Let’s welcome Aaron, a sophomore pursuing double majors in Forensics Science and Spanish at Fairmont State University. Aaron has a passion for healthcare and hopes to care for others in the future with special guidance from his professors. Aaron, tell us more about how Fairmont State’s mentors have helped you on your journey to become a healthcare professional. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. As a high school senior, I knew I wanted to go into Medicine and Fairmont State University has given me the opportunities, resources, and mentorship to make that dream feel possible every single day. When I first told people I was pursuing a pre-med track at Fairmont State, many of them were surprised. They didn’t realize the kind of academic support and flexibility available here, but what I found is that the smaller class sizes and close faculty mentorship have been a huge advantage for me academically. One of my professors in chemistry not only helped me understand some of the tougher material, but also walked me through how to approach problems with confidence even when I felt completely stuck. She provided me with studying skills and techniques that have remained valuable to me even in my more advanced classes. There are also so many hands-on opportunities here at Fairmont State, like working in the lab and participating in research projects. Those experiences remind me that I’m not just memorizing material. I’m learning how to think and act like a future healthcare provider. What really makes Fairmont State stand out is the faculty’s dedication to each student. Professors know you personally, push you academically, and supports you through challenges. Their mentorship and engaging classes creates an environment where you’re consistently learning, building connections, and growing to shape both your education and your character. The hands-on experiences and faculty mentorship from my professors make me feel prepared for the next steps in my future career in medicine. Here at Fairmont State University, you can excel and feel completely supported by everyone around you. That’s all for me. Back to you, Alex.
– Aaron, it is great to see how mentorship at Fairmont State University supports your passion. You gained the guidance and skills to succeed both academically and personally. With expert support, Falcons can prepare from a meaningful future. Best of luck with your future healthcare career, Aaron. We are all rooting for you.
Let’s meet Haley, a sophomore in Fairmont State University’s Aviation Program, who’s turning her childhood dream of flying into a future career as a pilot. Her journey demonstrates how Fairmont State provides students with the hands-on training and confidence to achieve their goals. Haley, tell us more about how you’ve taken flight as a Falcon and an aviator. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. Since I was 10, I’ve known that I wanted to become a pilot, so it was important for me to choose the right school to make those dreams happen. Fairmont State University offered affordable flight fees, small class sizes, and flight training that started right away. I was literally flying on my second day of class. I’ll never forget the moment I boarded my first airliner as a kid and the pilot asked if I’d like to see the cockpit. As I returned to my seat, grinning ear to ear, I knew one day I would be a pilot too. Now, I’m here at Fairmont State living that dream. To be a pilot, you have to be a bit of everything, a mathematician, a physicist, a mechanic, a weather forecaster, and a leader. But more than that, you need a community. I spent most of my freshman year at the hangar, studying with classmates, asking questions, and back seating flights. It definitely took me a minute to understand how an engine works. Shout out to the mechanics. Fairmont State has nine Cessna 172, a helicopter, a multi-engine aircraft, and three flight simulators that help students train effectively while keeping costs down. This place has truly launched my journey. Fairmont State doesn’t just train pilots. They shape exceptional aviators. The certified flight instructors, chief instructors, mechanics, and aviation faculty truly care. They’re always checking in, offering support, and making sure you have everything you need to succeed, both in the air and the classroom. As a pilot, you’ll never forget your first solo flight, earn your private license. Fairmont State lay the foundation for all of those milestones. Now, I’m running my commercial license and working at the North Central West Virginia Airport. It’s time for this Falcon to soar. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Haley. Fairmont State University empowers students to achieve their dreams. And with dedication, education, and guidance, Falcons gain the skills to soar into meaningful careers. Haley’s story reminds everyone that at Fairmont State, the sky isn’t the limit. Good luck on your adventures, Haley, and thank you for sharing your story.
Let’s take a moment to learn a little bit more about Indiana Wesleyan University. I had the fortunate opportunity to sit down for a special conversation with President Dr. Jon Kulaga. We talked about what makes IWU so unique, the students who inspire him, and his vision for the future of this Christ centered University. Check it out. I’ve heard you say it many times, like unapologetically Christ-centered. Can you share a little bit about that?
– Yeah. Well, yeah, it’s our way of sort of differentiating ourselves from schools that have been religious or were formerly religious. They had historical denominational ties, but they’ve sort of left that, and we’ve stayed true to that. We are, we say, unapologetic. We don’t talk about religion; we actually talk about Jesus Christ. We wanna be focused on the Word of God and the work of Christ and everything we do, and we’re unapologetic about it. So it impacts our hiring practices, but then it also extends way beyond just the classroom. We have a whole center for calling for students who don’t know what their major is, but they do wanna go to college, and we have a way to walk through that whole process with them. It impacts our lifestyle commitments, and it impacts who plays on our athletic teams. I mean, it literally goes from the classroom to the tennis courts, and we’re just bold about it, and we’re just kind of upfront about it.
– It’s everywhere here.
– Yep.
– You feel it. It’s amazing. When you sit back and have time to just reflect and just think it inspired, what inspires you about these students, you know, inside and outside the classroom?
– You mean hypothetically if I sat back and had time to reflect?
– Yeah. Yeah, exactly.
– Yeah. Yeah. If I actually had that time, it’s the thing about the Indiana Wesleyan students, and it’s true whether you’re talking about our campus or our online students or our seminary students, is not only what they’re being educated to become in terms of their career, they have great ideas for their careers, but it’s the people they’re becoming. It’s actually who they are becoming. And you see that from the moment they walk on campus. Our students serve in the community. They love on the least the last and the littlest on campus. They’re always looking for a way to walk out and to be actually Jesus with skin on, and they’re thinking about that long term. They are here for a career, but they’re really pursuing a calling, and that’s lifelong.
– It’s amazing to watch and you can see why this institution is flourishing in this time from a lot of these like, you know, principles that you’ve seen true to. It’s really cool. When you think of the future student, what do you say to ’em about this institution?
– Yeah, I mean, I did this thing, right? I had four kids, so we did the college tour and everybody would use the phrase, “What colleges are you looking at?” And I try to encourage parents, don’t just look at a school, look through a school, look to the other side. See if that school is gonna pull your student through the other side with internships, with opportunities, alumni network. We have over 115,000 alumni, so we can connect them with apprenticeships, job shadowing. Don’t just look at a school, but look through a school, but still look at a school because the environment in which your child learns, whether it’s the athletic team or the classroom, the faculty member who’s mentoring, so definitely look at the school, its values and its environment, but also look through the school and see if that school is actually gonna be able to pull your student through to the other side and launch them.
– Well, I just wanna say, I mean, thank you for opening your doors here to the college tour.
– Our pleasure.
– You can see that the leadership and everything that you just said, you can see it, and it’s really fun to just watch this come alive here.
– Yeah, it was great to have you on campus.
– Dr. Kulaga, it was an honor speaking with you. It’s clear that IWU is more than a campus. It’s a Christ-centered community, equipping students to change the world. Thank you for sharing your heart and your vision.
Let’s meet Jamie, a senior strategic communication major from Indianapolis, Indiana. IWU’s close-knit Christ-centered community has been the center of Jamie’s experience. From his time as a resident assistant to leading a student-led fundraising group, he has found belonging and purpose and friendships, mentorships, and service. Tell us all about it, Jamie. Take it away.
– Alex, thank you so much for the introduction. Growing up in the hustle and bustle of a major city, finding a university with a warm, Christ-centered academic community was a top priority for me. When I stepped foot in the student center at Indiana Wesleyan University, I knew this was a place that I would call home. From conversations over coffee to attending campus events, it’s the people I get to do life with that make the IWU campus community feel special. As a former RA, I created a culture of fun and hospitality in my unit. We shared meals, made memories, and showed up for each other when it mattered. Beyond the residence halls, there are several ways to get involved and engage with other students. The Student Activities Council and many other groups across campus host events making it easy for students to connect. There’s also Ignite, our student-led fundraising organization, which gives us a chance to look beyond ourselves and serve the surrounding communities. As the current leader of Ignite, I work with my classmates and professors to raise thousands of dollars each year to support pediatric healthcare. In my time here, I’ve met people who feel like family in and outside of the classroom. IWU is a friendly melting pot of people from across the globe with unique experiences, but at our core, we’re bold about our desire to love Jesus Christ and become more like Him. There’s intentional focus on mentorship, small groups, and prayer, which creates an authentic faith-based culture where students feel seen and supported. At IWU, I’ve learned so much about myself and built meaningful friendships that feel like family. What I expected to be just another college campus in the middle of Indiana became the landmark of my story, shaping me into a leader and preparing me for my future career. But that’s enough for me. Back to you, Alex.
– Well done, Jamie. Your story shows exactly why IWU feels like home. This is clearly a community where students are known, supported, inspired to love, and serve like Christ, and equipped for their future careers. Wonderful job on your fundraising efforts to serve your local community. Keep up the amazing work, Jamie. Thanks again.
Okay, everyone, we cannot wait for you to meet Wyndham, a junior from Michigan who’s majoring in social work and honors humanities. Wyndham’s story is all about discovery and how IWU’s exploratory program, life calling classes, and supportive professors helps her find her purpose and choose a major that matches her passion for serving others. Take it away, Wyndham.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, guys. Growing up, I always knew that I wanted to attend college. I heard far too many stories from my parents’ college days to miss out on furthering my education. My only problem, I had no idea what to study. At first, law seemed like the right path, but as I got older, I realized I wanted to pursue a helping profession. Indiana Wesleyan University’s exploratory program gave me the freedom and resources to figure out my strengths, weaknesses, and desires. With smaller class sizes and professors who cared, I felt encouraged to ask questions and choose a major that actually fit me. Pretty quickly, I knew social work was where I belonged. Since then, I’ve loved learning and getting equipped to make a difference in the world. One year, I served as a peer educator for one of our life calling classes and loved serving students. Through having conversations, organizing activities, and offering advice, many of our students chose their major within the first year. IWU makes it easy to navigate such a stressful decision and instills its students with Christ-centered faith and knowledge. I’m so thankful for the faculty and students within our faith-based life calling program. With resources like career fairs and on-campus life coaches, IWU’s exploratory program makes it easy for students to find what they love and pour to campus accordingly. During my first year, I poured my energy into working on campus as a barista and singing in our university chorale. Now, I see all the fun my parents are talking about. IWU has given me the confidence to make informed decisions about my future, whether it be my major, my career path, or what kind of coffee I want in the morning. Oh, hey, look, it’s life calling. I gotta take this. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Wyndham. Your journey is a great example of how IWU helps students explore their options with confidence and faith. It’s clear Wildcats aren’t just choosing majors, they’re discovering their God-given calling in a Christ-centered community. Thank you again for sharing your story with us, Wyndham. Take care.
Let’s check in with Fabrizzio, an international student athlete from Peru who is majoring in business. As a record holding swimmer at IWU, Fabrizzio knows firsthand that Wildcat Athletics are more than just the scoreboard. With 22 varsity teams and over 20 intramural sports athletics at IWU build faith, character, and lifelong friendships. Fabrizzio, tell us more. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. What’s up, guys? I’m an international student athlete from Arequipa, Peru. Indiana Wesleyan University give me the chance to grow in my sport, academics, and most importantly, my Christian faith. I’m part of the IWU men’s swim team specializing in backstroke. I actually hold the school record in the 200 back. Being on the team has taught me push myself in and out of the pool and really value the people around me. We don’t just compete together, we encourage each other, build friendships, and share life as a Christ-centered community. That’s one of the things I love most about IWU. Athletics here aren’t just about performance. They’re also about character and discipleship. Beyond swimming, I’m also an ambassador with IUW’s Intercultural and Global Office, or IGO. Being from Peru, I’m able to share my culture while learning about so many others. It’s been amazing to see how our different backgrounds reflect God’s creativity. One of the best parts of my IWU experience has been the Christ-centered community. Whether it’s in chapel, small groups, or just everyday conversations, I’m able to share my story and hear the testimonies of others. Those faith connections give me encouragement and friendships that I know will last. IWU has challenged me to think outside the box, to grow as a leader and to prepare for my future career. I have learned to approach by choosing a problem and solving it in my own unique way. My dream is to use my engineering and business knowledge to make the difference whatever God leads me. IWU… That’s my line here at IWU. Driven it back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Fabrizzio. It is awesome to see the ways you’re staying connected to your culture. It’s clear that IWU Athletics does an incredible job of combining faith, excellence, and accountability, which helps student athletes become stronger disciples of Christ, preparing them for life and a career. We are all wishing you the best as you try to change the world. Fabrizzio, we know you will. Take care.
Meet Addison, a sophomore nursing major from Demotte, Indiana. This Wildcat is a first generation college student whose story shows how IWU’s Christ centered environment foster spiritual formation. from chapel, small groups, worship teams, mission trips, discipleship groups, and local ministry, Addison has discovered how faith and calling intersect. Addison, please share your journey with us. Take it away.
– Hey, thanks for the intro, Alex. What’s up, everyone? As a first generation college student, I wasn’t sure what to look for in a university, but I knew I wanted a place that shared my passion for nursing and was rooted in my Christian faith. When I visited Indiana Wesleyan, their priorities were clear and I instantly felt at home. At IWU, faith and learning go hand in hand. For me, nursing isn’t just a career, it’s a calling. I wanna serve people in developing countries by providing healthcare, education, and resources that equip them to thrive. IWU shares that vision preparing us with a world changer mindset. Spiritual formation here means connecting my faith to my calling and letting God shape me through community, service, and discipleship. IWU creates many opportunities to walk with Christ, like attending chapel right here on campus. You can also join a worship team, start a small group, or serve on a mission trip. My first year, one of my ministry classes connected me to a group that led Bible studies in the community. I met so many women who have lived varying lives, and I was able to see how every one of them longed for a good, healthy community. IWU fosters an environment that brings people together, creating meaningful connections. The people I just said hi to in passing quickly became those that I shared my life milestones with. I know I can rely on my community here, and I know they’ll support me in my efforts to become a nurse on mission. Senior year, I plan to study abroad with my nursing classmates, living and working alongside a completely different culture. Here at IWU, I found a Christ-centered university where faith and learning come together. It’s a place that strengthens your faith and prepares you for your future career. That’s all for me. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Addison. Your story is a reminder that IWU is more than a university. It is a place where faith, community, and calling come together to shape world changers who keep Christ at the center. Addison, your story is inspiring. Thank you for sharing it with us, and take care.
Say hello to Daniella, a junior biochemistry and pre-healthcare sciences major from right here in Marion, Indiana. Daniella has been part of IWU science community since high school. And today she’s thriving in research labs, honors humanities, and pre-healthcare courses. Her story shows how IWU combines academic rigor with Christian faith. And we can’t wait to hear more, Daniella. You are up. Please take it away.
– Thank you, Alex. From a young age, I was surrounded by Indiana Wesleyan University. I basically grew up on this campus, which show me how faith and learning can go together. One summer I went to a science camp that sparked my interest in the natural sciences. My senior year of high school, I took a chemistry course at IWU and knew that no other program could compare. My biochemistry and pre-med courses have truly prepared me for career in healthcare and science. In my lab classes, I’m putting my critical thinking and problem solving skills to the test. One of my favorite memories was when we competed to design a battery out of scraps of metal. My partner and I created the strongest battery and beat all the other sections. Hands-on learning at IWU equips us to be world changers in science, pursuing excellence and innovation. Our professors make classes educational and engaging while integrating faith in a really intentional way. They encourage us to see God’s hand at work in the science that we study, and help us understand what it means to be a Christian scientist. We explore topics such as stem cell research and learn how to thoughtfully engage with difficult conversations. IWU has amazing opportunities for research on campus. I’ve been part of Dr. Dan Jones’ lab since my freshman year and spent a summer working full-time as a research assistant as part of the Hodson Research Institute. This intensive program challenged me and gave me real life experience as a scientist doing hands-on research, which propelled me further in my career. All of my experiences have prepared me for a career in healthcare and science, but beyond that, IWU has given me meaningful relationships with my professors and peers. I know I’ll carry those connections with me and continue to receive support as I go along on my journey. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Daniella. What an incredible glimpse into IWU’s academics from hands-on research to professors who integrate faith into the classroom, Wildcats are prepared to excel and to lead with Christ-centered integrity in their careers. Best of luck on the rest of your journey, Daniella, we’re all rooting for you.
Okay, picture rows of glowing computer screens and the hum of high tech labs. That’s where you’ll find Gage, a computer information systems major from learning cutting edge cybersecurity skills to leading as vice president of the Student Leadership Council, Gage’s proving that OTC is where technology meets leadership. Gage, show us what you’ve been working on, we cannot wait to hear your story.
– Hey everyone. Thanks Alex for our introduction. Growing up, I knew I always wanted to do something with computers. Obtaining a quality education that was close to home was also one of my goals, and Ogeechee Tech checked all those boxes. As our world changes and evolves and our reliance on technology and the internet increases each and every day, information technology and cybersecurity are at the forefront of education. Not only does cybersecurity protect us, but computer science supports every aspect of modern life, from communication and entertainment to transportation and healthcare. One of the best parts of my experience here at Ogeechee Tech were the instructors. They’re not only teachers, they’re mentors who generally care about your success. Mr. Collins, an instructor at OTC, made everything a smooth transition to college. He cares about all of his students and their success. You can tell they want you to succeed not only in school, but in life. They keep us up to date about the most important innovations in the industry. The college overall is just an awesome place to be. Not only does the campus feel like home, but there is always something going on. There are many different events that are hosted by the Student Leadership Council and open to students, faculty, as well as staff. Having the opportunity to serve as the vice President of the Student Leadership Council has really been an honor. Not only has it helped me grow leadership skills and gain confidence to join the local workforce upon graduation, but also to grow as part of this community I’ve come to love. Whatever major you may desire. You’ll not only learn it, you’ll distinguish yourself while getting experience doing so. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Gage, your story shows how technical expertise and leadership go hand in hand. From mastering cybersecurity to creating a welcoming campus environment through student events, you’re making your mark both in and outta the classroom, and we cannot wait to see how you’ll shape the tech world. Keep going strong Gage, and thanks again for sharing your story.
Up next is Kelly, an OTC alum whose journey proves you can go anywhere from here, even all the way to a doctorate. After starting at Ogeechee Tech, as a busy mom of two, Kelly transferred to Georgia Southern University, earned her bachelor’s and is now a third year doctor of physical therapy student. Kelly, please share with us how OTC launched your career.
– Hey y’all. Thanks for the introduction, Alex. So growing up, I always knew I wanted to serve other people, but I had no idea what that was gonna look like. As a teen mother, college initially wasn’t in the cards, so my journey to get here looks a lot different than most, but my story gave me the life experience, motivation, and grit to be here today. After a long time away from education, I took a leap of faith with the drive to pursue something I would be passionate about and landed on being a physical therapist. In my research on how to achieve that future, I found that OTC had small classes and a great program that was not intimidating for someone who was never a great student and who now had two children in tow. Upon beginning my journey at OTC, I had a devastating accident breaking both of my arms. That’s right. At the same time. I thought it was over before it even began. But my professors really worked with me to make sure I had everything I needed to succeed. They went above and beyond to ensure my success was still possible despite my circumstances. The environment as a whole is an empowering and invaluable resource for those that have taken the roadless travel, just like me. From the encouraging bookstore staff to the incredible professors my time at OTC is a huge contributor to my future success as a doctor of physical therapy, thanks to OTCs articulation agreement with Georgia Southern, I transferred and completed my bachelor’s preparing me for the next level course load and eventually a full-time doctoral program. I couldn’t have done it without Ogeechee Tech. If you’re ever looking for a pick me up, head on over to the bookstore and you won’t leave without a smile on your face. That’s all folks. Back to you, Alex.
– Kelly, your story is a powerful example of how OTC opens doors to every level of education. From small supportive classes to earning a spot in a doctoral program, you have shown that determination plus the right start can take you anywhere and we cannot wait to see you transform lives as a physical therapist.