skills through volunteering in civil rights and social action groups like Urge, unlearning racism in the geo-science to improve accessibility, justice, equality, diversity and inclusion. And I’ve made meaningful career connections to the local chapter of AEG, the Association of Environmental Geologists. Undergraduate research and campus involvement has given back 10 times and has made me competitive in the job market and for grad school. That’s it from me, back to you, Alex.
– Fascinating stuff, Jenny. Your research sounds incredible and I’m blown away by your willingness to find a new passion and go all in. Thanks for teaching us about your experience, studying geology and geographic information science. It is fascinating work. Thanks again.
Let’s talk to Kassie who hails from Chilchinbito, Arizona. A multidisciplinary design major and ethnic studies minor, Kassie is a member of the Dene tribe. She’s gonna share how her community back home has provided focus to her time here at The U. Take it away, Kassie.
Thanks Alex and hello everyone. I am so excited to share my experience as a first-generation Dene student. I grew up alongside my Dene peoples on the Navajo reservation. From my native community, we recognize higher education as a tool of empowerment and resiliency for future generations to come. I chose The U to stay connected to my indigenous community and to fulfill my mission as an indigenous designer to amplify my community’s knowledge and insight. I have found The U to be the best place where I can foster both my design research and community engagement. My job as a student is to listen to everyone’s voices and retell their stories as if they were telling their own. The skills I am learning from the design program, I apply and give back to my indigenous peoples. I have had the opportunity to perform for the United Nations Conference and become a native youth mentor with the Urban Indian Center in Salt Lake City, where I passed out my cultural knowledge to the next generation. I have danced at various events, such as the university’s inter tribal powwow held every spring right here, in the Student Union. The Inter-tribal Student Association, it became my university family, where we support and care for one another. We host many community events, such as the American Indian Woman Scholar pageant and game nights. Both the design program and The U have shown me the skills to be a good designer, but has also challenged me to think critically about ways to strengthen resiliency with my indigenous community, to create lasting impacts for future generations to come. And back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Kassie. We appreciate learning about your heritage and your exemplary leadership as a student and a community member. It’s amazing how you have combined critical thinking, cultural awareness and creativity into your designs. Thank you again for sharing that.