Okay, everyone, let’s just jump right in on this study abroad experience everyone has at Goucher with Brandon, a recent graduate. He’s gonna fill you in on how the study abroad program works at Goucher, his transformative time abroad in Italy, and how it impacted his time at Goucher and beyond. Over to you, Brandon.
– Thank you for the intro, Alex. Before coming to Goucher, I never thought about how impactful their study abroad program was going to be. Growing up, I always knew I wanted to travel and explore unfamiliar areas. Coming to Goucher made that easy, and I’m so glad I was able to explore the world. During my sophomore year, I studied abroad for a semester in Sorano, Italy at also known as The School of Management. I was able to live the Italian life with a daily walk to and from school, and so many trips to cafes and gelato shops. I even learned how to make fresh pasta and do so regularly today. My classes were taught in English and I learned so much about my Italian culture while also taking classes that went towards my Business Major. This global education allowed me to bring my experiences abroad back into the classroom once I was back on campus. I loved the ways this program allowed me to balance school and travel too. I took advantage of every moment and traveled to over 30 cities. Goucher believes in the power of a global education. We were one of the first in the nation to fully integrate a study abroad experience into everyone’s college experience. And better yet, there are plenty of scholarship opportunities at no additional cost to make your study abroad affordable. These programs range from three week intensive courses to four year programs. Whatever study abroad program you choose, you will get firsthand experience on what it’s like to global learner. When I first started college, I would not have imagined the impact my study abroad experience had on my life. I learned so much about myself and several other cultures. That was my story. Alex.
– Wow, Brandon that was great. What an amazing experience for anyone who attends Goucher, being able to study abroad in a variety of formats and getting the perspective of experiencing other cultures and places. Your story really shows how Goucher is committed to a global perspective, and makes me very hungry for some of that homemade pasta. Thanks again for sharing, Brandon.
Staff, faculty and students at Iowa State all live by the principles of community. The messaging bedrock for cultivating inclusion at the university. These include respect, purpose, cooperation, richness of diversity, freedom from discrimination, and the honest and respectful expression of ideas. Creating an environment of success, Iowa State offers many resources to students from all walk of life. Up next, we have Sarah to share a bit more about some of those resources. Sarah, it’s all yours.
– Hey, Alex. Being a transfer student to Iowa State, I know how valuable it is to find a university that offers opportunities for all walks of life. It was important for me to find a campus culture that fosters individuality and welcomes students wherever they are on their academic journey. One of the best examples of Iowa State’s adaptability with transfer students is through our student learning communities. I was placed into the psychology transfer student learning community class my first semester here. It helped me get a head start on creating a graduation plan with my transfer credits. It also allowed me to make community and campus connections by encouraging involvement in clubs and organizations. Through this, I decided to become a peer mentor and co-instruct the transfer site class to help students transition into their new home. Iowa State plays a big part in not only paving the way for new students coming to campus, but in honoring the identities that already live in the heart of our campus. Student identities are celebrated all throughout the university grounds through historic dedications to minority groups, such as the Sloss House. Which offers programming and resources towards the advancement of gender equity. And the Upcoming Plaza, dedicated to the National Pan-Hellenic Council, which amplifies the importance of historically black sororities and fraternities. I found my home as the first vice president of a newly founded organization called Pride Goes Greek. A community for underrepresented members of the sorority and fraternity community, especially for those identifying under the LGBTQIA+ umbrella. I was worried about finding the right community on such a large campus, but little did I know that Cyclone Nation would help me challenge my perspectives and connect me with the right people to make change happen. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you so much, Sarah. I’m so glad you found your place at Iowa State and are helping others find theirs. With more than 30,000 Cyclones, Iowa State recognizes that no two students are alike and a variety of identities build campus diversity. Whether you’re a veteran, transfer student, LGBTQIA+, nontraditional, multicultural or utilize student’s accessibility services, there’s a place for you here at Iowa State. Iowa State has students from all 50 states and more than a 100 nations, all coming together to call Ames their home. This vibrant college town is part of what makes Iowa State so special.
While there’s a lot to do on campus, the Ames community both shopping, dining and outdoor activities to make the most of your college experience. Let’s check in with Stuart to see how he’s made Ames his home.
– You know, Alex growing up on a crop farm in small town Eastern Iowa and watching my father work to improve his farming operation, was truly inspirational. This led me to further my agricultural education here at Iowa State University. The moment I arrived in Ames was perfect. It was an easy place I could definitely call home. Getting involved is something that was really important to me. That’s why the first thing I did was join a fraternity. I have had fantastic opportunities, including becoming the president of the Farm Operations Club, becoming an ambassador for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and assisting in Iowa State University’s homecoming. Iowa State and the city of Ames provide countless opportunities for lifelong memories. There’s been a horticulture garden at Iowa State since 1914 and now Reiman Gardens is one of the finest gardens in the country. As one of the most popular attractions in Ames, Reiman Gardens is a great place to take a walk and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The best part, it’s free for all Iowa State students. With a population of just over 66,000, Ames has all the benefits of a bigger city. Including job opportunities, attractions, shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation. But it still definitely has that small town feel. It’s no wonder Ames is consistently ranked as one of the top places to live in America. Ames is also conveniently located only 40 minutes away from Des Moines, Iowa’s capital city. Moving here, easy. Accessible transportation was a must for me. CyRide, the city’s bus system, is a collaboration between the city of Ames and Iowa State. With CyRide’s 13 routes, you can easily get anywhere you need to go. My time spent here in Ames is something I’m gonna cherish forever. It’s easy to see why Ames has been ranked the number one college town in America. I hope you get the chance to experience it for yourself. What do you think, Alex? Back to you.
– I’m having a great time, Stuart! What a welcoming community and beautiful part of the country. You’re right, it’s easy to see why Ames is consistently ranked as one of the best places in America to live. Amazing.
Trust me when I say this, when you step on campus, it’s clear how this community feels about their Cyclones. As part of the Big 12 Conference, Iowa State offers a variety of Division I sports to entertain the loyal and true Cyclone fan base. From packing the Jack at football games to Hilton Magic during another March madness run, there is nothing like cyclone athletics. Someone who knows firsthand about the hard work those athletes put in is Lea, a junior on the softball team. She’s here to tell us about the Cyclone spirit. Hey Lea, you’re up.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. I have dreamed of going to a large college with a strong journalism program and a strong athletic program for as long as I can remember. I also wanted to attend a college where people are proud to rep their school colors. After one visit Iowa State exceeded all of my expectations. I knew Ames would be my new home. Iowa State puts a strong emphasis on being a student first and an athlete second. With our brand new Stark Performance Center, I’m able to meet with coaches, tutors, mentors, nutritionists, and my academic coordinator all in one place. This new building gives me the opportunity to work toward my future in journalism while also making large strides in my sport of softball. With all this amazing support, playing softball in a Cyclone uniform is an experience I could have never imagined. We strive to be all in, all together, all the time. Plus Cyclone Nation, our fans, are incredible. People are proud to rep cardinal and gold. That’s why being a student athlete at Iowa State is like being part of a humongous family, everyone supports everyone. At Iowa State a college education is more than just learning skills for a job, it’s about challenging your athletic ability, building camaraderie over sporting events, or even being part of Cyclone Alley for men’s and women’s basketball games. I believe Iowa State has prepared me for every aspect of life after college. And I could not be more excited. But wherever my future takes me, I’ll always end up back at Jack Trice Stadium every year, watching football games. Cyclone Nation is unmatched. Throwing it back to you, Alex.
– Lea, nice toss. Thanks for sharing your experience as an athlete and loyal member of Cyclone Nation. Good luck this season, we all will be rooting you on. Take care.
We’re now heading over to Canyon Ventures, a business startup incubation center here on campus, and we’re gonna meet up with Weston Smith. His undergraduate degree was in Mechanical Engineering, and now he’s an MBA student with an amazing startup business story. And he’s gonna speak about balancing entrepreneurship and education here at GCU. Hey, Weston, how are you, my man?
– I came to Grand Canyon University because I wanted to attend affordable Christian university that had a vibrant community, and also offered an engineering program. And it’s been transformative to be a part of a school that has such a strong entrepreneurial focus. A university where the gap between business and engineering is bridged, where a student entrepreneur like me could come with an idea and launch it into a full-scale business. I came to GCU to study mechanical engineering because there’re extensive machine shop in engineering labs. Academics were rigorous, but they had one encompassing idea. GCU wanted to prepare us to be problem solvers, and use our education to better people’s quality of life, and that’s what led me to launch Lux Longboards. Coming into my freshman year of college, I was immediately faced with the issue of transportation on campus. On my sophomore year of college, I actually purchased electric longboard on a whim, and this immediately transformed my college experience. I could get around campus anywhere within five minutes versus spending up to 30 minutes a day walking. After having students continually stop me on campus to demo my electric longboard, my entrepreneurial instincts kicked in to solve their problem, which was commuting on campus. My sophomore year, I launched Lux Longboard Rentals LLC with the help of Professor Tim Kelley. At that time, I was taking a class taught by him that combined engineering with entrepreneurism. My mission was to save students time through electric longboard rentals. So I created a self-sustaining electric longboard rack that I designed in the engineering labs, and then I welded in the engineering machine shops. This led me to begin developing my own product line. We pivoted from longboard rentals and began electric longboard manufacturing. Our headquarters, unlike manufacturing spaces, is located here in GCU’s Canyon Ventures, a premiere innovation incubation hub. Is it a unique space? It is home to almost 30 ventures, where students can come and get real work experience with entrepreneurs like me. at Canyon Ventures, I get a plethora of consulting and mentorship that helps me grow my business. The support from the staff, faculty and leadership, it has helped me. As a young entrepreneur, has been overwhelming. It has helped me grow this idea and solution into a full-blown business. GCU’s innovative approach to bridging the gap between business and engineering continues to be a game changer for me. I am living proof that a good idea, a hard work ethic, and leaning into the resources provided by GCU can lead to success as a student entrepreneur. Lux Longboards is a product of amazing entrepreneurs, and taught here at GCU. And I know that if you have an idea or a small business, it will flourish here at GCU because this college is built for young entrepreneurs. Back to you, Alex.
– Weston, what an unbelievable story. Starting a company from scratch is so tough. And seeing how GCU came in behind and helped you build this into a full fledged company is absolutely spectacular. Thank you for sharing that. By the way, I’m buying one of those skateboards. Cheers, Weston.
Next, we’re heading to meet up with Luis. He has an inspiring story that I know you’re all gonna love. Luis is a junior studying Computer Science and Business Entrepreneurship, and he’s gonna speak on Students Inspiring Students here at GCU. Luis, please take it away.
– Hey, Alex. I’m a 2018 Students Inspiring Students, scholarship recipient. I’m actually not from here. My family is from Chinaloa, Mexico. I came to Phoenix when I was only three months old, and I’ve been here ever since then. I grew up undocumented, and that came with a lot of obstacles that I had to overcome. One of the biggest challenges was attaining higher education. There are so many obstacles before me, and so many closed doors, and I didn’t think that it was for me. That was until I found out about Grand Canyon University. I chose GCU because they opened the door for me when nobody else would. What first brought me here was the amazing atmosphere. It was unlike anything else. However, what’s kept me here are the incredible opportunities that they provide to the students. Coming from an immigrant background, every considers the idea of going to college simply because they cannot afford it. Instead of school, they believe that working is the only option they have. I decided to go against that norm and be the example for my cousins, brothers and sister. Being a first generation college student is difficult, but if they see that I can do it, then they’ll believe that they can do it too. I couldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for the Students Inspiring Students scholarship. They award full tuition scholarships to high school students. One of the requirements in getting the scholarship is doing community service hours by studying at the GCU Learning Lounge. The Learning Lounge is a free on-campus, afterschool tutoring program, where K through 12 students have the opportunity to be mentored by college student who goes by the role of a learning advocate. And the lounge is just one of the many resources that GCU provides. To list a few, we have the First Year Experience program, which helps new students transition into college. We also have Academic and Career Excellence Centers that we call ACE Centers, where you can get help academically and professionally. One amazing community that I’ve been blessed to be a part of, is TEDxGrandCanyonUniversity. TEDxGCU is a fully student-led organization here on campus. We get to provide a TEDx Talk event, once a year. They range from marketing, finance and design to production operations and speaker acquisition. And not only do we get to provide professional and meaningful experiences, we also get to do it in a fun and interactive way. I believe that a college education is more than learning skills for a job, it’s learning how to understand the world around you. GCU provides that beyond comparison with their focus on, community, faith and student opportunity. Thank you all so much. It’s been a pleasure talking to you. Back to you, Alex.
– Luis, your story is exciting and encouraging. We really appreciate you taking the time to open up about your journey here at GCU. That was a lot of fun. Thanks, Luis.
Now let’s head over to the Canyon Worship Music Studio here on campus. What a studio This is by the way. Here we’re gonna meet up with Melissa, a mother of a student who went to school here at GCU. And her story will warm any parent’s heart as they send their kid off to college. Melissa, please take it away.
– Thank you, Alex. So this must be the mom portion of the show, and I’m excited to share with you our experience as a family from our son’s freshman year as a Lope through his recent graduation. My beautiful gift of a spirited and idiosyncratic kid, who never slept, never left my side, recited stats and facts was on his way to a path that looked rather different than those of his classmates. He learned his way into situations, and often found himself anxiety-riddled and confused. During those tumultuous times, it was music that gave him the most peace. Here is where Grand Canyon University’s story meets Austin’s. From the first day we joined that car parade, coming on to GCU’s campus, we were overwhelmed that student after student was lined up sweating in that Arizona heat, cheering for him just to unload his boxes and take him up to his room. He was bombarded with words of welcome from the Resident Assistants and dorm Life Leaders. It was as if God painted in the sky, we want you. Yes, you. Every child feeling welcomed is essential to esteem, but for those that have ever felt marginalized, that initial over the top welcome, bears even more weight. From there, he went to further explore the campus, and was given countless opportunities to join clubs and further engage. Inside the classroom, the faculty was equally as invested. As Austin shared, here’s what’s hard for me, he was met with maybe try it this way, or what works best for you. Learning was occurring on both sides of the table. His most fun on campus highlight was going from a sound technician for worship nights to the resident DJ for all of GCU’s major events. And he is actually now teaching digital music production. The enthusiasm and that constancy of purple gave Austin a sense of belonging, and it has been my privilege as a mom to share this story. And now back to you, Alex.
– Melissa, that was so touching. We can’t thank you enough for opening up and telling your story about Austin, and how GCU, so positively affected his life. That was amazing. Thanks again, Melissa.
So what’s the secret sauce behind the creation of better products and systems that improve our lives? It’s design, and Illinois Tech is home to be the Institute of Design. One of the most renowned design schools in the world. Design student, Jocelyn and her fellow classmates are practicing human center design in action through hands on projects. They’re solving real challenges for real clients. Jocelyn, it is all yours.
– Thanks for the introduction Alex, before coming to the Institute of Design, I was trained as someone who can be accountable for solving given problems, but ID has actually offered me lenses to look at the complex system and reflect on why we do what we do. ID is much more than a design school, it is actually a supportive community made up by a group of talented, passionate, and inspiring human beings who are drawn together to address the most challenging issues of our time. Being surrounded by this group of amazing designers and system thinkers, I felt the urgent need to step out of my comfort zone. Earlier this year, I teamed lab with five other ID students and participate in the Rotman Design Challenge, an annual business design competition. With the mentorship of our experienced ID professors, we were able to combine the human center design and business strategy to create our final proposal. Our proposal was to reach a new market segment through viable innovation concepts for the biggest retail chain in Canada. As an outcome, we are played second among the pool of 39 student teams across the globe. Grad school is not only a place for academic achievement, but career development as well. ID provide great resources to connect us with a wide range of organizations, industry professionals, through externships career ID, workshops, recruiting events, and most importantly, the strong and engaged alumni network. After ID, I will be working as a UX designer at a global kitchen and bath company. On the seven person experience team. Actually three of us are from the Institute of Design. ID is not only a label to unlocking job opportunities, but also the foundation of my confidence to make an impactful difference in my future work. That’s all for me, Alex, take it back.
– That blows my mind Jocelyn, some of the most exciting ideas get their start at the Institute of Design at Illinois Tech. With innovation minded designers from Illinois Tech, our future is in good hands. That was fantastic. Thank you again for sharing your story, take care.
Okay everyone, to start us off, let’s meet Julia. She’s a senior studying agricultural business and economics with an emphasis in finance. She comes from a family with deep agricultural roots and uses her life experiences in her leadership role as student body president. She personifies the rich land grant history at this renowned campus. Julia, kick us off.
– Thank you, Alex. Hey, everyone. I grew up on a corn and soybeans farm in DeWitt, Iowa, where my family has been farming since 1854. Making my siblings and I seven generation agriculturalists. I chose Iowa State for the incredible faculty, staff, industry representatives and world class alumni network that complimented my academic interests. Here in Ames, I am a lover of intramural sports, belting out “Sweet Caroline” at football games, enjoying our standup comedy club skits, and exploring our campus greenhouses and nearby botanical garden, Reiman Gardens. This tropical paradise offers an ever changing kaleidoscope of colors, as up to 800 butterflies from nearly 80 species enchant visitors. This year, I am Iowa State University’s student body president. In this role, I work collaboratively with students to uplift students and advance initiatives related to college affordability, equity and inclusion to name a few. For the past three years, I have worked as a group fitness instructor for recreation services where I teach bar and Pilates classes. I’ve also worked in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Career Services Office. Just last year, after a 50 year hiatus, the Iowa State University Creamery was reopened. Providing students with additional food science and entrepreneurship opportunities, the creamery serves fresh, made from scratch ice cream, with flavors that honor Iowa State University history, traditions and people. Pretty sweet, right? Even sweeter yet though, Iowa State University was first chartered as the Iowa State agricultural college and model farm in 1858. Four years later in 1862, the Moral Land Grant Act by Abraham Lincoln, gave states land to use for higher education so anyone could go to school. Including the working class, women and minorities. In the early years of Iowa State students helped pay their way through school by carrying bricks on campus and supporting the construction activities of many of our campus’ historic buildings. In 1906, Iowa State University became the birthplace of extension and outreach. Something we are really proud of. Extension and outreach programs can be found across the United States, helping connect citizens with research. Supporting a rich research and student focus history, Iowa State University ensures safety is a top priority on campus. The Iowa State University Police Department, employs state certified police employed by the university. There are campus officers on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our engagement and inclusion officers have established a formal partnership with the office of diversity and inclusion to increase the opportunities to interact with students. Plus a no additional cost service SafeRide provides secure rides on campus from 6:00 PM to 5:30 AM for students. Here at Iowa State University of Science and Technology, a college education equips students with the knowledge and tools to enjoy their adventure, find their passions and join other Cyclones in creating, sharing and applying knowledge to make Iowa and the world a better place. As we seek to find solutions to the complex global issues we face together, I am encouraged as a member of the Cyclone community to take advantage of the growth opportunities presented through Iowa State University to create lasting positive change in the world around me. 30,000 plus Cyclones, eight colleges, 100 plus majors, 900 plus clubs, one amazing experience. Welcome to Iowa State University. Let’s see what Alex has to say about all that Iowa State has to offer.
– Welcome, indeed. Julia, excellent job showcasing the history and safety of Iowa State. I’m gonna have to stop by the creamery and grab some of that ice cream. I love ice cream, by the way. It’s clear you have a passion for agriculture and the university as a whole. As you said, Iowa State offers incredible opportunities to innovate and make the world a better place. And that is absolutely incredible. Thanks for sharing your story with us.
From inventors to astronauts, to Fortune 500 CEOs, Iowa State students are prepared to take on all kinds of challenges when they graduate. That includes educating and empowering students for those real life experiences. In addition to hosting some of the largest career fairs in the nation. Let’s meet Laura, a senior marketing and management student who is already capitalizing on the internship and career opportunities through Iowa State.
– Hey, Alex! As a futuristic thinker, my mindset coming into college was a little bit different than some. I knew it was more than just getting a degree. And that’s why I chose Iowa State University. This university is not only gonna provide you with the best four years, but the people here are gonna set you up for success for your future endeavors. The main goal is not only to find that major you love and get a degree, but to really find your passions and find that fitting career. I love my majors and researching for future careers. But when it came time for me to apply for a job, I had no idea where to begin. Luckily Iowa State invests and values in student success. With cover letter enhancing, resume building and interview prep. If you’re unsure with your passions or your career path, check out Career Exploration Services. They can help you identify your strengths and a fitting career. At the beginning of every semester, Iowa State holds many career fairs. All students are encouraged to go to start networking. And that’s exactly how I landed my internship last summer with Pepsi Co. My goal was always to work for a Fortune 500 company. And with Iowa State’s resources of interview prep and cover letter enhancing, I was selected. Shortly after being at Pepsi for a couple months, Iowa State alumni reached out to me to congratulate me and offer a helping hand. That’s the power of Cyclones everywhere. A college education is more than just learning skills for a job, it’s about honing in on skills that sets you apart, finding a career path and joining a community of Cyclones that makes Iowa and the world a better place. I can’t wait for what the future holds, but I know I’ll be just fine with the endless support and opportunities that Iowa State has to offer. Let me hear your go Cyclones, Alex!
– Go, Cyclones! Laura, what comes after college is so important. Having a network of over a quarter million living alumni is an incredible resource. Clearly Iowa State has prepared you to be a business leader of tomorrow. Thanks again for sharing.