Our next student, Natalie spends a lot of time in the pool, but you can also find her in the lab as she completes her degree in biology and minors in chem and biomedical engineering. Tell us about your experiences, Natalie.
– Thanks, Alex. I’ve always loved medicine and science. So coming to The U was an easy decision because there are great programs in both areas here at the university. A big part of my life has always been competing in sports. I’ve been swimming for basically my entire life and competing since the age of seven. In high school, I also found the amazing sport of water polo. This means that when I started college, I immediately went looking for a women’s water polo team. I love that I’ve been able to continue my busy academic life while also competing in the sport that I adore. Finding the balance between classes, volunteering, clubs, and other extracurriculars also means that I’ve been able to forge great relationships with my professors along the way. Even during a big health issue where I needed surgery, I didn’t miss a single assignment. The professors here truly are committed to their students and they’re dedicated to their learning experiences. When you come to the University of Utah, prepare yourself to walk down a beautiful campus, meet lots of amazing people and be able to compete in sports at every level. From intramural to club to D one, we really do have it all and definitely try out for water polo. When I apply to medical school in the spring, I can do so confidently knowing that I’ve had a great undergraduate experience to back me up. I have faculty that support me and friends to last a lifetime. My journey as a student and as a water polo player, aren’t over yet. And we’re excited for what’s next, right Alex?
– Absolutely, Natalie. The professors who guide and support you are so crucial to the college experience. And The U’s faculty is top-notch. Thank you for sharing how they impacted your life beyond the lectures and the labs, and best of luck for the upcoming water polo season. We all will be watching and cheering you on.
College students, no matter where they’ve come from or where they’re attending often share a major concern. How do I find my place and people? Sally is a sophomore business major and she’s got great perspective from her first year at The U. Talk to us Sally.
– Thanks so much, Alex. Hi, everyone. Growing up and living in a less diverse hometown, I knew I wanted to be somewhere where I felt I belonged. The first thing I love about The U was it’s many resources for minorities, as well as middle income students. I ultimately chose The U because I got offered a full ride scholarship. This was not only a big win for me, but for my parents as well. Getting a full ride scholarship, not only allows me to truly explore the options within my major, but also guarantees that I have the money to complete whichever degree I choose. I applied for the Freshman Ambassador Board, a program for freshmen to get involved with student leadership and campus life. The best decision that I’ve ever made. I’ve met so many diverse and amazing peers that have not only helped me feel at home, but have become my closest friends. They also encouraged me to go after any opportunity that I desire. I gained the courage to apply, to be an associate director of the Crimson Nights board who plans the largest late night on-campus party. There’s free food and activities. And it’s really just a great way for students to meet others and feel welcome here at The U. I was also an orientation leader and I’m currently a campus life mentor as well as a university ambassador. All of these are only a small portion of the many other involvement opportunities here for students. If you have the chance to go after an opportunity that you’re interested in, take it. College is more than just a degree. It’s also about the relationships and experiences you create. But that’s all for me. I’ll hand it back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Sally. It’s so important to remember that college isn’t just about what you study, but who you’re studying with. Thank you for that reminder. And congratulations on all you’ve accomplished as a student leader, take care.
From the learning abroad opportunities available on seven continents to the varied cuisine served up by food trucks on campus, this is truly a global place. And no one makes a stronger contribution to that feeling than the international students in the school community. Here’s a Minahil from Pakistan talking about why she chose The U.
– Hello. I am an international student from Pakistan. Since I come from a country with very low literacy rates, I’ve always been very passionate about my education. I chose The U because of its peaceful environment, distinctive beauty and amazing academic program. I’ve especially loved being an active member of the Bennion Center, a community engagement hub on campus. Not only has it allowed me to make lifelong friendships with diverse people, but has also offered me unique opportunities and life changing experiences. From doing Saturday service projects, like building cat shelters and making breakfast for the homeless to leading justice programs like alternative breaks and hosting student led awareness dialogues. There’s not much the Bennion community doesn’t do. With The U’s many partnerships and access to organizations, I’ve also been able to gain experience working as a volunteer with homeless patients at 43 clinic and as a counselor with cancer patients at Camp Hoby. Fun events hosted by the Residential Hall Association, like the Dreamscapes/Escape room event and the Neighborhood Night also enables students of differing majors and class standings to mingle with each other. I’ve learned so much in the two years I’ve been here and I can’t wait to see what this year has in store for me. I’m hoping to work with like-minded people wanting to make a long lasting change in this world, as well as getting to med school. Thanks for listening to my story, back to you, Alex.
– Amazing Minahil. I’m impressed that even as a busy pre-med student, you’ll put so much time and care into your work with the Bennion Center. Keep up that great work and thanks again for sharing that.
Okay, it’s time to fly over to SUU Aviation, where we will meet Preston. Preston is a junior from Texas who moved to Cedar City for SUU’s High Elevation Aviation program. If you wanna fly planes or helicopters, you really can’t find a better place than Cedar City to learn. Let’s hear what Preston has to say about learning to fly and SUU. Over to you Preston.
– Thank you Alex. Hey everybody, I’m one of the many veterans students here at SUU. I’ve previously served in the United States Army as an explosive ordnance disposal technician before I moved back home to Texas to begin my flying journey at Epic Helicopters. After attaining my private pilot certificate, I transferred here to SUU’s aviation program. Now, originally I had some reservations about attending a university. I’d been out of an academic setting for several years and sitting in an auditorium full of 200 students wasn’t something I was excited about. One tour of SUU’s campus quickly put my mind at ease. I discovered SUU was able to offer all the resources of a major university while keeping class sizes small and maintaining that small town feel. One of the truly unique things you’ll notice about SUU’s aviation program is the elevation. Here at Cedar City, our airport elevation is 5,622 feet. Meaning the highest of any collegiate flight school in the country. The additional challenges you’ll face while flying it higher altitudes will certainly enhance your skills as a pilot. Throughout your training at SUU, you’ll get exposure to various flying operations like mountain operations, sling load operations, and even flying with night vision goggles. SUU is the proud home of the Chuck Aaron Academy, a program designed to train seasoned pilots on advanced recovery techniques to keep them safe in the real world. This training’s provided through a specialized helicopter. We call The Animal. One of the few helicopters actually certified by the FAA for aerobatic flight. Whether you wanna fly airplanes, helicopters, become an aircraft maintenance technician, or even take advantage of the specialized training offered here at SUU, the hands-on learning you’ll get through any of our aviation programs will set you on the right path for future success. Being enrolled in the aviation program ourselves, we have a clear understanding of the unique challenges that await our aviation students, and we’re here to help you overcome them. If you’re curious about a career in aviation, feel free to stop by SUU for a tour. You can even schedule an introductory flight and get firsthand experience behind the controls of an aircraft. After securing your flight spot with our admissions department, you can even begin flying your very first semester. The high altitude training and unique flying opportunities SUU has provided has definitely set me up for my future career in aviation. Back to you Alex.
– So incredible Preston. Thank you. I think I need to learn how to be a pilot now. That was absolutely incredible. What a program, thank you for walking us through that. Cheers Preston.
Now it’s time to head over to the Kat Klub. This student hangout has a game room with pool tables, arcade games and a full eight lane bowling alley. Here, we’ll meet Jordan Johnson, a mass communication major with big dreams. She’s been involved all over campus, making an impact by serving as the president of the Student Government Association and holding the title of Miss Piney Woods. We can’t wait to hear all about how you’ve been serving your fellow students. Take it away, Jordan.
– Thanks Alex. Here at Sam Houston State University, being a Bearkat means being involved. Which started for me when I arrived on campus. I joined the award-winning Orange Pride Dance Team, and was lucky to cheer on our Bearkats in sports like basketball, volleyball and football. In my time with Orange Pride, we won two national championship titles. And don’t worry if dancing isn’t for you, we have organizations of all kinds. We encourage all of our students to get out and get involved. Something that really stood out for me in my time here, is the value that SHSU places on diversity. Our culture is inclusive, and focused on ensuring equity for all of our students. I got the opportunity to serve on Diversity Council, a student board that organizes and facilitates diversity related events for students here on campus. We host luncheons, heritage month celebrations and the annual diversity leadership conference that brings out speakers from all across the nation. This is something I’ve been fortunate to be a part of at my time here at Sam. Civic and community engagement are a huge part of our campus culture as well. It’s something I’m very passionate about and it became my platform when I competed for the Miss Sam Houston Pageant and won the title of Miss Piney Woods. Despite all these accomplishments, what I’m most proud of, is being elected student body president. In this role, I focus on educating students on how powerful their voices are, on an off of campus. We hosted several voter registration drives and shuttled students back and forth to the polls during the US presidential election. We also held events that taught students about the importance of their right to free speech and how to use their voice to positively impact our community. Service is also a huge part of everything we do here at Sam Houston State. During my last semester, I joined the exquisite Theta Epsilon chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. The sorority’s mission is to be of service to all mankind, which beautifully aligns with the university’s motto, the measure of life is its service. At Sam Houston State University, students are encouraged to serve and do their part to make our community better. I’m so proud of the mark that I’ve made here at Sam. And I know that my experiences will go on to help me as a graduate and serve me in my career field. Thank you so much for allowing me to share my story. Now back to you, Alex.
– Jordan, thanks for sharing all about your time here at Sam Houston State University. You’ve certainly been busy and have worked hard to leave your mark on the Bearkat community. With all of your experience and leadership here, you’ve definitely prepared to go out into the world and make a big impact. Good luck in your career. Thanks to that, Jordan.
At Sacred Heart, students leave feeling ready to tackle their career and a big part of that is due to the hands-on style of teaching. Let’s head over to the Center for Healthcare Education, a state of the art facility and home to SHU’s College of Nursing and College of Health Profession to talk with Winnie, who earned her undergraduate and graduate degrees here at SHU. Winnie, please take it away.
– Thanks Alex. I came to Sacred Heart for the small close-knit environment. I went to a small high school, where I was not only given the individual attention from my teachers, but the opportunity to build strong, intimate relationships with them as well and at SHU, I got exactly that and much, much more. I knew Sacred Heart was a place where I could learn, grow and cultivate the life skills that I would need in any professional setting. During my time here at Sacred Heart, I was able to express myself through a variety of activities like playing the snare drum in the SHU marching band, dancing in the ensemble, being an orientation leader and so much more. The Center of Healthcare Education was my home during my undergraduate and graduate studies. Our professors aren’t just in the classroom, they’re diligently conducting research to ensure that the education that they’re providing to their students is ahead of the curve and a constantly progressing field. Throughout my studies, we had a medical mannequin that could mimic human emotion and any physical ailments, such as coughing, wheezing, vomiting. You could take its vitals, you could provide oxygen and in the case of performing CPR, there’s a computer attached to the mannequin that actually shows you the depth and timing of each chest compression. In any health science or healthcare curriculum, a hands-on portion is absolutely crucial. Imagine learning how to tape an ankle and not applying that knowledge until after you’ve graduated. Now you’re in the workforce and you’re unable to do your job. It is so, so important to provide a practical application outside of the classroom, in order to put to practice what we’ve learned inside the classroom. SHU gives students the opportunity to work within their field on campus as well. I had the privilege of being an intern, then graduate assistant at the SHU Fit Health and Wellness center. The athletic training lab here has everything that an athletic training student would need. My clinical rotations were diverse and I was put in a variety of settings, such as public and private high schools, D-1 and D-2 collegiate settings and even a concussion research center where I continued to work with all kinds of individuals and athletes. Being challenged in the classroom, applying that classroom learning to a clinical setting and being supported by the professors every step of the way is why I’ll forever be grateful for completing both my bachelor’s and master’s here at Sacred Heart University. Thanks for letting me share my story, back to you, Alex.
– What awesome facilities and experiences. Winnie you are destined to do great things and the best part is you don’t have to be a student in the health professions to experience this type of hands-on learning. It’s incredible to see SHU strive to engage every one of their students this way no matter the major. Really great, thanks again for that Winnie.
All right, everyone, let’s head over and meet Ryan, a doctoral student in the forensic science program. Sam Houston State’s forensic science program, is ranked as one of the best in the nation. And Ryan will talk about the incredible opportunities he has had at Sam, including some research that’s getting some national attention. Hey Ryan, we’re excited to hear more.
– Thanks Alex. My first time visiting Sam Houston State University was a little bit me being in the right place at the right time. I had a friend in undergrad coming by for an open house. And he invited me to tag along because he knew I was interested in graduate programs and we were both getting science degrees. While I was here, I got to meet our professors and see all the resources that are available for students. The professors were welcoming, and they had plenty to say about the research they had planned. Before long, I found myself applying for the master’s program in forensic science. I liked it so much, that after two years, I applied to stay as a PhD student. My time with the forensic science department has been much more than just your traditional classroom education. The faculty and staff really push students to step outside of their comfort zone and do more than just attend class. They find ways to incorporate what we’re researching, back into our coursework and make it applicable to everyday life. At times, I find myself working with our younger students on techniques that I can then take back and discuss in my own seminars with my cohort. And due to a little bit of prodding from some professors, I was able to get a number of scholarships and awards, including a small research grant. Later on, I became a smart scholar with the Department of Defense. And through that, the rest of my education was paid for, and I knew I’d have a position after I graduated. My research focuses on improving DNA recovery from challenging samples. Particularly those that crime labs have trouble with. This can include hair shafts, decomposing human remains and skeletons, like those found in missing persons, cold cases and mass disasters. From being able to access unique assets like staffs, our human decomposition facility to completing my research in state of the art forensic labs, this university has so much to offer. Beyond that, I have access to all sorts of newly developed technologies from collaborations between my department and private industry leaders. What I’m researching is cutting edge. And although I consider myself just a student, what the support I’m getting from my faculty, I’m able to make an impact on a field that I’m passionate about. That’s all for me. Back to you, Alex.
– Thanks Ryan. And congratulations on your success and your upcoming graduation. Hearing more about your research and the opportunities you’ve had in the Sam Houston State University’s forensic science program is simply remarkable. Thanks again for sharing your experience, take care, Ryan.
Next we’re meeting Ashley, an alumni who earned both her undergraduate and graduate degrees here at Sam Houston State University. Service to self and others is paramount at Sam Houston State, and is reflected in everything Bearkats do. A proud member of the Bearkat family, Ashley continues to follow the university’s motto of, a measure of a life is its service. And has devoted her career as a school counselor to helping others. Take it away, Ashley.
– Thanks for the warm welcome Alex. Hi everyone, my name is Ashley. I’m from Houston, Texas. I earned both my bachelors and masters degrees from Sam Houston State University in school counseling and education. There was no better choice than Sam Houston State University that helped me realize my goal of becoming a teacher. After completing my bachelor’s degree, I quickly realized that I had a desire to impact my students and families in a greater capacity. I wanted to make sure all students felt valued, loved and respected despite their challenges. I served as a classroom teacher for several years before I began to think about furthering my career as a school counselor. I knew that it would give me more opportunities to work with students and families from our school that needed more support. Returning to SHSU was the best decision I ever made. The College of Education provides a face-to-face environment while faculty and staff observe and give feedback. The hands on training is so helpful. The program helped me to go into my role as a counselor with confidence, knowing that I had the skills to serve my families and my students well. Being a school counselor is more than just the job. I have a responsibility to my students and families to guide them into the right direction. It requires me to make a commitment each day to show up and make sure that we are all moving in the right direction. In my time as being a school counselor, I have been recognized as the Texas school counselor of the year for Lone Star School Counselor Association. I have found my life’s purpose and I feel so empowered to make a difference in my community every single day. Sam Houston State University sparked the passion within me for serving people and instilled the belief that no matter what someone goes through, they can get better, can push through and change their reality. Being selfless, always giving, always leading, always making a difference. That’s what service is all about. Sam Houston State University taught me that. I’m a proud alumni Bearkat of Sam Houston State University. Eat him up Kats. Now back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Ashley, your story and your dedication to serving others is commendable. Congratulations on your success and thank you for sharing how your experience here at Sam Houston State University helped you realize your goal. And yes, eat them up Kats.
Looking around campus, you’d be surprised, there aren’t many of those big lecture-style classrooms you may see on other campuses, that’s on purpose here. At SHU, the student to faculty ratio is 14 to one. SHU professors take the extra step to help all their students succeed. My friend, Tomas from the school of communication, media and the arts is at the Martire Center for the liberal arts and can tell you a little more about the amazing professors here. Tomas, please take it away.
– Thank you, Alex. So, I am a rising senior here at Sacred Heart University in the communications program. I did not start my college experience at Sacred Heart but I found myself transferring to Sacred Heart University for a more personalized college experience. Professors have an open door policy here at Sacred Heart, which allows students to drop in at certain times during the day to talk about classes, projects, films, anything that comes to mind that has to do with academics. I took full advantage of this program and found myself being mentored by several different professors in several different specialized fields. I was able to utilize all the information I accumulated from these programs and put it out into different projects. “Sentinels of the Boreal” was a film I produced, filmed and directed, and it was a project that I worked on on my junior year of Sacred Heart University. This film helped me cultivate relationships with internationally recognized brands, such as Canon USA and Tamron optics. This film also helped me get relationships with internationally and nationally recognized organizations such as the National Audubon Society. Sacred Heart’s SCMA program was integral for the success of this film as it not only allowed me to reach out to certain grants and foundations to accumulate money, but also allowed me to meet with these professors who had been out in the field and had that professional experience so I could get my foot in the door in the professional field once I graduated. One of my professors was a big influence and guiding force, as he not only told me how to tell a story but also taught me how to obtain funding, which helped move the project along. Another one of my professors showed me how to use the footage that I had accumulated over the course of the project and put it into a way where the project flowed and the film was at its best. SHU’s dean of the school met with me weekly and his willingness to help me not only invigorated me, but also inspired me to keep on going. This film helped me get a foot in the door with organizations like PBS Nature and National Geographic and also created a piece that I’m very proud of. Thank you for letting me tell my story, Alex. Now back to you.
– Tomas, can I get your autograph? It’s so great that your professors went above and beyond to help you with your documentary, but that’s normal here at SHU, right? No matter your program, the faculty gets to know every student and mentors them for a successful future as a working professional. Take care, Tomas.
Next, we’ll meet Mary Elizabeth, a senior majoring in Criminal Justice. She has an awesome experience to share about her academic journey on the Hilltop. She’ll tell us how she chose her major and found her passion. And about the individual attention and academic support she’s received that has helped her be successful. Mary Elizabeth, we can’t wait to hear your story. You’re on.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. Hey, everyone! Coming into college, I didn’t have any idea what I wanted to do with my life. But I knew this would be the place to help me figure it all out. I changed majors three times and joined different organizations to find my fit. From the start, my success coach helped me in my academic journey by planning out courses and potential majors. She encouraged me to take a Criminal Justice class because I had an interest in the legal system. I met with my professor after the first class to learn more about the field and went back to my success coach to change majors right away. That’s how amazing the first class was. My criminal justice professors provided endless support and made themselves available to help me with challenging classes, research papers, and guidance on internship opportunities. I also took a Social Work class and fell in love. My professor and faculty advisor helped me navigate a way to branch these two fields together, while also keeping my Communication minor. From office hours to research meetings, my professors have been active participants and mentors in both my personal and academic journey. It’s been challenging adjusting my personal roadmap over the years, but having that constant encouragement and help, made me feel supported. Learning from professors who have real-world experience and who make the material come to life through their commitment, enthusiasm, and knowledge helped me find my passion. With their guidance, I conducted and developed my own research, created an Honors thesis and participated in field experiences like simulations, mock trials, presentations, and court visits. With this real-world experience, I am ready for my first internship. St. Edward’s small academic environment allowed me to truly know my professors, success coach, faculty advisor, and classmates. The commitment to developing the full student, not just the mind, shows the university’s dedication to helping each student find their purpose, while making lifelong connections along the way. St. Ed’s taught me to go after what I want. And that college is about more than just preparing for a job. It’s about having the tools and support your need to find your calling and to find yourself. Well, that’s my story or at least a part of it. Back to you, Alex.
– Mary Elizabeth, thank you for sharing your inspiring story. It’s great to hear about the personal support St. Ed’s students can count on from their success coach and professors that help them succeed. And congrats on your academic achievements and finding your passion and purpose. That is so important. No doubt you are going places. Take care.