Let’s check in with Dani, a Sophomore Psychology Major who quickly discovered the supportive community at Bowie State University. With resources such as the Student Success Center, she’s able to shape her path towards personal success. From 24/ 7 online tutoring to personalized peer assistance, BSU empowers students to take control of their futures. Tell us more, Dani.
– Thank you, Desi. Hey everyone. I am often described as a happy soul. I love making new friends and bringing brightness to any community. I wasn’t sure exactly what my path would be, but with the encouragement of my friends and professors, I have found my calling and my most authentic path. Since I started attending Bowie State, I’ve made some beautiful connections. I’ve become friends with people from different backgrounds, built relationships with staff and professors, and have also found my place within my modeling team, Kush Models University. The bond that I have developed with my team is one that I will cherish for the rest of my life. They’re a major part of what kept me going when I felt like giving up. In those hard moments, I had an entire community of support to turn to, one that I am eternally grateful for. Bowie State has an amazing staff that works closely with students to ensure that we are pushing ourselves towards our highest path in success. The professors are caring and understanding, and they see the best in us and push us to see the best in ourselves. College can be difficult, and at first, I had trouble adjusting to my new environment. However, Bowie State offers many resources to help students achieve success. For instance, there are year-round programs like the Career Development Center, tutoring and counseling services and financial aid and scholarship opportunities for students who need them. In my short time here at Bowie State, I’ve already learned so much, not just about school, but about life in general. I’ve learned to keep pushing, to never give up, and to go where your heart takes you. Once I did that, I found a community waiting for me with open arms. Back to you, Desi.
– Thanks, Dani. We are so happy that Bowie State provides opportunities for you to craft a successful plan for your future. Whether it’s through specialized assistance in the math lab and writing center, or a tailored approach to meet students’ specific needs, Bowie State is committed to creating the ideal learning environment for each student. Fantastic job Dani.
Let’s meet Janee, a Computer Science Major who knows that Bowie State is a great place to be a student athlete. With 13 sports in the Division II CIAA League, the country’s oldest historically black athletic conference, BSU has dominated with 25 championships since 1989. Plus the CIAA basketball tournament is one of the nation’s premier sporting events. Setting it over to you, Janee.
– Thanks, Desi. Hey, everyone. Growing up, I was always surrounded by sports and athletes, but I didn’t pick up my first volleyball until I was 12. A few of my other friends played and it looked pretty fun, so I decided to join the team. As a captain of my volleyball team at Bowie State, I get to step into a leadership role and be a good role model for my younger teammates. I love that I can bond with a small group of girls over a short period of time. Bowie State has allowed me to make many different connections and I couldn’t be more grateful for the contact that I have now. Being a computer science major has given me access to many different opportunities as the tech world steadily evolves. There’s also a great atmosphere and support system for student athletes, specifically through the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, which allows student athletes to have a voice. Being the Secretary for this group has allowed me the opportunity to hear other athletes and being able to support them is immensely gratifying. Bowie State has an amazing gym that the volleyball, basketball, and cheer teams use. It has a new state-of-the-art basketball court, which was funded by NBA-star and hometown legend Kevin Durant. Our intramural sports, basketball, volleyball, wrestling, lacrosse, and swimming along with fitness programs all use the McKeldin Gym and are open to everyone. Bowie State has taught me that being a student first and an athlete second is the most important thing about playing a collegiate sport. I’m so glad that I have the support of my advisors, physical trainers, physical therapists, coaches and staff. I’m happy that I’m able to achieve my educational goals all while playing my favorite sport. That’s all. Serving it back to you, Desi.
– Wow Janee, being a student athlete sounds exciting. It’s great that you’ve learned to balance your academic pursuits with your athletic ambitions. Bowie State University strives to develop intercollegiate athletes as well-rounded students and provides opportunities for leadership on and off the field. Good luck out there, Janee and go Bulldogs.
Let’s catch up with Mi’jan, a Communications Major working toward a career in Media and Entertainment. He’s learning that taking full advantage of BSU’s wide range of campus opportunities has helped him shape his college experience. With more than 2000 students living on campus and over 50 clubs and organizations, there is a place for everyone. Tell us more Mi’jan.
– Thanks for the intro, Desi. What’s up everyone? As a first generation college student, I never would’ve imagined that my journey would lead me to Bowie State University, but I’m grateful it did. I always knew I was destined to be right here in front of a camera and there is no better place for me to make great memories while also pursuing a career in media and entertainment. BSU is a great place for communication majors to hone their talents. Students have access to radio and television studios to create and promote their content. As a freshman, I was able to take courses within my major to gain experience with equipment and see if it’s the right fit for me. Since then, I’ve joined just about every media organization on campus and served as the Program Director for the WBSU Radio Station. I was voted the number one event host at Bowie State and a top 10 HBCU Host across the nation. BSU prioritizes undergraduate students gaining a real world experience and being Bowie bold is all about taking advantage of every available opportunity. BSU has diverse club and social opportunities that range from Student Government Association to the New Blurred Order. Everyone needs a break at some point and to enjoy my social life, I decided to join organizations like the Eta Zeta Funk Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporate. I have also worked alongside the Campus Activities Board and served as the Chief New Student Orientation Leader, which gave me leadership experience. I graduate soon and while excited, I’m gonna miss being an undergraduate student. BSU truly has an enriching community of students working to find themselves, but also working towards a career. I’m blessed to have landed here because it wasn’t me that chose Bowie State, it was Bowie State that chose me. And that’s my story, for now. Passing it back to you, Desi.
– Mi’jan, you definitely set the standard for getting the most outta BSU experience. Bowie State has a long list of groups and activities with something for everyone, and if you can’t find something you like, you’re encouraged to be Bowie bold and create your own. Thanks Mi’jan.
Let’s welcome Ti’asia, a junior from Long Island, New York, and former Tour Ambassador. When it comes to campus life, BSU has a lot to offer, from the student success and housing options to its convenient location near two major cities. There’s no better person to give us the inside scoop on balancing academics and campus life. Take it away, Ti’asia.
– Thanks Desi, and hey y’all. Growing up, I had questions about my future. Although New York will always be home, I wanted to explore. When I found Bowie State University and saw the thriving campus, I realized this could be home too. Coming from out of state, I was nervous about housing, but Bowie has seven different housing options, including apartment style living, which I really like. They have amenities like a gym, gaming room, and lounges for students to enjoy and foster deeper connections. And don’t worry about food, there are various dining spots across campus with meal plans available for everyone. I love the quesadillas at the pub and the soul food at the cafe. Plus, the dining staff is so friendly and welcoming. If you don’t plan to live on campus, BSU is also a smart choice for commuters since it’s close to Virginia, Baltimore and DC. And BSU is big on safety, there’s an electronic emergency system that alerts students for campus emergencies, so I always feel safe walking around. I’m heavily involved at BSU and even used to give tours of our beautiful campus. I’ve introduced them to everything from classrooms to art installations and resources on campus, which are endless. There’s a Career Development Center, counseling services, the L-G-B-T-Q-I-A Resource Center and the Wellness Center, so there’s help wherever you need it. My favorite part of giving tours was seeing people’s faces light up and expressing how much this campus means to me and the impact Bowie State can have on your future. I’ve learned and achieved so much in my time here. I’m learning how to be successful and a student leader at the same time. I will cherish my connections at Bowie State for a lifetime. That’s my story. All yours, Desi.
– Wow Ti’asia, your enthusiasm for BSU’s campus life and location is unmatched. Bowie State makes traveling to nearby cities easy and convenient with a commuter train stop on campus. Being at the forefront of innovation is truly amazing. Thanks for sharing Ti’asia.
Let me introduce you to Hope, a Visual Communication and Digital Media Arts Major with a Concentration in Digital Cinema and Time-Based Media. BSU is a premier school for digital media arts offering specialized programs in visual communications, music technology, fashion design, and more. There’s even a stop motion animation studio and a full production recording studio. Hope, the stage is yours.
– Thanks, Desi. My passion for storytelling began in second grade. I loved reading and writing short stories, which eventually blossomed into writing poetry, then playwriting, then screenwriting. I was hesitant to come to Bowie State University because my sister had already marched her tears away here. However, this university was the only one that met all my needs, so here I am proudly continuing the family tradition. Thanks to my beloved BSU professors, I’m making strides in my studies. They make sure I receive all the training necessary to be a successful screenwriter and filmmaker. From graphic design to animation and digital cinematography, Bowie state’s Visual Communication and Digital Media Arts Program provides its students with an array of opportunities within the film and entertainment industry. BSU is actually the first HBCU to have its own Hip-Hop and Visual Culture Minor. On top of that, they have partnerships with Leica Stop Motion Animation Studios, Adobe, Harlem Fashion Row, and so many more. Speaking of, you’re looking at one of the models for the upcoming Senior Exhibition Fashion Show. The Fine and Performing Arts Center is an amazing space for creatives, including the newly unveiled Dionne Warwick Theater featuring student and professional performances. Many prestigious events are held here including film festivals, conferences, dance recitals, you name it. Bowie State University has provided me with a world of opportunities. I’m a student leader on campus, landed multiple internships, attended movie premieres, and even have my photography featured in an exhibition. After I graduate, I plan to travel, complete my master’s in business management, teach English in the art of storytelling to young people, all while growing my brand as an artist. Bowie State University has so much to offer and I am so grateful to be here. Well, that’s my story. All yours, Desi.
– Thank you Hope. Bowie State is committed to helping students express their passions and showcase their work. The stunning Fine and Performing Arts Center and All-Steinway Facility provides performance spaces that rival professional venues, housing student theater productions, gospel and concert choirs, and the Symphony of Soul Marching Band. Bravo Hope.
Let’s hear from Ryan, a Communications Major with a Concentration in Broadcast Journalism. He is constantly exploring opportunities outside of his comfort zone, like running for Mr. Freshman. Knowing that the Bowie State University community is behind him, the Bulldog family is committed to seeing everyone succeed. Tossing it to you, Ryan.
– Thanks for that introduction, Desi. Growing up in Bowie, Maryland, I always knew that I wanted to make a difference. Church led me to acting, which is my passion, and I wanted to find a place where I could foster my skills. Ultimately, I knew I wanted to attend an HBCU and after my tour of Bowie State, I was ready to call it home, because of the family oriented environment. Bowie State University offers a program called Bulldog Scholars Academy, where incoming freshmen can start their college journey off early in the summer and earn up to six credits. I was fortunate enough to participate in this program. The knowledge and wisdom that I gained from that program helped prepare me for the fall. This led me to run for Mr. Freshman because I wanted to help others feel at home at Bowie State. I am blessed to have one and I’m humbled to be a member of the Change in Action Royal Empire here at Bowie State University. We are school ambassadors and community servants who pride ourselves on representing our beloved institution. Since arriving on campus, I have been welcomed with open arms by faculty, upperclassmen and alumni. Bowie State has plenty of resources on campus to support the academic success of students. This campus is filled with history and each building has its own unique story to tell. As a freshman experiencing this for the first time, I fell in love with the HBCU culture and community. Attending Bowie State has shown me that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. There are people and resources on campus that want to see students succeed. Throughout my journey, I look forward to utilizing all of these assets. That’s all for now. Back to you Desi.
– Ryan, it’s amazing to see how you fostered such a strong and supportive community that empowers you to be you. As Maryland’s oldest HBCU, Bowie State has created a 150 year legacy of welcoming students from diverse backgrounds into a tight-knit environment and helping them succeed. Thank you, Ryan.
Let’s hear from Vecksle, whose Olympic college journey took him around the globe. Vecksle had to navigate grief, caregiving responsibilities, and a lack of confidence before starting at Olympic College. But here he found the support that launched him all the way to university and an internship overseas. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hello, everyone. When I first came to Olympic College, I wasn’t sure I was cut out for it. I had dropped out of high school when my father was diagnosed with cancer to look after my five younger siblings. I stayed by his side as a caregiver for 15 years. But after he passed, it was time to do something for myself. The advisors at OC helped me through admissions and suggested a college success course. That class really set me up for success. It had been a long time since I’d been a student. The skills for studying effectively, the ins and outs of writing a college-level research paper, learning how to prioritize the workload for multiple classes as well as the importance of self-care have been invaluable in and out of the classroom. My professors were also all very encouraging with ample office hours if I ever needed a little help. When I wasn’t in class, the Multicultural Center became a second home at OC. I made friends from around the world there with the English Conversation Partner Program. When I graduated with my associates from Olympic College, I also received a high school diploma. Honestly, I’m not sure which one I’m more proud of. Since OC has a direct transfer agreement with the state universities here in Washington, almost all of my classes transferred over with full credit and I was able to declare a linguistics major right away when I was accepted into the University of Washington. With my experience tutoring English at the Multicultural Center, I was able to take an internship teaching English abroad in Mongolia, and now I’m applying to a master’s program to teach English to speakers of other languages. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Very cool, Vecksle. The Multicultural Center creates a sense of belonging for students from all backgrounds and opens up the entire world to OC students like you. OC’s Direct Transfer Agreements with institutions including the University of Washington, Gonzaga and Washington State University make it a perfect jumping off point for students who want to attend university after earning an associate’s degree, thanks again.
Okay, everyone, it’s time to meet Tovi who loved being a student at Olympic College so much, after graduation, he decided to get a job right here at OC. Using the skills he learned in the Organizational Leadership and Technical Management Program, he now helps other students just like him create the career of their dreams. Let’s hear it, Tovi.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. After graduating high school, I was not sure what college to attend and I wanted to gain work experience at the same time. After exploring other colleges, asking my classmates and friends about their experience with Olympic College, I knew OC was the one. Olympic College offers varieties of programs from professional certifications, Associates Degree Direct Transfer Agreement, and a few options for the bachelor’s program. OC allowed me to work and attend school full-time enrolled in the Bachelor’s of Applied Science for Organizational Leadership and Technical Management, or OLTM. The OLTM program offered real life skills that improved communication, critical thinking, problem solving, conflict resolution, and change management plan. While attending OC, I had the opportunity to work as a student employee in Student Government. While working there, I was able to strengthen my connections with my colleagues here at OC and earn extra money to pay for my textbooks and other expenses. Olympic College is heavily involved in student-led events and initiatives. As the Student Government of Olympic College Vice President, I had the opportunity to travel to Washington, DC, and meet with our US representatives to advocate for increased support of community colleges. This incredible leadership opportunity would not have been possible without OC. The sense of belonging and community that OC has helped me find a career path of where I want to be. If it wasn’t for my team in Student Government, advisor, colleagues, I would not be where I am now working as a program coordinator for the Career Center. It is my turn to help students find their dream career path. Together, we are OC. Back to you, Alex.
– Great job, Tovi. You really made the most of Olympic’s many opportunities. OC’s Student Government is a wonderful way to be involved in the campus community while earning money and valuable skills. It’s so cool that you can get a bachelor’s degree at OC to prepare you for a career in leadership. Cheers, Tovi.
Let’s hear from Tina who moved here all the way from the San Fernando Valley in California with her wife who is in the military. At Olympic College, there’s a place for everyone. With help from the college’s caring advisors, Tina was able to use her military benefits to follow her dreams in nursing. Tell us all about it, Tina.
– Thank you for that introduction, Alex. Since enrolling at the Olympic College, I’ve found a welcoming community with a knowledgeable advisor who have supported me every step of the way. How did I end up in Washington State? Well, my wife is a United States sailor and she’s currently stationed at Naval Base Kitsap. In 2013, I earned my Licensed Vocational Nurse Certification and I knew that I wanted to further my career and become a registered nurse. As a military family member, one of the challenges I face is that we have such short period of time in each duty station, which makes continuing my education extremely difficult. However, at Olympic College, they offer Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse Program, which allows me to complete my degree in five short quarters. After deciding to enroll, I met with a student success coach who helped me come up with a game plan to ensure I completed this program before we had to move again. Once my academic plan was set, my success coach advised me to reach out to the Military & Veterans Programs Department to access tuition assistance as I am a GI Bill transfer from my wife. With their guidance, I was able to utilize and maximize all of my benefits. Additionally, the community is very LGBT friendly, which is a plus for me. Olympic College has clubs like Sexuality and Gender Alliance and the Office of the Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, which helps create that welcoming environment. With all the guidance from my success coach, MVP Department and all of my professors, I am proud to say that I’m now in the third quarter of the nursing program. My anticipated graduation date is June 2024 and I cannot wait. Thank you Olympic College for making this journey as smooth as it could possibly be. Now that’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Awesome, Tina, you truly found a community that helped you thrive. OC creates a welcoming environment through its Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, and dozens of clubs for students to choose from. Student success coaches are always on standby to guide students through their degree path and funding opportunities. Thanks, Tina.
Let’s find out how high school junior Ryha is getting a running start on her college education at OC’s Shelton campus. Located at the south end of Puget Sound, Shelton has access to beautiful parks and hiking trails where folks like Ryha and her family can experience nature in all its glory. Ryha, you’re up.
– Thanks for the intro, Alex. Hey, everyone. Since I was a kid, my goal was to enroll in the Olympic College Running Start Program and earned my associate of arts degree while still in high school. I’ve always been a very driven student and, honestly, I like to challenge myself. When it came time to enroll in a college, there were many options, but something always led me back to my small hometown college, like it was meant to be. I like that Olympic College offers everything I need, like in-person, hybrid, and online classes, so I can choose what fits my lifestyle and schedule the best. With these classes, I can work at my own pace, and it allows time for me to take part in other activities and hobbies I enjoy, like hiking with my family. OC offers a variety of classes to help me expand my learning in a way that traditional high school classes can’t. The Running Start program helps me prepare and gain necessary experience for after high school, and I love that I can get a head start learning college credits. OC has great online services like the bookstore and library. They help me find resources and textbooks to be successful in my classes without having to come to campus. The Running Start Advising Office was super supportive in planning my journey, offering advice and answering any questions I have. OC also offers free tutoring and tons of afterschool events and activities. Even though I’ve just started this journey, there are already multiple different ways that OC is shaping my dreams, guiding my path, and helping me achieve my many goals. It’s no wonder why Olympic College was the best choice for me to get a running start on my future. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Awesome, Ryha. Earning an associate’s degree without having to pay the cost of tuition is an amazing opportunity for driven students like you. Olympic supports you both online and in person with amazing classes, tutoring, library, and bookstore available remotely. Thank you for taking us on this trek, Ryha. That was awesome.