Up next, we’re gonna introduce you to Joshua, a senior majoring in computer science. His journey to ODU is a testament to determination and dedication. From becoming a parent at a young age to pursuing a dream career in cybersecurity, his path fueled by faith and family has led him to a transformative experience at ODU and a promising future with the Department of Defense, Joshua.
– Thanks for that introduction, Alex. My story is different from most, but it’s shaped who I am and led me to ODU. At 16, my first son was born. This forced me in the workforce at a young age to support my family, which now includes my wife and three sons. I have worked in various service industries, including construction, technology sales and sanitation and yet, I never gave up on my dream of pursuing a career in cybersecurity. Being a man firmly devoted to my faith, it was extremely important to me to be able to support my family. I strive to be a strong and positive role model for my kids. Navigating college life as a non-traditional student parent can be overwhelming, but my experience at ODU has been nothing short of transformative. ODU understands that a college education is about more than just learning job skills. It’s about personal growth, character development and achieving one’s full potential. The university’s commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment has been instrumental in my academic journey. ODU’s faculty and staff have been understanding of my unique circumstances and have offered me flexibility through their online program, allowing me to balance my family responsibilities with my studies. I consider this opportunity to go to school an honor and I want to serve humanity through my studies at ODU. After graduation, I will begin work as a computer scientist for the Department of Defense thanks to the prestigious DoD SMART Scholarship program. This exciting opportunity allows me to apply my knowledge and skills to contribute to our nation’s national defense and make a meaningful impact in the field of cybersecurity. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you for sharing your incredible journey with us, Joshua. Your determination to pursue a challenging career in cybersecurity while balancing family responsibilities is truly inspiring. Congratulations on your upcoming role as a computer scientist with the Department of Defense. We’re all rooting for you.
All right, everyone, let’s meet Cindy, a junior majoring in public health who embodies the spirit of compassion and community. From her early career as an elderly caregiver to her decision to major in public health at Old Dominion University, she’s on a mission to make a difference in the world. Take it away, Cindy.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. Growing up, I always loved helping out others and making a difference. After high school, I became a elderly caregiver and realized how much I needed to ensure that people out in the world get the care that they need. I decided to major in public health at Old Dominion University. The university’s faculty and staff made my transition to ODU a breeze. ODU is passionate about ensuring students are not only thriving academically but that they’re also making lifelong connections. Living on campus is one way of doing that. ODU has many residence hall room options, from single to double to apartment-style dorms, and there are great food options when it comes to your meal plan. As a resident assistant, I get to see the diversity of students and assist them in making connections, whether it’s through our monthly activities we host or showing off our school spirit and attending events together. As an RA at ODU, my goal is to help students maximize the numerous resources available to them, such as the nearby tutor centers on campus. Additionally, I want to provide the necessary support for those living away from home, especially those doing so for the first time. At ODU, I gained the experience needed to work collaboratively with others and tackle problems in the real world. I know these skills will help me be successful after graduation. It was nice chatting with you. That’s all for me. Alex, back to you.
– Thank you, Cindy, for providing us with insight into your public service journey. We also loved hearing about the ways you work to make students living in the residence halls feel part of the campus community, absolutely incredible. Thanks again.
Let’s hear from Luke. Luke is a junior from Smithfield, Virginia who found a community through Greek life to share his passion for entrepreneurship. We’ll hear how his fraternity helped him stay focused, give back to his community, establish connections and make lifelong memories, Luke.
– I appreciate you, Alex. Let’s get right into it. I grew up in the small rural town of Smithfield, Virginia where I enjoyed exploring the forest, swimming in the James River and playing sports such as soccer, basketball and football. When I was 10, I decided to sell some of my old toys to start a savings account. My father taught me all about how banks work, especially interest. Later, when I was 18 and finishing high school, I decided to start my own car detailing business to save money for college. I called it Diploma Detailing. As my passion for entrepreneurship and my interest in finances grew, I found the perfect university to help me pursue my dreams, Old Dominion. I joined Theta Chi fraternity and met hundreds of like-minded individuals who all wanted a deeper sense of community and to have the most memorable college experience they could. I often talk to my brothers as well as members of other Greek organizations about my finance classes, entrepreneurship and anything else that ignites our passion to learn. Greek life at ODU is not just about the friendships and fun events, it’s about the community connections. There are fraternity and sorority service events and sports championships, such as the President’s Cup. There are reserved sections for Greek life at home games, as well as awards that promote grades and philanthropy, such as the Most Outstanding Chapter Award. Going to college can be intimidating and stressful, but joining Greek life has helped me keep my grades up, be more responsible with my budget, give back to my community, find a deeper connection to my alma mater and make memories that are absolutely priceless to me. That’s my two cents anyway. Back to you, Alex.
– Luke, thank you for highlighting Greek life at ODU and how it made your college experience so rewarding. That was fantastic.
Now let’s meet Elli. Elli is a second-year PhD student originally from Iran. When she left behind her family and friends in 2021 to study kinesiology at ODU, she was nervous about being alone in a new country. We’ll hear how the ODU community welcomed her and confirmed her decision to follow her educational dreams. Go ahead, Elli.
– Thanks for that introduction, Alex. 28 years ago, I was born in Isfahan, a city in the middle of Iran. During my childhood, I had a deep relationship with my father who was a faculty member in Medical Science University of Isfahan. He made me dream of becoming a scientist. On December 18, 2021, I left all my family, the love of my life, my husband, and everything I gained behind and came to the US to follow one dream, to be a scientist in biomechanics, the breakthrough science of 21st century. ODU was the perfect university for me to continue my research in the study of human movement specifically in the aging population. During the 25 hours of my flight to the US, I thought about my family, best friends and the community I was leaving behind. I was questioning myself, what if I can’t feel like home again or have best friends anymore? But I’ve gained community, friends who are family and people who put their confidence in me. ODU fosters a culture that welcomes and supports people. Now, I have friends from all over the world. And on top of that, my husband finally made it here and became a Monarch now. ODU guides and supports you from your first day whether it is providing you with free necessities, like furniture or covering the cost for professional conferences. This is a healthy and supportive environment for students to explore, experience, lead and enjoy their life. I came here to be a scientist, but I never imagined how ODU could be more than a university. It has been a place for me to learn and grow, not only in my field of study but in all aspects of my life. I am proud to call ODU my home. That’s all from me. Alex, take it back.
– Wow, Elli, thank you for inspiring us with your amazing story. I’m so glad you found your home and a community at ODU to support you when you needed it most. Old Dominion University appears to foster a genuinely diverse and welcoming campus environment. Thanks again, Elli.
All right, everyone, let’s meet Irv. Like many ODU students, Irv has a connection to the US military. After suffering a service-related injury, ODU’s Military Connection Center gave him the resources he needed to succeed, like counseling, peer advising and more. Irv, you’re on.
– Having been raised by an immigrant family escaping a civil war and poverty, the ideas of… were instilled daily to make sure that I took advantage of all of the opportunities available to me. I was brought to Hampton Roads to receive care at the Naval Hospital after suffering a service-connected traumatic brain injury. After being medically separated from the military, I decided to go back to school. Having lived in every corner of the country through my service in the US Coast Guard, I’ve often felt out of place. ODU is different. It feels like home. The Military Connection Center here helps military affiliated people including disabled veterans by referring us to counseling, peer advising, VA benefits assistance and other resources. ODU has a special tuition rate for active duty which along with other government grants and aid makes it possible for me to study without going into any debt. There are a ton of online and evening classes so I can continue working full-time and keep up with all my medical care. ODU’s many clubs and activities bring together people from all parts of the world. By volunteering with international students, using the rec center, acting in my first theater production and participating with the Student Veterans of America, ODU has given me the chance to feel at home despite being over 2,000 miles away. I’ve made friends with others who have also left their homes in order to secure a better future for themselves and their loved ones. ODU’s diversity and commitment to assisting student veterans has allowed me to continue pursuing a medical education and career. I’m very grateful to be able to share my story and hope that I can reach those who may be facing similar challenges. Back to you, Alex, ciao.
– Wow, thank you for sharing your story, Irv. It’s so great that ODU helped you balance your medical recovery while finishing your degree. We’re all wishing you the best in your future and thanks again.
Let’s meet Hadley. After moving around a lot as a kid in a military family, Hadley was excited to make ODU her new home. But when her parents moved out of the state, she faced some unexpected feelings and challenges. She’s gonna tell us how ODU’s Counseling Services got her the mental health support she needed and encouraged her to become more involved on campus. You’re up, Hadley.
– Thanks, Alex. Howdy, friends. As a military affiliated student, I moved around a lot growing up. So when my college search began, finding a school that felt like home was a top priority. The moment I stepped foot on ODU’s campus, I knew I’d found my new home away from home right here at the beach. Immediately, I set out to create my own experiences here on campus. I joined the Monarch Marching Band, joined an honor service fraternity, Kappa Kappa Psi, and got really involved in activities. I loved being on campus, but I also loved being close to my family. Then, they moved out of state. I faced unexpected challenges, like living in my first apartment and traveling alone for the holidays. I got really overwhelmed, so I reached out to Counseling Services. They helped me find an off-campus therapist and also assisted me in finding other ways to get engaged with my ODU community. Then, I saw an opening to be a campus ambassador. I applied and I got the job. Working in the office has really helped with my confidence and it allows me to share my passion for ODU with future Monarchs. The assistant directors have really encouraged us to be ourselves and they let us incorporate our stories in the work that we do. I started as a student director but now serve as the special events intern. My ambassador family has made my college experience so much better. Being at a school that cares for its students has been amazing. I’ve grown personally and professionally in ways I never could’ve imagined. The office has really inspired my passion in higher education. From here, I’d love to pursue grad school for higher ed and use my degree to create meaningful events. I look forward to assisting future students of all kinds to find their own home away from home. Back to you, Alex and Go Monarchs!
– Thanks, Hadley. It’s understandable that college can feel overwhelming when you’re away from your family for the first time. But it’s so great to hear that ODU helped you not only overcome these challenges but also be an inspiration for future Monarchs, thanks again.
Let’s meet Elizabeth. She’s studying biochemistry and comes to SVC from Beaver, Pennsylvania. Saint Vincent focuses on preparing students for the world to be leaders in their field and make a positive impact in their communities. 98% of Bearcats are employed in their field or are enrolled in graduate or professional school within a year of graduation. Elizabeth will tell us more.
– Thanks, Alex. When I was looking for a college, I knew that I wanted a place that could not only challenge me academically, but that at a community of people who cared and wanted me to succeed. Saint Vincent has all of these qualities and more. They’ve helped me develop personally and provided me with the best opportunity to reach my career goals. Through Saint Vincent’s partnership with Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine or LECOM, I was accepted into the early acceptance program for medical school my senior year. This acceptance allows me to enter straight into medical school without having to take the MCAT and I can keep my reserve seat in medical school bringing me one step closer to achieving my goal of becoming a doctor. Also, because I don’t have to worry about applying for medical school, I’ve had more time to apply for internships and other research programs that will prepare me for my future career. In fact, I am currently participating in the American College of Cardiology’s Young Scholars Program and I just recently finished a research internship at the UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. Saint Vincent’s commitment to its student success has really increased the number of career enhancing opportunities I have received. The Career and Professional Development Center has helped me perfect my resume and taught me how to apply for research positions and the faculty at Saint Vincent is always happy to provide career advice and write letters of recommendation for students. Saint Vincent has provided me with unique opportunities that I’m extremely grateful for. I’ve already been able to see how the information and skills I’ve learned in classes are applicable in medicine and research related jobs. I know with the help of the resources and community at Saint Vincent, I have a bright future. Back to you, Alex.
– Thanks for chatting with us Elizabeth. Saint Vincent has all the tools you need to grow both personally and professionally, and Elizabeth is a prime example of how much you can achieve with the unending support of the faculty and staff. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for you, Elizabeth, thanks again.
Let’s meet Desonio from Lancaster, Texas. He is a recent graduate with a degree in communication. Saint Vincent is ranked in the top 50 most transformative colleges in the nation by US News and World Report and the faculty staff coaches play an active role in ensuring that every student experience is tailored to their needs, goals, and aspirations. Desonio, tell us more.
– Thank you, Alex. I chose Saint Vincent College because they were supportive and understanding with me during the recruitment process. From the second I stepped foot on campus, I was welcome with open arms from coaches, advisors, professors, and even the president of the school. After not always having a stable place to live, Saint Vincent College became home for me in every way. Over my four years at Saint Vincent College, I was able to break outta my shell athletically and academically. The SVC community made sure that I was taken care of, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally, as well as knowing that I was a first generation student. The staff did things like make sure I made it to class, had food and remembered to eat. They made it so that the only thing I had to focus on was school. Networking at the school opened many doors that I didn’t know were available to walk through. Being surrounded by the many resources around the campus helped me thrive in all of my classes and keep a healthy social life. I’ve been a part of the SVC family by being a host for The Voice, playing sports and having the whole school help me propose to my fiance. The SVC community consistently treats their students with kindness and care for their wellbeing. I was able to create memories that I’ll never forget, and for that, I’m grateful. Now that I’ve graduated, I’m currently building my portfolio. While I’m pursuing a career in human resources, I’m also building my sneaker business Volcanic. I’m also currently working at a local group home for adjudicated youth where I counsel, encourage and help guide teenagers down a better path of life. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Desonio, thank you so much for sharing your story with us. A lot of students probably expect just to earn a degree when they leave home for college, but what’s special about Saint Vincent is the support you get throughout that transformation from even before you apply to well after you walk across the graduation stage. Thanks again for sharing your story.
Meet Marta from the Ukraine. She’s majoring in marketing and minoring in psychology. Saint Vincent strives to make a private education affordable for students through generous merit scholarships, competitive scholarship programs, and need-based financial aid. 100% of students receive scholarships making Saint Vincent a great value. Over to Marta for more.
– Hi everyone. Coming to the US from Ukraine was a big change, so finding the right environment was crucial. It was important to me to have support and a sense of community while away from home. Because of the generous financial support that I received from Saint Vincent, Life brought me here for this valuable experience. I am so grateful for the people who made my dream to study in the US come true with their enormous support. I remember how excited I was being in a new country, but the sense of belonging made all my fears fade away. The professors are always by my side to make sure I understand the material. The staff is there to help me if I need something and students are happy to make me a part of their day. I can feel the warmth of my home again, even thousands of miles away and Saint Vincent has a special place in my heart for that. Saint Vincent is a place where a value is actually brought to life. The college provides such generous scholarships and financial aid for students. I remember seeing college in America as something that is real only in movies, but here I am studying the major I enjoy living on campus and experiencing student life to the fullest. SVC is more than homework and final exams. I’ve had such a valuable experience after leaving my whole life behind to start my adulting journey at Saint Vincent. Eating dinner with friends in the cafeteria when you can’t hold your laughter. Having a focused library session when you feel like a boss. Watching the beautiful Laurel Highland sunrises when you go to the gym in the morning, Saint Vincent gave me more than just an opportunity to study the things I like. It made some of my dreams come true. That’s all for me. Back to you, Alex.
– Marta, that was amazing. Thank you. It’s great that you’ve been able to find a home so far away from home at Saint Vincent College and better still that Saint Vincent made it possible for you to be able to make that journey here all the way from the Ukraine. Thanks to the generous financial aid and scholarships it offers. Your story is even better than one from a movie. Thanks again.
Meet Dom, hailing from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Dom is majoring in theology and communication. At Saint Vincent, people pause to consider the kinder response. To extend a helping hand, students are supported to seek a higher purpose and listen to the call that is meant only for them. Dom will share more.
– Thanks Alex. Hey guys. I’ve always wanted to help and serve others, but I didn’t know how to until I was a senior in high school when I attended a church camp. I felt called to serve others and Saint Vincent became the place that would afford me the opportunity over and over again to do that. I also wanted a school that offered a theology major and Saint Vincent’s program and faculty stood out. I’m thrilled to be part of a community of so many great people. I mean, who knew that some of my closest friends and professors would be monks? Saint Vincent College has taught me that people change people and the impact on others can pay dividends. The programs and ministry on campus have provided me opportunities not only to serve others, but also to go to Alaska and to Rome for campus ministry pilgrimage trips. As a work study and assistant for masses, I’m applying what I learned as a theology major while also supporting the spiritual wellbeing of others. ROTC is also a big part of my experience at Saint Vincent College. I serve in the Army National Guard, so finding a school that offers ROTC was a must. Being a prefect like a resident assistant, allows me to support and mentor other students living on campus. Also, as a prefect, my room board is covered. It’s a great resident builder. Coming to Saint Vincent has supported my vocation to nurture people. I wanna help as many people as possible and change the world as best I can. Saint Vincent College has given me the foundation to understand the gravity of my calling. Take it away Alex.
– Thank you for sharing your story with us and speaking from the heart Dom. Saint Vincent College is really a place that focuses on growing and educating the whole person, mind, body, and spirit. Being able to attend a college that supports your spiritual growth regardless of religious background, vocation, or calling is such a special experience.