Alright folks, next we’re gonna head over to meet Gabby. She’s a senior studying choral music education. And she’s going to tell us all about Baylor student life outside of the classroom. Okay Gabby, it’s all yours!
Thanks, Alex! Hi Everyone. I want you to know that student life at Baylor is unmatched! With over 350 student organizations at Baylor, there is something for everybody. Now I know that sounds overwhelming, but that’s why we have this awesome event called Late Night where every club, organization, and team is showcased so students can learn about them. Personally, I am in the Baylor chapter of the American Choral Directors Association, Baylor A Cappella Choir, the Pi Mu chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., and Baylor VirtuOSO — Baylor’s premier, pop/jazz A Cappella group. I especially love the creativity I get to explore with Virtuoso because, as students, we arrange and compose most of our numbers. Many of the organizations I’ve joined fuel my love of performing, and I’ve made lifelong friends within these groups. At Baylor, we also have Greek Life! About 30% of our students are in a sorority or fraternity, and there are 40 international, national, and local Greek organizations, including the Panhellenic and National Panhellenic Council. Now it’s important to note that Baylor does Greek life a little different. Freshmen don’t rush until Spring semester, giving students the opportunity to experience college life for a semester, make friends, and really get to know which organization might suit them best. Our Greek organizations also throw fun events for the whole university to enjoy such as Kappa Karnival and Delta Night Live. Every sorority, fraternity, and any other organizations who want to enter can participate in one of my favorite events — All University Sing, the largest off Broadway-style musical production you’ll ever see! Service to our community is also a part of student life. As Baylor Bears, we know it’s important to be good neighbors to our fellow Wacoans. Students interested in serving the Waco community can participate in Steppin’ Out – an event that happens twice a year where thousands of Baylor students collectively engage in community service throughout the day. This event allows Bears to give back to our neighbors who support Baylor in countless ways. Something that is very important to me is diversity and, here at Baylor, it is taken seriously. We have students at Baylor from all 50 US states and more than 90 countries. My favorite event on campus is Mosaic Mixer put on by our department of Multicultural Affairs, where all the cultural and ethnic sororities, fraternities, clubs, and organizations gather for one event. There is a showcase full of stepping, dancing, and singing from people of all different cultures and backgrounds. Speaking of which, Baylor has a residence hall dedicated solely to promoting diversity. It’s part of a group of living learning communities that are formed around similar interests or majors. The Baylor and Beyond Living Learning Center is housed in North Russell Hall, and students from very diverse backgrounds do life together. If you want to try a different country’s food every night and meet people of all different backgrounds, North Russell is the place for you. The campus hosts all kinds of activities throughout the year. You can attend events and lectures, musical performances, theater productions, art shows, outdoor festivals and can enjoy celebrations from a variety of other cultures – like Lunar New Year, Festival Latino, Gateway to India, Holi Festival and Kente Ceremony. There is something for everyone here at Baylor and everyone belongs, no matter what. Find your place here at Baylor, find your home! What’s up next, Alex?
Gabby….thank you! That was fantastic. Baylor really does have so many ways for students with all kinds of interests to get involved. Your story about finding your place at Baylor with your Virtuoso friends was phenomenal. What a cool experience! Thanks again, Gabby.
Okay everyone. Let’s head over to the McLane Student Life Center here at Baylor to hear from Jack. He’s a junior double majoring in marketing and finance with a minor in film and digital media. He’s up next to talk about all the ways he stays healthy and the services Baylor offers to help keep him well. Over to you, Jack. Take it away.
Thanks Alex… Hey y’all, I’m so excited that I get to tell you all about Baylor’s incredible Student Life Center, or the SLC for short as we like to call it here on campus. The SLC is a 156,000 square foot recreation center, home to all things fitness, sports, and wellness. Their motto is “A Place for All Students,” and that’s really what it is, a place for everyone to learn, try new things, live actively, and lead healthy lives. There are so many awesome amenities, like the 53 ft free standing rock wall at the center of the building or 13 ft tall bouldering wall. This is also where you’ll find four indoor full-size basketball/volleyball courts, racquetball, squash and walleyball courts, an indoor track perfect for walking or jogging and our three-level weight training and fitness center. Just outside of the lap pool and lazy river is where you’ll find my favorite spot on campus, the sand volleyball courts. Growing up in a small beach town, the sand volleyball club has been my little piece of home away from home. Not only has the sand volleyball club been my escape from a rigorous class and work load but it has also provided me with opportunities to meet some of my best friends. This semester, I also participated in some really fun fitness classes that are offered through the SLC. Students can sign up for classes like, yoga, kickboxing, spinning, F45 crossfit training, and a bunch of other cool classes. I love these classes because they are taught by instructors who really want to help you succeed, try new things, step out of your comfort zone, and most of all have fun. I won’t lie when I tell you I was pretty nervous to try my first spin class, but I showed up with some friends, the instructor got me set up on the bike, and I got super pumped for the class. She played the best music, everyone was jamming out having a good time, and before I knew it, I had biked for an hour. If you’re looking to get outside and soak up the sun then Baylor has got you covered as well with the outdoor basketball and tennis courts. Something that really stood out to me when I got to Baylor was how much everyone cared about me and my wellbeing. From professors reaching out, my academic advisor keeping me on track, and all of my friends checking in, I feel like I am truly a part of a big family — the Baylor Family. Not only has the University provided so many options for fun and fitness, but they also have some incredible resources focused on health and wellness. On the 2nd floor of the SLC is where you’ll find the health center, pharmacy, physical therapy, and massage therapy. I know that whether I am missing home, struggling in a class, or just need to blow off some steam, I can come to the SLC to feel better. From the staff in the health and counseling centers all the way to the sand volleyball courts, I know that I am cared for here on campus. Well, that’s all that I’ve got and I hope to see y’all soon, now back to you, Alex.
Jack….that was great. Good for you for trying something new with that spin class! Those classes are no joke, and it’s great to hear about Baylor’s emphasis on wellness, because that absolutely contributes to academic success. Thanks again, Jack. Take care.
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.
Okay. So it’s not every day. You find a student who basically grew up on campus, but for education major Emma, Carson-Newman is truly a family affair. Emma had lots of choices of where to go to college, but she shares that she made the right decision, choosing Carson-Newman. Emma, it’s all yours.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex, when I was looking at colleges, Carson-Newman always felt like home. I’m a third generation Carson-Newman student, and my younger sister is here as well. I grew up going to events like homecoming and football games with my family. As an education major, it’s really important to me to gain as much experience as possible before I set foot in my very own classroom. By the second semester of my freshman year, I was in three different classrooms, observing three different teachers at three different grade levels. Every single semester since then I’ve been in the classroom in some capacity, whether it be observing, actually getting the opportunity to teach a lesson or helping a student one-on-one. The professors in the Education Department truly invest in the lives of their students. I’ve been challenged in all of my classes to think about things through a Christian lens. As a student, the knowledge that my professors are constantly praying over me is both a blessing and a comfort. They genuinely teach by example by treating us the same way they expect us to treat our future students. My faculty advisor has been an incredible mentor to me from the moment I set foot on campus. I would consider her more of a best friend than a professor. And honestly, we make it a point to go to lunch pretty regularly. In addition to undergraduate degrees, Carson-Newman’s Education Program also offers Master’s and Doctoral degrees. Both of these programs are made for working people. Both programs are also well-regarded in the area and incredibly popular. As a matter of fact, Carson-Newman graduates have been named Tennessee teacher of the year for 2011, 2017, and 2019. I’m confident that Carson-Newman’s education program has prepared me for both the planned and the unplanned. My professors truly know what it takes to be a great educator, and it shows. Graduates of Carson-Newman’s Education Program are highly sought after and the vast majority of our teacher candidates have jobs by the time they graduate. That’s all for me. And back to you, Alex.
– Emma, what a great story. It’s obvious the Education Department is doing things right. Not only with Emma, but with the entire program. Three Tennessee teachers of the year in the last decade reflects the commitment to excellence for the Education Program. Congrats and thanks again, Emma.
Okay, everyone, let’s move over to Burke-Tarr Stadium, where our next student and his teammates take to the field every Saturday in the fall. For Jesse, being a member of the Carson-Newman Eagles football team is more than just being an athlete. It’s a chance for him to be surrounded by coaches and players with strong Christian values and the work ethic to win championships. Jesse, please take it away.
– I appreciate it. Alex. As a high school athlete and a Christian, I earnestly wanted to find a place where I could play sports and interact with coaches who could instill Christian values into all facets of my college life. Carson-Newman’s strong alumni support and pride is deeply rooted in the school athletic and academic tradition. As a member of the Carson-Newman football team, I’ve seen firsthand the intense demand for excellence on the field. However, for Eagle athletes, this intense demand extends to the classroom as well. Thanks to Carson-Newman Student Success Program, student athletes have access to academic coaching, tutoring, and career advancement opportunities. Students who then take these resources, utilize them, and excel in the classroom, have the ability to become Eagle Scholars, a distinguished honor only given to elite student athletes. Through a variety of campus ministries, such as weekly chapel, Baptist Collegiate Ministries, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Student Chaplaincy programs, Students are exposed the transforming message of Christ every single day. With 21 NCAA teams, six national championships, and over a hundred conference titles, Carson-Newman university sets the bar extremely high for their student athletes. But if there’s one thing about Carson-Newman, that’s especially unique, it’s the banding together of faculty and coaches for the purpose of helping students step into their next steps in life. Becoming better mothers, better fathers, that are leaders, that are servants, all for the purpose of glorifying Christ. But that’s all for me. Who’s next, Alex?
– Wow. What a record both on and off the field for Carson-Newman student athletes. It’s obvious that students like Jesse are gaining valuable life lessons they will be able to take with them once they graduate and will be well-equipped to share their faith, wherever life leads them. Jesse, well done.
Okay, next up is Antwon. A first-generation college student who is studying to become a registered nurse. Antwon shares his story of being nervous about having what it takes to become a nurse, but due to the encouragement of his professors, Antwon has seen his dream come true. Take it away, Antwon.
– Thank you for the intro, Alex. I knew from an early age that I wanted to go into the medical field and help others, but I was never exposed to the college decision-making process. On my first visit here, I really enjoyed how welcoming everyone was and the peaceful energy that seemed to surround the entire campus. I was nervous that as a first generation college student, I didn’t have what it took to make it through the nursing program, but the faculty and staff made me feel confident that I would be prepared to take the NCLEX, which is the national licensing exam. More than 95% of Carson-Newman nursing students pass the NCLEX on their first attempt. I’m thankful for my professors who have been there to push me further than I ever thought that I could go. An exciting addition coming to our campus in 2023 is the Drama & Ted Russell Center. This center will serve as the future hub for the nursing program. We will have access to additional classrooms, simulation labs, health assessment labs, and general skills labs. The nursing program at Carson-Newman helped me realize my full potential. Waking up early for clinicals and staying up late can be challenging, but is a part of the process. And I know that in the end I will be well-educated, and in the mission of a Christian university prepared to make an impact on the healthcare system. Back to you, Alex.
– Thanks, Antwon. I’m sure you and all the other nursing students are excited about the new health sciences center and all it will bring to campus. And speaking of the other nursing students, a big congratulations is in order on your NCLEX pass rate. That’s amazing. Well done.
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.
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. Everyone let’s meet Alex. He’s not only a member of Carson-Newman’s men’s soccer team, but this junior is majoring in finance and economics. Alex is going to talk to us about the incredible opportunities he’s had to get a hands-on experience in the business program. And he’s going to share a unique program that gives students valuable investment experience. Okay, Alex, it’s all yours.
– Hey everyone. I’m a junior here at Carson-Newman and on the men’s soccer team. When I began my college search, I primarily based my decision off where I could play. But after being here for a few years, I’ve realized that there’s so many more opportunities than just soccer. Since being at Carson-Newman for the past two years, I’ve been able to connect with many teammates, professors, and peers that have helped me grow educationally and professionally. With Carson-Newman being a smaller Christian school, it allows our professors and advisors to take a more personalized approach to helping us reach our full potential, both inside and outside of the classroom. Our business program has a state-of-the-art building and faculty with real-world experience to help students succeed. Our McLean Investment Center allows students to work with a student managed investment fund. We work with professors to manage the fund and gain valuable investing experience. This personal approach has helped me keep my education and grades on track, but it has also allowed me to grow and take advantage of opportunities outside of the classroom, such as work and internship options. As a matter of fact, my recent internship with Northwestern Mutual will really contribute to my goal of becoming a financial advisor. And Carson Newman has a great MBA program, which I planned to enter after I finish my undergraduate degree. Be assured that whatever major you choose you can count on being prepared for the real world and enjoying your experience along the way. After being here at Carson-Newman, I can tell you there’s no place that I’d rather be. Carson-Newman has provided me with opportunities that I could not have imagined having as a college student. Okay. Back to you, Alex.
– Alex, thanks for sharing your experience as a business student here at Carson-Newman and all the exciting opportunities you have received here. Oh, and good luck getting your MBA. Thanks again.