From operation in as much where hundreds of students, faculty, and staff volunteer to help others, to Carson-Newman’s own Appalachian outreach program, which provides basic needs to families in the region, serving others is part of the DNA of Carson-Newman University. With that in mind, let’s meet Rita, a psychology and political science double major whose dream has always been to get a college degree. Rita has done so much at Carson-Newman, even starting an organization seeking to empower immigrant students like herself. Next, Rita will tell us a bit about the life of a student, and the opportunity she has had to engage in things that are important to her. Rita. Please take it away.
– Thank you for that introduction, Alex, when choosing your college, the resources, academic rigor, and financial aid are essential. As an immigrant, education has always been something important to me, despite the barriers to achieving a higher education. When transferring from my local community college, private universities intimidated me due to the size, costs, and opportunity. But here at Carson-Newman, I am able to graduate debt free, form relationships with my professors, and utilize the resources I need. Upon entering Carson-Newman, I was able to partake in the first cohort of equal transfer education scholars. This allowed me to pursue my Bachelor’s in Psychology and Political Science. It was here that I followed my passions for advocacy, mental health, and accessibility to a higher education. With the 14 to one student faculty ratio, not only have my professors supported me, but have pushed me to apply for internships, register for rigorous courses and seek a higher degree in my field of study. With over 40 student organizations on campus, students are able to invest and engage in opportunities that could help them grow intellectually, spiritually, culturally, and socially. The Eagle production company allows students to plan events and partake in the yearly college street festival. Student Government Association empowers students to advocate for others. I co-founded PODER, which stands for Pursuing Our Dreams. Embracing Our Roots. We seek to empower immigrant students while bringing cultural awareness. Carson-Newman has not only empowered me to be a local leader in my community, but it has prepared me academically in more ways than I could’ve ever envisioned. As a university with the mission to reflect the heart of Christ, we encourage our graduates to be servant leaders and make a difference wherever they go. Talons up, back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Rita really is a leader and I’m certain she will be having an impact on the lives of others wherever she ends up after graduation. Congratulations, Rita and Talons Up.
Okay, let’s get to it. We’re going to head over to Cherokee Lake. That’s just a few miles from Carson-Newman’s campus, where we’re going to meet Lee Rose. Because Carson-Newman is nestled in between Cherokee and Douglas lakes, a new outdoor adventure seems to be around every corner. With breathtaking scenery, stunning views, and lots of opportunities to explore nature, Carson-Newman students, like Lee Rose, can experience God’s creation at its finest. Lee Rose, you are on.
– Thanks Alex. Hello everyone. Growing up, I spent most of my free time outdoors, and I knew I wanted to attend university where I could channel my love for taking adventures. At Carson-Newman, we are minutes away from here, beautiful Cherokee lake, a favorite spot for students to relax and refresh. The two beautiful lakes are known for their clear blue water, majestic views of our east Tennessee mountains, and several different species of fish, drawing fishermen from all across the country, like me. That’s right. I’m a member of the Eagle Anglers Fishing Team where we are ranked fourth in the nation. And we have the unique opportunity to travel all across the country, competing in collegiate level tournaments while at the same time, drawing attention to Carson-Newman as a Christian university. In addition, we are just a short drive from the Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg area, home to Dolly Parton’s Dollywood, with endless entertainment, rides, and even a waterpark. Dollywood is a theme park with true Southern charm. And it’s surrounded by the breathtaking views of the great Smoky Mountains. And if you’re looking for city life, downtown Knoxville is just a few miles down the road. Knoxville is home to the Knoxville Zoo, several different museums, and my favorite spot, Market Square. Since the 1860s, Market Square has been one of the most popular places in their region to shop, work, and eat. As a Carson-Newman student, my calendar is pretty full, but I always try to take the time to adore the location and all of the fun it brings. And to top it off, my Carson-Newman experience has enabled me to grow as an individual, strengthen my Christian faith, and reach my full potential. Sending it to you, Alex.
– From Dollywood to downtown Knoxville, I can tell there are some amazing places in and around Carson-Newman University, just waiting for students to explore. Thanks so much, Lee Rose. And if you’re cooking up some of that fish for dinner tonight, let me know because I definitely want a taste And good luck to all the Eagle Anglers this coming year. Take Care.
So a part of Carson-Newman’s appeal is that it has a place for everyone. Recent Carson-Newman graduate, Faith, is a perfect example of how a liberal arts education can help a student discover what they want to do with their life. Faith graduated with a degree in psychology and she plans to become a child psychologist after completing her Master’s of Counseling degree here at Carson-Newman. Faith was also an active member in the Bonner Scholars Program where she volunteered to help others in the community. So let’s hear from Faith and learn more about her experience here at Carson-Newman university.
– Thanks Alex. When I was searching for a college to attend, my goal was to find a school that will help me to fulfill my dream of being a child psychologist. I was always that friend who gave advice, listened, and was there to help with anything my friends or family needed. A close family friend suggested that I visit Carson-Newman University. As soon as I walked onto campus, I absolutely loved it. One of the benefits of receiving a degree from a liberal arts institution is that you get to take classes in multiple different subject areas. And the curriculum helps you to apply the knowledge you are learning in a class in real-world settings. Carson-Newman’s Christian educators are passionate about helping students reach their full potential as educated citizens and worldwide servant leaders. The concept of becoming a servant leader was instilled in me by being a part of the Bonner Scholars program at Carson-Newman. The Bonner Program is a four year scholarship program that supports a strong team of students working to bring about positive community change through service, research, and action. Our motto is “become the change”, meaning we seek to embody the changes we want to see in the world. One way that I chose to become the change at Carson-Newman was by becoming an Orientation Leader and Eagle Guide during my senior year. I wanted to connect and interact with freshmen students and their families. I now get to focus on helping prospective students full time, as I have recently accepted a position as an admissions representative C-N. I will get to continue my passion of helping others while at the same time, working on earning my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Before coming to Carson-Newman, I didn’t know how it was going to grow or make new connections. That’s why being here has taught me the value of Liberal Arts. By getting out of my comfort zone. I’ve become a better me. Back to you, Alex.
– Thanks, Faith. It sounds like you made the best of your time here and congratulations on your new job helping to recruit other students to your Alma Mater. That was great.
Now let’s head over to SkySong, the ASU Scottsdale Innovation Center, to meet up with Pooja. She’s majoring in technological entrepreneurship and management with a minor in statistics and a certificate in cross-sector leadership. Once again, these students are so impressive. And she’s gonna talk to us about what the ASU entrepreneurial mindset is all about here. Pooja, take it away.
A big, warm hi and welcome to everybody watching. A little bit about me. So, born and raised in Chennai India, I came to Phoenix all by myself the day after I turned 18, flying over 15,000 kilometers for 24 hours with nothing but two suitcases, two carry-ons, and quoting Coldplay, “A head full of dreams.”
I was admitted to ASU as a scholar of the Next Generation Service Corps, which is a four-year leadership and scholarship program which trains its members in cross-sector collaboration, community engagement, and human-centered problem solving to create tangible solutions to complex societal problems. Outside of ASU, I’m an advisory council member for Ashoka U, which is the world’s largest higher education social innovation convener with a global community of 500 Changemaker Campuses. Fun fact, ASU is one of the Changemaker Campuses, and I both attended and presented at the Ashoka U Exchange Conference in the past, representing ASU. All this might seem like a lot, but the hustle is what I live for, and it’s integral in the making of an entrepreneur and the entrepreneurial mindset.
Speaking of the entrepreneurial mindset, at ASU we define it as letting your curiosity take flight, securing connections, and creating value. And it is by no means limited to only those who wanna start a business. In fact, at ASU, we go above and beyond to incorporate the entrepreneurial mindset in everything we do as Sun Devils. It has definitely been one of the most important tools I’ve learned, for everything I’ve been able to achieve and accomplish is because of the entrepreneurial mindset. I’ve been a member of several startup founding teams and founded my own EdTech startup called Purpose Setter to help high school students make clear and purpose-driven career decisions for which we won several awards and funding.
My personal motto has always been passionately ambitious, continuously learning, and constantly problem-solving, and from the minute I set foot at ASU, I knew I belonged here. ASU is different from other universities in that we are measured by whom we include and not whom we exclude, and it is for this reason that I chose ASU. I’ve learned and grown so much here at ASU, made so many friends, met with top-notch faculty and staff, and been a part of many wonderful opportunities. And I’ll forever be a proud Sun Devil. Alex, that’s what entrepreneurial mindset is all about at ASU. Back to you.
Pooja, that was incredible. Great work. What you’re accomplishing here at ASU is phenomenal. You’re gonna change the world, Pooja.
So now let’s head over to the Hayden Lawn here on campus. Here, we have Jesus Vega waiting for us. He’s gonna talk with us about Arizona State’s community and support. Jesus, you’re on.
Yeah, what’s up Alex? What’s up everyone? My name is Jesus Vega and I’m currently a sophomore majoring in global studies. And I’m from Eureka Arizona, which is a small town right by the border of Mexico. I never imagined myself as a Sun Devil, but luckily because of my girlfriend who comes to ASU, I got to visit a lot and I just fell in love with the Campus. It was so big, there were so many walks of life, that I just knew I wanted to be here. I knew that by coming here, not only would I be able to get out of my comfort zone, but also be close enough to visit back home without a hassle.
As a first generation minority student, it can be difficult to navigate the college process, but ASU made it such a welcoming experience that I couldn’t have asked for anything better. And as a really big university, it could honestly be so easy to get overwhelmed. I mean, literally within the first week of school as a freshmen, ASU throws everything at you, everything from the running club, to the gaming club, to even Quidditch. But in order to make the most out of ASU, you have to find that small community within such a big community. You have to find those people that not only elevate you, but make you feel at home and like you belong here.
ASU also offers what’s called the First Year Success Coach, which is a student coach that helps first year students. And my coach, Suhey Ortega, was really there for me. As a matter of fact, I still talk to her every now and then. But coming into college, I didn’t feel like I belonged. My peers seemed to know more than me and as a first-generation student, it was quite discouraging. But going to her, she would tell me that it was okay and that I did belong here at ASU.
You know, something that I really love about ASU is that I’m not seen as less due to my background. I’m represented in many different ways, from the student leaders, to the professors, to the staff. You know, the charter is interesting because it’s talked about so much, but it honestly makes me feel at home. The fact that ASU measures itself not by who it excludes, but by who it includes is powerful. I’m constantly inspired by other people of color that are empowered to be successful here at ASU, because it reminds me every day that I, too, can be successful. ASU wants you to succeed. And what more can you ask for from a university? Back to you, Alex.
Jesus, great job. Thank you for opening up about your story. I’m glad you found ASU, my friend. That was great. Cheers, Jesus
Okay, everyone next, let’s meet Taylor whose love for children led her to pursue a bachelor’s degree in child and family studies. As you will hear her explain, family and consumer sciences has five unique majors, depending on your area of interest. So let’s head over to the child development lab. Take it away. Taylor.
– Thanks Alex. Hey, y’all I’m Taylor. And when you first go off to college, it can be a little scary, but it’s important to find your home on your new campus. At Carson-Newman, I found my home through the Family and Consumer Sciences Department. One of my favorite things about this department is the community that I’ve built through my classes and labs. In fact, one of my professors always prays with us at the beginning of every class. This really means a lot, And I think shows how much professors care about us. My major includes an emphasis in early childhood education. Programs for Young Children is a course where I met many new people while experiencing the opportunity to interact with children in a preschool lab. In the Child Development Lab, students observe the physical, social, and emotional development of preschoolers. My favorite part is getting the chance to create different learning centers and activities for the kids. Other labs that give FCS students hands-on learning experiences include the Foods and Nutrition Lab in Duncan hall. I loved both of these labs because you get to learn the basics of food preparation and learn to cook great food. Also team building and time management skills are incorporated into both of these labs, which is important for any FCS major. In addition to early childhood education and foods and nutrition, FCS offers majors in interior design and fashion design. And no matter your major, you get to complete an internship course your senior year. I’m confident the FCS department is preparing me to become an amazing leader, communicator, and role model in my future career. That’s all for me. Back to you, Alex
– Taylor, I know your enthusiasm and personality will lead you to great success in your future and what a beautiful facility in which you get to learn. That was amazing. Thanks again for that.
Okay everyone. So you are definitely going to want to stick around to see this place and these beautiful horses. Hope and her Asbury bred horse named Simba are waiting for us at the equine farm. Located just a few miles south of the horse capital of the world, Asbury’s equine program is equipping students to be Christ centered leaders in the equine industry. Hope, show us around.
– Thanks for that introduction, Alex, I spent my summers growing up as a volunteer at the Asbury University equine center, where I fell in love with the horses and the scenery. I always admired the college students that stuck around in the summers to help with camps, and I knew I wanted to be like them when I grew up. Plus, I knew I’d be able to spend more time with the beautiful horses at Asbury. Once a student at Asbury, I became involved with everything here at the equine center, I was a student worker and a member of multiple clubs. The professors and staff cared so much about my growth as a young horse woman, and I was able to do some really neat things. There are multiple academic tracks to choose from and each course offers a new way of looking at the equine industry. My favorite course was equine law, because we learned the why behind how horse businesses are run. Even after graduation, my professors still keep in touch and care about what I’m doing. I was a part of the service mounts program for the duration of my time at Asbury. I was assigned a colt as a freshmen and I got to train him up to the age of three. He now works as a police mount in the streets of Atlanta, Georgia. I got to learn every aspect of horse training from the ground up. Literally. I also loved how close we were to the world renowned Kentucky horse park. I was able to work there part-time and I learned so much. We were also able to volunteer at events like the national mounted police horse colloquium, and attend nationally recognized horse shows. I now work as a human resources administrator at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute in Lexington, Kentucky. It’s one of the oldest and largest private veterinary practices in the world. Thanks to Asbury, I’ve been equipped with the skills to be a lifelong learner. And I love being behind the scenes of the equine industry. I learned how important it is to keep an open mind and heart to accept new opportunities, and also to never take for granted the people around me who support and encourage me. That’s all from me back to you, Alex.
– Amazing job, Hope. Thank you for sharing your story. Asbury’s equine program truly is special. I can’t wait to get out there and feed Simba a carrot or two. That was awesome. Thanks again, Hope.
Okay everyone, let’s meet Sierra who is right at home, working in front or behind the camera. She’s a first-generation student, majoring in communications. Let’s head over to Blodgett Hall, while she’ll tell us how Adelphi’s approach to learning is very unique. And how the support she gets from professors and classmates, is literally changing her life. Sierra, over to you.
– Thanks Alex. Growing up I always knew I wanted to be involved in a creative field, but I wasn’t sure exactly where I wanted to be. After taking a media production course during my first year, I was inspired to go into communications with a concentration in digital production here at Adelphi. One thing I love about Adelphi is our professors take a personalized approach to our academics. We have small class sizes and it’s very different from sitting in a large lecture hall. Ever since my first semester, I’ve had tons of one-on-one meetings with all of my professors about different projects and assignments, and I’ve had a hands-on experience with a ton of different camera and sound equipment. So everything we work on is very personal. My classmates and I are always helping each other out on video shoots and our professors are extremely helpful in teaching us a combination of editing softwares. Many professors in our department have also had their films showcased at different film festivals, and they’re able to connect students with great internships. From local internships to even bigger opportunities in New York City, such as Saturday Night Live. One of my favorite things about Adelphi is its location. We have New York City right in our backyard and you’ll be in Manhattan in no time for either your internship or a field trip in business, arts, communications or technology. Coming to college as a first-generation student, I was very nervous about making friends and finding my place, but once I got to Adelphi, it felt just like home. Now, as a senior, I can’t wait to finish up my education and see what this field has in store for me. And that’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Sierra, it’s amazing how personalized attention from your professors can have such an impact. The comradery among you and your fellow comm students is absolutely awesome. And it sounds like you’ll be ready to roll after you graduate. We can’t wait to see where you end up. Please keep up with us, okay? Take care, Sierra.
It’s awesome to know that Adelphi students get so much attention in class, but what’s it like outside the classroom? With over 90 clubs and activities, exciting athletics and intramurals, there’s lots of student life. Sarah’s here to tell us all about it. She’s super confident now, but that wasn’t always the case. Let’s find out why at the Panther statue. Take it away, Sarah.
– Thanks Alex. Hi everyone. I’m a senior psychology, major in Adelphi’s education program. I knew I wanted to be a teacher when I was young, and Adelphi’s five-year master’s program for education, is what drew me into the school at first. But it’s not the only reason that I stayed. When I first came to Adelphi, I was scared to put myself out there, but it quickly changed when I met the amazing community here. These panthers inspired me to attend club meetings and explore different activities around campus. Starting with the student activities board. They were so welcoming and made me feel like I belonged. I am honored to say that I am now serving as the president of the very same club. From there, I joined a sorority. Joining a sorority has been by far one of the best experiences of my life. These girls became my best friends and support system to the past years. The wide range of Adelphi’s clubs and activities is surely something I have taken advantage of. They’re so important in helping students find one another and finding those with similar interests. The center for student and community engagement runs all clubs and organizations on campus. They’re are a great resource and support system for helping each student find what club is perfect for them. I am so happy that I chose Adelphi University. Adelphi has given me not only skills to use as a teacher, but it’s taught me how to work with others, take on leadership roles, and help new students do the same. When a student comes to Adelphi, they don’t just get an amazing college education, they get a great college experience. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Sarah, I absolutely love your journey becoming a student leader through all the amazing activities at Adelphi. I bet being in charge of a classroom will be a piece of cake for you now. And I love that five-year program saving you a year of tuition, very smart, but we expect nothing less from a future teacher. Thanks again.
And now we’re going to meet Madeline. Madeline is a campus leader focused on her academics, but also likes to blow off some steam and hang out with friends on the weekends. Let’s head over to the beautiful reasoner green and find out what all there is to do in and around Asbury and Wilmore Kentucky. Take it away, Madeline.
– Thanks Alex. Growing up here in Wilmore, I always knew I wanted to go to Asbury. Even before I was a student, I was already welcomed into this incredible community. I love the small campus and classes, and how students have personal relationships with the professors. I also wanted a campus that would grow my faith, activate my future career, provide a place that felt like home, and help me cultivate intentional relationships. I knew early on that Asbury was the perfect fit for me. Part of what has made my experience here so special, is helping others create the same rich community that I enjoy. By working as a resident advisor for my floor, I’ve been able to serve others, plan events, create an amazing residence life experience and form lasting friendships. Although as we sit in the small town of Wilmore, Kentucky, it’s only 15 minutes from Lexington, a city with a spectrum of employers, ranging from creative small startups to large corporations. As well as entertainment, like concerts, amazing restaurants, horse industry events, museums, and major sporting events. Asbury is within driving distance from cities like Louisville, Cincinnati, Nashville, and Indianapolis. And what’s more exciting is if I want to explore the world, the Blue Grass Airport is right in our backyard. If you asked me what the perfect day here would look like, I would say grabbing a cup of coffee in our campus coffee shop, hiking or canoeing at the riverfront, enjoying ice cream with friends in beautiful downtown Wilmore, then heading into Lexington to do some thrifting, and then coming back to campus to cheer on some friends at an intermural game. I truly feel at home here at Asbury University. This is an amazing place. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Madeline. Now that does sound like a perfect day at Asbury. Thank you for sharing your story and some of the fun that students at AU have. I’m heading to check out those amazing hiking trails as soon as I can. Thanks again.