The world of aviation needs many new skilled pilots and aircraft mechanics. Kylar from Bethany, Oklahoma is one of the many students that make up the record breaking enrollment of LeTourneau University’s aviation and aeronautical science programs. Kylar is passionate about people and about flying and fixing planes. Kylar, you are on.
– Appreciate it, Alex. What’s going on, y’all? As a senior in high school, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do in college or even where I wanted to go, but after extensive prayer and watching “Top Gun,” I decided that aviation could be the career for me. Finding LeTourneau, a nationally-recognized Christian school with an elite level flight program was an answer to prayer at the perfect time. As a professional flight major, all my classes either help me to fly an airplane or learn how they work. I spend a lot of time at the Abbott Aviation Center. We have over 20 planes available for flight training and many other plane for maintenance training. We also have FAA-approved simulators used for flight practicing and training for different types of situations. Outside of flight training, my studies include a wide range of courses that develop me as a professional and deepen my faith. I like to think of my assignments not as a chore, but as an opportunity to grow in my walk with God and knowledge of the gospel. During my time at LeTourneau, I’ve had plenty of opportunities to serve my fellow students by being on the worship team and a resident assistant for my floor. I learn a lot by serving the people around me, and I really enjoy that. LeTourneau has deepened my faith more than I ever thought possible in only two years. Here, we are taught that you don’t have to go overseas to be missionary, but that it can be done every workplace and in every nation. What’s next for me? Well, I’m considering either the commercial airlines or the missions field somewhere in South America. That’s it for me, adios, y’all. Back to you, Goose. I mean, Alex.
– Thank you, Kylar, or should we say, Maverick. What an incredible experience that you’re receiving training at such a comprehensive aviation program that is still so close-knit and intentional about relationships. Looks like it’s smooth sailing from here, we’ll see you in the sky. Thanks again, Kylar.
Let’s meet Kaisen, a junior business major from Van, Texas. Kaisen carries on the legacy of the university founder’s blend of entrepreneurship and innovation. As business owners, R.G. and Evelyn LeTourneau believed in the value of real-world experience informed by faith. Students like Kaisen are still pursuing that blend. Tell us all about it, Kaisen.
– Thanks for that intro, Alex. Howdy, everyone. Growing up, I never knew what I truly wanted to do. LeTourneau was one of the only three schools that I applied to. I felt called to be here for both academics and athletics. Shout out, baseball. So I chose to pursue a degree in business. Choosing LeTourneau truly was the best choice. Making the decision to be a part of the school business has completely changed my life and allowed me to build new relationships with my peers, and especially with my mentors. These mentors give us students an open ear to listen to our personal life as well as our educational career. I have learned so much through the hands-on experiences we have here, including starting a real business with my classmates. Our business sells a card game invented by a math professor here that introduces higher math principles in a way that even elementary age kids can understand. These sorts of opportunities have helped me feel more prepared as I get out into the real world. I also love connecting with friends through events put on by YAC, or our YellowJacket Activity Council. They have events like painting nights and pickleball tournaments, which I really love ’cause I’m able to play sports, but it’s also just a great way to unwind on a Friday night. I’m excited for my future as a business owner. I feel fully prepared to lead my company through all the lessons I’ve learned here at LeTourneau, all left by R.G.’s legacy. That’s just a little piece of my story. Back to you, Alex.
– That’s awesome, Kaisen. Wow, starting your own business while in college sounds like an entrepreneur to me. Fun fact, as industrialists and entrepreneurs, R.G. and Evelyn LeTourneau’s company provided 70% of the large earth moving machinery used by the Allied Forces in World War II. Incredible. Thanks for sharing your amazing story, Kaisen, take care.
Okay, let’s hear from Sadie, majoring in mathematics with a teaching certification. Sadie is from Plano, Texas. She loves the intentional integration of so many aspects to her student experience. She applies herself as an honor student and also as an avid member of campus activities. Sadie, the floor is yours.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. Growing up, I love spending my time learning math, leading bible studies, and playing varsity volleyball. When I was looking for college, I wanted a place where I could not only excel academically, but also connect with others who share my passions. Thanks to my time at LeTourneau, I’ve been able to deepen these passions in a genuine Christian community. I love being a part of a vibrant campus life here, especially through intramural sports. Last year, I competed in eight different sports. One of my favorite nights was when our championship volleyball game was between two teams from the Honors dorm and a bunch of our friends came out to watch and support us. These events bring us all together in helping building a strong bond. Beyond sports, there’s always something happening on campus. From weekly student-led prayer and worship to ice cream from student senate, there’s a sense of community that points us closer to Jesus and to each other. Living in the Honors dorm has been such a blessing. As I pursue my degree alongside my peers, I found that my friendships and support here are truly special, and have made my college experience unforgettable. LeTourneau’s holistic approach to student life is critical when balancing rigorous academic workloads. They see value in providing opportunities for us to build relationships in and outside of dorm life with a wide range of things to be involved in. As I look to the future as an educator, I will take the well-rounded experience I’ve had here into my future classrooms. My time at LeTourneau has prepared me to seek genuine community and connection anywhere I go, with some fun along the way. That’s my story, back to you, Alex.
– Thanks for that, Sadie. We don’t know how you have the energy for all of that, but we are inspired by your drive to bring people together through all the activities that you are involved with. Keep it up, Sadie, and take care.
Isabella is a sophomore from Long Beach, California, studying mechanical engineering. Being an engineer at LeTourneau means pursuing the intentional intersection of relational and technical, informed by faith. In other words, being T-shaped. What exactly does that look like? Isabella can help us with that, take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. My time is captain of my high school robotics team solidified my decision to study mechanical engineering. While moving across the country was a difficult choice, LeTourneau University offered me the hands-on polytechnic education that I desired along with the close-knit community that I craved as a city girl. The relationships I have developed with both students and faculty, not only contribute to my sense of belonging at LeTourneau, but aid my future. Engineering is a lot more than just calculations or problem solving, it’s working with different types of people and learning how to effectively communicate. I have the unique opportunity to practice these skills through my job as a peer advisor. I’m able to mentor the mechanical engineering freshman on how to become efficient college students and organize events to help grow an already flourishing community. One of the goals of this incredible institution is to prepare students for the workforce from day one. Most of my professors have worked as professional engineers, so they provide very practical advice that you wouldn’t find in a lab manual or a textbook. In addition to amazing professors, LeTourneau has very interactive labs, designed to challenge students and encourage collaboration. Classes such as engineering project management provide students the opportunity to work together on a semester-long project that utilizes the different aspects of engineering. At LeTourneau, students can practice different scenarios that mimic the workforce. You’ll be trained by incredible faculty and make lifelong friendships. Like me, many students come to LeTourneau for the technical education, but they stay for the relationships built and sustained, both inside and outside the classroom. I am proud to be a leader in my community, thanks to the impressive training, life, and culture at LeTourneau. That’s my story, back to you, Alex.
– Those labs look amazing and how cool that you get to do all of that even as an underclassman. We can see why you would come all the way from the West Coast to find this type of environment and training. Take care, Isabella.
We can’t wait for you all to meet Sammy. As a professional flight major, Sammy was so drawn to the aviation program here that he came all the way from Seoul, South Korea. Feeling the call to the aviation industry, Sammy is specifically thankful for the approach to mentorship and instruction that the faculty take here as they model character first, professionalism, and aviation excellence. Take us up and away, Sammy, you are on.
– Thanks, Alex. Growing up, I did not know what I wanted to study. All I knew was that I wanted a school that would support my future and lead me to right career. I’m from South Korea and China, so looking for schools in the U.S. was a challenge. Luckily, I found LeTourneau University and discovered my path in aviation. LeTourneau has an amazing hands-on aviation program that keeps growing. I was able to get my very own instructor and start flying right away. Even after a rough flight, I could always come back to the airport and use the flight simulators to improve my skill or maneuver that was struggling with. I’ve been able to improve my flight skills and get close with my friends and professors, thanks to the time I spend at the Abbott Aviation Center. My instructors are always willing to provide insight on how I can improve my flights. Flying never gets old to me and I still cannot believe that I can fly these heavy metal things by myself. The professors and instructors always make sure that I’m doing well physically, mentally, most importantly, spiritually. Every class here at LeTourneau starts with a short devotional and prayer, which helps me to grow spiritually and stay focused on following Jesus. Aviation is not the only area of LeTourneau that keeps evolving, our international student population is growing every semester. LeTourneau welcomes people from all over the world. The student body is incredibly hospitable to international students and helps them feel right at home. I find great joy and meaning through my involvement with international community, and I look forward to see it grow even more. That’s my story, take it right, Alex.
– What a ride. Thank you, Sammy, and best of luck as you pursue your career in aviation. The world definitely needs more pilots like you, and that aviation center is something we need more of. What a cool facility. Thanks again, Sammy.
Gracie is a sophomore at LeTourneau from Pittsburgh, Texas. She’s studying computer science with a concentration in game development, and she also loves working with media and video post production. Her greatest passion, however, is the close community that takes place in the dorms here. Tell us all about it, Gracie.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. Hey, y’all. When I was deciding on a college, having a strong sense of community was one of my top priorities, and LeTourneau truly provides that. Community is more than just a word. It’s an experience that transforms daily life on campus. LeTourneau has equipped me with more than just the technical skills I need as a computer science major. I’ve been able to gain a deep understanding of my field and learn how to blend my passions into practical applications. Beyond academics, my experience as a spiritual life assistant has taught me valuable leadership and mentoring skills. As an SLA, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside my peers, leading devotionals, and creating a space, where we can all grow together spiritually. Alongside that, the caring faculty here have also played a vital role in making LeTourneau feel like home, as I have been able to turn to them countless times for support both academically and personally. LeTourneau’s vibrant campus life is full of opportunities to connect and engage. The dorms provide a welcoming environment, where students find comfort in being surrounded by peers who share similar interests. It’s also reassuring to know that there are always people who care, making it easy to build meaningful relationships and really be myself. The ease of making friends here is something that truly sets LeTourneau apart. Whether it’s through joint devotionals with our Brother Four or campus-wide worship nights, there are countless opportunities to connect with others. This campus has become more than a place for me to study. It has truly become a place where I feel at home. I’m so excited to carry forward everything I’ve learned here, helping others as I step into the world. That’s all for me. Back to you, Alex.
– Love it, Gracie. What a great environment to live and learn together in community. We’re definitely gonna keep an eye out for the computer programs and systems you develop in the future. Take care, Gracie.
Let’s hear from Kaleb from Yuba City, California. He’s studying mechatronics and math, and has a major thing for the one-of-a-kind way LeTourneau does tradition. This campus culture is clearly all about striking a balance of awesome career prep and unparalleled connection, right, Kaleb? You are up.
– Thanks, Alex. What’s up, guys? I knew I wanted to be an engineer since I was five years old and saw the movie “Meet the Robinsons” for the first time. It was never a question of if, but where and how. God showed me the answers through LeTourneau University. The day I stepped foot on LeTourneau’s campus, I knew I would end up here. I discovered an incredible community of students and professors committed to learning, teaching, and living for the glory of God. One of my favorite parts about campus culture, traditions. LeTourneau traditions are fun and wacky. Some are new and some have been around for decades. We start the year off by competing for a spray painted cow skull at the legendary Silver Steer competition. During the semester, we play campus-wide golf with tennis balls and host a trick or treat event for the local community. We also perform funny skits during Hootenanny, our annual talent show. Turn all of campus into a NERF zombie apocalypse and of course, toss people into the campus pond on their birthday. By the end of the semester, it’s hard not to have made lasting memories and lifelong friends. Life at LeTourneau isn’t just about the silly stuff either. I often find myself reaching out to my professors for mentorship and wisdom, in addition to academic help. There have also been many late nights spent in my room having theological discussions with the guys in my dorm. This combination of fun traditions, caring professors, and strong community creates a college experience that builds lasting relationships, a love for learning, and a heart for service. The LeTourneau community is like a second family to me. I love my university and I’m proud to be LeTourneau built. Well, it’s not my birthday, but just so you can see how it’s done, throwing it back to you, Alex.
– Talk about memorable experiences. We think we heard that splash from here. This guy’s a serious student having some serious fun. Maybe we’ll come back for the college tour’s next birthday. Now someone get him a towel. Thanks again, Kaleb.
Meet Jodi, a 2015 alumna who is now the deputy news director at Rolling Stone. Jodi is one of the many outstanding alums who have gone on to lead successful careers. She’s going to tell us how she and so many others have been impacted by HBU’s mentorship and professional growth opportunities. Jodi, you’re up.
– Thanks, Alex. HBU stood out to me for so many reasons. After my visit, I told my parents I was applying early decision because I just knew High Point was the place for me. Reflecting now as an alum, I’m so proud of that decision and the journey it set me on. Mentorship is a key to success, and that’s something that HBU truly understands. They know how crucial it is to have somebody guiding you along the way, offering you advice, support and encouragement. For me, it was Dr. Bobby Hayes of HBU’s School of Communication who took me under his wing and helped me get experience with the Society of Professional Journalists. He gave me invaluable one-on-one guidance, and I learned so much about my trade from his stories of when he was a journalist. When I interviewed Leonardo DiCaprio at the Toronto International Film Festival, I sent Dr. Hayes an email after thanking him for everything he’d done for me, because I knew it was his mentorship that helped prepare me for that moment. While at HBU, I also interned at Seventeen magazine, and it was that experience paired with my opportunities on campus that helped me land my first job at People Magazine, which eventually led me to my current role as the Deputy News Director of Rolling Stone. This is just my story, but make no mistakes, there are thousands more HBU alums just like me who have landed their dream jobs or made successful careers at some of the largest companies in the world, and they too would credit the mentorship and the resources on campus with helping them get there. And we frequently come back to HBU to mentor students and impart our wisdom. Back in high school, I would have never believed that I’d be living in New York City and working for Rolling Stone magazine. I honestly doubted that I had what it took to make it in the fast-paced world of journalism, but HBU helped prepare me for this industry and lifestyle, giving me not only the skills I needed, but the confidence I needed to succeed. Back to you, Alex.
– What an incredible story, Jodi. You really cannot underestimate the impact of mentorship, and that’s probably why there are countless other stories just like yours coming out of HBU. We’ll see you on the red carpets, Jodi. Thanks again.
Meet Rowan, a junior from Colorado studying English and law. HBU cares so much about their students that they’ve created the Campus Concierge to answer any and all questions and provide an incredible list of services you will not find anywhere else. Once again, setting the precedent for how things should be done at a university. Rowan, please tell us more.
– It’s just in there. Thanks for the warm welcome, Alex. I always knew I wanted to attend college out of state, but I wasn’t sure where. I chose HBU even though it is a thousand miles away from home. And speaking of warm welcomes, HBU offers a unique concierge service that makes every student feel like High Point University is their home away from home. Not only have I utilized HBU’s Campus Concierge when I need assistance, I actually work as a student concierge. I help improve the daily lives of students, parents, faculty, and community members by providing a central source of knowledge about the university. With 80% out of state students, like myself, travel plans for university breaks may sound stressful. But our concierge service offers free shuttle rides to and from major airports in North Carolina. We also provide complimentary car checks for students driving home. Technicians come to campus to ensure your car is road ready before you leave. It’s a reflection of HBU’s caring culture. What about your birthday? Your parents are away, so what happens? We hand deliver personalized birthday cards, complete with a gift for a coffee on us. You may be far from home, but at HBU, you’re never far from family. And if your parents want to surprise you on Valentine’s Day, our staff delivers hundreds of flower arrangements around campus. We provide a round-the-clock service, and you can reach us digitally, too. Our parents can join a special Facebook group, where they are assisted by our team within minutes. All of these services are designed to provide guidance, information, and reassurance. College doesn’t have to be stressful. At HBU, we have systems in place to ensure that you’re cared for, a comfort that both students and parents enjoy. I’m proud to serve as a dedicated member of our caring campus community. Back to you, Alex.
– That is so amazing. As a student, it’s great to know there’s an entire team dedicated to helping you when needed. And as a parent, it really puts your mind at ease. At HBU, home is not a place, it’s people. And HBU’s concierge is setting the example. Thanks, Rowan.
Meet Karlee, a senior involved in many organizations, but the ones most special to her are the ones rooted in faith. HBU proudly displays its values of God, family, and country. They welcome students and families from all backgrounds. Karlee, please tell us more about what these values mean and why faith plays such a big part. Please take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. HBU’s commitment to God, family, and country played a significant role in my decision to attend. Faith has always been the center of my life, and I knew that at HBU, I would find a community that supports and nurtures my faith throughout college and beyond. The supportive environment here has allowed me to dive deeper into my faith, applying it to both my academic pursuits and my relationships, making my time here truly meaningful and fulfilling. I’m highly involved on campus, from Greek life and dance team to campus jobs and academic fellowships. It’s no different when it comes to my faith where I’m involved in student ministry on campus. HBU offers a wide range of faith-based activities and organizations such as retreats, Bible studies, Hillel, campus outreach, and even connections with local churches. There are optional weekly events like Wednesday chapel services, Sunday evening worship, Thursday mass, and small breakout groups that provide opportunities for deeper spiritual engagement. Faith is a major draw for many students choosing HBU as the university fosters an environment where spiritual growth is encouraged and supported. But let me be clear, you do not have to be rooted in faith to attend HBU, nor where you feel like an outcast. We respect everyone’s values and beliefs, but if you prioritize faith, HBU offers a community that shares similar values and provides resources to nurture spiritual development. There are several events, traditions, and services to take part in such as all of HBU’s Christmas celebrations, Veterans Day, and more. This integration of faith into daily life, whether in academics or extracurricular activities, allows students to grow holistically, encompassing intellectual, emotional, and spiritual development. This strong foundation in faith is a key reason why many students choose HBU, ensuring that their education aligns with their personal beliefs and values. Back to you, Alex.
– Finding a school that accurately aligns with the values you grew up with is so important. HBU allows students the opportunity to find exactly that. Places to find their people, ways to participate, and traditions that will make an impact. Thanks, Karlee.