Let’s meet Patrick, a junior in the University of Maryland Communication Program at USG. After starting out at community college, he needed to decide where he would go next for his bachelor’s degree, but Patrick didn’t have to look far for testimonials. He had three right at home, take it away, Patrick.
– Nice introduction, thanks, Alex. Growing up to be honest, colleges were of no interest to me, especially after seeing the enormous cost, but as I got older, I started to see how earning a college degree could provide a better future, so I decided to first go to Montgomery College, a fantastic two year local community college since everyone in my family had graduated from there. My sister and my time in the Southern Management Leadership Program at Montgomery College really helped me to see how I can go to the University of Maryland more affordably and closer to home by pursuing my bachelor’s degree program on the Universities at Shady Grove campus. Once I stepped on campus, I knew it was the best choice I could have ever made. I guess you could say I’m kind of a USU legacy student. All three of my siblings graduated from their universities by completing their studies at USG. It was my sister Millicent who really pushed me not only going to University of Maryland, but especially into their communication program at USG. In high school, I only considered college education if I could play collegiate soccer, but like many others, the pandemic limited my opportunities to play. This affected me deeply, but through faith and family, I found a team called Classic Group that really supported me and helped me flourish. Once I had soccer in the picture, I was much more willing to pursue my education. Going forward, I plan to become more involved at USG, continue to play soccer for my current club, World Class Premier, and share what God has done in my life. Despite what I was thinking back when I graduated high school, here I am thriving as a University of Maryland student at the USG campus. That’s a bit about me, back to you, Alex.
– Amazing, a sort of unofficial USG legacy student following in the successful footsteps of his three siblings, all earning their university degree while doing so conveniently and affordably right here on the USG campus. What a great story of carrying on a great family tradition and preparing for a great future as a student on the USG campus. Thanks, Patrick.
Meet Melina, she’s a recent graduate and actually one of the first bio computational engineering graduates ever from the University of Maryland’s highly ranked Clark School of Engineering at USG. It’s safe to say that Melina probably had one of the most trusted recruiters she could ever have as she found her way to the USG campus. Please share your wonderful story, Melina, take it away.
– Thank you, Alex. Hi everyone. I was born and raised in Paris, but things took a turn in 2017 when my family and I moved to Maryland. It was a big change, especially since I didn’t know any English. I went straight to high school while my sister took English classes at our local community college before transferring to the Universities at Shady Grove. After telling me how small the classes were and how much the professors cared about the students, I was convinced to join her. I managed to graduate with my associate’s degree from my community college in just a year, and then joined her at USG where I was part of the first five students to join the University of Maryland’s Bio Computational engineering program, which is a mix of bioengineering and computer science. At USG, you can have a job while you study, which is a game changer. Thanks to everything we learned about leadership at USG, my sister and I open our own social media advertising agency that we ran while being full-time students. We have now each worked with over a thousand different companies like Uber Eats, Bumble, Lululemon, and even Target. A common misconception about small commuter schools is that there are no social events or clubs, but I disagree. There’s so many clubs you can join or even start your own. I started the stock market club and an artificial intelligence club. I still wanted to be more involved, so I became the co-president of the student council and a member of the USG Board of Advisors. Last May, I graduated with a degree in bio computational engineering from the University of Maryland’s Clark School of Engineering, a program that is only offered at USG. I am profoundly grateful for all the knowledge and experience that I gained both from my university program and USG. That’s all for me, back to you, Alex.
– Great job, Melina, and given the way your social media advertising business has already taken off, I should add great job to both you, Melina, and your trailblazing sister Camilla who helped PA the way for you to make the decision to pursue your bachelor’s degree as a student right here on the USG campus. Thank you for sharing that awesome story.
It’s time to meet Anastasiya who’s studying translational life science technology through UMBC. Within a few short miles of the USG campus is a plethora of cutting edge biotech firms. All of these world changing organizations are seeking talent with the kind of skills that students like Anastasiya are gaining right here at USG, here’s Anastasiya.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, guys. When I first started college, I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in STEM, but I was overwhelmed with the options. After switching my degree pathway a couple of times, I discovered UBC’s Translational Life Science Technology major, also known as TLST here at the Shady Grove campus. With a close proximity to home and amazing hands-on classes, USG had everything I was looking for. UMBC’s TLST program at USG was the perfect combination of essential science classes and industry related knowledge with classes focused on subjects such as regulatory trends in the US and the ethics of genomic mining. Our campus is located in the heart of the BioHealth Capital region, which is home to some of the world’s largest researchers and regulators such as the National Institutes of Health and the Food and Drug Administration. We get the chance to participate in professional networking opportunities and events that bring the nation’s top biotechnology professionals right to our classrooms. USG also prioritizes preparing students for career success. The campus wide Career Readiness Initiative Hire U helps to build our skills in nine career competencies that are valued by employers across all industries. The Macklin Center for Leadership and Communication also provides me with the necessary support as I learn how to be a better student leader Through the biotech club and the student council. Thanks to the welcoming USG community that I’m a part of, I’ve been able to build an incredible network of friends and professional relationships that I know will propel me well beyond my degree and into my career in biotechnology. That’s my story Alex, back to you.
– Absolutely fantastic, Anastasiya. It’s so good to hear how students like you are being prepared by UMBC and by USG for fields in the life sciences that are literally changing the world and improving the quality of human life through groundbreaking research and medical breakthroughs. Great stuff, thank you so much.
Let’s meet Marjorie, a USG student who received her undergraduate degree from UMBC and is now returning to the University of Maryland Baltimore to earn a master’s degree in social work. Remember how I said USG was a one of a kind campus with nine universities? Marjorie will soon be a graduate of two of them. Take it away, Marjorie.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. As a first generation college student, it hasn’t always been easy to navigate my educational path. After graduating from community college, I visited a college fair where I learned about USG, a campus that would allow me to pursue a bachelor’s degree while staying in the community. There were so many services that were here on the USG campus to support me through my journey in higher education. USG allows student life to be so effortless with the numerous opportunities and different academic resources to support me throughout each semester. USG commits to arranging unforgettable student engagements. There are student orientations and events to help acclimate yourself with the campus. For me, that includes Salsa nights, USG’s Fall Fest, and Advocacy Day at Maryland’s General Assembly, just to name a few. After earning my bachelor’s degree, I knew I was making the best choice in returning for my graduate degree through the University of Maryland Baltimore School of Social Work at USG. There’s so many reasons why USG remains a great place for me. Small, in-person, and online class sizes allow me to establish long-term relationships with professors and classmates and to work with fellow classmates in small groups. USG also has resources that give students access to professional development opportunities through career and internship services. On a more personal note, USG makes balancing work, family, and school events all at the same time so much easier. Remember that Salsa night event I mentioned? That’s actually where I met my husband and we now have a beautiful baby together. I’m so grateful to be on this path again at USG, where it’s not only convenient, but accessible and affordable, a perfect environment for a first gen student like me. Well, that’s my story, back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Marjorie. It’s inspiring to see how you’re not only working on that second degree as a student at USG, but also how you are doing it while balancing your studies and field work with the joy and responsibilities of being a mom. Best wishes to you and your beautiful family. Thank you, Marjorie.
Let’s hear from Joseph, a student at USG in the University of Maryland School of Nursing, one of the top 10 nursing programs in the entire country. I’m sure you’ll love learning about how he decided to pursue a career in nursing in the convenient location of the USG campus, much closer to his family than the home campus in Baltimore, Maryland. Joseph, you are up.
– Thanks for the intro, Alex. Hey, everyone. Growing up, I had no idea what I wanted to do, but as I got older, I craved adventure, job security, and the ability to help others, which led me to nursing. I chose the Universities at Shady Grove as my academic home because USG is much closer to my house, making it an easier commute than the Baltimore campus. What I love about USG is the sense of community here. I was worried about making friends in nursing school, but USG surprised me. The campus may be small, but that’s what makes it special. I’ve made some incredible connections with students from different schools and it’s like we’re one big supportive family. Being a first generation student, I couldn’t have asked for a better place to grow. USG’s diversity and atmosphere makes it feel like a second home and it’s the perfect environment for personal growth. Here on campus, you’ll discover many clubs you can join, like nursing clubs, USG’s soccer Club, Latin Dance Club, and much more. Plus, there are many events waiting for you to enjoy. Majoring in nursing at the USG campus allows you to have all your labs, validation, study groups, and more at one centralized location inside building one, giving us the time and space to gather, learn, and have some fun together. The Universities at Shady Grove has been life-changing for me and many others. It’s not only about education, it’s about opportunities and making dreams come true. As a first gen student working and learning here, I’m a testament to the power of this place. The University of Maryland’s School of Nursing’s top tier education is shaping my future and I’m excited to see where it leads. That’s my story, back to you, Alex.
– Awesome Joseph, how fantastic to hear how the choice you made to pursue your bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland School of Nursing at USG has been such a life changing experience. Thank you, Joseph and all healthcare heroes out there for the life saving, health, improving work that you’re involved in each and every day, thank you.
Let’s meet David, a senior who is majoring in exercise science from Salisbury University. Salisbury is an example of a leading Maryland university that is located almost three hours away from the USG campus. But because his program is offered at USG, David is well on his way to a meaningful career in the exciting field of exercise science. David, you are on.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. My interest in studying the body and its biomechanics first sparked when I started karate 13 years ago. Salisbury University with this exercise science program at the Universities at Shady Grove has allowed me to continue dedicating time to my passion while deepening my understanding of human anatomy. My relentless commitment to training over the past 13 years led me to earning a spot on the USA Karate National Team. When choosing a university, it was important for me to pick a school that would allow me to continue training with the same rigor. USG’s convenient location as a commuter campus lets me balance my time between athletics and academics. As for academics, the exercise science program allows me to learn about biomechanics and sports performance, which directly translates to and enhances my training. USG offers many on-campus resources that enrich students’ learning. For example, they offer an array of workshops that support students in their professional development, such as resume building and networking strategies, the campus library, and the state of the art interactive boards found throughout campus that I use to help draw out and visualize what I’m learning. Salisbury University’s exercise science program at USG immerses students in all kinds of environments, ranging from in-depth lectures to hands-on experiential lab work. The topics covered are useful for gaining a comprehensive understanding of the variables that help people achieve healthy lifestyles. Studying exercise science has provided me with skills and knowledge that I’ve been able to apply to different areas of my life. From supporting my passion for karate to facilitating my journey towards achieving my career goals, my Salisbury education and USG have given me the resources to not only succeed academically, but also to grow professionally and individually. Back to you, Alex.
– David, it’s so cool to see how you are just as passionate about pursuing your exercise science degree at USG as you are about your amazing talent in the high flying competition of karate. That same drive you bring to your sport is gonna propel you to success in your field, thanks again.
Let’s meet Chrystal, a Towson University senior at USG majoring in elementary and special education. Chrystal knew early on that Towson was a great school for education students, but when she discovered she could save money and pursue the same Towson degree at USG, she knew she found the perfect pathway for her. Chrystal, you’re up.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. Growing up, I’ve always knew that I wanted to be an elementary school teacher. This make choosing a college pretty easy as I live in a state with one of the top education colleges in the state of Maryland. Towson University allows the experience and opportunities for students to earn together, not one but two teaching certifications. I truly value using my time wisely and by receiving dual certifications and degrees in elementary and special education, I get to save money and choose between two careers. I love being able to collaborate with my peers and learn from each other’s experiences as we navigate our teaching internships in the general ed and special education classrooms, Towson University provides hands-on early experiences within the county’s diverse elementary schools. Not only am I being fully prepared to teach in one of the most diverse counties and taught school districts in the nation, I’m also developing a community of professional future colleagues. The USG campus integrates so many diverse backgrounds and cultures from staff to students and professors. As an Asian American, I feel so welcomed and appreciated by the supportive community here on campus. I’m so grateful for the lifelong friends I’ve made. We’ve taken full advantage of the amenities here on campus to study, hang out, or just have lunch together. As I prepare for graduation, I feel fortunate to be so well supported as I get set to begin my education career. But whatever university or program you choose at USG, I’m sure the community of experienced professionals here will fully support you and your personal journey into your future career. Well, I can go on forever, but that’s all from me. Back to you, Alex.
– I love that story, Chrystal. Finding out you can pursue your lifelong dream of becoming a school teacher and being able to earn a prestigious Towson University education degree in an even more affordable and convenient way. Wow, that’s what USG is truly all about. Thanks, Chrystal.
It is time to meet Valerie, a University of Maryland senior at USG, who is passionate about the amazingly diverse community that she has found here on campus. USG is home to so many first generation college students from all around the world and around the corner, and the campus embraces equity and inclusion among its most cherished values. Take it away, Valerie.
– Thanks, Alex, hi everyone. When I was two years old, I immigrated to the United States from El Salvador. My parents always taught me that knowledge was a superpower and to pursue what I love. While pursuing my first love of acting, I moved to New York for two years. Then I was brought to my second love here at USG, the University of Maryland Communication Program. One of my favorite parts about USG is the community. I have an amazing group of friends and we all come from unique backgrounds. I’ve had the opportunity to conduct a research study of immigrant students by using students on campus as my sample population, but the diversity doesn’t just stop at the students. We have professors from all around the world and they bring their experiences and their cultures and they share them in the classrooms with us. This is inspiring for me, an immigrant and woman of color to see people who look like me, thrive and succeed in their professional careers. As a communication major, I’m encouraged to explore the diverse areas of interest ranging from crisis communication to photography, to filmmaking and research studies. Aside from being welcoming and inclusive, USG offers amazing scholarship opportunities. Because of my immigration status, I don’t qualify for traditional financial aid and most scholarships. However, I was able to work my way through school with USG support. They even offer a scholarship specifically for first generation college students like me. I know that finding the right college for you can be challenging, especially when you don’t have someone to guide you. That’s why finding the community that’s right for you is so important. I’m lucky I found mine here at the Universities at Shady Grove and who knows, this might be the right place for you too. Back to you, Alex.
– Way to go Valerie, between your earlier experience in performing arts and your communications degree, we’re sure there’s gonna be a lot of exciting things happening for you just ahead. Thank you for the grade tips you shared for students who are looking to make their way through the college and career journey. Thanks again.
Say hello to Jaden, a sophomore from Shreveport, Louisiana. Southern is the only HBCU system in the nation. This includes its two year institution, Southern University at Shreveport. In the Southern system, Shreveport students have the unique opportunity to go from a two year to a four year university seamlessly right here on the Baton Rouge campus. Tell us more, Jaden.
– Thanks, Desi. While looking for a college, I wanted a place that would push me to challenge my abilities as well as provide me with the necessary resources to succeed. Growing up in Louisiana, I’ve always heard people rave about the illustrious history of Southern University and its commitment to educating and graduating individuals who make a positive impact on society. While I wasn’t exceptional high school student, my transition to college did not go as smoothly as I expected, and I took some time off. When I was ready to re-enroll, I was introduced to the SUSLA Connect program. This program is for students who don’t quite meet all of their requirements for the Baton Rouge campus, but meet the requirements for Southern University’s Shreveport, Southern’s two year university. This program allows me to take classes and be a part of student engagement here on the Baton Rouge campus as I study mechanical engineering. Since I’ve been at Southern, I’ve joined a residential life staff, interned at a gravitational wave observatory, and also visited Columbia University’s Climate School. I’m currently conducting chemistry and virtual reality research here at Southern. Of course, it’s not all work. I also enjoy spending time at the eSports lab, bowling alley, and our rec center. As a student who did not have have ideal grades at the time, I appreciate how Southern and Baton Rouge treated me no differently. I have access to sporting events, campus shuttles, student health, and more just like everyone else. Through the programs that I’ve participated in, I’ve had the opportunity to network and work with many talented researchers and professionals from all over the world. After I complete my associate’s degree, I can seamlessly continue to pursue my bachelor’s degree thanks to the support of Southern University. Back to you, Desi.
– That is fantastic, Jaden. Southern continues its mission of accessibility to anyone seeking higher education at every level, and the Susla Connect program is a shining example of just that. Students really get double the opportunities, and I for one, cannot wait to see what Jaden’s VR research yields. Thanks, Jaden.
Meet Dana, a senior majoring in social work. At the Millie M Charles School of Social Work at Southern University at New Orleans, diversity and community engagement thrive. The School of Social Work is nationally recognized as one of the university’s signature programs, SUNO social work students actively participate in community activities by embracing advocacy, empowerment, and transformation. Tell us more, Dana.
– Thanks for that intro, Desi. As a non-traditional student, I knew choosing the right university will be the foundation on which I will stand. Southern University at New Orleans had everything I needed to develop interprofessional, including the resources and academic affordability. Following in the footsteps of my grandmother, I knew SUNO was the place for me. Southern University at New Orleans is the most affordable university in Louisiana with the Millie M Charles School of Social Work being one of its top programs. I love the way I’ve been able to foster everlasting connections with my professors while making great strides in my academics and community. Being a Student Government Association President has been one of the most challenging, yet rewarding roles I have ever had. I learned very quickly that there was an expectation of excellence and greatness is non-negotiable. At Southern University at New Orleans, we have this famous saying that we live by. You can go anywhere from 6400 Suno Knights Drive. I have soared to great heights as the first scholar to be selected and participate in the HBCU White House Scholar Program. I’m also the first Thurgood Marshall College Fund Yard Ambassador and Influencer. My education from Southern University at New Orleans has unlocked so many doors. SUNO’s hands-on learning environment is pertinent to the success of every student in the Knight Nation. Being able to give students real life experience is the key to a successful profession and allows us to foster a robust academic experience. Being a scholar at Southern University at New Orleans has truly prepared me in more ways than I could have ever hoped for. I’ve been able to tap into my leadership skills, gain opportunities and knowledge, all of which has truly changed my life for the best. Back to you, Desi.
– Amazing, Dana. Your remarkable contribution to Southern University at New Orleans embodies the institution’s spirit. You can clearly go anywhere from 6400 Suno Knights Drive. This university produces leaders who are making a difference globally. Thanks, Dana.