Sabrina is a culinary arts student focusing on baking and pastries. Students in this program learn in kitchens similar to the ones they’ll work in after graduation. They also host meals where they are in control of everything, from making the menus to serving them. Tell us more about this sweet program, Sabrina. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. As early as I can remember, I’ve always loved being in the kitchen. I was always cooking and baking with my mom and grandma and especially loved the holidays. I’ve had the dream of owning my own bakery since I was in fifth grade. I wanted to go to a college within driving distance, and also be able to take cooking and baking classes. Owens was perfect for me. They offer a variety of classroom and lab classes that provide a well-rounded education. My classes have allowed me to get a closer look at what goes into running a business, and I even got to create a menu for my dream bakery. I started with almost no professional culinary experience, and I’ve learned so much throughout the beginner and advanced labs that I have taken. All of my chefs have been amazing in working one-on-one with me for anything I need, to make sure I learn as much as I can. Some of my favorite things I have gotten to do at Owens are creating a Halloween themed buffet for my catering class, creating an ice sculpture for my garnishing final service, and making a wedding cake in my advanced baking and pastry class. The Terrace View Cafe offers the amazing opportunity of inviting and serving members of the public throughout your semesters at Owens. You get front of house and back of house experience in serving guests and cooking food for a set amount of people. Whether you are looking for a career in the culinary or baking field, Owens an amazing place to start. That’s all for me, Alex, take it back.
– Is anyone else wanting one of those pastries right now? Thanks, Sabrina. Students can also earn an event planning certificate or craft beverage certificate. With tourism seeing a boost these days, these students will be feeding visitors from around the world before we know it. Thanks again, Sabrina.
It is my pleasure to introduce you to Lucas. He’s in the John Deere Tech Program. It’s one of 21 programs around the world and offers students a unique opportunity. Every student in the program is sponsored by a John Deere dealership, and has an internship while learning at Owens. Let’s hear more about it. Take it away, Lucas.
– Thanks, Alex. Growing up, my great grandparents have always been a big inspiration to me. Being around the farm equipment that they’ve had had always intrigued me. I’d grown up working on motorcycles and four wheelers, and just wanted to know the ins and outs of the entire machine, and that passion had never stopped. Being a part of Future Farmers of America was also a big introduction for me, from doing community work to doing various contests. I’ve learned skills at Owens Community College that have truly helped me become the person I am today. I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to work at Rich Family Farms, doing some basic chores around the farm. After working there for a year or so, I started doing some basic maintenance on the equipment around the farm and instantly knew, this is something I want to know more about. By my senior year of high school, my family introduced me to the idea of working at a John Deere dealership as a technician. We looked into it and found a John Deere tech program that the school was offering. I later applied at my local dealership and discussed the program with them and they accepted me. I worked there right towards the end of my senior year and throughout the entire summer before coming to Owens, and it’s been a blast. The teachers are great and the courses are great for anyone willing to put in the work. I really recommend this program to anyone that is good at working with their hands, wants to learn more, and get into agriculture. Back to you, Alex.
– What an opportunity that is. Thank you, Lucas. These students are able to work on these machines that help farmers around the region thrive. Being able to learn and have an internship with a supporting dealership, what a great way to get started on an in-demand career. Thanks again, Lucas.
Let’s hear from Al. He’s a recent graduate of the registered nursing program. Owens offers many opportunities for non-traditional students looking for a career change. Al, tell us more about it.
– Thanks for your introduction, Alex. Growing up, I had a driving desire to always help others. I spent 15 years at the Lucas County Sheriff’s Office, but felt something was missing. I looked into nursing and found the spark I was looking for. I started my nursing career at another university. I enjoyed the drama society and found something that felt good, but it wasn’t enough. Feeling out of place, a nursing professor friend of mine told me to try Owens Community College. From the first day I walked into the admissions office, it felt like home. As a non-traditional student, you feel like you have a lot of knowledge to offer in areas of life that a traditional student doesn’t. Owens made me feel that all the knowledge that I had obtained over the years was worth something. As a nursing student, I joined the National Student Nursing Association, and found a place where I could come and talk with fellow cohorts and learn from them as they learned from me. When I began my journey, I never would’ve imagined the connections I’ve made or the knowledge I’ve gained, both personal and educational. Being a part of Owens has paved the way for me. When I mention the Owens name in interviews, recruiters always say Owens prepares nurses for the real world. In my future adventures, I plan on continuing my education and eventually providing care for the underserved of my community. That’s all for me. Take it away, Alex.
– Thanks, Al. The Owens Nursing Program is the top nursing program in the region. Nursing graduates have surpassed state and national nursing exam rates for the last decade. You’ve just shown us all that it’s never too late to start a new career. Thanks, Al.
Let’s hear from Arianna, a senior psychology major who spent four months studying abroad in Barcelona, Spain. UIndy offers a variety of study abroad programs across six continents, giving students the opportunity to quite literally expand their horizons and experience diverse cultures firsthand. Tell us more, Arianna.
– Thanks, Alex, hello everybody. Growing up, I’ve always had a passion for traveling. As I began my college search, I was determined to find a school that would help me succeed in my future career, along with fulfilling my dream of studying abroad. When I saw that the University of Indianapolis offered multiple programs and resources to study abroad, I knew UIndy was right for me. This past semester, I was beyond blessed to get to spend the semester abroad. I was able to call Barcelona, Spain home for four months and travel all across Europe. I traveled to 7 countries in 22 cities. Not only was I seeing more of the world than ever before but I was also earning credits towards my degree. I enjoyed improving my Spanish and now I’ll forever have a second family in Spain. I was also able to meet locals and people from other American universities and made friendships that will truly last a lifetime. Studying abroad for a full semester is just one opportunity that the University of Indianapolis has to offer. We also have several trips during what we call spring term that lasts just a few weeks. No matter your comfort level, the University of Indianapolis makes expanding your worldview easier through study abroad. I know that studying abroad has forever changed my perspective on life and has lit a fire for traveling that will never die. If you’re interested in studying abroad, I can’t wait to tell you more about my experience and help you learn more about UIndy study abroad programs. I promise you won’t regret it. That’s my story, take it away, Alex.
– Wow, Arianna, your trip to Spain sounds incredible. I love that UIndy offers study abroad opportunities for everyone. From experience travelers to aspiring adventurers. I’m tempted to pack my suitcase and join you all on one of those spring term trips. Sounds incredible, thanks Arianna.
It’s time to meet Kivonte, a senior graphic design major from Chicago, Illinois. Like many other students, it was important to Kivonte that his university would provide him with not only a great education, but also a strong and diverse community. Kivonte, we all can’t wait for you to tell us more about the family you found right here at UIndy.
– Appreciate that, Alex, what’s going on everybody? I’m from the Southeast side of Chicago, and growing up in that area, my opportunities were limited. However, when I discovered UIndy, I immediately knew this was the place for me. UIndy welcomes everyone from all walks of life. We have a very diverse student body and exudes a feeling of belonging. While at UIndy, my main two involvements have been the football team and the Office of Inclusive Excellence. I’ve been working at the Office of Inclusive Excellence since my freshman year. OIE ensures the safety and inclusivity of our entire student body. I’m able to work on projects that highlight different cultural events and achievements. Football has been a love of mine since I was 10 years old. UIndy’s football program is ranked one of the top Division II schools in the country. In the last 10 years, we won seven championship titles, two of which I’ve been a part of. In addition to football, UIndy has over 20 NCAA Division II teams. If you’re interested in competing in college but not the NCAA level, we also have a variety of club sports for students to get involved in on campus. No matter your interests from competitors to spectators there’s something for everyone at the University of Indianapolis. When I graduate in 2025, I plan on using my BFA in graphic design for what I love most. My education has helped me develop my own streetwear brand. I plan on opening up a unique space for artists from various disciplines to come create whatever they desire. I thank God every day because without Him none of this would be possible. I also thank my friends, my family and the University of Indianapolis, go Greyhounds.
– Your future is bright Kivonte, and we have no doubt that your UIndy community will be behind you through it all. Thanks again.
Let’s meet RJ, a public health major from Plainfield, Indiana. RJ is gonna tell us more about how UIndy supports its students through on-campus resources, including an office dedicated specifically to helping first year students transition to college life, and professors who are 100% invested in their students success in and outside of the classroom. You’re on RJ.
– Hey everyone, welcome to campus. When I graduated high school, I knew from the start that I’d be coming to UIndy, but that doesn’t mean that I had everything figured out at that point. But thanks to the amazing resources that I had access to and the wonderful people I met along the way, I was able to forge my own path and graduate on time even though I switched majors twice. The location, class sizes and opportunities for success all made UIndy feel like the perfect place for me to explore and grow personally and professionally throughout my college career. And it didn’t hurt that I knew the school well already thanks to my older sister. As a student, it was always reassuring to know that if I ever needed help, the university’s faculty and staff could help point me in the right direction. Students seeking assistance at UIndy can use services such as free peer tutoring, the Writing Lab and the Phil and Janet Terry Center for Campus Connections. Staff in this unique center will help connect you to the correct person, office or program so that you can succeed. One of my favorite things about UIndy is the support from faculty and staff. They’re always willing to help you reach your goals and emerge as the best version of you. No matter the issue, the university has resources to help you solve it. UIndy provided assistance that helped me grow as a student and make connections that will last a lifetime. I’m forever grateful to the faculty and staff for what they helped me accomplish throughout my four years here. At UIndy, there are new opportunities around every corner. That’s my story, back to you, Alex. Thank you, RJ. I loved hearing how you pushed yourself to succeed academically and weren’t afraid to ask for help when you needed it. Even better, that UIndy had the resources and faculty to give you that personal attention. Great story, thanks for sharing.
Erin is a junior from Plainfield, Illinois, majoring in communication with a concentration in public relations. She’s gonna take us over to the Stephen F. Fry Professional Edge Center, more commonly known as Pro Edge. This office provides one-on-one career coaching, host networking events with national organizations each semester, and promotes on-campus jobs for UIndy students. Tell us more, Erin.
– Thanks Alex, hi, everyone. When it came time to choose a college, I wasn’t sure where I wanted to go but I knew what I needed. I wanna do something in the realm of event planning, project management and media, and found that UIndy can provide me the best resources to succeed after graduation. UIndy has given me a peek into the things I wanna do through on-campus jobs, organizations and all the way down to my actual coursework. On campus, I’ve held two different jobs. I was a Greyhound ambassador student coordinator for the Office of Admissions where I helped to train our tour guides and coordinate admissions events. More recently, I was hired as the promotions producer for UIndy TV, where I get to work with media equipment and produce creative content. Both of these jobs right on campus have made me confident that I wanna work in event planning with some form of a media element. UIndy believes we should immerse ourselves directly into our fields before graduation with the guidance of our professors. Many of them come from professional backgrounds before they moved into teaching. They make great mentors but they also bring professional connections. Offices like the Professional Edge Center empower students to become confident, competitive and ready for the next steps in their careers. Our Pro Edge office is unique because you can meet with them as early as your freshman year, and maintain personal and professional relationships with them even beyond graduation. Thinking about my life post-graduation is not as scary as it was when I started here. The on-campus opportunities combined with our limitless access to Indianapolis makes UIndy students next steps exciting. I cannot wait to see where my career will take me. That’s my story, what will yours be? Back to you, Alex.
– Okay, so you’re telling me that UIndy students can gain professional experience as early as their freshman year, and with the help of Pro Edge, secure full-time employment months before graduation? Wow, it is so awesome that UIndy invests so much in their students’ career readiness, and has so many unique partnerships with Indianapolis organizations. Thanks, Erin.
Here is Indianapolis native Moni. Moni is a junior majoring in exercise science with a pre-physical therapy concentration. He’s gonna show us UIndy’s Health Pavilion, home to the College of Health Sciences, School of Nursing and the Health and Wellness Center. Tell us more, Moni.
– Appreciate it, Alex. When choosing a college, I had no idea what I was looking for, but I knew I wanted to pursue a career in health sciences. After I found out that UIndy had a nationally ranked physical therapy program, and seeing all the hands-on equipment I’d be able to utilize, I knew that UIndy was the best fit for me. UIndy’s newest Health Pavilion connect students with state-of-the-art medical technology and hands-on learning. You’ll find equipment like the Anatomage table, DEXA scanners and a fully functioning physical therapy on Wellness Clinic. UIndy has partnered with one of the state’s largest health systems community health network on a lot of initiatives, even going as far as creating a global health center on the first floor of the Health Pavilion. This prepares students with hands-on practice for those community members that utilize our health center. For my major, the PT program has an excellent curriculum and great professors who care about the success of students inside the classroom and in their future professions. You learn how to properly communicate and partner with your peers in a professional manner through group projects and assignments that allow you to demonstrate mastery. We even collaborate with athletic training experts from Indy’s professional teams like the Pacers and the Colts. The expectation here is to be well equipped for your chosen industry. The College of Health Sciences is home to undergrad, graduate and doctoral programs. No matter your interest, you’re sure to find a program that fits you. I’m nowhere near the end of my story as a Hound. However, in the time that I’ve been here, I’ve gained an understanding required to improve my performance as an athlete, and how to best avoid injuries. I can now take that same understanding to any organization I work with following graduation. Pretty cool, right Alex?
– Moni, it’s so inspiring to hear the passion you bring to UIndy, and we all know you’re gonna make a wonderful physical therapist someday soon. Thank you for showing us how UIndy prepares its health science majors for the real world at the Health Pavilion. That was awesome.
Maddie is a senior communication major from Jeffersonville, Indiana. She is so excited to share how UIndy fulfills its motto, education for service, through service learning opportunities. Plus, we’ll hear about how UIndy gave her a chance to get out of the classroom and gain real world experience with local organizations. It’s all yours, Maddie.
– Thanks Alex, I’m from the greater Louisville area and I fell in love with the University of Indianapolis when I was recruited to dance, and saw the beauty of campus. I caught a glimpse of what it really means to be a Greyhound. I was thrilled to be a collegiate dancer, at least until I broke my back a few months in. I had to restructure and rethink my entire collegiate experience. I decided to focus on my academic career. There aren’t many communication programs like UIndy’s. The university owns and operates a radio station in Indianapolis, which is staffed almost completely by students. Where else can a student be on the air in a Top 40 market after only a few weeks on campus? When I’m off the air, I serve as 887 WICR’s operations manager where I work hand in hand with our station’s general manager to oversee operations daily. UIndy strives to maintain its mission of education for service, by helping students find ways to apply what they learned in the classroom to their surrounding communities. From volunteering at a local Boys & Girls Club, to hosting a community voter drive, there are service opportunities for everybody at UIndy. I’ve participated in many of our university’s service-focused traditions, like college mentors for kids, UIndy Day, and Pack Away Hunger. While working at the radio station, I’m also in the community serving others through the power of kindness and music. With the support of the faculty and staff here on campus, I know that I’m ready to step into my career and serve the community that I live and work in. The personalized experience you get on a smaller campus can have a larger impact than you ever imagined. That’s why I love UIndy, Alex.
– Thank you so much, Maddie for sharing your public service experience with us. We couldn’t believe how many opportunities UIndy has to support the community and gain credit towards your degree. We all definitely will be tuning into WICR to hear more about the happenings at UIndy. Thanks again, Maddie.
Let’s hear from Elizabeth, a senior music major from Westfield, Indiana. UIndy is only a 10 minute drive from downtown Indianapolis giving students like Elizabeth access to hundreds of professional sporting and entertainment events, and employment opportunities with some of the nation’s most notable organizations. Elizabeth, we wanna hear it all, please take it away.
– Thanks for the intro, Alex. I’ve always loved being in the middle of things. Growing up just outside of Indianapolis, I was always drawn to its incredible athletic, cultural and artistic events. And I was excited to come to a university so immersed within the city, UIndy. In my senior year of high school, I found Old World Gondoliers on the canal walk in Indianapolis. My fellow Gondoliers introduced me to UIndy and I’ve been able to keep the tradition of Gondoliers from UIndy going. UIndy allows me to continue to pursue the performing arts on an academic level and explore other opportunities in Indianapolis. I’ve grown to love the canal, a hidden gem of tranquility in the city that’s reflected on the canal in UIndy’s own campus. On top of being a Gondolier, I’ve had the opportunity to perform professionally with UIndy theater at the Indie Fringe Festival, as well as to have internships and mentorships in arts administration with the Indianapolis Children’s Choir, the Indianapolis Opera, and the Indiana Repertory Theater. All these opportunities were made possible by the support of my UIndy professors. The university is just a quick drive from downtown Indy and is surrounded by vibrant art, culinary, sport and entertainment scene. There’s something for everyone no matter your interests, and faculty and staff are always quick to give recommendations on must see places and restaurants. I can’t wait to apply my love of performing, directing and the arts into theater that can be educational and environmentally conscious. No other university would’ve given me the flexibility and support to pursue my passions like UIndy has. Our connection to Indianapolis has allowed me to find my niche in the arts and grow beyond anything I could have dreamed possible. Come see for yourself what Indianapolis can offer you. Back to you, Alex.
– Okay, just making a quick note here, go on a Gondolier ride with Elizabeth. Wow, Indianapolis has so many cool things going on and it’s easy to get to with the IndyGo bus system. I can’t imagine new UIndy students ever being bored on the weekends. Thank you, Elizabeth for that awesome tour of Indy.