Let’s hear from Caleb, a freshman who’s already planning for his future. Collin College provides resources to excel inside the classroom, but also experiences to shape a student’s college life. From unique programs to supportive clubs and organizations, students will surely find their extended family right here at Collin College. Tell us about your experiences, Caleb.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. When I was young, I was always intrigued by business. This fascination really showed when I watched the documentary called “The Men Who Built America.” It fascinated me how men could build up empires like Rockefeller’s energy empire. I knew I wanted to major in business when I first started at Collin College, but other than that, I didn’t know what to expect. But once I started, I found that Collin College not only has great academic resources, but has some pretty fun things to do outside of school, like having a mechanical bull to ride on campus. Whether you wanna go to the gym that’s free for students or the Esports Lab with a top-of-the-line gaming experience, you can tell that Collin College puts a lot of time, money, and effort into creating community-like experience for their students. There are opportunities to get you active in the community as well as keep yourself busy with classes. Collin College surrounds you with caring and qualified professors who will try their best to ensure your success. And with resources like the Writing Center, I was able to get all the help I needed to make A’s in my classes. When it came time for me to transfer, Collin College made the process so smooth. They helped me to enroll in classes that would easily transfer over and helped me get my transcripts. My time at Collin prepared me to take my next steps at furthering my education. I learned so much during my time at Collin College. College can be hard, but as long as you work hard, you can accomplish and achieve all your goals at Collin College. Back to you, Alex.
– Thanks, Caleb, for sharing the really cool things Collin College has to offer beyond the classroom. It’s a great feeling to know you’re fully supported while being a student here and given all the tools to successfully transfer to the next step in your educational journey. Thanks again.
Let’s talk with Daniel. Now, Daniel isn’t your typical college student. In fact, he is proud to shed some light on what it means to be a non-traditional student who has just recently decided to set a path in higher education. Let’s hear more from Daniel and his goal to educate the next generation. Daniel.
– Thank you, Alex. Hello, everyone. As a native-born McKinney man, I chose to attend Collin College because it’s home to me. My wife graduated from Collin and four of our six children have attended classes here as well. Collin College is committed to supporting their students. Being much older than my fellow classmates, I was concerned about the awkwardness of the age difference, but I felt very welcome and included in all areas. College algebra was my biggest hurdle. It had been more than 30 years since my last algebra class from McKinney High School. At the beginning of the semester, I was concerned about passing algebra, but thanks to the academic assistance tutors helping me this past semester, my only concern was whether I would receive an A or a B. And after serving in the Army for more than 20 years, three of those on combat deployments, I’m incredibly grateful for the Veterans Resource Office. They’ve made it possible for a retired veteran at my age to continue my goal of becoming a high school history teacher. Collin College is such an impressive place for education right here in my hometown. There are many campuses throughout the county, which makes education accessible for everyone looking to continue their education, no matter how busy your lifestyle. My time spent here on campus is more than just getting a degree to start a new career. I’ve grown as a person in many ways. My professors take a personal interest in teaching us here beyond just our grades. And my message to everyone is that just because life may cause you to delay your dreams and goals, do not abandon them. Always push forward. Back to you, Alex.
– Daniel, it’s inspiring to hear about your time of service and your journey. Collin College serves military-connected students diligently. In fact, it’s been named one of the best for vets colleges, get this, 11 times. Daniel, you are proof of Collin College’s commitment to serve those who have served. Thank you.
Let’s hear from Giovanni over on the McKinney Campus. Opening back in 1985 as the first and original Collin College campus, the McKinney Campus is now home to several of the health sciences programs offered at the college and are shaping the future leaders in healthcare. Giovanni, tell us all about your experiences at the McKinney Campus.
– Muchas gracias, Alex. As a child of two medical professionals, a career in medicine was almost certain for me. I look up to my parents very much and wanted to make a difference as they did, but hopefully take it even further. I started off as a dual credit student in high school and upon graduation, I realized that the Collin College path was right for me. I never really intended to travel far for college and growing up in Plano, man, I had a very affordable and fast growing school in my neighborhood. Collin College offers many health science programs such as respiratory care, ultrasound, sleep tech, surgical tech, and many more. The respiratory program here at Collin College is nationally known as one of the best programs in North Texas. As a student of this program, I have not only been able to learn the exact skills I need to do my career, but utilize them in hospitals with hands-on experience as a clinical student. Respiratory therapy is an underappreciated and understaffed career, but with programs like the one here at Collin growing, hopefully soon, we can change that. The laid back, comfortable campuses of Collin College make it easy to learn and get your work done by providing ample resources and an inviting student life. Collin College has been serving its communities for over 30 years and has allowed countless students like me to achieve their academic goals without having to compromise their living or financial situation. The acclaim that Collin College had in the healthcare professions made me confident in my future. Upon graduation, I plan to work in the field and gain experience that can hopefully lead me to teach the next generation of respiratory students. Back to you, Alex.
– The Respiratory Care Program is proud to be among the few programs in the state that’s continuously awarded for their successful Registered Respiratory Therapist credentialing. In fact, they’ve received the Distinguished Recognition for 11 consecutive years. Giovanni, we know you’ll be the change you wanna see in the field of respiratory care. Thanks again.
From affordable tuition to partnerships with four-year universities, we now get to meet with Temi, a Collin College junior who will talk to us about how his journey has set him up for success, not only academically and professionally, but in his personal life as well. Temi, take it away.
– Thanks for that introduction, Alex. Before I graduated high school, my GPA was a 3.1. Although I could apply to universities and get accepted, I wasn’t gonna get any substantial amount of financial aid and I could not afford tuition out of pocket. Collin College had a representative on campus who reached out to me and told me all about the college. Collin College boasts the lowest in-district tuition rate in the state of Texas. Attending Collin College has been one of the best decisions I have made in my college career. They make college education accessible and affordable even after graduation. Did you know that Collin College has admission partnerships with four-year universities? I joined a partnership with one of the universities last year, and through that partnership, I have a locked tuition rate. This means that if I transfer next year, I still get to pay last year’s tuition rate, even if it is increased. Collin College has made tireless efforts to keep education accessible and affordable to individuals like myself. Affordability aside, Collin College offers quality resources to its students, like counseling, career centers to help you land your dream job, business centers so you can get that summer body, and student organizations to help you develop interpersonal relationships. Everything a student needs to be successful can be found right here at Collin College. From counseling to transferring career guidance, Collin College has provided me with the necessary resources that will be crucial to my professional and personal growth moving forward. Collin College doesn’t just provide you with affordable education, it provides you with the resources needed to advance yourself professionally, academically, and personally. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, we had no idea how affordable a college education can be right here at Collin College. And the guidance and support offered here is amazing. What a journey you’ve gone through to get where you are now, Temi. I’ll say, getting a degree with little to no debt is definitely a big, big win. And we can’t wait to see what’s in store for your future. Thanks again, Temi.
Let’s head over to meet Maxwell, a freshman at the Wiley Campus, who will introduce us to the Veterinary Technology Program. This program is highly sought after and prepares students to care for our furry four-legged friends with so much hands-on experience. Maxwell is about to tell us about this unique program. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, y’all. Growing up, I’ve always wanted to work with animals, so of course my dream job was to become a licensed veterinary nurse. So I needed to go to a college that is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association, and of course, Collin College’s program was the one. I got my first job at a veterinary clinic during my senior year in high school, where I learned the many responsibilities within each role and learned how much I enjoyed working as a technician. Upon starting my first semester, I was immediately met with compassion and support from my peers and my professors. My professors set aside their time to help us understand the material and practice our essential skills. With the education I’m receiving at Collin College and my current work at Veterinary Emergency Group, I’m learning so much about what it takes to be a licensed veterinary nurse. Collin College has a wide variety of programs that offer certificates, associates, and bachelor’s degrees, which range from art, video production, to business, computer science, and various healthcare tracks. The amount of hands-on learning in not just the veterinary technology program, but other programs allow you to get a headstart in your career. Collin College’s veterinary technology program has allowed me to take a step forward in the advancement of veterinary medicine and patient adequacy. I’m able to take the knowledge that I have learned back to my career and community to offer gold standard medical care for all our patients, thanks to our team of passionate professors who strive to make veterinary students into nurses. I fell in love with the career of veterinary nursing and I can’t wait to see where it takes me. Back to you, Alex.
– Maxwell, thank you for sharing your passion and love of animals with us. That 100% pass rate has been consistent for the last three years. What an accomplishment. We know this accredited program at Collin College is preparing you to join the vet tech workforce right after graduation. Best of luck, Maxwell. Thanks again.
– Thanks, Alex. Hello, everyone. When I started looking at what life would look like after high school, I would have never imagined myself in college, let alone such an amazing school like Collin College. Collin College is a place that prides itself in providing accessible opportunities for higher education to anyone from any background with programs and resources that give us access to mentorship at no cost. A first-generation student like myself has the opportunity to succeed by asking for help from mentors who understand our position personally through these services. My guidance and academic counselors have been amazing through each and every step of the way. They’re providing me with resources and materials to ace my courses during my time here at Collin College. I got to sit down with an academic advisor and for the very first time, get answers to many questions any first-gen student might have. All my encounters here with the staff have been nothing but positive, and I am so grateful I have an entire team here at Collin College who I can turn to when I need help. A college education is for far more than learning skills for a new job or to enter the real world, and Collin College is amazing at reminding us first-gens of that. Collin offers tailored programs that help low-income first-generation students through the college journey and into the corporate world. Whatever major you choose, you won’t just learn about it at Collin College. You’ll get hands-on experience and guidance through the entire process, from first-year academic coaches to job offers after graduation. I am happy to attend class and get my education while being able to attend events and make new memories with friends. That’s all for me. Now, back to you, Alex.
– Supportive staff and faculty make all the difference, and students like Marylaisis are a prime example of what can be accomplished when given the tools to excel. There are resources like these at every single campus, making sure students reach their career goals. Marylaisis, we are sure you will inspire future first-gen students all around. Thanks again.
Let’s hear from Tony, a Senior Civil Engineering student from right here in the Bluff City of Memphis, Tennessee. The U of M has more than 250 organizations for students to explore. Combining a high quality education and life skills learned through involvement on campus, students are set up for success upon graduation. Share your story, Tony.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. When I first started my college search, I had no clue where I wanted to go or what I wanted to do. The only thing I knew was that my final decision had to render me with everything I needed to be successful. The University of Memphis was the prerequisite to ensure my success was made possible. This university has numerous programs that immerse students in environments that prepares them to succeed. Coming in as a Civil Engineering major, my primary focus was graduating and becoming a licensed engineer. I didn’t initially understand the value of student involvement. It wasn’t until I began to venture outside of the classroom that I became cognizant of the true purpose of what it means to be a Tiger. Throughout my journey, I’ve been able to lead and become a part of so many different organizations, organizations like Empowerment of Color, Alternative Break Experience, Hooks African American Male Initiative, and the Kappa Beta chapter of Kappa Alpha Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated. These opportunities have allowed me to actively leverage my strengths and talents while remaining proactive in my community. Involvement is integral to the success of students at Memphis. This university is committed to providing students with everything they need to capitalize on the greatness that resides within them. As Tigers, we recognize the importance of education, but using the knowledge that we gained to add light to those around us is just as essential. Being involved and engaged at this wonderful university has prepared me in more ways than I could have ever imagined. I’ve not only been able to lead and gain many life needed skills, but I’ve been able to discover my true purpose in making a difference. That is what the Tiger spirit is all about. Back to you, Alex.
– Tony, thank you for talking about the various organizations available here on campus, and the importance of involvement outside of the classroom. It’s so inspiring to hear the impact the university has had on you and its commitment to providing a well-rounded student experience. Thanks again for sharing your story.
Let’s hear from Sree, an international graduate student pursuing a Master’s degree in Information Systems. Sree has utilized the university’s expansive list of student support services and organizations to make the most of her time at the U of M. These experiences help create the next generation of leaders within the U of M’S graduate school. Sree, please take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. From rural India to the heart of Memphis, I’m grateful to be on a path where my dreams have no boundaries. The tremendous support from my family has allowed me to study abroad at the University of Memphis and become first person in my family to attend school overseas, where I’m earning a Master’s in Information Systems. My time at the U of M has been like a vibrant canvas filled with opportunities to learn, embrace diverse cultures, and fully experience all that Memphis has to offer. The University Support Services made my transition smooth, which allowed me to not only absorb a wealth of knowledge, but also to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of its community. From serving as President of Association for Management Information Systems to working as a teaching assistant gaining real world experience in the university’s Procurement Office, I have enjoyed participating in academic and extracurricular activities all while collaborating on various projects with faculty mentors. These experiences have been pivotal in my journey, unlocking doors to the most exciting opportunities, U of M has been more than just a place of learning for me, it’s been a platform for personal evolution. Opportunities here aren’t just lessons. They are transformative experiences. I even discovered an opportunity through a university career fair and started working as a Data Analyst for City of Memphis. The U of M has been fertile ground where my brains took growth and blossomed. This holistic experience combined leadership, commitment, and innovation. Now I’m eager to step into the corporate IT world, prepared from these amazing learnings. Thank you to my family for being my greatest strength and the University of Memphis for making everything possible. This is my story forever and always. Go Tigers. Back to you, Alex. ♪ I feel so close to you ♪ ♪ Close to you ♪
– Thank you Sree for sharing your impressive journey as a graduate student at the University of Memphis. Coming from rural India to Memphis, your determination to get involved and make the most of your opportunities at the U of M are a perfect example of what makes this campus so special. Great story, thanks again for sharing.
Let’s meet Charles, a first generation student building a career as a researcher while pursuing a Doctoral Degree in the School of Communication Sciences and Disorders. Charles’s education is bolstered by the U of M’s state-of-the-art research laboratories in its Community Health Building, and its top-tier research enterprise as a Carnegie R1 institution. Charles, you are up.
– Thanks, Alex. I’m happy to introduce you to the fantastic field of research. It starts with an ambition and develops with a purpose. Ever since childhood, I’ve wanted to be a scientist, and thanks to my studies at the University of Memphis, that dream can become a reality. As a first generation graduate student, I had no idea how to navigate the terrain of a doctoral education. I have since connected with a group of top researchers in my field who are currently mentoring my success as an academic in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. My focus is on the intersection of voice, acoustics, and public health. As a Research Assistant, I conduct team lab meetings and manage routine duties of running experiments with human subjects, such as scheduling participant communications. I have since inspired other members of my family to begin their journey on the University of Memphis’ inviting campus. My experiential learning takes place at one of the largest community health-related education and research facilities in the Mid-South. Located on the U of M’s Park Avenue campus, the Community Health Building provides access to mentorship and training that are equipping me to complete community-based research in the state-of-the-art research laboratories. The building also houses the Memphis Speech and Hearing Center, which provides clinical services and hearing and speech. The knowledge, experience, and mentorship at the community clinics and research laboratories makes for a premier educational experience fueled by hands-on learning. My individualized PhD program will allow me to continue my work as a speech language pathologist and overlap a valuable education through public health courses. My goals are to manage a research lab, instruct future scholars, and continue my clinical practice. The University of Memphis is preparing me for an exciting career that will make its mark on the world. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, thank you, Charles. Not only have you successfully navigated the challenges of a first generation student pursuing a PhD, but you’ve also inspired your loved ones to follow your path to the U of M. How awesome is that? Now students like Charles are helping expand the U of M’s already impressive research enterprise as a Carnegie R1 institution. Great job.
It’s time to meet Ansley, a Senior majoring in Communication with a minor in Marketing, hailing from Atoka, Tennessee. Growing up and expanding your network in school can help earn leadership opportunities and land internships. Investing time into those opportunities as a student will lead to a successful career. Let’s hear more from Ansley right now. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. When choosing a college that was best for me, I knew I wanted to go somewhere that had the resources to help me tn my future career. I’ve had the opportunity to serve as the Student Body President, which has helped me put my communication courses into action. Being involved has been the highlight of my time at the University of Memphis because it has helped me build my network. As a Freshman, I joined the Student Government Association so I could make friends during the pandemic. Little did I know I would be the President my Senior year. I also joined Greek Life and many other on-campus organizations to help expand my network, like Alpha Gamma Delta, Order of Omega, Tigers for St. Jude Executive Board, Lambda Pi Eta, and Omicron Delta Kappa. Being a student leader helped me develop the communication and leadership skills needed for my career. I was fortunate to score an internship as a Communications Intern at International Paper. My communication courses and student leadership experience helped prepare me to work in a corporate atmosphere. As Student Body President, I aim to increase accessibility to campus resources, like supporting students who may not have a professional headshot. My administration brought the Iris booth to campus, which provides free headshots for students to kickstart their career. The University of Memphis Career Services has an amazing resume workshop that helped me perfect my resume. A college education is more than learning skills for a job. It’s also learning to balance multiple responsibilities and communicate the skills that have prepared you for your career. The U of M invests in their students and wants to see them excel in their career. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Ansley. It sounds like you’ve done a fantastic job as Student Body President. Thank you for sharing more about the benefits of student involvement and how that combination of coursework and student leadership can better prepare you for work post-grad. Thanks again.