Next up is Toni, a sophomore Education student from Ambler, Pennsylvania. At Gwynedd Mercy University, a hundred percent of first-time students participate in real world experiences including internships, service, clinicals, research or student teaching. These experiences give students the skills and connections employers look for when making hiring decisions. Take it away, Toni.
– I appreciate that, Alex. Hi, everyone. Growing up, I had it rough, but I always knew I wanted to go to college. However, I didn’t know exactly how I was gonna make it work. I chose Gwynedd Mercy University partly because of their teacher apprenticeship program, which helped me get into the classroom every semester so that I could learn what it’ll really take to become an amazing teacher. I’m very grateful to have been the first recipient of the Wissahickon School District and Gwynedd Mercy University Opportunity Scholarship, which not only gave me the opportunity to attend college, but also to return back to my homeschool district to teach after graduation. I’m very proud to have already secured a job at one of the best school districts in Pennsylvania, and I’m only a sophomore. Outside of the classroom, I’m a member of tons of clubs and organizations here on campus, including the Black Student Union, the Dance Team, Disability Pride, Pride Alliance, and Student Government, just to name a few. You may even see me as your Griffin Ambassador when you visited missions to have a tour. Being so involved has really helped me expand my leadership skills and grow as a person. When my foot first touched Gwynedd Mercy University soil, I was truly taken aback by the everlasting welcome and kindness that was present on campus. Gwynedd Mercy University not only accepts me into the community, but everyone in society, no matter their race, religion, style, or sexual orientation. I’m honored to be a participant in sharing and spreading the Mercy values, particularly respect for the dignity of each person. Gwynedd Mercy University taught me that my voice does matter and that my purpose is to help others. I have learned that following your passions and keeping your inner child alive is very important. Gwynedd Mercy University has created a very tight-knit community where all its students are supported. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow! Toni, what an amazing opportunity to get in front of the classroom from your first semester and to have already secured a job. These real world experiences are invaluable. Toni, we know you will make an incredible educator and will no doubt carry Mercy values into your classroom. Thanks for sharing your story.
Let’s hear from Justin, a junior majoring in Public Health. From the moment you step foot on GMercyU’s campus, you can sense something so profound and powerful. It almost permeates the air, Mercy. The concept of Mercy is at the heart of what it means to be a Griffin. Justin, tell us more.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. When I was in high school, the thought of college filled me with anxiety, but then something incredible happened. I heard of GMercyU’s new public health program and everything shifted for me. Throughout my public health journey, I’ve come to appreciate its vital role in promoting community wellbeing. Understanding a community and its people is essential in sustaining its vibrancy as well as ensuring the health of all individuals. My professors have played a significant role in providing support and guiding me towards my passion, environmental epidemiology. This field investigates the impact of environmental stressors on health, encompassing both the built and natural environment. Although GMercyU is known for its undergraduate public health program, they also offer a 4+1 online option allowing students to pursue their master of public health after their senior year. I’m eager to pursue this option and I know that my professors will provide me the knowledge and support needed for my success. I’ve also found personal growth and fulfillment through GMercyU’s Alternative Break program. Students travel around the country or internationally for about a week to engage in service. Through this program, I’ve been able to explore different environments and apply my public health knowledge while learning more about myself, achieving personal goals and making a difference all at the same time. Having attended two trips, I’ve been able to make new and lifelong friends and experience how different areas encourage and sustain public health. I’ve also had a chance to live the Mercy mission and change lives for the better. My professors and mentors have encouraged me to step outta my comfort zone and grow as a person. The Mercy community accepts all people for who they are and I hope to carry this mindset with me as I venture into the public health world. Back to you, Alex.
– Thanks Justin for telling us more about how your professors have helped you find the right path. Sounds like your two alternative break service trips were amazing opportunities to connect what you’re learning in class to the real world and live the Mercy mission at the same time. Absolutely incredible.
Let’s hear from Natasha who originally hails from Cincinnati, Ohio, but moved around a lot before finding her place at Gwynedd Mercy University. Natasha is a Digital Communications major in GMercyU’s 4+1 MBA program, which means in just five years, she’ll graduate with her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree. Tell us more, Natasha.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, y’all. I went to four different high schools, so finding a college where I could truly find a sense of community was really important to me. The moment I stepped foot on Gwynedd Mercy University’s campus, I instantly knew I found the right place. It just felt like home. The minute classes started, my professors were super supportive and fostered a great learning environment. I loved the smaller class sizes, which allowed for more individualized instruction and for me to truly get involved in my education. I also became involved in the Student Success Center, the university’s centralized location for academic support where I tutor other students. As a digital communications major, we’re all about collaboration. We’re encouraged to work together on projects, and it’s not just about learning technical skills, it’s also about learning how to connect with others in a positive and productive way. For example, we offer a team up to create video packages together and help each other out with tips and tricks we’ve learned along the way. This helped me feel a part of the campus from early on. We even have our own digital communications crew, aka “The DigCom Crew.” At GMercyU, they really encourage us to get involved and make a difference. We learn about and apply the university’s core values of integrity, respect, service, and social justice to create a more just world. For me, that meant joining the Pride Alliance, a group on campus celebrating LGBTQ pride and working towards a more equitable world. When I was searching for colleges, I was longing for a place where I could truly find my community. Now, not only am I getting an exceptional education, but I’ve found communities that have made this place feel like home. That’s a piece of my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you for telling us more about your journey to GMercyU and sharing what makes GMercyU such a welcoming and inclusive place. Whether it’s through your major or participation in a club or athletic team, students find that sense of belonging right here at GMercyU.
On deck is Cayla, a recent Morgan grad who earned her degree in Multimedia Journalism while performing as a top student-athlete. Not only was Cayla a standout at first base, but she was also named to the MEAC All-Academic Softball Team and along with her teammates won Morgan’s first MEC softball title. Let’s hear from this former lady Bear about the athletics department meaning of grit. Cayla, batter up.
– Thanks, Desi. Hi, everybody. Ever since I dreamed of higher education and playing collegiate softball, I knew I wanted to make my dreams come true at an HBCU. I’ll never forget the day I was recruited to play softball at Morgan. At the time, I had no idea how this university would change my life. Morgan State is all about nurturing the aspirations of young Black students and preparing them for the professional world. While softball is what initially led me to Morgan, there were so many other opportunities on campus that did not confine me to being a student-athlete. Immediately entering campus, I expressed an interest in sports journalism and the staff helped me pursue it. They gave me ample opportunities like being featured in an Under Armour Black History Month ad, contributing to an ESPN plus football broadcast and more. They truly gave me a platform to shine. They prepared me for my first internship, the Rodin Fellowship, named after Morgan alum and sports writer at large, William C. Rodin. I spent my last year at Morgan working with him covering the intersections of sports, race and culture for ESPN’s “Andscape”. The School of Global Journalism and Communications offers three different focuses: strategic communication, multimedia journalism and multi-platform production. Based on your interest, they will make sure you’re prepared to conquer any newsroom in the country. I was able to pursue my love for sports on and off the field as a Journalism major. Morgan prepped me for the real world and now I get to cover sports for a living and call it a job. My ultimate goal is to be a sports broadcaster covering softball, so keep an eye out for me on your screen real soon. Back to you, Desi.
Thanks, Cayla. Student-athletes at Morgan are given the opportunity and resources to flourish in the classroom between the lines and within their dream profession.
At Morgan, student success and research are taken quite seriously. Meet Taylor, a senior Michigan native majoring in Biology. She’s going to tell us all about student success, enrichment programs, research, and the resources that Morgan makes available to students to support their academic and overall success. Step right up Taylor.
– Thanks Desi. Like many of you, I’ve always dreamed of attending college, but coming from a huge family, the idea of being away from the people I love felt scary. The moment I stepped onto Morgan’s campus, it immediately felt like home. My HBCU family is always a source of support and encouragement to help me succeed. I have always had a passion for leadership and contributing to others and coming to Morgan has allowed me to do just that. I’ve had the opportunity to be a teaching assistant for orientation where I introduced new students to Morgan’s campus. I have also been a student worker at the Student Success and Retention Center. Not only was I able to take advantage of resources here at Morgan, I’ve been able to help other students do the same. As a Biology major, the coursework can be really rigorous, but Morgan makes sure we have what we need to succeed. I’m a peer mentor for first semester Biology students. The Bear and Peer B.E.A.R.S. stands for Bringing Enrichment and Rearing Success. Our suite is a great place to study, relax, meet other Biology majors, and best of all, seek advice from my directors and coordinators. Here at Morgan, I’ve been provided with great research opportunities to enhance my degree. I’ve gotten to participate in research on topics like leg contamination, sickle cell anemia, and malaria. I plan to use all of the skills I’ve learned through my research to make sure no one is ever misdiagnosed again. My experience has been much more than learning skills for a job. I’ve been able to develop my ideal self. I’m forever grateful for my college, fully knowing I’ll be be capable of leading the world as a Morgan State University alumni. Back to you, Desi.
Great stuff, Taylor. Student success at Morgan is truly a holistic, 360 degree approach, and you are a wonderful example of how a network of support can make a difference in a student’s performance. Can’t wait to see what the future holds with your research. So impressive. Thanks, Taylor
Now, let’s head over to meet up with Mark. Mark is a senior from New York majoring in Construction Management and he’s going to tell you about the degree he’s pursuing. One of Morgan’s more than 140 academic degree programs and he’ll share a little bit about campus life. Tossing it over to you, Mark.
– I appreciate that. Desi. Hey, everyone. Before coming to Morgan State University, I had no idea what HBCU was, at least not culture wise. Coming from New York, there aren’t any HBCUs in the area. Thankfully, I chose Morgan State University where I was able to learn more about the HBCU experience and also learn more about myself. Being part of the Construction Management program has been a huge boost to my future. Students within this major are fortunate enough to have professors who have years of experience within this industry. Also, the dean of the school is very active, giving us what we need to succeed. All of the classes are held in a newly built center for the Built Environment and Infrastructure Studies. Our program even has an organization which helps students find jobs, internships and experience. It connects them with professionals who are looking for new grads or undergraduate students. This program is truly set up to help you succeed. Morgan also allows students to express their creativity, have fun, and network in environments that are catered towards their interests. There are numerous organizations on campus that host great events such as talent shows, business expos, poetry slams, movie nights, parties, and everything else under the sun. Morgan has helped me become the person that I am today, connecting me with people that I would’ve never met back at home. I’ve grown in every aspect of my life and I appreciate everything that I’ve experienced. Hopefully you choose Morgan and are able to do the same. Back to you, Desi.
– I couldn’t have said it better myself, Mark. There’s no question Morgan has a great balance of rigorous academics, civic engagement, and tons of social activities, creating a great atmosphere for Morgan students to foster meaningful connections and make truly memorable college experiences. Thanks for sharing your experience, Mark.
Okay, everyone. Next, we’re going to hear from Morelys, an international student from the Dominican Republic who’s going to tell us how Morgan’s commitment to diversity has championed underrepresented students to ensure the doors of higher education are opened as wide as possible to as many as possible. , Morelys.
– Thank you. Desi. I couldn’t have said it better myself. Migrating to the U.S. five years ago was very hard. Having to adapt to a new culture, language, and educational system, I felt like I didn’t belong for so long, but coming to Morgan State really helped me find my purpose. It became a home away from home. As an undocumented student, it is very hard to find resources for higher education. In high school, I didn’t even know that I could apply for college. Thankfully, I was able to connect with community organizations that guided me through the process. I knew I wanted to go to an HBCU because my experience as a Black immigrant is very different from other demographics inside of the immigrant community, and I wanted a school that could prepare me with the education needed for me to continue to serve my community in the best way that I can. Coming to Morgan really helped me learn to advocate for the things in which I believe. My freshman year, I founded the first organization for undocumented students on campus, becoming the first Afro-Latina woman to ever have done that in history at an HBCU. I hosted events and organized marches and protests to create awareness about the undocumented Black community. Morgan State is the first and only HBCU in the state and just the second one in the nation to partner with TheDream.US, the largest scholarship for undocumented students in the country. Morgan State has truly allowed me to find my voice and to feel heard while doing so. The community of professors, students, and staff has been very welcoming, respectful and understanding, which is a very important factor for immigrant students when choosing a place to further our education. Morgan has allowed me to believe that my dreams have no limits, but most importantly, no borders. Over to you, Desi.
What an amazing story. Morelys, you’ve definitely found a home here at Morgan. Thanks for enlightening us as to how Morgan State commits to being a prime example of inclusivity for all students. Gracias.
Yes, Morgan is a bonafide research university and is a national leader in awarding engineering degrees, but this national treasure is also widely known for a few other crown jewels, including its internationally celebrated choir and its hugely popular Magnificent Marching Machine. Coming up next, allow me to introduce you to Michael, a Musical Theater major and a Vocal Music minor who cannot wait to share more about performing arts at Morgan State. The stage is yours, Michael.
– Thank you, Desi. I’ve always had big dreams that I wanted to accomplish. I’m a performer, a true artist, and with the support of Morgan State University, I’m learning to master my craft. When I’m on stage, I feel a wave of passion take over, and I know that Morgan State is cheering me on all the way. When I first came here, I didn’t actually know what to expect. I wanted to attend another arts college, but it was so expensive. Morgan was not only more financially reliable, but a lot more dynamic with the amount of programs, activities and opportunities available to students like me to help me reach my goals. The Morgan State Choir is world renowned and has performed in more than 30 countries, including a recent tour of West Africa. I’ve been able to sing in front of casting executives around the Mid-Atlantic region, famous artists like BeBe Winans and the director of the hit film “Jingle Jangle” and Morgan State alum David Talbert. Morgan State University is also one of the very few and first HBCUs to offer a BFA degree in Musical Theater and I feel so honored that I’m a part of the first inaugural class, as well as the student representative of the major. The amount of opportunities afforded to me don’t end with performing, but also modeling. Fashion at Morgan is the organization that trained me in the world of fashion and modeling, allowing me to take on runways like New York Fashion Week and DC Fashion Week. I even work with a major athletic apparel and footwear brand on a project here at Morgan to show off creative merch at HBCU. My time here has been incredible and I would not be where I am today if it wasn’t for the support and opportunities here at Morgan State. Back to you, Desi.
Amazing. Whether you’re a gifted musician, vocalist, mathematician or computer analyst, Morgan definitely prepares you to not only dance on the world stage, but for success on any stage. Great job, Michael.
Ma’zyah will be joining us next. A native of New Jersey. Ma’zyah is majoring in Business Management with a minor in Women’s and Gender Studies and includes her passport among her required course materials. She’s going to tell us about the great benefits of boosting your college experience by taking advantage of study abroad. Ma’zyah, take it away.
– Thanks, Desi. Since I was younger, I’ve always loved learning about new experiences and new environments. Coming from Newark, New Jersey, I knew I wanted two things when it came to college, learning out of state and learning out of the country. Morgan State had it all. When I got to Morgan, my first mission was learning everything I could about the Study Abroad program. Morgan offers so many different destinations and I wanted to make sure I made the right choice. My professors in the Study Abroad website were a great resource. I spent my freshman year exploring all the possibilities, and then I spent my sophomore year exploring Trinidad and Tobago. For 10 days, I studied alongside my professors and my Study Abroad peers immersing ourselves in the island culture. We learned so much about Trinidad on this trip, from their financial systems to the carnival culture. While in Trinidad, I did find out that Morgan State University did partner up with schools in the United Kingdom. A few students came along with us and I was able to build great relationships on this life-changing trip. I’ll never forget my time in Trinidad and Tobago. I owe it all to Morgan State University. Believe the hype. Morgan is all about opportunity. If there’s something you really want, Morgan will help in any way. They can make it happen. Morgan State has enhanced my love for travel and learning about new cultures throughout this firsthand amazing experience. I’ll miss my campus while I’m gone, but I’m already gonna look out for my next study abroad. Back to you. Desi
– Morgan Study Abroad program exposes students to foreign cultures and ways of life that broaden worldview and create lasting memories. Talk about Bears beyond borders. Study abroad here at the National Treasure has got you covered. Great job, Ma’zyah.
Next, we have Kaylynn, a junior from Silver Spring, Maryland, studying Political Science on a Pre-Law track and double minoring in Criminal Justice and Psychology. Let’s hear from Kaylynn as she shares how her passion for community service and advocating for social justice are not only supported here at Morgan, but thrives. Kaylynn, you are on.
– Thanks for the intro, Desi. Hey y’all. Growing up, I always took an interest in being active socially and politically, so I knew I wanted to study law. I was blessed to be accepted to more than 25 colleges, but I needed a university where I could achieve my academic dreams and still feel at home. So I chose my family’s alma mater, Morgan State University, the national treasure. After being accepted into the Honors College here at Morgan, I realized the opportunities were endless. With more than 150 organizations to choose from, I found so many spaces to express myself. I currently serve as the Vice President of MSC Poets. It’s an organization for poets and music artists where I speak on topics like self-empowerment, social action, and mental health through my poetry. I go by Adinas Heel because I got power in my step and I got respect for a lot of people, but independent Black women is what I rep. You see, I’m a woman with power and I hope that you all can witness. And I’m funny as I’ll get out, but when I put these heels on, I mean business. I’m also the first ever Miss SMOOTH or Strong Men Overcoming Obstacles Through Hard Work and we are an organization dedicated to men’s mental health and mentoring. Morgan also has opportunities to get involved in the community from cleaning up the city to volunteering at local food pantries and soup kitchens and participating in marches and demonstrations to bring attention to social inequities. Morgan State has provided me with great relationships with my peers, professors, academic advisors, staff, and even our president, Dr. David Wilson. It has felt like home from the start and I love that I’m surrounded by successful people who look like me. This year I will be doing dual enrollment to prepare for the LSAT. After passing, I look forward to receiving a full tuition scholarship to law school. So for me, Morgan is more than a university. The connections you make here will stick with you far past graduation. Well, that’s my story. I hope to catch y’all on campus next year. Go bears! Now, back to you, Desi. I’m a big contender so you better remember. Adinas Heel is my name.
– [Attendee] Yeah!
– How inspiring. Your passion is infectious and there’s no doubt you’re gonna be a force to reckon with in the courtroom. Morgan State is definitely the place to nurture your civic engagement and social activism. Thanks, Kaylynn