Let’s head over to the recreation center in the SURC and meet up with Audrey, who’s an instructor on the university’s climbing wall, and studying to be a health teacher, and coach. She also on Central’s track, and field team. Audrey’s gonna tell us how her love for the great outdoors, and the Ellensburg experience drew her to Central. Take it away. Audrey.
– Thanks Alex. And hello everyone. When I transferred to Central Washington University, I knew it had a great teacher education program, and would allow me to continue doing the outdoor activities, I’ve enjoyed my whole life. Ellensburg is a great location. And for me, it’s also close to home. I grew up in the great outdoors, and I’m glad I get to enjoy those activities while I’m going to college. Central, is a perfect fit for me. Plus, I love the small town feel of Ellensburg. It’s a safe place, with lots of great restaurants, and businesses. I eventually wanna teach health. Central’s PE, and school health program. is known for producing great teachers. The major uses a cohort system, which means you go through the whole program, with the same group of about 20 people. It’s a really great way to make friends, and really feel a sense of community in the school. In addition to earning my degree, I’m also a member of Central’s track team. And I work as an instructor at the climbing wall in the Rec Center. I love getting to talk to all the climbers who come in to use the wall. It’s so much fun getting to know other people, who enjoy the same things I do. Many students are drawn to Central Washington university, because the recreation opportunities here are endless. I really enjoy hiking, climbing, skiing, backpacking, and I’ve started doing some peak bagging this year, which has just been so much fun. I love getting outside, and enjoying the fresh air, and beautiful views. I’ve connected with wonderful professors, coaches and Rec Center staff, who have been amazing resources, are super knowledgeable, and have truly cared about me, and helped prepare me for life. Back to you, Alex.
– Nice work, Audrey. I’ll have to take you up on the climbing lessons next time I visit. You make it look so easy, and how awesome that you get to enjoy so many of your favorite outdoor activities, right in your own backyard, keep enjoying the fresh air, and beautiful views. Thanks for sharing. Take care.
All right, everyone, let’s head over to Samuelson Hall, which is a showcase for Central’s highest demand stem programs, and features a robotics lab, a cyber warfare lab, and a digital sandbox for active learning. Here, we’ll meet Keegan an ITAM major specializing in Cybersecurity. She’s gonna share, how her faculty mentor, made her success personal. Keegan, You’re up.
– Hi Alex. Thank you everyone. Growing up, I’ve always known, I wanted to study something involving technology. I’ve always been really close with my family, and so moving far away from them, was something I was really nervous about. But Ellensburg and Central, have become my home away from home. I am a softball player here at Central, so my process for choosing a college looked a little different than others. When I was recruited here, the first thing I looked at was their technology majors. Turns out they had some amazing options to choose from. I chose ITAM with a Cybersecurity focus. And for those of you who don’t know what that is, it’s Information Technology and Administrative Management. I was drawn to ITAM because I wanted to gain knowledge on both technical side, and the administrative side of an organization. This program is unique because, it bridges the gap between the two sides, not only focusing on the high demand technical skills, but also teaching me soft skills like leadership, and supervision that most companies are looking for in a graduate. Central has not only provided me with a quality education, but has given me some amazing friends and connections. Dr. David Douglas is someone who I’ve grown close with. He’s one of my ITAM professor, and mentors. He’s also the faculty affiliate for the softball team, which means he meets with us regularly, to help with academics wellness and support. It’s nice knowing he’s here to help us grow his people. Before I came to Central, I was concerned I wasn’t going to get the support I needed to succeed. But once I got here, I understood what it meant to be a part of the Wildcat family. I am grateful for the support, and encouragement. I have been given by my professors, mentors and friends through this journey. That’s my story. Now, back to you, Alex.
– Wow. Keegan, what an amazing experience Samuelson looks like the perfect place for students, and faculty to work together. And cybersecurity is such a great degree program to be part of right now. Congrats on your upcoming graduation, and good luck in your future. Thanks for sharing Keegan.
Next, we’re heading over to the Buc TV Studio here on campus, where we have Anthony waiting for us. He’s a senior, majoring in radio, TV and film and he’s excited to share his personal story about being a student at ETSU. We can’t wait to hear what he’s been doing and who’s had the opportunity to meet along the way. Anthony, how are you? You’re on my man.
Hello everyone. Northeast Tennessee is my home. In fact, I grew up in Kingsport, just down the road. A few of my family and friends graduated from ETSU so it was a place I could always see myself going. After graduating from a two year community college I transferred to ETSU and found plenty of opportunities not just in my studies, but also financially.
In my third year at ETSU I’m looking at graduating debt free due to great scholarship opportunities. Upon my arrival at ETSU I took it upon myself to get as involved in campus life as possible because there wasn’t really many opportunities in high school or community college and ETSU had plenty of options. One unique thing about ETSU is we have access to Adobe so students get Creative Cloud for free. As a filmmaker, you’ll have access to Adobe programs like Premier Pro, Audition and After Effects which is extremely helpful. These programs are very expensive especially for students.
Whether it be multimedia production, audio production or post-production, you’ll learn how to use these programs that are industry standard. The media and communication department has plenty of opportunities to grow as a professional and an individual. There are several student groups in the media and communication department, many of which I’m a part of. I’m currently president of Alpha Sigma Iota, our departments, radio TV, film, service fraternity. Due to the skills that I’ve learned in these extra curricular activities we’ve been able to connect with and bring in speakers from companies like The Walt Disney Company, MTV, WarnerMedia, Sony, and Lucasfilm, just to name a few.
The East Tennessean, our award-winning student newspaper is like another family to me and has given me so many great opportunities like being able to meet Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and go into a Gabriel Iglesias show. I’ve been working with the East Tennessean since I arrived at ETSU and while I’m not a journalism major or minor, it’s given me some of the most fun and rewarding experiences I’ve had as a student. Covering the campus news with the East Tennessean and and BucTV News helps keep me updated with all the departments and events going on across campus.
BucTV News, our campus news broadcast has given me live broadcast and news experience. I started working on BucTV news last spring as an entertainment director for TV2 class. And I went on to hold a variety of positions from production manager to technical director and now director. And I’ve been doing all of these things for the past year. Going on club trips to Discovery and Nozzle with ASA or PBS in Washington DC with Strategic Media club has changed my career trajectory tremendously.
The lessons about networking that I’ve learned from Dr. Marshall and SMC has been invaluable. I’ve also had the chance to write and direct short films with Buc Films, our student filmmaking club. ETSU has worked hard to set me up for success. As long as you come motivated and passionate about what it is that you wanna do they will help you every step along the way. And that’s the college of arts and sciences here at ETSU. Back to you, Alex
– Anthony, that was great. From someone who has spent his career in front and behind the camera I can fully appreciate everything you were being exposed to with the media programs here at ETSU. Getting a chance to hang out at Discovery Studios and meet Kareem Abdul Jabbar is simply awesome. Cheers, Anthony. Thanks again.
All right everyone, let’s meet Alexis. She’s majoring in ocean engineering, with a minor in mathematics. FAU’s coastal location offers students countless opportunities to conduct incredible research in the region’s vast marine ecosystems. They’ve got students working alongside experts in sea turtle conservation, shark migration, coastal restoration, and much, much more. This is going to be a great one. Alexis, you are on.
– Thank you, Alex. I’ve been very fortunate to work on a variety of research projects here at FAU. Here, undergraduates have the rare opportunity to conduct doctoral level research early on. I’ve been able to work on projects developing submersibles to identify the invasive red lionfish, and a way to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from the thermal power plant systems. I am currently conducting research on FAU’s Harbor Branch campus as a part of their Marine Science and Engineering summer internship program. I’ve been able to work on quantifying Florida’s red tide issue and protecting the endangered Atlantic sturgeon. FAU’s campuses span 110 miles of coastline and it’s unique locations from the Indian River lagoon, to Dania Beaches intercostal area, offers students interested in ocean related studies, extraordinary opportunities to learn through experience from world famous researchers. I’m able to collect samples for my studies right on campus, and even go diving at FAU’s sea tech campus. FAU is the first school in the nation to have an undergraduate ocean engineering program and the faculty and staff that make up this program keep me motivated to continue on such a rigorous career path. No matter how elaborate my project ideas got, I always had a faculty member right there with me. The unwavering support for undergraduate research here at FAU is what has allowed me so many opportunities for success with my work. I’ve helped other undergraduates develop their own research projects that make them feel just as passionate as I feel exploring research ideas. FAU makes me confident that I chose the best school for my studies. That’s it for me, Alex. What’s up next?
– Alexis, wonderful job. Thank you for sharing your story with us. The opportunities for students interested in marine and ocean related studies are just remarkable. These students are joining world-class researchers, investigating some of humanity’s greatest challenges, and addressing issues that impact Florida, our nation and beyond. Thank you, Alexis.
FAU’s beach side location is a huge draw for students, so we’re going to head less than two miles off campus to the beach and meet Santonya. She’s a sophomore majoring in psychology, with a minor in human resource management and she’s going to tell us how FAU students take full advantage of all the stuff Florida has to offer. Santonya, you’re on.
– Hey everyone. Moving all the way to South Florida from a small town in Georgia felt like a big risk, but FAU proved to be the only school that could provide me undergraduate research opportunities, dedicated advisors, and an excellent faculty to student ratio, in a location less than two miles from the beach. Living in Boca Raton, I’m surrounded by booming businesses, palm trees, and the beauty of the Atlantic ocean, but that’s not the only thing that makes FAU’s location so special. For me, being a short drive from cultural hubs, such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Del Ray Beach, provide the perfect opportunities to learn and live in paradise. On weekends, I start my days giving tours to prospective students before heading out to brunch with friends, or relaxing right here on the beach. If you’re feeling more active, there are tons of trails and parks to explore, and FAU’s campus rec offers outdoor adventure tours and equipment rentals so that you can explore South Florida’s great outdoors to the fullest extent. One of my favorite spots to meet with friends and take in the local culture is Atlantic Avenue, also known as the Ave. Here you’ll find street festivals, local businesses and restaurants with amazing food and live music. The beauty of going to school in South Florida is that you’re not confined to campus. We spend a lot of time exploring the local community. Living in South Florida, there’s so much to see and do and so much to learn in and out of the classroom. What some may call a weekend getaway or spring break, I get to call everyday life. What’s next, Alex?
– Santonya, that was amazing and so is that ocean view. I love how FAU students really immerse themselves in the culture of South Florida and explore the natural beauty of this area. What an incredible place to go to college! That was excellent, thank you.
. With creativity at its heart, Columbia’s programs are also grounded in the liberal arts and sciences. All students complete a rigorous core curriculum, which includes classes in a broad range of subjects, including history, literature, science, writing, and math, along with a few classes unique to Columbia. Here’s sophomore film and television major, Jewel, to share her academic experience.
– Hello, everyone. I grew up in Chicago and I’ve always loved how creative my city is. When I was just nine years old, I found my true calling after participating in a film and journalism program. From there I learned more about photography, videography and even journalism. I then created my own photography and videography company in 2018, becoming an entrepreneur at 16 years old. With all my prior film knowledge, I knew I needed to get to evolve in my career during a college, and Columbia College Chicago is the place to be. Although I’m a film and television major with the minor photography, I love that Columbia offers a liberal arts experience. I’m learning how to form a short film properly while also getting perspective on Chicago’s Latinx culture. In my first semester I learned about the years of philosophy study in asynchronous class, meaning that I was able to take the coursework on my own time. Having coursework classes within my schedule educates me far beyond my major while also teaching me business etiquette and industry skills. In my first year I also use our library’s database for research purposes, but also dug up some more information about philosophy just out of my own curiosity. I even use some professors office hours to better myself and my work. Not only is Columbia a 30 minute drive from home, build learning from faculty, connect with students from all over the world and being able to evolve my career for the next three years are some things I love about Columbia. Also love that within some of my classes, I’m able to use hands-on equipment while also working alongside professionals who are active in their industries. FYI, I maintain straight A’s my entire first year and ended with a 4.0 GPA. Even while maintaining straight A’s, I stay super involved in the campus community. I’ll be one of this year’s orientation leaders, the Vice President of a new group called Soul Sisters and I’ll probably squeeze some more activities into my schedule too. Going to Columbia is unlike any other school. Here you’re able to engage with the world around you while also gaining knowledge in whatever industry that you choose, which for me is film and television. Even pursuing my minor, I’m able to connect with other creatives while also enhancing our photography skills. Everyone at Columbia is able to grow so much within just one semester, and here you’re able to make friends while doing it. So far my college education has been way more than learning techniques for a job. I developed lifelong skills, such as adequately communicating, staying engaged with my work, completing tasks on time, and knowing how to edit what I make, operate cameras and capture great pictures. Columbia is a significant investment, but it’s one of that my parents and I will treasure forever. That’s it for me. Tell us what’s next, Alex.
– Thanks Jewel. It’s inspiring to see a student like you who’s taking full advantage of everything Columbia has. Thank you for showcasing the depth of Columbia’s academic experience, that was excellent
2021, ASL English Interpretation graduate, Kirsten, is here to tell you firsthand how essential it is to connect with your faculty.
I especially miss the ASL Center, a place where ASL students can go practice their signing and hangout. Faculty members come to and hang out with us so we can build those relationships outside of the classroom. Angie Malcomson and Diana Gorman are two professors that made a huge impact on my life. I don’t know if I would have graduated without them. Diana was my linguistics professor. I’m deaf and hard of hearing, and it was in her classes that I first experimented with hearing aids, and I also had my very first interpreters. She made me feel comfortable and accepted the entire time. With Diana I learned the love of the language. Angie was my interpreting professor. Her classes made me fall in love with interpreting all over again. She always worked hard with us to make sure that we could turn things in if we weren’t doing super well. I will always appreciate her flexibility during the pandemic and putting an emphasis on making sure that we were taking care of ourselves. Angie, also helped me learn how to advocate for myself and made sure I understood that I deserved access to education just like everybody else. She is the person that saved me when I needed one last credit to graduate. Immediately, she said that she would do an independent study with me and it ended up being one of the best experiences that I’ve had. Aggie always pushes me just enough to be the absolute best that I could be. The amount of care that Columbia faculty members put into their students continues to blow me away. In the ASL Department, our professors work hard to find deaf events in the community that we can go to, so we can network. We also get mentors in our practicum one class, so we can get industry experience and meet professional interpreters. Our professors work hard to make sure that we are as prepared as possible.
Kirsten, thank you so much for showing us the power of relationship building with your faculty. It’s obvious Columbia’s professors are dedicated to sharing their knowledge and experience with their students. Thanks again.
We’ll meet Kristyn. She’s a senior majoring in public management, and she’s going to tell us about the many clubs and events here at FAU. You are up, please take it away.
– Thanks Alex. Hey everybody. When I arrived on FAU campus, I didn’t know anyone, so I knew I needed to get involved to make the most out of my experience here. I immediately signed up for sorority recruitment and found my home away from home in Alpha Delta Pi. The most unique aspect of fraternity and sorority life here at Florida Atlantic University is a true sense of community. I always see a friendly face on campus and we are constantly collaborating and supporting each other’s organizations. FAU has over 400 clubs, so there truly is something for everybody. In addition to Greek life, I’ve made lifelong friends through FAU’s club cheer team, the spear fishing and free diving club, and the scuba diving club. These groups gave me the chance to do some traveling and make great memories. We drove to Daytona for a cheer competition and to Jenny Springs for a camping trip. Our campus community always has something going on with FAU’s Boca Raton campus hosting over 5,000 student led events each year. One of my favorites is the annual fall bonfire to kick off the school year. It’s a fun tradition that brings the whole university together. Then in the spring, we’ve got our carnival and the festival of nations, which celebrates the diversity of our school. I’ve had the best college experience, thanks to how easily I was able to get involved on campus. My involvement has helped me to further develop my leadership skills and my confidence. As a freshman, unsure about what college would look like for me, I could have never imagined the impact FAU would have on my life. As a senior, I hold leadership positions across campus, including on the Panhellenic council. These opportunities to work with my peers, not only enriches my time at FAU, but also allows me to form deep connections that will last long after graduation. Alex, what’s next?
– I love seeing the ways FAU students can make the most of their college years. FAU aims to create a welcoming space for all students. It’s top rating for LGBTQ plus friendliness and recognition as a Hispanic serving institution are just two examples of this commitment in action. Thanks again.
Now that you have heard from some students about their experiences at Carson-Newman University, let’s hear from someone who is leading the effort to define Carson-Newman’s future. Dr. Charles Fowler, Carson-Newman’s President, shares his vision for his plans to lead the university into a new era of spiritual and academic success.
– Thanks, Alex. As you can tell, after hearing from several of our students at Carson Newman, this is truly a special place. For over 170 years, we’ve been preparing students to be difference makers in the world. And all across those 170 years, there have been moments when a fresh vision emerged and was embraced in order to provide our students what they need to become everything they are destined to be. And this is one of those moments. This is the time for a recommitment to the values that we hold so dear. As we embrace this new vision, our university community has initiated a five-year strategic plan to improve facilities and to enhance our academic programs. This initiative will allow us to construct several new academic buildings, improve existing facilities and to add exciting new programs to our academic offerings. We believe that through this bold vision that we are going to help our students reach their full potential as educated citizens and worldwide servant leaders. But with all of these exciting changes, there is one thing that will never change. And that is our steadfast commitment to be faithful to our Christ-centered mission. Cause it’s who we are, it’s what we do. Our students receive a world-class education at Carson-Newman University. They are embraced by a community that is marked by compassion, service, and purpose. Serving Christ and serving others. That’s the foundation upon which this university was formed and it is our mission as we pursue God’s preferred future for Carson-Newman University. Thank you. Now back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Dr. Fowler for your vision, for your leadership and for your commitment to pursue God’s preferred future for Carson-Newman university. Wow. What they say is true. Carson-Newman University really is a special place. I want to thank all the incredible students for sharing their stories with us. So you can learn more about what this university is all about. What an amazing university located in such a beautiful part of east Tennessee. So that’s it for me. I want to encourage all of you to learn more about Carson-Newman University for yourself, and hopefully we’ll see you on campus real soon. Talon’s Up. Cheers, everybody.
All right, everyone, let’s go meet Niko over at Dugmore, Central’s newest residence hall. Campus has a total of 25 residence halls and apartments. Niko, is a music education major in Central’s nationally ranked music program, and is earning a degree in Spanish. He’s lived on campus since day one. Here’s Niko to explain how that’s had such a positive impact on his time here at Central.
– Hi Alex. Thanks so much for having me. When I was in high school, I didn’t even know about CWU. I only knew the name, because a friend of mine moved here when I was a junior. I came to visit her, and the campus, and I instantly felt in love. My time here has been amazing. I made some great friends in the first weekend and it turned out we were all on the marching band together. So I see them every day. Over my last few years here, Central’s given me a place to thrive, and grow into my own person. I absolutely love living on campus. It completely enhances my experience. Everything super close by, and it’s easy to get around. I’m able to branch out and do or be everything I want. From theater productions to in real sports, to working as an RA in my residence hall, I basically get to do as much as I could fit into my day. The campus culture is so accepting, and welcoming. From the different clubs and organizations on campus, to the friends you meet in your residence halls to become your family. For the people you meet downtown, Central really feels like home. In addition to all the awesome activities, and events each week, Central also has plentiful resources to help students with health awareness right here on campus. I’m off to teach music in the public school soon, and I really feel like Central’s helped me find my way to my passion. I’ve met lifelong friends and colleagues here on this campus, and I can’t imagine having gone anywhere else. Thanks so much for letting me share this with you, Alex.
– Thanks Niko. For telling us the benefits of living on campus. It’s definitely an essential part of the Central experience. Not only are students more plugged into the campus community, and it’s easier to attend events, but students who live on campus tend to have higher GPAs. So it’s also a smart choice. Way to go Niko.