A big aloha to Alexandra, a junior from Honolulu, Hawaii, double majoring in public health and biological sciences with an emphasis on microbiology and immunology. Alexandra has embraced research opportunities and connected with like-minded peers. UC Merced is a renowned research university that sets students up for success with educational events and activities. Alexandra, please take it away.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. When I took my first biology course in high school, I knew I wanted to study biology in college. Choosing a university was difficult because I had no idea where to start. But after a long journey of research, I discovered UC Merced. UC Merced’s undergraduate biology program immerses students in various enriching learning environments from cell biology courses to the field of evolution and ecology. Nearly 1/5 of the student population here major in biological sciences, many of which take advantage of UC Merced’s Pre-Health Advising Services, which are open to all majors. I get to make many connections with students who share my passion for biological sciences. As a newly declared public health double major and peer health educator for the Health Promotion Office at UC Merced, I get to advocate for student health while also expanding my interest in the healthcare field. There are tons of research opportunities at UC Merced. I’m a member of a public health research lab that has taught me valuable skills like communication and exploration. I’m also a part of the Paleontology and Life Club where I’m greatly involved in learning various animal husbandry skills with reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. I’ve been mentored in insect specimen preparation and even fossil preparation in a real paleontology lab. At UC Merced, you’re set up for success. Various organizations such as the School of Natural Sciences host educational events and activities, such as career and internship fairs, career mixers, and resume workshops. When I first started college, I never imagined that I would learn and experience so much. I’m not only learning research and lab skills, but also how to make new connections and lifelong friendships while working towards my dreams. And that’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
Mahalo, Alexandra. UC Merced is a diverse and thriving academic community that prioritizes student success. No matter your field, the research and academic opportunities know no end. UC Merced is recognized as the number three public university in California by “The Wall Street Journal” and it’s easy to see why. Cheers, Alexandra.
Meet Favour, a senior from Patterson, California, majoring in mechanical engineering here at UC Merced. Despite pandemic challenges, he transformed from a track athlete to an engineering major, demonstrating UC Merced resilience. Favour’s involvement on campus has led to internships and connections, and his story embodies UC Merced’s support for pursuing your passions. Over to you, Favour.
– Thank you, Alex. So growing up, I knew I wanted to run track collegiately, but in 2020, because the pandemic, I gave up on our dream altogether. During my senior year, I was heavily recruited by many D-I colleges, but ’cause of the uncertainties at the time, nothing exactly came out of it. I decided to come to UC Merced because it was the one school that I got into without a track team and I wanted to prove to myself that I was more than just an athlete. I challenged myself by becoming a mechanical engineering major because I knew it would challenged me academically the same way track did athletically. In my first year on campus, I became heavily involved in the National Society of Black Engineer chapter where I received two wonderful internships and made connections with my professors and the campus senior leadership. UC Merced has empowered me not to give up my dream altogether running track. And now I’m one of the newest captains of our brand-new track team. The entire athletic department welcomed me in. From my coaches to the training staff and the rest of the athletes, they’ve pushed me to be the best version of myself without putting unnecessary pressure on me to perform. With that type of support, they make it easy to really perform at the best of my ability day in and day out. The identity of the UC Merced athletic department is encouraging one another to be the best versions of themselves in whatever they have a passion for. Here, you’ll be surrounded by people who have nothing but your best intentions in mind. After graduation, I plan on using my last two years of eligibility to continue running track while getting my master’s in engineering management. Coming to UC Merced, I would’ve never thought my experience would’ve gone the way it’s gone. But looking back at it, I wouldn’t change it for anything. Back to you, Alex.
Amazing, Favour! The University of California, Merced is dedicated to supporting their student body in all of their goals! UC Merced is ranked number 12 most transformative colleges in Money’s 2020 Best Colleges. There are opportunities for everyone here at UC Merced. If you can dream it, you can do it. Thanks, Favour.
Meet Antoinette, a transfer student from Brooklyn, New York, majoring in psychology. After personal challenges led her to transfer, Antoinette discovered a sense of belonging at UC Merced. Whether you are a transfer, returning, or traditional student, UC Merced offers abundant resources, clubs, organizations, and opportunities for success. Over to you, Antoinette.
– Thanks for that introduction, Alex. For as long as I could remember, I always wanted to be a pediatrician. Ever the model student, it was only fitting that when I graduated high school, I went on straight to college. Financial difficulties led me to drop out of my first college and move across the country. I eventually transferred to the University of California, Merced, and it was then that I found the school that was meant for me. I originally discovered UC Merced when I attended the Transfer Initiative Program, or TIP. I spent a weekend on campus and got a feel for student life and the student experience here. I was also able to meet with academic counselors who evaluated my transcript to make sure I was on track with the courses I needed for my intended major. I was beyond ecstatic when I got my acceptance letter from UC Merced and attended orientation. I remember crying during the Bridge Crossing Ceremony, a tradition that happens right here on this bridge that marks the start of your journey at UC Merced, and thinking to myself, I finally made it! One of the major resources we have at UC Merced is the Transfer, Returning, and Veteran Student Services, or TRV. Here is where I was able to meet fellow transfer students and find my sense of community. We host many events, like bringing puppies and kittens to campus for students to play with and de-stress. Whether you’re a TRV student or traditional student, you’ll find that UC Merced is chock-full of resources and events to help you succeed and feel connected. We take pride in our community, and there are so many opportunities, clubs, and organizations for you to partake in. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
Awesome, Antoinette! At UC Merced, all students are welcomed in with open arms, from first-time freshmen to transfer students. Recently, the TRV office even offered yoga with goats during Transfer Student Week, highlighting the commitment to creating a supportive community. At UC Merced, connections are nurtured and unique experiences abound. Thanks, Antoinette.
Let’s meet Ellis, a junior majoring in global arts studies at UC Merced from Los Angeles, California. Ellis’s unique blend of creativity and innovation has allowed him to expand his college experience into the real world. UC Merced encourages all students to follow their passions and be pioneers in school and after. Tell us more, Ellis.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. When I was researching universities, I asked myself how I could contribute to the university I decided to attend. I wanted to go somewhere that I felt I was needed while ensuring myself a unique college experience. And I couldn’t have made a better decision. Since my time at the University of California, Merced, I’ve been granted countless opportunities to express my creativity that has helped me expand my experience into the real world. After university staff found my YouTube channel and saw the talent I have to reach students and tell stories, they asked if I could step in to help innovate the university’s official YouTube channel. I’ve gained access to campus resources like professionals in my desired field and experience using professional equipment, which has been very beneficial towards my goals of creating my own short film about my experience living in the Central Valley and my ambitions of attending film school. I’m also the intern assistant coach and video coordinator for the men’s basketball team, a position that I helped create. I saw an area I could help innovate, and after a short pitch, the head coach brought me onto the coaching staff. I have felt UC Merced’s investment in student innovation from being able to create a web show to bring students a monthly news, developing a video department within the men’s basketball team, and having the opportunity to connect with such wonderful professors and film industry professionals. Looking back at my decision to attend the University of California, Merced, I couldn’t have imagined the opportunities I would get to pursue while still completing my undergraduate studies. UC Merced has created a culture of personal growth that has paved the way for students like me to create the college experience we want for ourselves. Thanks, Alex. Back to you.
– Thanks, Ellis. There is truly a culture of innovation at this university. UC Merced ranks number 15 among all U.S. universities according to “The Wall Street Journal” in 2023. Ellis’s experiences are a testament to the limitless opportunities to discover here at UC Merced. Cheers, Ellis.
Meet Michela, a sophomore from Modesto, California, majoring in chemistry. Today, we’ll journey through her captivating story, one that explores how UC Merced has shaped her academic aspirations and prepared her for a future in the sciences. Get ready to be inspired by her unique experience as we uncover the world of this dedicated chemistry major. Over to you, Michela.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. Growing up, I knew I wanted to be involved in the sciences. Now as I embark in my academic journey, I’m eager to strengthen my foundation in the field. UC Merced perfectly catered to my interests as we are a research institution and they provide so many opportunities within STEM, especially for women. UC Merced has seamlessly become my second home, a place where I’ve not only found academic excellence but also a nurturing community. The picturesque surroundings and tight-knit atmosphere have created an environment where I truly feel at ease. As a chemistry major, the wealth of academic resources available here has been instrumental in honing my passion for the subject. The state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated faculty have played a pivotal role in shaping my academic journey. Moreover, UC Merced’s emphasis on academic readiness has provided me with so many valuable tools to excel in my studies. The tailored pre-health programs, particularly in pre-dentistry, have been a guiding light in my pursuit of a career in dentistry. Knowing I have a robust support system and specialized resources at my disposal reaffirms my decision to choose UC Merced as the foundation for my future. UC Merced offers a vibrant campus life with a plethora of extracurricular activities. From clubs and organizations to cultural events, there’s always something exciting happening. The campus’s commitment to sustainability and its LEED-certified facilities also reflect a forward-thinking, environmentally conscious community. It’s an enriching experience beyond academics. As a second-year here at UC Merced, I’ve come to appreciate how the institution equips us for the real world. Beyond academics, I’ve learned so many invaluable skills, whether it’s through mentoring or workshops. The supportive system and the diverse experiences that I’ve had here on campus has prepared me for an amazing future. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Michela, your compelling journey at UC Merced illuminates how the university has prepared you for academic success! UC Merced, recognized as number one among public universities for outperforming expected graduation rates, stands as a testament to your dedication and the university’s commitment! Thank you, Michela, for sharing your incredible story with us. Take care.
Meet Erika, a senior at UC Merced from Santa Cruz, California. She’s majoring in public health with a minor in psychology. UC Merced upholds a commitment to education for students of all different backgrounds. As a first-generation student, Erika has thrived largely thanks to the amazing scholarships and financial aid programs available to all undergraduate students at UC Merced. Erika, you’re up.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. When I moved to the U.S., education was one of my top priorities. Growing up in an underserved healthcare region in El Salvador, I always knew I wanted to study medicine and be able to give back to the country that nurtured me. As a first-generation student at the University of California, Merced, I’ve had the honor to work alongside amazing peers, tutors, and academic advisors. The Fiat Lux Scholars Program is one of my biggest academic resources. They provide learning support, transitioning programs, and individualized scholar plans to empower UC Merced students to be successful in their academics and personal development. Fiat Lux provides first-year students with a living-learning community for income-eligible, first-generation undergraduate scholars and a financial aid package of $100,000 throughout the scholars’ four years at UC Merced. This program has been an extensive financial support and has directly invested in my future. Although the Fiat Lux Scholars Program is by invitation only, at UC Merced, there is resources for all undergraduate students. Professional staff such as advisors, counselors, and student staff that help guide scholars to academic success. We have a STEM Center with access to educational resources and guides to build lifelong skills needed for advancement and leadership in STEM careers. Our Calvin E. Bright Success Center provides learning support to students that aid in enhancing our knowledge of the university’s resources, academics, advocacy, and access. Our Writing Center offers one-on-one consultations and workshops for students from all majors, providing students with feedback throughout the writing process from pre-writing to final drafting. I never imagined I’d be a student ambassador to a pre-health study abroad program. UC Merced has allowed me to join clubs and organizations on campus that allowed me to have an amazing college experience. That’s all for me. Back to you, Alex.
– Fantastic, Erika! Your story reflects the incredible commitment to education and social mobility that UC Merced embodies. It’s no wonder they’re ranked number two in the nation for social mobility by “The Wall Street Journal.” There are so many opportunities and so much support available to all students right here at UC Merced. It’s amazing. Thanks again, Erika.
Meet Dionte Grey, a 2012 Sport Management graduate and former Pioneer basketball player from Los Angeles, California. Dionte used everything he learned at Tusculum to create an organization that makes life better for others in the city of Los Angeles. At Tusculum University, they love watching alumni succeed after walking across the stage and relish the stories of what they accomplish. Tossing it to you, Dionte.
– Thanks for the alley-oop, Alex. As an alumnus of Tusculum University, I’ll give the crowd what they came to see. Tusculum University showed me that anything is possible. Life after graduation has been quite the adventure, so let’s bring it back to where it all began. I chose to attend Tusculum University because it offered me the opportunity to fulfill my dream of earning a college degree while playing the game that I love, basketball. Being a student athlete throughout college was an adventure that I’ll always cherish, but my Tusculum experience was more than just playing a sport. It was here where my passion for helping others was nurtured and encouraged. Tusculum’s emphasis on civic engagement and service allowed me to volunteer at local organizations and elementary schools alongside my amazing teammates. As an athlete and Sport Management major, I frequently engaged with the community and connected with local businesses. The classroom, the court, the community, they all played a significant role in shaping my success as an alumnus. After graduating, I knew I wanted to make a even larger impact, so I took a leap of faith and my family and I moved to Los Angeles to start my own nonprofit organization called Urban Promise Los Angeles. My wife and I founded this organization to support the community, and the children and youth of Los Angeles by providing academic, spiritual, and the social development needed to become Christian leaders who are determined to be the next generation of world changers. The work I do now is heavily influenced by Tusculum’s Christian values and emphasis on academic excellence, spirituality, community engagement and service. I’m so grateful for the foundation Tusculum has provided me. Tusculum has showed me that anything is possible if you have the determination and right support system. Life after college has been quite the journey, and I’m excited to see where it takes me next. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you Dionte for sharing Tusculum’s influence on your life’s work. One way Tusculum demonstrates its community connections is through partnerships with local businesses for workforce development. These partnerships provide internships, experiential learning, and a 10% discount for employees, their spouses and their dependents. Cheers, Dionte.
Now let’s go to Isabelle, a senior Digital Marketing student from Greeneville, Tennessee. When students graduate from Tusculum University, faculty and staff members have prepared them to be even better citizens. This happens through a number of service activities and other programs that highlight the importance of civic engagement. Isabelle has been involved in a variety of initiatives to support the community. Let’s hear her story.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. Growing up, I never knew that I would be standing here on a college campus. I even had teachers in my past tell me that I would struggle if I decided to attend. I didn’t think that I would be good enough to be here, but the welcoming nature of Tusculum University quickly changed that. When I started college, my goal was to connect with others. My Pioneer peer pushed for me to apply for the Bonner Leader Program, a service-based organization, and one of the most active organizations on campus. I’m so happy I did, because the Bonner Leader program has given me endless opportunities to help so many communities. The Bonners participate in alternate spring break trips, and I’ve had the privilege to go to Asheville, North Carolina and Lexington, Kentucky, where we’ve performed community service outreach. We also perform voter registration drives for our Political Science program here at Tusculum. Our Center of Civic Advancement hosts Nettie Day every year in honor of Nettie McCormick, a benefactor of Tusculum who is passionate about civic engagement. We honor this with a day where Tusculum students, faculty and staff perform community service off campus. This is all part of Tusculum’s commitment to civic engagement. All new traditional students participate in the freshman Day of Service. Our athletic teams embedded community service as a mandatory part of playing a sport at Tusculum. Being connected to our communities and serving others are ingrained in our culture. Growing up, I watched my parents always helping others. Coming to college, I had no idea I’d be doing the same. Thanks to Tusculum University, I became more civically engaged on campus and in my personal life. I will continue to cherish these moments. That’s all for me, back to you, Alex.
– Civic engagement is a core element of the Tusculum mission and the student experience. It teaches students that connections with the community are an important part of life after graduation. Students embrace this principle and have made their mark on campus and in the community. Thanks again.
Let’s meet Kobe, a senior majoring in Sport Management who is on track to earn his degree in only three years. He is also a member of the men’s basketball team. Tusculum University is a member of the South Atlantic Conference. The Pioneers have achieved considerable success on the field and on the court. Now, Kobe, the ball’s in your court. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey everyone. It has always been a dream of mine to play basketball at the collegiate level. Choosing a school was very challenging for me because I wasn’t able to visit any schools and meet any coaches face-to-face, but when I was introduced to the coaches and administrative team here at Tusculum, I immediately felt at home. I came into my freshman year as a walk-on, and I had a fear of not fitting in with the team, but every teammate and every coach brought me in and made me feel like family. I played in multiple games my freshman year and even went four for four from the three point line to seal a win in my first college game. Not only does our basketball program treat us like family, every athletic program supports their student athletes. We aren’t just prepared for the upcoming games and season, but for the rest of our lives. We win games, but we also study hard and prioritize our education. Athletics is a huge part of Tusculum University and the way that every program stands beside their players each step of the way helps all of us to succeed. Every sporting event is filled with the joy and pride of the fan of the Pioneers. You will see alumni, fellow students, and community members in the stands. Everyone is all in to support our team in every game, that fuels us to win. I’ve learned discipline, teamwork, leadership, adaptability, and the importance of serving my community. My next steps consist of using this knowledge to grow and expand within the sports management industry, but home will always be here with the Tusculum University Pioneers. That’s all from me, Alex. It’s back in your court.
– That was a winner, Kobe. Great memory from your first game as a Pioneer. Here’s an important fact, many Tusculum student athletes perform better academically during their playing seasons. The Pioneers are honored to have 138 All-Americans and 73 academic All-Americans in their history. Go Pioneers, and Kobe, that was an amazing shot.
Let’s say hello to Todd, a junior History Education major from Greeneville, Tennessee. When it comes to the arts, Tusculum University offers a broad base of programs that enrich the personal lives of students. Many are academically based and lead to exciting careers, and others provide extracurricular activities for students that feed their creativity. Todd, the stage is all yours.
– Thanks, Alex and hey guys. When I was younger, I found a passion for the stage acting in school plays. After learning about the Tusculum Youth Actor Studio, it was curtains up for my theatrical journey here in Tusculum University. Even though I came to Tusculum as an Education major, I am extremely active in the Arts Outreach program. As a Tusculum Youth Actors mentor, I’ve combined my love for educating others and my love for the arts. I’ve performed in many Tusculum shows. Tusculum is committed to a diverse and expansive arts program for students and the community to enjoy. Our theater program blossoms with shows every year. We recently produced “The Glass Menagerie” right here on this very stage. There are two theaters here in the Annie Hogan Byrd Fine Arts Center. Each provides a different ambiance. Also in the building is the Clem Allison Art Gallery, which features pieces from students and local artists. Our creative writing program excels. We have two literary publications that empower student writers and editors to develop career skills and publish thought-provoking works. “The Tusculum Review” is an international literary journal where students collaborate with prominent authors. “Sit Lux” is an entirely student-created journal. At Tusculum, art leads to opportunity. Students have created a customized graphics package for the Mustang, branding for the university’s suburban, and a mural for the student lounge. We work with many nonprofits too. Tusculum’s art programs tap into a students’ creativity and bring that passion to life. Tusculum is a civically engaged school that enriches personal lives. My fellow pioneers and I have felt the support from caring faculty and staff, and have enjoyed the opportunity in expressing our creativity. Crafting my future here at Tusculum was nothing short of meant to be. Back to you, Alex.
– That was terrific, Todd. The arts are another way Tusculum practices civic engagement and provides active and experiential learning. Another interesting tidbit, Justin Philip Reed, a 2013 alumnus, won the National Book Award for poetry in 2018. Tusculum University is a great place for students to unleash their creativity. Thanks again for sharing.