Let’s hear from Chris, a junior Engineering Physics and Mathematics major from Siloam Springs, Arkansas, and Captain of the three-time Argonia Cup-winning rocketry team, the Rocket Dawgs. SWOSU’s Engineering Physics Program stands out with opportunities for freshmen to participate in research projects, building close relationships with their professors from day one. Over to you, Chris.
– Thank you, Alex. From a young age, I knew I wanted to be an engineer. My journey to Southwestern Oklahoma State University started with my girlfriend, now wife, coming to SWOSU to pursue a degree in pharmacy. I followed her here, and I couldn’t have made a better decision. Something that sets SWOSU’s Engineering Physics Program apart is the ability to work on and lead research projects as a freshman as well as building personal relationships with your professors. At large universities, underclassmen typically do not have contributing roles in research until their junior or even senior year. At SWOSU, I was immediately engaged in research. It doesn’t matter your classification or background knowledge, project advisors only care about your willingness to learn and eagerness for success. SWOSU works hard to ensure that no student feels as though they’re just a number. We’re encouraged to learn and succeed by the faculty and the SWOSU community. There’s always something to do on campus, whether it be events in the residence halls or free lunches offered by the campus ministries. I’ve had the privilege of being the team captain for the SWOSU Rocket Dawgs team. They compete nationally in Kansas each year. Bringing home three consecutive Argonia Cup titles, I get to use the knowledge poured out by our professors in the classroom and apply it to the real world. After graduating from SWOSU, I plan on furthering my education. I’m looking into Aerospace Engineering and Medical Physics Programs, and I’m currently applying all over the nation. SWOSU has done a wonderful job of preparing me for my future. Thank you. Back to you, Alex.
– Chris, thank you for highlighting the unique opportunities within SWOSU’s Engineering Physics Program. Participating in research from the start and leading the Rocket Dawgs team shows the valuable experiences available at SWOSU. Your story highlights the extremely supportive environment here. Thank you.
– Ni hao. Here’s Rebecca, a graduate student from Malaysia. She’s currently pursuing her Master’s in Business Administration. Rebecca, you’ve traveled 9,000 miles to SWOSU, and balanced your studies with your love for golf. Tell us how SWOSU’s supportive community shaped your experiences as an international graduate student-athlete. Rebecca, please take it away.
– Xièxiè, Alex; ni hao. When I was searching for the perfect fit for my education and athletic pursuits, Southwestern Oklahoma State University was my ideal choice. Not only does SWOSU welcome students from all backgrounds and different cultures, it also has an exceptional golf program. So I flew more than 9,000 miles across the world to come to SWOSU. I found the perfect balance between pursuing my education and nurturing my passion for golf, ultimately earning me a Bachelor’s in Business Marketing and soon a Master’s in Business Administration. When I completed my undergraduate degree, the decision to continue my studies here was an easy one. SWOSU had already became my second home offering supportive community, excellent academic program, and a thriving athletic environment. The personalized attention and mentorship I received from faculty and staff made me confident in my decision to pursue further education. Additionally, the university’s commitment to focus on student development and creating a family-like atmosphere played a significant role in my decision. And that is what set SWOSU apart. I even had the opportunity to help out with the Collegiate Activities Board and become an honorary member of the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity. As an international student athlete for five years, I can attest to the unparalleled experience SWOSU has to offer. It’s like being in a close-knit family with abundant support and opportunities for growth. Being able to play the sport I love and pursue my education has been incredibly rewarding. At SWOSU, we redefine your college experience. It’s not just about gaining skills for a job. It’s about forging lifelong connection with fellow students and faculty, enriching your knowledge and shaping a future beyond expectations. That’s all for me now, Alex.
– Rebecca, it’s awesome to hear about both your undergraduate and your graduate school experiences at SWOSU. Your discussion of faculty support and campus life truly shows how many great opportunities there are for grad students here. Your unique perspective as an international student brings valuable insight into the SWOSU experience. Thanks again, Rebecca.
Meet Jalen, also known as “Moe”, from Grand Prairie, Texas. He just earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education at SWOSU. And today, he’s here to share his experiences as a student athlete, and his time in the Health and Physical Education Department. Moe, it sounds like you’ve had an incredible journey both on and off the field. Tell us more.
– Hey, I gotta go film. What’s up? Thanks for the introduction, Alex. When I was looking for a school to go to, I wanted somewhere that felt like a new home, somewhere that I was able to grow on the field, academically, and personally. At first, I had a hard time getting outta my shell, but Southwestern Oklahoma State offered so many opportunities. Growing up, athletics has always been a part of my life. I wanted somewhere where I could continue my passion, so I joined the SWOSU football team. I loved the brotherhood and being a part of the Dawg family. From the midnight workouts to the bus rides to games, I was able to make memories and bonds that will last a lifetime while enjoying playing football. In the Health and Physical Education Department, I learned skills like teaching fitness, understanding the body, and using games to teach classes. Being a former athlete, I always wanted to work with other athletes. The skills that I learned in our HPE Program, I feel ready to go coach and teach in a classroom or in the gym. We have a lot of fun throughout the semester while also learning how to stay fit as busy college students. Since being at SWOSU, I’ve grown beyond just being an athlete or student. Now, I can take on the world and face big challenges. College is where you can find who you are and shape your own path. Being a recent graduate, my journey here is ending at SWOSU but for a new journey to begin in coaching, teaching, and working with fellow Christian athletes. Go, Dawgs; and back to you, Alex.
– Moe, your passion for athletics and physical education is truly evident through your words. From your dedication on the field to your enthusiasm in the classroom, it’s obvious that SWOSU has played a huge role in shaping your story. We have no doubt you’ll continue to make a significant impact wherever you go. Go Dawgs.
It’s time to hear from Madison, a senior from Pampa, Texas, majoring in Business Marketing here at SWOSU. Today, she’s sharing her story as an out-of-state student transitioning from the Lone Star State to the Schooner State. From her leadership roles to the connections she’s made, Madison offers a unique perspective. Madison, tell us more about your home away from home.
– Thank you, Alex. Hi, y’all. Living in a huge state like Texas for my entire life, I never imagined going to a college outta state. It always seemed way too expensive to even consider. After talking to an outta state student who was attending Southwestern Oklahoma State University, I knew I wanted to become a Bulldog. As an outta state student, moving and being away from my family was definitely scary. But SWOSU made the transition seamless and I instantly felt at home. Living in Weatherford, Oklahoma has been so awesome, and I love that everything is a short drive away. Being only an hour away from Oklahoma City, there’s always so much to see and do. When I arrived, the SWOSU orientation leaders made me instantly feel a part of the family, so I decided to become one myself. I’m also the president of my sorority, Sigma Sigma Chi, where I’ve created connections with my sisters that will last a lifetime while also giving back to the community and university. Being part of these organizations has given me a home away from home, and I know I’m part of the Bulldog family. Professors remember my name and make me feel like my education matters. With SWOSU’s endless opportunities for student involvement, I’m learning more than just the skills for a job. I am building a lifelong network through student organizations. SWOSU has given me so much more than just an education. It’s given me the opportunity to become a leader inside and outside of campus. I’ve already become an assistant manager at my job. And none of it could have been possible without the support from the SWOSU family. As always, go Dawgs; and back to you, Alex.
– Madison, hearing about how SWOSU became your second home has been amazing. It must have been quite a transition coming to another state, but you’ve truly made your mark. Leading your sorority and forming bonds with professors and fellow students, you’re a testament to the supportive environment at SWOSU. Thanks for sharing your journey with us.
Let’s all give a warm welcome to Josh, from Burns Flat, Oklahoma, a Pre-Pharmacy student who has a unique story to tell about his time as Duke, the SWOSU mascot, for the last three semesters. We all can’t wait to hear about the path to Pharmacy school and the adventures behind the mascot suit. Josh, we’re excited to hear your story. Take it away.
– Thanks for that introduction, Alex. From competing in math competitions during elementary school to taking online concurrent classes in high school, I’ve always looked for opportunities to learn. I may have never decided which career to pursue in high school, but I did learn how to take advantage of great educators. That’s why I chose Southwestern Oklahoma State University. At SWOSU, I face challenging pre-pharmacy courses like Microbiology, Human Anatomy and Calculus. The dedicated professors at SWOSU always go above and beyond to help me succeed in my coursework, like when my Microbiology professor left the laboratory unlocked for us to get some extra practice gram staining bacteria. The application process into Pharmacy School was much easier than I had anticipated. The interview was done by a couple of the Pharmacy School professors who were extremely friendly and reassuring during the entire multi-step interview process. I wouldn’t have been accepted into Pharmacy School if it wasn’t for the support of my professors. SWOSU’s dedicated faculty and staff are the reason I’ve been able to make it this far. I got introduced to mascotting by a friend who was secretly one of the mascots. Mascotting has been one of the greatest experiences for me. Through mascotting, I attended the Glow Prom and brought the joy of Duke to special needs individuals attending the prom. It always makes me smile thinking back to when I successfully coaxed a kid out of their seat and onto the dance floor. Through all these experiences at SWOSU, my passion for my future career as a pharmacist has grown. Most importantly though, I’ve learned how to make lasting connections and friendships that will help me build a fulfilling career. That’s all for me, Alex. Back to you.
– Josh, it sounds like your journey from the classroom to the mascot costume has definitely been an adventure. The support you’ve received from your professors truly shines through. And let’s not forget how you brought so much joy to so many as Duke. Keep shining both in and out of the mascot suit. Thanks for sharing.
Let’s meet Tiffany, an Engineering Technology freshman from Okeene, Oklahoma, here to tell us more about the world of Engineering Technology at SWOSU. Tiffany’s enthusiasm for hands-on learning and her Stafford Scholar experience at the Stafford Air and Space Museum make her a standout addition to our conversation. Tiffany, please take it away.
– I appreciate it, Alex. Hi, guys. When I first started my college search, I knew that I wanted to go into engineering because I loved getting my hands dirty. I toured a few colleges, but Southwestern Oklahoma State University really stood out. During my tour, they showed me the labs and told me I’d get hands-on experiences in my classes. That’s when I fell in love. SWOSU prepares you to be very versatile for any field you wish to pursue. Whether it’s electrical, aerospace, software, architectural, biomedical, most of the classes have labs providing hands-on experiences. As a freshman, I’ve been able to learn how all the machines operate and even build things in the labs. I’ve fabricated a metal tool tray and shelf, assembled and soldered electrical circuits, and worked with rotational injection and vacuum molding for plastics. I’m also a Stafford Scholar, which offers a scholarship and a part-time job at the Stafford Air and Space Museum. Astronaut Thomas Stafford and the museum have strong ties with the university. I spend a lot of time here; and as I look to a career in the aerospace industry, it inspires me. SWOSU’s Engineering Technology Department offers organizations such as the Society of Manufacturing Engineers and the Society of Women Engineers hosting game nights, bowling nights, and so much more. The department also takes students on tours to different facilities for a firsthand look at the different engineering processes. Oh, and I can’t forget about the Rover Team. Every year, the department accepts applications for the Rover Dawgs, a team that builds a mock rover and competes in NASA’s Human Rover Exploration Competition over in Huntsville, Alabama. College can be scary, but it’s worth it when you find the people that you instantly click with. What’s so special about SWOSU, especially the Engineering Technology Department, is that they set you up for success in whatever career you pursue. That’s all for me. Sending it back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Tiffany. Hearing about all your experiences with different projects truly paints a vivid picture of the hands-on learning available at SWOSU. And being a Stafford Scholar, that’s just the icing on the cake. Your experiences are setting a solid foundation for your future in engineering. Keep up the fantastic work.
Are you ready to get your picks up everyone? It’s time to talk school spirit and sports. Mattie is one of UTEP’s star volleyball players and a student bursting with school spirit. Whether it’s cheering on basketball, football, softball, or track and field, UTEP students and the El Paso community are Miner fans all the way. Passing it to you, Mattie.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. When I started searching for the right school for me academically and athletically, I wanted to find a place that would push me on and off the volleyball court. UTEP had that culture and environment I was looking for to become a better person, teammate, player, and student. Being a student athlete, I’ve made lifelong connections with my team and other fellow athletes. The support that students get from our friends, professors, and community was the main reason I chose UTEP. It’s been amazing to see the school spirit from our community and fan base grow while I’ve been here. Coming from a small town with a successful athletic program, school spirit has always played a large role in my life, and now being at a school where the community continues to support UTEP athletics brings so much joy to me and to students in all 16 of UTEP’s Division I athletic programs. UTEP not only pushes you to grow as an athlete and teammate, but also as a student in the classroom. Within my Kinesiology major, I learned about how the body moves and what muscles do, but what I really love is learning about nutrition and how to fuel my body the right way, which will help me with my workouts. On and off the court, my teammates and coaches continue to support me and play a large role in my life. The fans here at UTEP are the best. Thousands showed up to support us at our last volleyball season. The positive energy was unbelievable. Here at UTEP, you’re not just a fan going to watch your favorite team, but you’re also the driving force for so many of us athletes to play our best and win. Serving it back to you, Alex.
– Got it, I think. That’s a powerful serve, Mattie. Thanks for the recap on the great school spirit from not just UTEP, but the El Paso community. So many sports legends have graduated from UTEP and we know you’ll be one of the next. Picks up, Mattie.
Here at UTEP, many students are from right here in El Paso. Meet Karma. She grew up almost as far away from UTEP as you can get, the kingdom of Bhutan. What’s more? UTEP has a special relationship with that far away country. Karma, tell us about what it’s like to be a UTEP student coming from the other side of the world. Take it away.
– Thank you for the introduction, Alex. As an international student from Bhutan, a small country in Asia near Nepal, I chose UTEP for its renowned Nursing program and its beautiful Bhutanese architecture, which reminds me of my homeland. I feel like I belong here. The supportive Bhutanese student community here adds to the feeling of familiarity. Starting out as an international student and being naturally introverted, making friends at the beginning was quite a challenge. However, navigating my journey became easier because everyone was incredibly friendly, helpful, and welcoming. In addition to my studies, I also work as a Student Assistant in the Office of International Programs where my wonderful coworkers and I strive to make everyone feel welcome. I am an active member of Bhutanese Student Association, which celebrates and share our culture with the UTEP community. UTEP and Bhutan have had a special connection for more than a hundred years. Each year, during the third week of April, we host a week long event called Bhutan Days to showcase our rich culture to the students and faculty. And several traditional Bhutanese dishes are always included at the popular International Food Fair each fall. Coming to UTEP has been one of the best decision I’ve ever made. Since arriving, I have grown in responsibilities and independence. Meeting people from diverse spectrum and experiencing so much has broadened my perspective in ways I never could have imagined back at my home country. I hope you’re enjoying UTEP’s beautiful, Bhutan inspired campus Alex. It’s one of a kind. Back to you.
– That’s great Karma. Even though you’re tens of thousands of miles away from your own country, you feel right at home at UTEP and that feeling goes way beyond this campus’s incredible architecture. Thank you for sharing the story of your journey to UTEP. That was incredible.
Meet Nicholas, a first generation student who’s aspiring to be a filmmaker. He’s turning that passion for visual communications into reality through his UTEP degree program. Upon graduation, he hopes to stay a part of the Miner family by joining UTEP’s Athletics program doing sports communications. Getting involved is what Nicholas is all about. Give us the full picture, Nicholas. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey everyone. I’m a first generation college student, a senior, and I have a huge passion for film. Here at UTEP, I found many opportunities to grow my videography, photography, and creative writing skills. I always knew I wanted to be a filmmaker. The Communication department here has allowed me to explore new ideas and theories that apply to filmmaking. In addition to my studies, I’ve worked for the UTEP Athletics Marketing Department for about four years, taking photos and videos at events. Working for a Division I athletics program, my passion for sports grew immensely and I’ve decided on a future in sports communication. The UTEP athletics team and Miner fans truly shown me how sports can create a meaningful community. There’s a lot of love in the Miner Nation. More than 200 student organizations make campus life exciting as well as give students professional experience and connections. Being involved in many different organizations has really helped me grow at UTEP. I am the Vice President of our filmmaking club, Pick Productions, and I’ve served in the Student Government Association as a Senator-at-Large and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Being in SGA has really increased my self-confidence. I am honored to serve as the bridge between students, the faculty, staff, and the UT System Board of Regents. I love talking to new students here at UTEP. I was even an orientation leader. I always tell students to get involved and take advantage of all the resources that UTEP has to offer. Sometimes it’s hard for new students to realize how many great opportunities there are here at UTEP. I hope future Miners watching this video take advantage of all that you UTEP has offer. Now back to you Alex.
– Thank you for reaching out to future Miners and telling them about all the great things happening at UTEP, Nicholas. UTEP is proud to have so many organizations and clubs to make the campus experience more than just about education, but also about having fun. We’ll be watching for your work on the big screen. Thanks again, Nicholas.
At UTEP, getting an exceptional education doesn’t have any borders, even the kind to another country. Meet Marielly. She lives in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, just across the border from El Paso. As a Biomedical Sciences student, she tells us there are many reasons why she chose UTEP and one of those reasons is the bicultural experience and the affordability. Marielly, you are up.
– Thanks, Alex. Hello everyone. My whole life I always knew I wanted to attend medical school, so when it was time to go to college and get my Bachelor’s in Biological Sciences, I knew UTEP was the right place for me. The great academics, the student involvement, and all the amazing opportunities really caught my eye. I grew up in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico and attended school in Mexico until eighth grade. Then, I decided it was time to go to school in El Paso to learn English and be prepared for college, so I began to cross the border every day. I would walk across the international bridge about two to three hours before school started to be able to be on time. When I finally got my car, I still had to wait in line for two hours to cross, but at least now had AC and music. Just like me, thousands of other UTEP students living in Mexico wake up early and commute three to four hours every day to be able to attend this wonderful school. Thankfully, UTEP is very understanding of our situation. I also love how affordable UTEP is. In addition to scholarships and other financial aid I obtained, I also received scholarships for my study abroad program in South Korea next fall. I’m so grateful for that. This university is also preparing me to be a good candidate for medical school. My advisor has helped me choose the best classes each semester. I also joined the undergraduate fellowship program where we meet on Fridays and learn about all the different graduate and fellowship opportunities and how to be ready to apply for them. That’s it for me. Back to you, Alex.
– Study abroad, medical school prep, financial aid, and a bicultural campus and community. UTEP certainly made your college experience exceptional so far. UTEP is committed to helping students achieve their dreams and it sounds like you’re well on your way to yours, Marielly. Picks up. You are certainly going to go far.