Okay, let’s meet the president of the Student Government Association, Ashon. Ashon enter Montclair State unsure of a major, but found at Montclair a supportive home for students exploring their options. Ashon is from Hillside, New Jersey, and will graduate with a degree in business administration with a concentration in management, and a minor in business relationships, and professional selling. Amazing, take it away, Ashan.
– Hello, hello, thank you for the introduction Alex. I remember in my junior year high school, I was looking for potential colleges. I knew for a fact that be staying in the state. I just didn’t know where and what for. Let’s just say I found everything I was looking for on this campus. Montclair had set me the academic leadership and career path that I can only dream of. I have been blessed to have branched out to the various opportunities this campuses has had to offer. When I was a first year student here, I was in search of a passion. To this day, I cherished those moments as a first year student. Where I attended a variety of events, such as seminars on professionalism, finances, goal setting, discussion groups, and even the educational events that were offered here at Montclair. I realized year after year, how important it’s to get involved. I have taken part in involvement with student organizations, just like the Brotherhood La Hermanda, the Latin American Student Organization, the Black Student Union, the Fashion Club, and Rise Up. I am now executive president of the Student Government Association. My advisors, my friends, my Montclair State University family have given me a map to navigate not just my life, not just my major, but my path to where I’m at now, and my rights of leadership on campus. From the leadership skills I have developed to the various campus positions I’ve taken part in. I could not have imagined how things would’ve gone, if I did not take it upon myself to make the decision to come to Montclair. Thank you for listening to my story, Alex.
– Ashon, I know a lot of people have been watching and applauding your rise as a valued student leader, while at the same time navigating and advancing your academic and career path. You certainly have my vote. Well done, Ashon, cheers.
All right, let’s head over and meet Pratik, a third year doctor of optometry student at PCO. He’s gonna tell you about all the different hands-on learning experiences including externships, field work and clinical rotations, Salus students are exposed to starting their first year. While serving a very diverse patient population at the university’s clinical facilities, he has witnessed some truly life changing moments. Pratik, please take it away.
– Hey there, one of the best things about Salus University is the fact that clinical experience is given to students so early on. Starting first year, students are expected to shadow and follow upperclassmen and doctors at our prestigious Eye Institute, also known as TEI for short, to gain hands-on experience from the start. This facility has fantastic staff that helps operate several specialty suites such as primary care, neuro, glaucoma, emergency, low vision, pediatrics, contact lens and so much more. With a diverse patient population, many of whom come from underrepresented communities, students are able to see a wide variety of cases and diseases, which we as student doctors can learn from while also providing the best patient care possible. I still remember when an elderly patient came in to receive a new pair of reading glasses. After just a few simple tests such as seeing how his pupils reacted to light and how well his color vision was. We were able to diagnose him with Diabetic Retinopathy and Glaucoma, something never previously noted in his chart. With the help of my precepting doctor, we were able to provide him with the help and further testing he needed to help preserve and cherish the vision he had left. Along with TEI, we have other satellite locations located within 15 minutes of our main campus that provide the same great care. Speaking about our main campus, that’s where our two other onsite clinical facilities are located. The Pennsylvania Ear Institute and the Speech Language Institute for our audiology and speech language pathology programs. In our clinical skills lab, students learn everything from basic to advanced skills to help them prepare for clinic and rotations, skills such as taking a patient’s visual acuity, dilating a patient, inserting and removing a contact lens, foreign body removal and so much more. We also have a 3D virtual reality lab that helps teach more challenging skills to students on computer simulated heads. This helps us gain the muscle memory and practice needed before we perform the skills on actual patients. Personally, I’ve spent countless days in the clinical skills lab and can still remember the hours and hours of practice days and weeks before our practical testing, run through, after run through it was definitely exhausting, but well worth our time especially when you get to practice with peers and friends that have similar goals. Salus students are exposed to field work, extensive training and externships that expand across all programs in the form of clinical rotations. With rotations, Salus students experience real world optometric and clinical environments much earlier than other schools. On top of that, we receive an additional four quarters of rotational experience with sites all across the country and some across the world in Asia and Europe. I believe that after all the hard work we put into learning in class and taking every test, being able to use those skills to better the lives of real patients is a priceless experience. Through hands-on practice and early exposure, I know Salus is helping me become the best doctor I can be. Now back over to Alex.
– Thank you for sharing Pratik. Fieldwork experience is one of the most important steps students take in training to become future healthcare professionals. As Pratik just described, the firsthand experience he gained throughout his medical training at Salus presented diverse challenges, making him equipped to take on his future in healthcare. Cheers Pratik.
Okay, next we’re gonna meet Mohit, a fourth year optometry student who’ll be graduating soon. Mohit is gonna tell us about the legacy of the Pennsylvania College of Optometry in Philadelphia and the profession at large and the visionary role PCO Salus has played for more than a century. Take it away Mohit.
– Thanks Alex. The address is 1809 Spring Garden street, this is the address where Pennsylvania State College of Optometry was first founded in 1919. Through the leadership of Dr. Albert Fitch, PSCO became not only the first independent non-profit college of optometry, but also the first college to confer a doctor optometry degree. And the first college of optometry to establish itself as a university. As time has flown by, just in 2019, we celebrated the hundredth anniversary of Pennsylvania College of Optometry. As we celebrate the achievements, we also look back at the groundbreaking history that we made, the first college of optometry to develop an off-campus externship program, the first to establish graduate programs in the fields of blindness and visual impairment, the first to launch an international program to advance optometry worldwide, and the first college of optometry to expand beyond a scope to include speech, language and pathology, audiology occupational therapy, blindness, and low vision studies and a physician assistant studies. Within four years here at Salus university, students will have the ability to practice their optometric skills at the recently renovated CS lab, while practicing and developing into clinicians at The Eye Institute. While giving back to the greater Philadelphia community through philanthropic events, such as Looking Out For Kids charity, Special Olympics and more, strides have been made to impact societies around us including internationally. As a fourth year South Asian student and the son of a high school math teacher, one of my main goals was to leave the school a better place than the way I found it. From becoming a student president of my class, I hope I was able to enhance the student life experience on campus while serving as an example of what a good leader should be, being engaged, respectful and a professional leader to the administration, while listening to a student’s needs and advocating for them. Meanwhile, I participated in various charity events myself to not only provide health stability to the community but also improve quality of life. Tomorrow’s healthcare will never be the same. With changes in medicine, technology, intelligence, in patient’s needs and expectations, pioneers and visionary leaders like Dr. Albert Fitch are needed to create the next school, to have the next breakthrough, to break barriers. I’ll leave you with this. Have you thought about your legacy? Have you thought about creating it here at the Pennsylvania College of Optometry and Salus University? Well, we welcome you with open arms. What do you have for us next, Alex?
– Outstanding job, Mohit. What a great story about the rich and groundbreaking history of the Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University, it’s other programs and the pioneers and visionary leaders who have paved the way for more than a hundred years. Absolutely amazing. Cheers Mohit.
NJIT is among the universities with the highest research activity in the entire country. That benefits students by giving them the hands-on experience that truly makes research happen. To find out more about that research Let’s hear from Diego who came to NJIT all the way from Spain, to pursue a dual degree in Computer Science and Applied Physics. Diego, please take it away.
– Thanks Alex, Hey everyone. With my desire to pursue research and a PhD in physics NJIT’s, dual Computer Science and Applied Physics major was the perfect place to start. Scientific research is integral to the NJIT experience. As an R1 classified institution, the highest rating among doctoral universities and one of only three universities with this distinction in New Jersey. NJIT has over 130 research institutes, centers and labs spread across multiple disciplines like studying financial bubbles, biomedical advancements, nano materials, and many others, including the Center for Solar Terrestrial Research. The Center for Solar Terrestrial Research operates multiple observatories, like the Big Bear Solar Observatory in California, and many other instruments across the world, like at McMurdo station in Antarctica. Ultimately this environment is ripe for a large number of students to get involved in research early in their college careers. I’ve had the amazing opportunity of working with renounced scientists on NSF and NASA funded projects, like the Amateur Ham Radio Citizen Science Investigation, and working with all the cutting edge technology that has become synonymous with NJIT. Using Ham Radios, AI, and machine learning. We have been developing new techniques for observing space weather phenomenon, with the goal of forecasting these events that can negatively affect emergency communications during disaster relief efforts, NJIT’s rigorous academics and the variety of research opportunities have prepared me in more ways than I could’ve imagined, from learning how to better communicate and refining my analytics skills to honing my ability to problem solve effectively and building an extensive network of contacts in my future field of study. Now back to you, Alex.
– That is truly amazing. Diego. I love how you’re engaging citizen scientists to make them part of the process. Also interesting to know that the farthest Western part of New Jersey is NJIT’s solar observatory in Big Bear California. I’ll be sure to stop by and check that out on my next sketch up. Take care, Diego.
NJIT is not only strong in research and STEM but it’s also NCAA Division 1 and a member of the America East Conference. These facilities are amazing for both athletes and students just looking to work out. Let’s meet someone who can tell us all about it and has come all the way from Cape Town, South Africa, to play soccer at NJIT. Regsan, the floor is all yours.
– How’s it Alex? Thanks for having me. It has always been my goal to play Division 1 soccer and pursue an education. NJIT provides a great environment and opportunity for me to Excel both on and off the field. Being a student here has helped me grow in ways that I could only have done at NJIT. The rigorous academics alongside an athletics program, competing in the America east conference has allowed me to push myself in so many new ways. I have formed great friendships with my teammates, of course, and others on campus. The athletics program really shows how diverse NJIT is and makes me proud to represent the students and school. Since I have roots in both South Africa and Australia, it was important to find a university that was focused on providing a home for their students. Did you know that 1500 international students from over 70 different countries call NJIT home? NJIT hosts over 200 clubs on campus. So every student will find activities to participate in. Being in an environment like NJIT, I’ve learned to balance the demands of what being a student athlete has brought. Managing time, balancing sport, friends and most importantly, academics. I aim to achieve my goal of becoming a professional soccer player and know that I will have a solid foundation for what comes next after earning a degree from NJIT. If you’re looking for a university, trust me, and kick off your university experience at NJIT, go to Highlanders. Alex, back to you.
– Regsan what an amazing journey you’ve had and what an outstanding ambassador for NJIT athletics you make. It’s been said that talent without working hard is nothing. but Regsan, I think you were showing what great things can happen when you bring both these things together here at NJIT. Thanks again for that.
Now, Eric knows a thing or two about Mines experience. After all, he’s currently completing a PhD in space resources, which is his third degree at Mines. He not only knows firsthand the stellar return on investment a Mines degree has, but also knows the incredible reputation Mines graduates have in the workforce for getting the job done well. Take it away, Eric.
– Thanks for the intro, Alex, and hi, everyone. Mines consistently ranks among top universities for return on investment. So it was a no brainer for me to come here for not just one degree, but two. And now, I’m back again from my third. My first degree in chemical engineering led directly to my first industry job at Texas Instruments. TI came to MINES specifically to recruit each year. I later learned this was because they knew we didn’t shy away from challenging, sometimes, unsolved problems, and I had no shortage of that once I got to Dallas. In addition to running the chemical systems for the chip plant, and after only three months there, I was asked to also oversee the design and construction of the systems for the new factory being built. I joined a larger team. Now, I specifically remember the first meeting when the senior manager introduced me and said, “This is Eric. He’s young. Needs to learn a lot, but he’s from Mines, so he’ll be fine.” From that project, I learned it was way more fun to design and build systems than it was just to run them. When the semiconductor industry crashed in the 2000s, I transitioned to part-time work, and came back to Mines for a master’s in engineering and technology management. This additional layer of business understanding led directly to me becoming CEO of my company. I still work in projects in the aerospace, bio science, pharma, and manufacturing sectors, and I meet all kinds of Minds alumni in all kinds of roles. Sometimes we even had the same professors. Now I’m back at Mines to complete my set of degrees with a PhD in space resources. I’m working with outstanding people and learning skills I know will last far beyond my next graduation. And having seen it firsthand on projects, I know the value of the diplomas and the connections I’m making will lead to continued success. Mines makes hell of engineers to change the world. Back to you, Alex.
– Eric, wow. Thanks for sharing your journey. It’s so fun to hear about how your Minds degrees have served you throughout your career. And I can’t wait to see where your PhD will take you next, perhaps even beyond earth. Thanks again, Eric.
We are now gonna hear from Carolyn, a senior nursing major. SDSU College of Nursing is consistently recognized as one of the best in the nation and prepares its graduates for a number of professional opportunities, from work as a registered nurse to opening doors in numerous healthcare fields. Carolyn, we’re excited to hear from you.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everybody. Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in the medical field. My mom has been a nurse for many years and she’s a great role model for me. I chose SDSU partially because of its great reputation in medicine, but mostly because it felt like home when I toured campus. The College of Nursing has provided me with many different ways to get plugged in here on campus, even before I was accepted into the program. Between the Student Nurses Association Volunteer Events and giving tours to incoming students, I have met so many people. Each semester the college accepts students to programs in multiple locations throughout the state, including programs available here on our Brookings campus. The small classes allow for a great support system as you go through nursing school. I have made lifelong friends in my nursing classes here at South Dakota State. Our program consists of three semesters of pre-nursing classes. You get to be in one of the best anatomy programs in the country and work with human cadavers. As well, you’re provided great academic resources, such as supplemental instruction and tutoring. After this, you start your five semesters of nursing school. During this time you get hands-on clinical experience that prepares you well for your future career. SDSU nursing students have a 98% pass rate on national board exams, and almost all of our students have one of their chosen job placements within three months of graduation. Whatever major you choose, you won’t just learn about it at South Dakota State, you’ll get to experience it hands on. When I started college, I would not have imagined I could have learned so much. The College of Nursing truly set me up for success. I started my senior year with a full-time job offer at one of the top hospitals in South Dakota. I’m so grateful for all of the amazing support SDSU provides and all of the impactful experiences I have gotten these last four years. From amazing friends, insane school spirit, and memories that will last a lifetime, SDSU has truly given me more than I could have ever imagined. That’s my story! Back to you, Alex, and go Jacks!
– What a cool story, Carolyn! Thanks for sharing it. We know you’re ready to make a difference in the lives of others, and that is amazing. Take care.
Okay, everyone next let’s meet, Erin. Erin is a junior majoring in Human Biology with minors in Health Science and Chemistry. She’s gonna talk about the opportunities for undergraduate research and the awesome pre-professional programs here at SDSU. Erin, the floor is all yours.
– Hi, Alex. I fell in love with South Dakota State University for a couple reasons. With my parents both being alumni, and my older brother attending at the time, campus was familiar to me. I wasn’t exactly sure what to make during coming out of high school, mathematics or biology, and SDSU has great programs for both. As a freshman I got involved in intermurals to meet people with the same interest, which ended up being a fun study break hobby. I’m also an Admissions Ambassador, and off campus, I spend my time as a Brookings Youth Mentor. Making my way through more challenging classes, I leaned on school clubs and tutoring for support. Preprofessional Club and American Medical Students Association are clubs I’ve joined that have helped me solidify that I want to go into medicine. There are so many possibilities to be learn hands-on at SDSU, but my personal favorite is our anatomy program. From being a student to an intern, to now being a teaching team member with my own students, I’ve been able to spend three semesters in the lab working with our cadavers. Another thing that sets South Dakota State University apart from its peers is that you don’t have to be a graduate student to be a part of important research opportunities. Undergraduate students are involved in research through the Undergraduate Research Scholarship and Creative Activities Day Program, the South Dakota Legislative Poster Session, and through the Journal of Undergraduate Research. It’s easy to get involved and we’re super lucky to have faculty on campus that want us gaining experience from day one. SDSU has not only the resources, but also faculty, willing to take the time to mentor undergraduate researchers. As I’m at the end of my time at SDSU, I had no idea coming into college how much I would grow. The welcoming attitude of all staff, faculty, and other students have enriched my time here more than I would’ve ever hoped for. SDSU is inclusive enough to where I feel confident becoming my future self, but diverse to where I don’t feel any limitations. I hope I was able to share why I love SDSU and I hope you do too. Back to you, Alex.
– Erin, it was great to hear about your college journey and how South Dakota State University has allowed you to explore different paths and grow, both academically and personally. You have such a great story. Thank you for sharing it with us today. Take care.
Join me in welcoming Sean of Livingston, New Jersey, a senior theater studies major with a minor in film. Let’s just say he knows Rocky really, really well. Take it Sean.
– Hey Alex, thanks for having me. I always thought I wanted to be a film director, but Montclair State is where I truly discovered my passion for theater. Since then performance has been my life. And speaking of performances, I get the performative role of a lifetime. That’s right, I’m Montclair State’s mascot, Rocky the Red Hawk. My journey to becoming the mascot all started in my freshman year of college, where I had the crazy idea to go around campus and interact with students while wearing an inflatable T-Rex costume. My friends and I called him Terry, and even set up an Instagram for him. Well it didn’t really work out because of our conflicting schedules. My RA at the time thought what I was doing was hilarious. So he suggested that I try out to be the mascot. I called him crazy, but did it anyway. And now here we are two and a half years later. Rocky is unlike other mascots because he doesn’t just show up to sports games. Rocky could be found around campus almost any day for almost any reason. He really is a living, breathing person, well bird, and people go nuts just to see him, or take their picture with him. On special occasions, Rocky’s family will make an appearance. He has a sister Roxy, a cousin, Ricky and uncle Roy. And of course his best friend, Terry. Being the mascot has changed me in the most indescribable way. I doubt I could have even made it through college without the incredible support of the entire team, and the awesome students whose faces light up every chance they get to see Rocky the Red Hawk. And although Rocky might be a flightless bird, let’s soar back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Rocky or Sean, Rocky. Sean, let us in all little secret. Each year graduating members of team Rocky reveal themselves at commencement by donning Rocky’s big yellow talents or oversized sneakers, along with their caps and gowns. You gotta love these campus traditions.
Next up is Sienna from East orange, New Jersey. A junior, visual arts major with a minor in design. Sienna won Startup Montclair, a shark tank type contest sponsored by the Feliciano Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. She says starting her own business while still in college has been the experience of a lifetime. Listen as Sienna gives us the inside pitch.
– Thank you so much for that introduction, Alex. And hey beautiful people. As a young girl growing up, I always had a burning passion in me to pursue my path as an entrepreneur. It wasn’t until I became older, that I realized what my calling was. To impact as people as possible and spread self love onto the community. From this passion blossom the Flourish by Sage brand. Flourish by Sage is a clean and sustainable hair care brand that aims to bring light to textured hair. I believe that everyone should feel confident in embracing their natural hair, and turn their natural selves. Thanks of the opportunity provided to me by Montclair State University, I was able to boost the capital of my business, by winning the Startup Montclair Pitch Competition, hosted by the Feliciano Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. The Feliciano Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation provides access to resources from networking opportunities with past winners, to professors expertise, and access to industry support to help students turn their passions into profits. I’m proud to say that I am now living proof of this. Not only has Montclair State University blessed me with amazing opportunity, but the campus has also given me access to so many different panel talk events, and opportunities to learn and grow from others. It’s because of experiences like these, that I have developed the confidence to embark on my path as an entrepreneur and be where I am today. These experiences paired with the amazing support that I get from Montclair University has made me feel so confident in the path that I’m walking on. Back to you, Alex.
– Sienna, that was the perfect pitch. Good luck as you pursue your passions, and continue to grow your business. And kudos to Montclair for providing aspiring entrepreneurs with all the tools they need to let their creativity and imagination soar.