Okay, let’s make sure we talk about the academics at Goucher too, which is rated a top liberal arts college by U.S. News and World Report. Goucher has a unique curriculum, strengths in both arts and sciences, and recently added in-demand majors. For more on the academics and passions you can explore at Goucher is Phong Le, Associate Professor of Mathematics and also an alum of the college. He has some great insight for all of us. Phong.
– Hi everyone. I’m an Associate Professor of Mathematics in The Center for Data Mathematical and Computational Sciences. I coordinate our Integrative Data Analytics Program, I’m also Co-Director of The Maker Space, and support community-based learning. I was also a student at Goucher, back in 2003, I majored in math and minored in music. To me, Goucher has always been a place where students are ready to explore, be challenged, and have big and small conversations. We ask them to make connections deeply across disciplines. I may ask my intro class students the limits of a racial diversity index or when we talk about median income instead of mean income. Other colleagues help our students explore how art has shaped how we think of and define nature. Beyond our Interdisciplinary Gen Ed Courses that we call Complex Problem Exploration, we offer over 60 different academic programs, many of which, such as the Integrative Data Analytics Program I’m part of, are meant for students with broad interests who are looking for breadth and depth in their studies. Our curriculum also contains areas of common inquiry on questions of justice. One about race, power and perspective, and another about environmental justice. Goucher also has great graduate programs, as well as premier 4+1 options with institutions like Johns Hopkins University. My current pet project is The Maker Space. I’m team teaching a course with our gallery curator on the ethics of art and artifact reproduction. Students will be challenged to think about the technical aspects of 3D scanning and printing while simultaneously asking themselves whether what they are doing is appropriative, disrespectful, insensitive, or unethical. I love teaching at Goucher. The students are creative, funny, and kind. I look forward to finding new ways to engage them and know that they’ll respond with joy and enthusiasm. Now back to you, Alex.
– Oh wow. That Maker Space is really neat. What a fun thing for students to get their hands on and experience with. Thanks Phong for letting us see what you’re up to and filling us in on all the academic opportunities students have here at Goucher. Thanks again. Okay, everyone.
At Illinois Tech, you know all about the million dollar sermon. This inspiring manifesto called upon Illinois Tech founders to create a university that will provide students from all backgrounds with an exceptional education, to prepare them to become leaders in a new industrial society. Today, cyber forensics and security student, Sofia, is studying a cutting edge topic that’s on target to lend her a great job after graduation. Let’s hear more.
– Thank you for the introduction, Alex. Hello everyone, when looking for my ideal college, I knew that I wanted to attend a school with a strong focus on technology so that I could explore my interest in computing, Illinois Tech offered the academic opportunities and student community I was looking for. As a first generation college student, the idea of higher education felt overwhelming. I wasn’t sure of how to maximize my time at Illinois Tech. My academic advisor encouraged me to apply to the accelerated master’s program and I was accept did to the cyber forensics and security track. This ended up being the perfect fit for me. I was greeted by a program that is challenging and professors have strived to make the content exciting. Through my classes, I met students from different countries and cultures, each with unique perspectives to learn from. Affording education was another concern of mine. Founded with a mission to provide a relevant college experience that is affordable for all Chicagoans, Illinois Tech offers several forms of financial aid, such as a Chicago Difference, which covers the cost of attendance for Chicagoans in need. Thanks to the financial aid that I receive, I’m able to focus time outside of class on student organizations and volunteer work. Illinois Tech is committed to providing quality programs, not just to college students, but to high school scholars as well. I’ve worked as part of the pre-college team to launch the Illinois Tech DevUp Scholars Program, an initiative focused on equipping high school students from Chicago Southside with leadership skills, through social justice and stem entrepreneurship opportunities. With the help of my professors and peers, Illinois Tech’s hands on curriculum has helped me grow as a team member and future part of the cybersecurity workforce. That’s all for me, back to you Alex.
– What an amazing story Sofia, thank you. At Illinois Tech, you’ll receive an excellent education plus really cool experiential learning opportunities that lead to professional success, with fantastic scholarship packages, a personalized career plan and hands on experiences, it all adds up to one high value degree. Thanks again Sofia.
What’s it like to experience a world that knows no bounds? At Illinois Tech, students have the free them and support to follow their passions. Take business administration student Ahmad, he’s working to launch a startup plus he’s a member of the basketball team, president of student cultural groups, and had two great internships. Ahmad says he knew Illinois Tech will provide him with the best resources to pursue all his goals, Ahmad.
– Thanks Alex. What’s up everybody. When it came down to making the college decision, there was no doubt I imagined being at a place with endless opportunities. That’s when doors open here, at the only business school in Chicago with the tech focus. A chance to stay close to home with the Camras Scholarship and all the necessary resources to embrace my life journey. I truly believe the universe brought me to Illinois Tech. My academic start here exposed me to so many elements of the business world to finance, marketing, data analytics, and much more. Through time, Kaplan Institute inspired me to co-found the start up Beyond the Soul. And our company has a vision to improve physical therapy practices and hope for all through the use of wearable technology. This lifestyle has prepared me to use business and tech to leverage my passions. It also has served a way to challenge me to my core. I’ve never wanted things to be easy at Illinois Tech. I’ve worked to add my own twist to solving the world’s problems. The next thing I knew, I saw myself as a four year starter on the men’s basketball team, leading our world languages and coaches club as president, further in my career interning at BMO Harris Bank and NBC Sports. I’ve applied what I’ve learned to every aspect of my life. The art of business is never ending, constantly changing, propelling me forward. Just think about what moves you, ’cause I know Illinois Tech’s innovative learning environment, is the vehicle that drives me. So continue to follow my story. I’m at a place where there are no bounds for me to showcase my creativity, leadership, and charity towards myself and every single person around me. Taking it back to you Alex, thank you.
– Wow, now you’re making me feel like an underachiever Ahmad. There is definitely an art to fitting together all of life’s puzzle pieces with an exceptional education, mentorship and hands on experience.
Okay everyone, let’s jump into the colleges at Iowa State University. Let’s head over to the College of Engineering. Kara, a sophomore in industrial engineering is here to tell us about Iowa State’s nationally ranked engineering programs. Kara, welcome to “The College Tour”. Please take it away.
– Hey, everyone! Thanks for that awesome introduction, Alex. When it came time to decide a career path, everything sounded interesting to me. I knew I wanted a career that gave me the opportunity and tools to help people and use my love of problem solving and creativity. After researching dozens of career paths, my brother, studying civil engineering at Iowa State, suggested I look into industrial engineering. I’ve never looked back. The faculty and professors at Iowa State really care about the students. Last year, I was overwhelmed. Moving away from home, starting a challenging major at a large university and adapting to remote learning all during a global pandemic. However, I was blown away by the faculty in my department. Before school started, I attended a new student zoom with current students and professors in my department. The engineering department is amazing about connecting with students through office hours and always being available for questions. Outside of the department, I use the supplemental instruction services and tutoring from Iowa State. Research is another exciting opportunity through the College of Engineering. This year, I’m an undergraduate research assistant for the Human Factors and Ergonomics Lab. This research focuses on engineering the medical field and creating opportunities for life saving advancements. From my experience so far, it is no wonder that Iowa State’s College of Engineering consistently ranks among the top 25 programs at public universities. Iowa State boasts both quantity of students and quality. With 1,400 companies recruiting College of Engineering students, graduates have a 93% placement rate within six months of graduation and a starting salary of over $69,000. The College of Engineering and engineering clubs at Iowa State have helped me to succeed socially, academically and professionally. That’s my experience so far at Iowa State. Go, Cyclones and back to you, Alex.
– Kara, your story highlights a student focused community and your enthusiasm for Iowa State is very apparent. The research you’re involved within sounds amazing. And we’re eager to see the positive impacts it will have on the medical industry. Congratulations on all you’re doing, Kara! Take care.
Up next is Brayden. Brayden is a sophomore in the Ivy College of Business, majoring in marketing, management and international business. He’s also minoring in Spanish and advertising, just a few majors. On top of all that, he landed an internship his freshman year and started his own business. Brayden, take it away. We all can’t wait to hear your story.
– Thanks, Alex. Hello, everyone. I’m from St. Louis but I come from an Iowa State family. Every labor day weekend, my family and I came up to Iowa State for the first Cyclone football game of the season. There was never any question that I would choose Iowa State. After my junior year in high school, I knew I wanted to study marketing. And the respected program here at the Ivy College of Business was the perfect fit. Student success is foundational to the Ivy College of Business. With a variety of courses and professors with years of practical business experience. Here there are so many great resources available like the Business Career Services Team who helped me perfect my resume and polish my interviewing skills to help me land a marketing internship at Collins Aerospace this past summer as a freshman. Confident in the business skills I’m learning, I started my own company, Riggs Sauce Co. Did you know that Iowa State is ranked as one of the top undergrad schools for entrepreneurship? Ivy College of Business ensures their students do more than just learn skills for a job. They set students up for success with resources like the Business Career Services Team, the Entrepreneurship Suite and CyBIZLab. All dedicated to ensuring students become great collaborators, communicators and problem solvers. Iowa State has it all. Top notch academics, a beautiful campus, huge sporting events and fun traditions. By offering $1.25 million worth of scholarships annually, the Ivy College of Business advocates easing the financial burdens of students. My experience here is helping me develop skills and knowledge for success. My time at Iowa State has opened so many doors through internship job experiences, starting my own company and living out my dreams. Back to you, Alex.
– Brayden, you’re a busy man. I’m gonna need to try some of that marinara sauce. Sharing the resources you have utilized to land internships and build your resume are undoubtedly gonna inspire and help other students. Thank you for sharing your story today, take care.
Okay, I have a very serious question to ask everyone. Who likes a snack break? And who doesn’t love a good rice krispie treat? I know I do. Did you know that Iowa State alumna Mildred Day, created the rice krispie treat? Absolutely amazing. And that’s not the only delicious thing Iowa State is cooking up. Let’s check in with Yexin, an international student studying early childhood education to see what living and dining is like as a student. Yexin, please take it away. These are incredible.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, y’all. When I was choosing where to live I want a place that’s close to campus and have easy access to food. At Iowa State, there are three neighborhood areas with 17 residence halls and two apartment communities for students to chose from. Did you know that 92% of first year students live on campus? I lived the same place on campus for the past three years. Being withing walking distance with all things is great. When the weather is nice out, I always walk to my classes. When it’s raining or cold there are CyRide buses I can take. A main reason why I chose to live on campus is because there are many activities, including events and meetings. By living close, I’m more motivated to go. Second, there are late night dining options. Sometimes I have a club meeting or study groups that goes into 9:00 PM and I can still grab food afterwards. Every Thursday, my friends and I have weekly dinner at Friley Windows. It’s a great time to enjoy good food and catch up. At Iowa State students not only enjoy housing and dining as part of their campus life, but also make lifelong connections. Students who live on campus graduate faster than those who do not. With more than 20 dining locations, ISU Dining strives to be a premier university dining operations in the country and a pillar of service for Cyclone community. I love living on campus at Iowa State. I made lifelong friends and have a lot of fun at on-campus events. Living on campus is not only safe and convenient, but also provides so many learning and opportunities to grow. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Yexin. That looks like a wonderful place to call home. With the neighborhood community environment of on-campus living and food made fresh by a team of culinary chefs, it’s clear why 92% of first year students live right here on campus. Take care.
Let’s talk about what you’ve come to college for: a career. To do that, we’re turning to alumni, Jocelyn, who majored in Biological Sciences with a concentration in Molecular Biology and was a Chemistry Minor. She has used Goucher’s academic strength and support to go on to graduate school, earn her doctorate, and become a professor. True success in the sciences. Jocelyn, fill us in.
– Thanks Alex. Goucher College was pivotal in order for me to move from being a salutatorian in my rural Southwestern Pennsylvania High School, to being a Doctorate in Human Genetics, to then moving to being an Assistant Professor at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore School of Pharmacy. Coming from a very small high school, it was important for me to find a supportive environment where I can learn, and grow, and expand my horizons. When I started my educational journey, my dream was to graduate with a Degree in the Biological Sciences and go to Medical School. But as I spent time at Goucher, learning from my professors and my classmates, my dreams started to change. I never actually dreamed of being a College Professor until I came to Goucher. While I was here, I was selected to be a Group Facilitator, Tutor, Supplemental Instructor Group Leader, and Teaching Assistant for Laboratory Courses. I realized I had a passion for science and education and helping people learn and grow. Goucher also gave me a passion for research by allowing me to perform a summer research experience with one of my professors, allowing me to discover a new dream. As I neared the end of my undergraduate college experience, I was nervous. I decided that I did not wanna attend medical school, but now what? So, I met with my major advisor, Dr. Delahunty, and he told me, “Jocelyn, you may not know where you will land, but you will always land on your feet.” Since 96% of our students are employed or seek graduate education after graduating from Goucher, he knew I would be fine no matter what I decided. I was able to utilize the career education office that connected me with a research internship to gain more research experience during my senior year and help me to land my first job out of college since I took a year before entering graduate school. Time and time again, my education at Goucher College has in so many ways, not only prepared me to achieve my dream career, but to also be successful at it too. Now that’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Congratulations, Jocelyn, on such a rewarding career path. It sure looks like you have landed on your feet. What a cool story about how the college supported you as you figured out exactly what you wanted to do and helped you get there. Awesome.
You are gonna love this next segment. Now we’re heading over to Nick, who is pursuing an International Relations Major and an Asian Studies and Economics Minor. He’s gonna bring us back to a major theme at Goucher: global education. Nick is gonna talk about his experience and how Goucher’s commitment to global education is not just about study abroad. Take it away, Nick.
– Thanks Alex. Hi everyone. Growing up, I never saw myself really going to college. When I was five years old, I was diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome and I struggled with school my whole life. There was one point in my life, I didn’t think I would graduate high school. However, graduating high school and going to college was the second chance for me to better my future. Attending community college before university, not only gave me confidence, but reignited my passion for learning in higher education. Our International Relations Major allows the opportunity to explore different areas of study, from political science, economics, and peace studies. Being an IR major allows for countless opportunities to double major and minor. My international relations advisor, Dr. Julie Chernoff has guided me to, not only what courses I should take, but provided me advice on what graduate schools to apply to, and job opportunities to look out for. Becoming involved in the newly developed Asian Studies Minor has not only provided me an opportunity to learn a new political perspective, but has helped me cement what I want to study in the future. Our Asian Studies Minor focuses not only on East Asia, but also focuses on Southeast Asia, The Middle East, and becoming proficient in Chinese. Goucher is one of the best schools for global education. Every student studies abroad and also learns a foreign language. Today, employers are looking for students who thrive across borders, cultures and values. At Goucher Education will give you the advantage needed to succeed and navigate a growing global economy. During my time at Goucher, I am beyond surprised how much I’ve learned and grown during my short time on campus. One of my biggest fears coming in as a transfer student was being able to make connections. However, not only have I been able to make lifelong friends, I’ve been able to build relationships with my faculty and staff that will last a lifetime. Alex, back to you.
– It sure seems like Goucher has a global perspective covered, from study abroad to the courses you can take. Thanks for sharing your story, Nick, great job.
There is no other city like Chicago. You can eat deep dish pizza, visit a museum, stroll through a diverse neighborhood, check out a pro sports game and ride your bike along Lake Michigan, all in the same day and still have a million more things to do. Joel, an architecture student from a smaller town felt right at home from day one. Let’s hear about it.
– Thanks Alex. So I’m originally from Omaha, Nebraska. And when it came time for me to look at colleges, I knew that I wanted to stay in the Midwest. Having been to Chicago a few times, being fascinated with the city’s architecture and history, I decided to narrow down my search to universities in the area. After visiting Illinois Tech, I knew it was the right school for me. One of the things that really drew me into Illinois Tech was the balance between location and the size of campus. Our Mies Campus, designed by a pioneer of modernist architecture, is 120 acres and sits just about 10 minutes south of the Loop by train, which students have access to through a U pass. My freshman year, I lived in a residence hall that was mere feet away from an entrance to The Green Line. One of my biggest concerns coming into college was potentially feeling drowned out in a sea of lots of other students. Fortunately, the small class sizes at Illinois Tech and especially the small cohorts within the college of architecture, helped me make connections with other students and form collaborative support networks that provided a nice break from the stress of architecture courses and the hustle and bustle of the city. And being among the top 60 national universities with the highest campus ethic diversity with international students representing over 16% of our undergraduate population, students come to Illinois Tech eager to branch out. There’s plenty to do in the city in your downtime. There’s always street festivals, sports games in massive stadiums, art shows, concerts, and community events that provide a nice relief from classes and make you feel like a true local. Being a small campus in a big city, comprising a global community, Illinois Tech offers the perfect balance for students looking to shout and get a comprehensive tech education at one of the best cities in the world. That’s my story, back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Joel, Illinois Tech really does offer the best of both worlds. It’s a great global city, overflowing with opportunities and at the same time, a quiet, friendly, welcoming campus community where you get to know your fellow students and professors by name, I love that. Thanks again for sharing your story Joel, take care.
Whether you’re into artificial intelligence, gaming, or big data, there’s no better place to study computing than at Illinois Tech. Here, it’s no surprise that students can get involved in programs that support diversity in computing, including groups for women in minorities. Imani, a cyber forensics and security major took her first class at Illinois Tech University’s Elevate Pre-College Summer Program and is learning the cutting edge cyber skills that are preparing her to follow her passions. Imani, please take it away.
– Thanks Alex. Hey, what’s up y’all. As a child, I was drawn to learning all about computer and was extremely interested in forensics. Finding a program that merged both of these areas of study is exactly what I saw to do. Illinois Tech has always been a university that I wanted to attend because of this it and computer science programs. As a high school freshman, I knew that attending one of Illinois Tech’s Pre-college Elevate Programs will help change the trajectory of my life. After receiving my bachelor’s degree in information systems, I knew that I was missing a great piece, forensics. Illinois Tech incorporates computing across this curriculum. And once I came across Illinois Tech’s masters in IT forensics and security, I knew that I have to go after this opportunity. Illinois Tech met my criteria of being flexible by offering graduate level computing classes, both online and on campus. Illinois Tech has by far exceeded my expectations with the tools and projects provided by professors. I actually have fun taking a final. To top it all off, Illinois Tech offers programs which help minority groups studying tech, one program being WiCyS. WiCyS opens up opportunities for women in cybersecurity, providing resources and connections, which helps dipping into a male dominated field, feel much more obtainable. Trust me, once I got word that Illinois Tech had WiCyS, I made plans to join as a mentee. Between the professors challenging us with thrilling projects like cracking codes, finding hidden evidence, attending trials, and a support that I have through WiCyS, I am confident that I’ll be prepared to land my dream job as a cyber forensic analyst. Hey Alex, is your turn to crack the code.
– I’m ready Imani, though I might need your help. No matter where your career is headed, computing and technology will be part of it. Even if you’re studying humanities, business architecture or law, Illinois Tech will teach you to speak the language of computing and tech to stay step ahead of the game