Over at the College of Design, we’re gonna meet up with Thomas, a junior majoring in architecture. You’re gonna love his passion for arts and science, as well as his insights into being a student within the College of Design. If you’re thinking about pursuing a degree in design, this is definitely the place to be. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. And hey, everyone. Passionate about the arts and social sciences in high school, I was inspired to pursue a degree in architecture. I wanted a degree that was accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board, was a bit further from home and still highly ranked. I stumbled across Iowa State’s College of Design, visited and decided that this was the place for me. I seriously hit it out of the park coming to Iowa State. Despite being a huge school, Iowa State is a tight-knit community with tons of wonderful people. Spending day and night with your peers in its College of Design studio, makes the experience feel extremely personable. Our first year program not only allows students to improve their design skills and get a taste of collaboration before they get to their major, but it also allows them to meet their entire year of incoming design students. This would explain why some of my best friends are from other majors in the College of Design, as well as my own. An added benefit of that first year is that it gives students the opportunity to learn more about the nationally ranked programs Iowa State offers. From my 22nd ranked architecture program to our 10th ranked landscape architecture program and the country’s number three city planning degree before committing to a major. Our nine undergraduate majors and 15 graduate degree programs make Iowa State’s College of Design one of the most comprehensive in the entire country. Whereas other universities might have architecture and interior design in one college and graphic design and studio arts in another college, we have them all under one roof. Which allows for endless opportunities for collaboration, which makes us all better designers. Iowa State offers countless opportunities to find, evolve and pursue your passions. In our tight-knit cyclone community, we’ll ensure that you have all the support that you need to do so. That’s all for me. Back to you, Alex. Go, Cyclones!
– Yes, go Cyclones! There are some amazing opportunities to get involved with in the first year core program. I can’t wait to see your contributions to the architectural world. Thomas, that was great. Take care.
Okay, the final undergraduate college we’re gonna visit is the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Home to the popular Open Option program, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, let you explore your passions and find the perfect degree to career path. Let’s meet Anna, a junior studying journalism and political science. She’s passionate about people fighting for human rights. Hannah, it’s all yours.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. Hello, everyone. I always knew I wanted to fight for human rights. That’s why I turned to the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, their political science and journals on prelaw at Iowa State University to learn more. I love the way my academic interests are tied into the College of LAS. I’ve been able to take women and gender studies classes, even though it doesn’t directly relate to my major. Through this, I’ve been able to work with numerous departments to put on a women’s week conference. With the many departments on campus, students can choose their own adventure. Whether it’s working with an honors advisor on an honors project, working with the Sloss Center on ways to raise awareness about human rights or even working with the awesome senior vice president of student affairs, to put on events for students on campus. Students have the chance to meet so many different people. The connections made at Iowa State can expand your outreach into the Ames community and beyond. That’s the real reason I chose Iowa State University. I’ve been able to make connections with my journalism professors and even those outside of my college. No matter your interest, you’ll find your place. The College of LAS is the second largest college on campus with over 7,300 students. It houses the Open Option program so students can find their future major. In addition, it also provides academic success through scholarships, internships, study abroad, and even supplemental instruction so students can tackle extracurriculars, jobs and school. Iowa State has taught me that success is not a straight line, but a road with lots of curves, hills and new adventures. I’ve learned so much here so far. And I can’t wait to see where the rest of my time here takes me. What’s up next, Alex?
– Anna, what’s next for you is a very bright future. It sounds like you found your passion and purpose here at Iowa State. With so many opportunities to get involved and make a difference, it’s easy to see how Iowa State students make an impact on the world around them. Thanks again for that.
Six undergraduate colleges and endless opportunities, but wait everyone, there’s much, much more. Iowa State also boasts a graduate college and a College of Veterinary Medicine. Joining us next is Chidinma. She is pursuing a PhD in human computer interaction and design in Iowa State’s graduate college. You’re gonna wanna listen to her story of perseverance and her goal to make the world a better place. Please take it away.
– Hello, everyone. Thanks for that introduction, Alex. I’m from San Jose, California originally from Nigeria. I worked full-time while doing my undergraduate studies to learn and gain experience in the information technology field at another university. However, I was having trouble finding opportunities to learn more. That was until I discovered the human computer interaction graduate program at Iowa State University. With experience working in Silicon Valley for companies like Facebook and Western Digital, I knew exactly where I wanted to expand my knowledge in virtual reality. Upon contacting the virtual reality application center at Iowa State, I was convinced this was the best program for me. I started classes online in California and was well supported with enough face time for my advisors and professors to help me tackle hard problems. The pandemic was hard for everyone. On a personal level, I experienced underemployment, job loss and a lot of stress. I finally took the opportunity to pursue my long term goal to complete graduate school. I started out slow and I was amazed at the opportunities that opened to me as I embarked on my journey at the graduate school at Iowa State University. I learned I am capable of doing so much more. By becoming a user researcher, I can create tangible things within the human computer interaction field to make our lives easier and solve problems like quoting production waste and manufacturing global pollution. Thanks to the innovation at Iowa State University, I’m ready to tackle these challenges. Now back to you, Alex.
– Thank you so much, Chidinma. What an incredible story. You’re gonna have a big impact in our ever-changing world.
Speaking of innovation, let’s head over to the Student Innovation Center and meet up with Jed. He’s studying industrial engineering with a minor in entrepreneurship and innovation. If you’ve ever dreamed of working with a unique team to creatively help businesses solve unique challenges, you’re gonna wanna tune into this one. Jed, you are on.
– Here’s a fun fact for you, Alex. My parents actually met right here at Iowa State more than 25 years ago. And growing up, I always admired my dad as an innovator. Throughout his career, he received more than 40 patents for the inventions he created. His work ethic and discipline are what inspired me to become an engineer. In high school, I was incredibly fortunate to work for a startup ruggedized computer manufacturer. Where I learned the ins and outs of the industry that Iowa State revolutionized back in 1942, with the invention of the world’s first digital computer. Driven by these experiences, I came to Iowa State knowing my path. Joining Iowa State’s fraternity community immediately pushed me outside of my comfort zone. Fraternity involvement taught me to become the best version of myself, physically, socially, intellectually, and spiritually. And now just two years later, I find myself a leader in each one of these areas while fostering new ideas along the way. In addition to my time here at Iowa State, I was able to join the Innovation Fellows Program. This program actually teaches students to think like innovators. As part of the fellows program, I get to work on Design Sprints, where our fellows team works with startup companies as consultants to provide research, scope and ideas in the company’s direction taking on a problem. As part of the fellows program, I also get to lead workshops. Connecting students globally with innovation opportunities right here at Iowa State. And lastly, I’ve been able to intern at some amazing companies, such as Collins Aerospace. Where I’ve gotten to learn the ins and outs of the aviation industry. And Merck, where I’ve gotten to learn all about the vaccine and pharmaceutical industry. Thanks to Iowa State, I’m not just learning the tools to do my job well, I’m learning the thought process of continuous improvement. For implementing new ideas and solutions to take on challenges that companies are facing. You see, Iowa State allows you to grow and innovate in all aspects of life. And that’s what I really love about this place. What else, Alex?
– Amazing work, Jed! What an incredible space! The hands on innovation and entrepreneurial experiences you’re involved with are one of a kind. You’ll be prepared to tackle challenges with forward thinking perspective. Amazing job.
Now more than ever, it’s important to care for our students physical, mental, and emotional health. Our next student is sharing a powerful, personal story of their mental health wellness journey. Dial in closely as we meet Alexandra, who is an advocate for mental health. Alexandra walks us through several health and wellness resources on campus and in the Ames community.
– What’s up y’all I knew to be successful in college, I needed a university that focused on more than just education. A happy and healthy environment, and a strong support system were really important to me. Iowa State University and the city of Ames had everything I was looking for. I was enrolled and excited to be a part of Iowa State’s highly ranked event management program. Unfortunately not long after school started, I was faced with some mental health challenges. I was struggling to get out of bed to see friends or take part in sorority events. Let alone go to class and complete assignments. Noticing my declining grades, my academic advisor met with me and she encouraged me to seek out on-campus resources for student health. It was nerve-wracking to admit I needed that kind of support, but I quickly realized I was not alone. Navigating mental health is difficult and it affects a lot of college students’ lives. My stress levels caused me to be physically sick so I was going to Thielen Health Center a lot. Creating a same day or next day appointment is really easy and they work really hard to make it accessible even with my limited insurance. I was also utilizing student counseling services. They paired me with an individual counselor for a few meetings and then found me an affordable therapist in Ames to continue long-term services for. They really advocated for me to have psychiatric services that actually worked. Overwhelmed, I dropped out of college at one point, fearful I couldn’t do it. But because of Iowa State’s support resources, I now get to see a future with a college degree in it. And I will always be thankful for that. Iowa State’s wellness services have truly changed my life for the better. Thank you for listening to my story. Stay happy and healthy. Back over to you, Alex.
– Thank you for sharing your story, Alexandra. Your openness is sure to help other students who may encounter similar challenges. Additionally, Iowa State supports overall student health through fully equipped gyms, group fitness classes, intramural sports and outdoor recreation.
Now we’re heading to meet Josh Gillespie. He’s a junior studying Finance and Economics with a double minor in Business Management and Accounting. He is also President of the nationally known, Havocs, that put on one heck of a show at the basketball games. And he’s gonna talk about the Havoc experience, and what GCU pride and spirit is all about. Josh, you’re on.
– Thank you so much. I’m really excited for this chance to talk to you all about the Havocs and the school pride we have here at GCU. So the Havocs is the student section here at the campus. We go to all the sporting events and bring the energy and excitement to every single one. The Havocs are a big part of the culture and the community here at GCU. I mean, just take a look up there and see what we got. So my freshman year I joined the Havocs, and it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Being a part of the Havocs has been my favorite part of the on-campus experience. Whether it’s running up the steps to get that front row seat at a game or going crazy with my friends at the biggest party in college basketball, I’ve loved every minute of it. To me, the Havocs are built on two key pillars. The first pillar is that we wanna be the loudest and craziest student section in the nation. The second is that we wanna be a place where students can come and be a part of an awesome community. One of the ways that the Havocs build community here on campus, outside of the game day experience, is through this really cool tradition we have. During the first week of students coming to campus, the Havocs leaders go door to door and visit every freshman, and build that community early on. We want to establish that relationship and make them feel a part of the GCU community immediately. To me, being a student leader is all about serving students. Our motto as student leaders is to be students serving students, and we take that responsibility seriously. We wanna create the best possible environment for each and every student on campus, and we are supported by our amazing executive staff here. From president Mueller all the way down, the support they give each and every student leader, just sets us up for success. They genuinely care about making GCU the best experience it can be for a college campus. Well, it’s been awesome talking to you all about the Havocs here at GCU. Alex, back to you.
– Josh, what you all are doing on and off the court is incredible, so fun. Somehow I need to sneak into that section and experience it for myself. That was great. Cheers, Josh.
Next. We have Lydia, Biology Major and Psychology Minor, who’s gonna talk about the type of people you will meet at Goucher. The college prides itself on being a welcoming, and inclusive community. The small size means you’ll be in a supportive community where you always pass a friendly face walking across this beautiful campus to class. The community created here, especially for new students in Goucher’s First-Year Village is absolutely incredible. Take it away, Lydia.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi everyone, I’m from the Eastern Shore of Maryland, and I’ve always wanted to get into a big city. I wanted the resources of a big college, but with the small college and community feel, that’s what led me to Goucher. Here at Goucher, I’m an RA, I play for the women’s basketball team, and I’m always joining clubs. I’m getting involved with our Student Engagement Team, the Gaucher Christian Fellowship, and the Bio/Chemistry Club. Immersing myself into the culture and groups at Goucher has created a fulfilling education so far. I’ve met incredible people that I love already. Goucher’s tight-knit community makes me feel important and not like another number with a GPA. Here at Goucher, I’m known, supported, and heard, I can walk down Van Meter Highway and see 10 people that I know, and they will always say hello. My co-RAs and my teammates are like my family away from home. Goucher brings people together from all over the world. On average, we have more than 1,100 undergraduates from 43 states and 30 countries, and 15% are first generation students. Buildings like the First-Year Village are designed to build community. Putting the newer students together helps them feel that they are not alone. And when they might feel alone, there are many support systems in place, such as the Academic Center for Excellence, Student Success Teams, The Wellness Center, and more to help students succeed at Goucher. With my experience and bachelor’s from Goucher, the next step is a Master’s Degree in Genetic Counseling, where I could take the lessons of community, leadership, empathy, and love, I’ve learned from Goucher and I can apply them to my everyday life. Changing lives one day at a time. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Lydia, your experience coming to Goucher and becoming part of this community is heartening. I am sure there are so many other students who’ll love to have that at experience at college and get to live in that First-Year Village. It seems at Goucher, you were more than just a number. That was great, Lydia. Thanks again.
Let’s turn to athletics with a History Major, Studio Arts Minor, and Lacrosse Player, Lucy. She’s gonna talk about the Division 3 athletic opportunities here and some new facilities at Goucher, and fill you in about the student athlete life. I think you’re gonna find the same close-knit community as everyone else here at Goucher. Let’s find out. Lucy, tell us more.
– Hey everyone. Growing up, I was the youngest of three girls, all who excelled in academics, but I didn’t find school easy or enjoyable. I didn’t even think college was gonna be for me until I found Goucher. Now I really love learning and see myself furthering my education, even after I graduate. Goucher taught me what school should feel like. Once I realized my love for lacrosse, I started searching for D3 schools in my city, so I could balance my school and athletic life, something that I immediately found at Goucher. Once I talked to the wonderful coaches, I applied and got in. As a student whose family lives under the poverty line, I thought there was no way I could pay for this school. But due to Goucher’s amazing scholarships, my financial package set me up for success, something I couldn’t be more grateful for. But now I get to wake up each day and spend it with my team in the state of the art facilities, the weight room, and field, meet my friends in our delicious dining hall, and classmates in our beautiful buildings. Never would I have imagined being so happy and immersed in college. One thing I love most about Goucher is the community on campus. There are constant events and activities for all to join. Athletes are about a 1/3 of the campus, and if you’re part of a sports team that gives you the instant network of friends to enjoy college life with. We have 20 Division 3 sports teams, a nationally ranked equestrian team, and even an eSports team. At Goucher, you have the freedom to build your education. I never thought college was for me until Goucher taught me what education should feel like. This is a fun, positive, welcoming environment that I’m so proud to be a part of. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Lucy, thanks for telling us about your experience. I’m so glad you found your place at Goucher. It seems athletes have a great place here at Goucher and the student support and commitment to accessibility I keep hearing about is absolutely amazing. Take care.
Okay. You’re gonna meet Natalia, an Integrative Arts Major at Goucher, focusing on visual art, music, and theater. Now, you’ve heard us mention Goucher is small, and that means students form great relationships with faculty. Natalia’s gonna tell us about the professors here at Goucher, who will know you by name, and a little more about the arts as well. Natalia, please take it away.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. Hi, I’m a senior at Goucher and honestly, I don’t think I have enough time to enjoy all there is to offer. I firmly believe that when it comes to Goucher, your experience is what you make of it. When I first arrived on campus, I was determined to only study acting through the Theater Major. But as soon as I stepped into the art studio during orientation, I realized I belong there. It was only a matter of time until I was studying music as well. I’ve always dreamt of being a well-balanced artist, and with my new major, I got the chance to do so. I’m studying the Integrative Art Studies Program, which basically means I get to pick and choose out of all the art classes. Now, I get to build my skills and become the artist I have always dreamt of. All of my professors have been there to help, even when I could not fit a class into my schedule, to make sure that I could have access to all of the information. The professors at Goucher have guided me towards the classes I needed to make my dreams come true and have supported me in ways beyond what is expected. When I was deciding on my major, I knew I wanted to study more than one art. Meeting one on one with professors in the theater, art, and IAM departments, I was able to choose IIS as my major. The professors at Goucher always go above and beyond, sharing resources like the drum circles, acting clubs, books, office hours, performances, and so much more. I am beyond grateful and I hope to stay in touch with them. But until then, I’ll continue to finish school. Back to you, Alex.
– What great support from professors, and Natalia, it seems like you’re in good hands at Goucher while pursuing your dream. Thanks for sharing your experience with faculty and the arts at Goucher. Seems like you have a lot going on, which is amazing. Thanks again for sharing your story. Take care.
Looking through a magnifying glass will reveal things you can only imagine, and so does research. At Illinois Tech, students fine tune their academic work by participating in exciting research projects and they can begin this starting in year one. Just see what food process engineering student Tajas is doing in the lab, Tejas.
– Thanks Alex. Have you ever wonder how apples turn into apple juice? No, food technology is something where we transfer basic raw material into some of the finest food products. Hey everyone, I am Tejas Suthar here at Illinois Tech originally from India. To advance my skillset, I decided to pursue my master degree in field of food process engineering, one of the collaborative course offered here at Illinois Tech. The engineering program not only teaches us theoretical concept, but also teaches us how to incorporate the knowledge in a practical way. We have access to Institute of Food Safety and Health, a highly equipped laboratory, as well as Food Processing Plant, where we can use machines like high pressure processing and other equipments to process different types of food products. I have worked on some of the interesting topic, verification technique, edible insect and artificial meat. Did you know artificial meat is made in Illinois Tech’s very on laboratory. The lab-grown meat is created from a single animal cell. And by this way, we can actually produce tons of meat, isn’t that amazing? Another unique thing about Illinois Tech is its partnership with the US Food and Administration, which provides a chance for student to work on a special projects with an FDA scientist. Research production at Illinois Tech are easily accessible. Faculty member will connect you with any research projects available, and if you have any idea for research question you want to study, you can go directly to the faculty member to approach them about posting that idea. I can say that I met good decision choosing Illinois Tech for my master degree. This new city is fully of resources and provide many opportunities to make my dream come true. Back to you Alex.
– Tejas, it’s good to see you can access seemingly endless research opportunities at Illinois Tech. These experiences can help you determine your career path, provide you advanced skills that set you up for a great career, and your work could change the world. What is better than that? Thanks again for sharing your story with us today, take care.