Next up, let’s meet Jimmy, a psychology major and neuroscience minor on a pre-med track. Not only will Jimmy tell us about the teamwork that integrates these campuses and their proud athletic programs, he’ll also show how he’s grown into the spirit of service. You’ll find everywhere at St. Ben’s and St. John’s.
– Thanks, Alex. What’s up everyone? Back in high school, I thought I wanted to attend a large public college. That all changed when I saw the opportunities that a smaller private school like St. John’s and St. Ben’s had to offer. I transferred here and I’m so glad that I did. The St. John’s and St. Ben’s community has truly turned me into the best version of myself. As a Benny or a Johnny, you’re going to find chances to serve graciously. You’re going to become a part of something bigger than yourself, and you’re going to be given opportunities to lead that you may have never seen coming. For three seasons now, I’ve been a wide receiver for the nationally ranked St. John’s football team. It’s been amazing. Game days in Collegeville are like nothing else. As we attract some of the largest crowds in division three. As a team, we like to say we’re ordinary men, doing ordinary things, extraordinarily well. From early morning workouts, to late nights in the library, my teammates are always there to support me. That’s what this community is all about. An unwavering dedication to compassion and support, profoundly touches the lives of all who walk through the doors here. I’ve received incredible support and inspiration propelling me into the role of president of our St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital fundraising. Through this memorable journey, I’ve helped raise over $150,000 in just the past three years. When I transferred to St. John’s and St. Ben’s, I never would’ve imagined accomplishing all that I have. The constant encouragement from my professors, coaches and peers has not only driven me to be a better leader, it’s made me into a better person. Who’s next Alex? I know there are some more great stories out there to tell.
– Wow, Jimmy, your hard work is definitely paying off for the kids at St. Jude’s. Great stuff. We can’t wait to watch your next football game at Clemens Stadium, which has been ranked by Sports Illustrated as one of the nation’s top spots to watch college football. Unbelievable. Go Johnny’s.
Let’s meet Clair, a political science major on a pre-law track. Who has seen the world. St. Ben’s and St.John’s are nationally recognized for their top-notch study abroad programs. Nearly 50% of students have at least one global experience. Clair’s opportunities are possible with the help of scholarships, but that’s not unusual. Every venue and Johnny receive financial assistance. CSB and SJU offer financial aid, that does more than just get you in the door. This residential community empowers the whole college journey. Clair, take it from here.
– Thanks, Alex. As a first generation college student from a small town, I never would’ve been able to imagine before coming to St. Ben’s, that I’d be able to afford a private, quality college education, thrive in three different study abroad programs. All becoming president of the student body. I’ve traveled the world during my time here. I conducted ethnographic research on racial and gender inequalities in elections in Brazil. I spent a semester in Rome studying ancient Roman history, art of the Renaissance, religion, and picked up an ancient Mediterranean studies minor along the way. Next, I’ll be traveling to Dubai with other Bennys and Johnnys to attend the annual United Nations Climate Change Conference, as a US delegate. It’s a chance to meet with learn from and engage with global leaders who are tackling our planet’s biggest issues. It is extremely rare for undergraduate students to be able to attend, but this is just another opportunity that Benny’s and Johnny’s get to do every year. Domestically, I’ve been able to take part in our Washington DC summer study program, which connected me with a paid internship in the US House of Representatives. St. Ben’s and St. John’s encourage you to take risks and live courageously. I took that challenge. Every one of these trips I’ve taken, has been with the help of scholarship funding through our Center for Global Education, that’s on top of the generous scholarships already in my financial aid package. St. Ben’s and St. John’s and their generous donors are committed to finding ways to make education accessible, and I’m so grateful. St. Ben’s and St. John’s not only provide opportunities, but the personal and financial assistance that it takes to help students to flourish. I think that’s awesome, Alex, don’t you?
– Clair, I think that is incredible. You sure are making the most of these opportunities. We know your voice will be heard at the UN conference and no doubt you’ll be a change maker. Thanks again.
There’s always something going on at St. Ben’s and St. John’s with over a hundred clubs and organizations across both campuses and right in the middle of it all is Kobe. Kobe is a physics major from Nassau Bahamas. He’s employed in the Center for Student Leadership and Engagement, so he has his finger on the pulse of everything. Kobe fill us in on what’s happening.
– Thanks, Alex. How’s it going everyone? I’m an aspiring engineer dedicated to discovering green and sustainable forms of energy to help end the devastating effects of climate change that I witnessed from my home in The Bahamas. And there’s no better place to start my journey then here at St. Ben’s and St. John’s. With their commitment to experiential learning and undergraduate research. However, there’s more to a university than the classroom, and that more is what makes this community perfect for you and me. I’ve had the privilege of being a member of the St. Johns Senate and an engagement specialist at our Center for Student Leadership and Engagement, which literally puts me at the heart of the student experience. I get to put on activities like Family Carnival, Big Prize Bingo and Mom Prom, which forced a lasting friendships and a sense of belonging. We also support over a hundred clubs and organizations, where students are able to discover their passions. Some of our most active clubs, like the African Student Association, the Archipelago Caribbean Association, the Japanese Bunker Club, and exploring Latin American culture, are a testament to the cultural awareness and diversity that you’ll find on these campuses. Another critical part of our community is bonding, which you’ll see in one of my favorite Johnny Traditions hot bread night. Yes, Johnny is socializing with their floormates, over a meal of hot, fluffy, and delicious Johnny Bread and toppings. You’ve really got to be here to experience the things that make CSB and SJU, feel like home away from home. I love St. Ben’s and St. John’s, for the freedom to find my path, to become a well-rounded civic-minded critical thinker. There’s so much here for me and I know there’s something here for you too. Take care. Passing it back to you, Alex
– Kobe, we all love your energy and your passion for making sure every student at St. Ben’s and St. John’s gets opportunities to connect and engage and find the people, the projects, and the passions that will transform them. Thank you for your commitment. Now I’m hungry for some of that Johnny Bread. Thanks again.
Join us at the Ardolf Science Center at St. Ben’s and meet Jocie, a senior biochemistry major and theology minor on a pre-med track. Every student at St. Ben’s and St. John’s takes full advantage of at least one experiential learning opportunity. For Jocie, that meant undergraduate research. Jocie, tell us why that meant so much to you. Take it away.
– Thanks for that introduction, Alex. I’m a woman studying in the STEM field and the first generation college student. Here at St. Ben’s and St. John’s, those feel more like opportunities than obstacles. The support that I receive from my professors and this community make it feel possible to do it all. The people and resources here really encourage students to find balance in academics, athletic and social activities. I’m a member of the Varsity Swim team. I’m involved in Special Olympics, and I’ve had the chance to study abroad, all while majoring in biochemistry on the pre-med track. It’s been such a great experience. One of the most powerful opportunities I’ve had is to think deeply and dive into research that undergrads at most schools would never be a part of. I spent the summer working directly with my professor on a three month project to develop and carry out research designed to test binding potential of anti-cancer agents with certain proteins. It was real world functional research, that sharpened my technical skills in the lab and built my knowledge of biochemistry. It’s an experience that I’m able to talk about passionately when applying to medical school, but most of all, it’s research that matters to me. My grandpa had acute lymphoblastic leukemia and was using an alternative drug for chemotherapy. I wanted to study that drug’s function in the lab. St. Ben’s and St. John’s gave me the chance to do just that. Here at CSB and SJU, I’ve made a whole new family while setting myself up for future success. I’m headed back to the lab. So Alex, back to you.
– Wow, Jocie, your research sounds both eye-opening and impactful. It’s a great example of the powerful research experiences available for undergraduate students across these two liberal arts campuses, and we know it’s gonna give you a big boost heading into medical school. We can’t wait to see what you’ll do, Jocie, thanks again.
These campuses are breathtaking and somewhere out in the St. John’s Arboretum right now is Kaidan, a communication major who’s come a long way from home to attend St. John’s and St. Ben’s. Benny’s and Johnny’s get to explore it all with easy access to all kinds of free recreational equipment through the campuses’ Outdoor Leadership Center. Kaidan, where are you?
– Thanks, Alex. I’m here next to Lake Sagatagan, one of my favorite places on campus. When I first was applying for a school, my only priority was to play soccer. I quickly learned that St. Ben’s and St. John’s not only supported this dream, but they offer so much more. I’m from the state of Washington and I applied to more than a dozen schools, much closer to home on the West coast, but the place that I felt most comfortable and welcomed for my next adventure was here, halfway across the country. The past couple of years, these schools have introduced me to interesting people who have pushed me to explore my passions and try new things. More specifically, the fine arts tradition has allowed me to explore my major while still participating in varsity sports and exploring the arts. The St. Ben’s and St. John’s campuses are incredible. 3000 acres of lakes, prairies, oak, Savannah, pine, and hardwood forests. CSB and SJU let you engage with the environment around you while you come to understand the effort and importance of preserving land like this. I personally like to capture as much as I can on my film camera. Beyond campus, the town of St. Joseph is ideal, fun restaurants, coffee shops, ice cream parlors, and more. It’s a great location with Collegeville and the St. Cloud area and just over an hour from the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Through my time here, I’ve learned what I care about and who I want to be. Being able to advocate for what is right by embracing differences or focusing on both social justice and environmental issues. St. Ben’s and St. John’s welcome these discussions and make these goals and passions attainable, and that’s my story. Kickin’ it back to you, Alex.
– Kaidan, that is spectacular. And your photos really bring it to life. I’ve heard an iconic chapel walk is the perfect way to experience the arboretum, covering just a few of the 20 miles of hiking trails. What do you say, we meet up and head out right after I wrap up here? See you soon.
Say hello to Ashley, an economics and finance major. Ashley has excelled here and she credits much of that to the academic environment. The student faculty ratio is just 12 to one. Average class size is 20, and every class is taught by professors rather than teaching assistants. Oh yeah, and 85% of those professors have earned the highest degree in their field. Ashley, take it from here.
– Hey everyone. As someone who comes from an extremely close family, I always knew I wanted to attend college near home. When I discovered the incredible sense of community, the wide range of opportunities, and the tight knit alum network, I knew I found my home away from home. Here at St. Ben’s and St. John’s, students have the ability to live on campus all four years, and it’s really awesome, because this encourages us to bond with one another and we get to do so in such a safe environment. I’m on the varsity tennis team. I’ve founded the On-Campus Entrepreneurship Club, and I’m on track to graduate with honors. So much of this is because of the support I have been given from professors, staff, and my friends. Here at St. Ben’s and St. John’s, professors have the opportunity to get to know their students and invest in them. The economics and accounting departments do a wonderful job of connecting students with opportunities for after graduation. The fact that I’ve already been hired as an investment banking analyst at Piper Sandler, proves how special the connections and opportunities are here. My advice when you’re starting college, don’t overlook the importance of building relationships with faculty and staff. Friends are a crucial aspect of college, and I’ve made remarkable ones here at St. Ben’s and St. John’s, but taking the time to get to know your professors positions you for life-changing opportunities, during and after college. College is challenging no matter where you go, but a support system like the one we have here makes all the difference. Our Catholic Benedictine values not only hold us to high standards, but also gives us an edge in life because things like listening, respect, and stewardship build leaders. They build citizens, they build Benny’s and Johnny’s. Serving it back to you, Alex.
– Ashley, that sounds amazing. The Benedictine values you mentioned definitely define these campuses. They’re part of a culture that’s centered on support for student success and your results are showing it works. Congratulations, and we know you’ll do great things in the investment banking industry and we know you’ll keep in touch with your alma mater. Thanks again.
Rachel is a senior majoring in political science with a minor in sociology. She’s heavily engaged with her community, so much so, Rachel was chosen nationally for an impressive fellowship. Let’s hear about that opportunity and more now. Rachel?
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everybody. From a young age, my grandpa and mom always taught me that I could be the change that I wanna see in the world. When looking for a school, I wanted to find somewhere where I can learn and grow to understand the politics in the world around me. UNF provides that and has helped me discover how to put my values into action. The most influential part of my college experience has been working at a community-based learning center on campus. It is a place where students organize and participate in projects that serve our community. It is also where I help promote Osprey Vote, a project that utilizes an app to guide students through the voting process. My work at UNF, which includes founding a workers advocacy group, led to my selection as a Newman Civic Fellow. This is providing me with training and networking opportunities at the national level to create positive change in the world. UNF holds the Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement, recognizing the university’s commitment to civic involvement here in Jacksonville, across the nation and even the world. In fact, in just five years, UNF students have dedicated more than 2.1 million hours of service, working with non-profits and businesses. That’s almost 246 years of work, making our community and world stronger. UNF has connected me with new opportunities with local and national groups that allow me to take the action that I dreamed of as a child, while watching the news over my grandfather’s shoulder. My experiences have taught me that community is at the heart of change, realistic optimism is important and scattering kindness is essential. These are the values I plan to live and lead by after graduation, hopefully, in a career in a city or state government. That’s all for me. Back to you, Alex.
– Scattering kindness? I love hearing that, Rachel! What a way to make an impact on the world. And it’s great to see that UNF is such a hub for community and civic engagement in Florida. Thank you.
Kenny, who is studying public health, chose UNF for its thriving ROTC program. For more than a decade, UNF has been named one of the most military-friendly schools in the nation, embracing and providing resources to active-duty military, veterans and their family members. Kenny, let’s hear your story.
– Thank you, Alex. When I was a kid, my parents instilled in me the importance of going to college. I also had an interest in joining the military. When I learned about UNF’s Army ROTC program, I realized this was the university for me. From physical training programs to learning about military operations and tactics in the classroom, ROTC prepares students for success in the military, or in civilian careers. Through this program, I joined the National Guard where students can help serve their communities during natural disasters. Now, as a fourth-year cadet, I also get hands-on experience helping other cadets. ROTC has taught me mental agility, personal accountability and leadership skills. It’s here where I’ve met friends I’ll know forever. Now there’s even an Army ROTC Living-Learning Community at UNF where students with similar interests can live in the same area on campus, helping with comradery and motivation. While academics and ROTC are a big part of my life, I also love playing intramural football and basketball with my friends, training at the campus gym and participating in a theater group here at school. Yes, theater. I loved performing when I was a child. I jumped at the chance to continue that in college. This year, I’m playing a soldier in an original adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Othello”. The coolest part of being at UNF is being able to get involved on campus and make genuine connections. It’s easy to feel part of the university community. After I graduate, I’m commissioning into the United States Army as a second lieutenant. From there, I plan to be in the medical field, either in the army or as a civilian. Back to you, Alex.
– Kenny, it’s good knowing how welcoming UNF is to all students, including those connected to the military. We appreciate your desire to serve our country. Thank you.
Let’s hear from Jessica, a junior who wants to attend medical school. Jacksonville, Florida is a major medical hub with world-renowned healthcare facilities, including the Mayo Clinic. What a perfect location for a university with award-winning healthcare programs and for future nurses, healthcare administrators and biomedical science majors like Jessica. Take it from here, Jessica.
– Thanks, Alex. Growing up, I always knew I wanted to become a doctor. But I never really knew I can’t. That’s until I tore both of my ACLs, while playing high-school football. Over the past few years, I’ve been in and out of operating rooms, becoming friends with my orthopedic surgeon. That’s when I knew I wanted to help athletes. Small class sizes drew me to UNF. Coming from a small town, I knew moving away was gonna be a big change. But I have never felt like just a number at UNF. Having professors, who care about how I do in class and about my future, makes a world of a difference. I get to shadow doctors at nearby hospitals and study for the MCAT with my peers. At UNF, I’ve learned to balance a rigorous academic load with a full social life. That includes going to the beach, participating in clubs and playing intramural sports. I’ve even started playing football again, this time, on a semi-pro team. UNF provides countless opportunities for students across disciplines. If instead you choose nursing, UNF offers undergraduate and graduate nursing programs. Students can use UNF state-of-the-art simulation labs for hands-on training and can get clinical experience at local healthcare facilities. Looking back now, small-town Jessica would’ve never imagined, she’d be standing here, speaking to you all about one of the best decisions she’s ever made, but I am. Medical school is next for me and a career as an orthopedic surgeon. But before I go, I want you all to know that whatever field of study you may choose, UNF and its amazing faculty and staff will be there with you through it all. Well, that’s all from me. Back to you, Alex.
– What an inspirational story! It’s great seeing students like Jessica finding a school that meets all of their needs for today and helps them accomplish their goals. Students at UNF have opportunities to conduct meaningful research on state-of-the-art equipment, learn from industry experts and solve real problems. Thank you for sharing your story, Jessica.
Let’s all welcome Isaiah, a graduate student studying criminal justice, who also works in housing here at UNF. UNF offers countless resources and activities for students living on or visiting campus. There are seven residence halls, three pools and even a lazy river. What a great person to share more about what UNF has to offer its students. Take it away, Isaiah.
– Thank you, Alex. Growing up, going to college was just a dream for me. But now, it’s a reality. As a first-generation college student, I was nervous about coming to college at first. But as soon as I stepped foot on UNF’s campus, I knew I would be here for four years. Living on campus, helped me quickly make friends and connections and build community. During my time here as an undergrad, I was able to dual-minor in business management and leadership. My time in UNF’s leadership program, is what catapulted me into being a resident assistant in university house in my senior year and working as an assistant residence life coordinator now as a grad student. My experiences give me a unique perspective and the drive to help students make the most of their time living on campus. UNF offers everything from traditional residence halls to apartment-style living. The more than a dozen living-learning communities, provide like-minded students opportunities to share experiences, develop friendships and study together. There’s one for pre-med, one for music majors and even a community for students interested in health and fitness. Residents have access to a ton of amenities, including the pools Alex mentioned, game rooms and fitness centers. All students can hang out at Tommy G’s, our library. You can study alone, or reserve a private study room with friends. If you enjoy the lively food court feel, our student union is the spot. But my personal favorite, is the newly renovated Boathouse restaurant. There are countless opportunities to find your community at UNF. I know this is just the beginning. After I graduate, I hope to teach and start a criminal justice academy in a high school, or into law enforcement. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow! Campus housing and amenities have come a long way, since I went to school. Thank you, Isaiah for sharing your story and your love for UNF.