Let’s hear from Chloe. Chloe is a junior majoring in experience design who works as a Greyhound ambassador, meaning she is an expert on UIndy’s residence life. She has the scoop on all the housing and dining options here on campus. The floor is yours, Chloe.
– Thanks Alex, being a first generation college student I knew attending college was something I always wanted to do. And growing up in a small town, I knew I wanted to move to the city so UIndy was the perfect fit for me. UIndy has 10 residence halls, some that are freshman only, those for the upper class and even new apartment style living options. I think living on campus was one of the best choices I made when coming to UIndy. It made me feel connected to the campus and surrounding community, while being able to make new friends along the way. The student life on campus is great and I have so many friends from different majors and areas of campus that I’m so grateful for. We enjoy grabbing coffee from the Perk, attending a football game or a musical performance, and even going to fun lectures such as Bill Nye. My life changed so drastically when I started attending UIndy and I truly believe that that change has been one of the best things to ever happen to me. I was super nervous to move out of my childhood room but I didn’t need to be at all. My dorm life experience at UIndy has been great. I chose the option of a randomly assigned roommate my freshman year and she’s still my best friend. We even just signed the lease to live in an on-campus apartment together. UIndy has changed my life for the better and help me realize that I can become the best version of myself. Living on campus has immersed me in my education, helping me become a more well-rounded person and preparing me for my future. Take it away, Alex.
– Wow, Chloe, congratulations on signing that lease with your bestie, it’s awesome. Then you can have that independence but still stay on campus. Good luck with the move.
Michael is a first year psychology doctoral student from right here in Indianapolis. He graduated from UIndy with his bachelor’s in psychology. He’s a transfer student, veteran, and father. That’s a lot to juggle on top of pursuing a degree. Thankfully, UIndy has a comprehensive approach to student support, from academic tutoring to one-on-one career coaching, to personal attention from professors. You’re on Michael.
– Thanks Alex. As a husband, father, veteran, and transfer student, it’s fair to say that my path to UIndy was anything but typical. In 2019, I stepped away from my job and made the commitment to invest in my future. After completing my associate’s degree, I knew I needed to find a school that would help me succeed in becoming a clinical psychologist. Then I found UIndy. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed as a college student but from the moment I stepped onto campus, I knew I had found home. UIndy has distinct contacts that help you navigate your path towards graduation. The faculty really makes the experience. As an honors student, I had the opportunity to research, design and execute my own honors thesis project over the course of two years with direct support from faculty advisors. How many other universities push you to complete a thesis project before getting into grad school? Not only did UIndy’s faculty support me academically but they also lifted me up personally and professionally. I’ve been able to share some of my experiences by participating in student transfer panels, had the opportunity to serve on university and regional boards supporting honor student endeavors across the region. The Pro Edge Center helped me prepare my CV and grad school applications, and my faculty advisors helped with mock interviews. Whatever self-doubt I had was conquered through the unending support of all the amazing people on campus who saw me as more than just another student. Being a non-traditional student can be scary but when you surround yourself with incredible people, it yields incredible results. My journey doesn’t stop at UIndy now that I’ve received my bachelor’s degree, I’ll continue as a grad student in our nationally ranked clinical psychology doctorate program. My journey wasn’t typical but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Back to you, Alex.
– Michael, we were a little stressed for you at the beginning of this segment, but after hearing how the Pro Edge Center and the Honors College had your backs we are relieved. We have no doubt you’ll continue to thrive as you pursue another degree at UIndy. Thanks Michael.
Now introducing Mallory, a junior communications major who also serves as president of the Public Relations Student Society of America at UIndy. Just one of 80 clubs and activities students can join. Who better to tell us about the many opportunities for students to get involved at UIndy? Take it away, Mallory.
– Thanks, Alex. Before coming to UIndy, I had no idea where I wanted to go to college or if I wanted to go at all. But after my UIndy campus tour I knew this was the place for me. Since I’ve arrived, I’ve made the most of my experience by getting involved in many of the numerous campus organizations and clubs here at UIndy. There are so many opportunities on UIndy’s campus to get involved. These also allow you to gain professional and real world experience while making friends and lifelong memories. As a communication major, I’m lucky enough to serve as president of UIndy’s Chapter of Public Relations Student Society of America. When matched with my academic experience this organization and our student run PR firm, Top Dog Communication helps me connect with fellow students and PR professionals, so I can continue to learn and grow in my industry. UIndy has over 80 registered student organizations. If you don’t see one that fits your passions, you can create one like I did. I founded Global Greyhound, a campus organization for students who are passionate about studying abroad. The moment I stepped on campus, I felt like I had a community of support. This came from not just the organizations, but events like Homecoming, Pack The House and Midnight Breakfast. When you arrive at UIndy, you’ll find me on the sidelines as a part of UIndy’s cheer team. Grady the Greyhound and I can’t wait to cheer you on as part of our UIndy family. For all the amazing things in my future, I owe a really big thank you to UIndy for giving me the space and tools I need to really succeed in every aspect I want to. UIndy is more than just a college to me, it will always be a home. Back to you, Alex.
– Great job, Mallory. It’s so cool to hear how UIndy student organizations offer something for everyone. Just check out the activity fair in the fall to find some organizations that interest you. Thanks again for sharing your story.
Meet Dana, a culinary arts graduate with a lifelong dream of becoming a chef. She began classes at Cypress to pursue this dream and found a world of techniques, ingredients, and equipment she never encounter before. The chefs who taught her did so with patient support which Dana said gave her a place to creatively shine.
– Thank you, Alex. Hello, everyone. I knew from a very young age that I wanted to become a chef. I remember drawing pictures of myself when I was in first grade wearing chef whites and a big white chef hat to show what I would be when I grew up. As a teenager, my sister said, “Dana, why don’t you try to go to culinary school?” When deciding what to do after high school, I found that Cypress College had an amazing culinary program less than two miles away from me. Through Cypress College’s HRC Program, I have made lifelong friends, learned many new techniques, and use equipment and ingredients that I otherwise would have never been able to acquire on my own. Most importantly, I found a place to shine and create things without any limitations or restrictions. My favorite part of Cypress College is a sense of community that I have felt from day one, not only from my professors, but from fellow classmates as well. I get to work with some of my classmates in the industry and connect with them in ways that go far beyond academics. The support I receive from chefs on campus truly feels unreal to me. I almost consider them as part of my family. They have always believed in me and uplifted me and anything I’ve ever learned here was taught by someone who was extremely patient with me. I never would’ve believed that I’d be following my dream so closely and having so much fun while doing it. Culinary arts is who I am and Cypress College is where I started, and for that it will always hold an enormous place in my heart. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– What a great place to learn to become a chef. In addition to the amazing classes Dana had described, the Hotel, Restaurant, Culinary Arts Department operates Cypress Bistro, a weekly restaurant, open to the public and run by students to give them real-world experience. Thanks for sharing your story, Dana. That was awesome.
Let’s talk to Gable. He came to Cypress, because like many, it was right in his backyard, but he didn’t know it also held the key to his future. The automotive facilities here gives students hands-on opportunities to build skills they can take straight into the workplace and Gable took full advantage of that by earning several certificates and a degree. Take it away.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. Growing up, I had a knack for taking things apart and putting them back together to see how they worked. First toys, then bikes. One day I rode past the open garage of a neighbor, an amateur race car driver who eventually turned pro. He took me under his wing and that’s what started my passion for automotive technology. When it came time for college, having one in my hometown was a huge convenience. Finding out it had one of the best automotive technology programs was just a bonus. Through various automotive scholarships, my tuition was fully covered. As a freshman, I took the basics. Then I took the core classes which dove deeper into automotive component systems. Working on actual cars in an impressive lab using all the best equipment was truly a privilege. The automotive technology program at Cypress College is so much more than just students and professors. It’s a community where everyone is passionate about their love for the automobile. I have met so many amazing friends, classmates and professors who I still keep in contact with. Cypress College has opened so many doors and opportunities to further my career. Through professors and fellow classmates, I was able to network and meet with industry leaders. One such opportunity even led to me building engines for two top fuel funding car teams. A college education goes beyond job skills. It means setting a goal, believing in yourself, and achieving that goal. I graduated from Cypress College with my associate of science automotive technology, two master ASC designations, and over 15 certificates. I then transferred and completed my bachelor’s in automotive technology. With the recommendation of a Cypress College professor, I was able to secure a job working for Volkswagen, Huntington Beach. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– You really got a lot out of your time at Cypress, Gable, even earning scholarships for your dedication and hard work. Well deserved. At Cypress, you get a chance to earn certificates in career education programs like this and if you choose to pursue a degree, you can put these credits towards it. One school, so many options. Thanks again for sharing your story.
Let’s meet Anthony, a media arts design film graduate. He pursued film production to follow his passion for storytelling and his creativity took shape with the facilities and faculty guidance Cypress offered. Like many here, he was a first-generation student. He sought support from campus affinity group, the Puente Program, a community of Latino students with mentors, events, and opportunities to see what college graduate life is like. Anthony, tell us more.
– Thanks for the intro, Alex. Growing up in La Palma, California, I would write stories and film my cousin’s weekly on my dad’s camcorder, and as I grew older, I realized how passionate I became about telling my own stories and bringing it to life. That’s how I fell in love with filmmaking and Cypress College allowed me to expand on my creativity and build on myself as a student. As a first-generation student, I wanted to be part of a college that created a sense of belonging. Being part of the Puente Program allowed me to make connections, explore my major, tour universities, and be part of a community that believed in me. This program permitted me to use all the resources to become a successful student, leading me to the right path, transferring to a four-year university, and obtaining my degree in narrative production. Puente is a national award-winning program that helps students reach their dreams of college success and instills a sense of familia, confidence, and self-esteem. In addition, the word Puente in Puente Program means bridge which implies that the program allowed me to build a bridge towards my academic success. Our math department explores the creative and commercial use of digital art technologies. It equips students with the skills necessary to obtain employment, update job skills, and provide a foundation for transfer to four-year universities. Cypress College has taught me to believe in myself. I wouldn’t be where I’m at today without all the students and professors. They took this journey with me and I couldn’t have asked for more. That’s all I have. Now back to you, Alex.
– That’s incredible, Anthony. The support students get really does make a difference to their success, just like how you were able to earn your bachelor’s degree and go on to work in video creation and editing. Thanks for introducing us to this group and for sharing your incredible story. Thanks again.
In our most challenging times, we want to feel comfort and security, and for Margo, building on these characteristics became the foundation for her future career. Margo studied mortuary science to treat the deceased and guide their survivors. Cypress College is one of two public colleges in California to offer such a program and its unique facilities offer a rare chance for someone with a kind heart and business capabilities to take on this challenging role. Let’s hear more.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everybody. How’s it going? I started taking classes at Cypress College long ago with the hopes of becoming a court reporter. Well, that didn’t work out, so I changed my career to mortuary science. Best decision of my life. I needed additional classes besides mortuary science courses to earn a degree. You know, as an older student, math had stopped me for so many years and I finally faced my fear in one. During my time at Cypress, I received great counseling and was able to apply for financial aid and grants, which was a big help. Although I did not get a chance to partner with the legacy program, it’s a great resource for African American students who might need peer support and educational resources, especially the new students. When I began taking mortuary science classes, there wasn’t a baccalaureate program. In 2019, I was told I was eligible for the bachelor of science degree and I immediately signed up for the necessary courses. In 2021, I received my BS degree in funeral science and became the first African American to receive the degree. From the time I first graduated from the mortuary science program with an associate in science degree, I was able to get an internship and employment right away, thanks in part to being educated by dedicated faculty who have worked professionally in my field. After many years in the funeral industry, I was able to return to Cypress to obtain the BS degree. That was a dream come true. Now I’ve been able to start my own business in the funeral industry. Cypress College gave me everything I needed to have a successful career and business in the funeral industry, and for that I am grateful. Buen Cypress. Back to you, Alex.
– That’s fascinating, Margo. Cypress College has so many distinct programs tailor-made for strong job fields and it was one of the first community colleges to offer a bachelor’s degree, setting graduates up with even more education and preparation for their future. Thanks for sharing that story.
Choosing a college means choosing where you spend your time. Nathalie likes Cypress College for more than its talented faculty and great resources, which have helped her realize her dream of becoming a photographer and giving her a chance to exhibit her work. She loves this campus setting. Nathalie, tell us more.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. Hey everyone. Growing up, I was always a creative type. I knew I had a passion for the arts and using my imagination to create stories but I wasn’t sure how to translate that academically. The Photography Department at Cypress was the first opportunity I got to express myself in a creative space. I had access to talented faculty that helped me navigate unfamiliar medium and equipment. Cypress’s photography classes teach you how to produce various photographic images using processes as well as how to create and develop your own portfolio while learning technical skills needed for professional photos in studios and location environments. The Photography Department holds exhibitions held by current students throughout the semester and you’re able to submit two pieces to the student show. Your work gets displayed for the remainder of the semester and competes in different categories. In the 2023 student show, I won an award in beginner’s digital photography. There’s also a photo club run by photography students to promote workshops, activities, and fun events open to everyone. There are many activities surrounding Cypress and fun places to eat and see. A bustling weekly swap meet held in the campus parking lot, America’s first theme park, Knott’s Berry Farm, Downtown Disney, Downtown Long Beach, and local restaurants within walking distance to visit in between classes to refuel. Overall, being a part of this visual and performing arts division has been amazing. I’ve been in contact with and inspired by many amazingly talented students and faculty during my time here that push me in my creative journey and the tight-knit community built at Cypress is like no other I’ve experienced. That about wraps it up. Take it away, Alex.
– Nathalie, sounds like you are in a great place studying with fellow photo students on campus and taking advantage of the Cypress location on the edge of Los Angeles and Orange Counties. It adds to the college experience to be in such a great location. Thanks for sharing.
Now we’re going to get to know Mohd who began taking aviation classes as a teenager to learn how to become a pilot. In his five years with the college, he has seen the Cypress aviation labs take off with new simulators. The Aviation and Travel Careers Department offers additional programs for this exciting industry, flight attendants, tourism and travel, drones, but right now, let’s hear more about what it’s like to learn to fly.
– Thanks, Alex. Hello and welcome. From a very young age, I was always fascinated with airplanes. Everything about them intrigued me, how they flew, what all the screens were, what the dials meant in the cockpit, and so much more. Coming from Southern California or the LA Basin area in aviation jargon, I was constantly around airplanes and wanted to know as much as I could about them. As my curiosity grew, I was lucky enough to find out about the Cypress College Aviation and Travel Careers Department, and boy, did I come across a hidden gem with invaluable resources for all aviation enthusiasts. I started to take pilot classes in 2018 and was hooked ever since. The flight simulator lab captivated me and I wanted to spend as much time there as I could. Cypress College has grown so much from a small room with a couple simulators all the way to a full lab. Our amazing professors and instructors use their professional experience to take you through this journey in the best way possible, constantly advising and recommending on how we can become pilots. We have one of the most technologically-advanced simulators in the entire country, from the four huge Cessna 172 simulators to a full-motion twin engine, high-performance aircraft simulator. Not only that, but we even have a full-sized Boeing 737 simulator. Best of all, the sims are completely free to use for students enrolled during the semester and have very well-versed professors that help you operate them. In my opinion, the simulator lab is one of the best places on campus. I cannot even think of how much I’ve learned and grown throughout my years at Cypress College. It’s quite spectacular that our college and aviation program keeps on growing with new classes and more sophisticated technology that helps save students thousands of dollars on their flight training. Back to you, Alex.
– Very cool, Mohd. It’s great to find a place where you can grow as a person while you build your career in academics. And when you learn from professionals in your chosen field, like Mohd has, with the experienced pilots in Cypress College’s Aviation and Travel Careers Department, you can feel great about how well you’re positioned to become a professional yourself and that is awesome. Thanks again.
Next we’re gonna hear from Mireya, who began her college career a little later in life than most and after she had started a family. She was so motivated that she forged ahead despite financial insecurity. Fortunately, Cypress College has strong resources for students experiencing such difficulty, in addition to support for academics that can connect you to four-year colleges. Tell us more, Mireya.
– Thank you, Alex. I’m the daughter of God, mother of amazing kids, and a Cypress College Charger. I know I don’t look like your typical college age student. Growing up in South Central Los Angeles, college was never a topic of conversation, much less an option. Four years ago, my life changed, and I faced challenges that made me realize I needed a good education in order to provide for my children and to be able to compete in today’s workforce. However, I didn’t know where to begin. I believe God led me to Cypress College where I met the wonderful people at the EOPS program. EOPS is designed to help low-income students achieve their goals by assisting in academic counseling, helping with school supplies, and being your biggest cheerleader, they helped my journey as a first-gen college student begin. Who would’ve thought a woman with Goliath size obstacles would graduate as the presidential scholar of distinction for the social sciences and the student speaker at the 2022 Americana Awards Gala? Cypress College prepared me for a university, provided all the tools I needed to compete in today’s workforce, and gave me the ability to help others through psychology. Cypress College kept their promise. We take this journey together, Buen Cypress. Back to you, Alex.
– That’s wonderful, Mireya. It’s good to know folks at Cypress look out for students and take stock in their success. I know you made them and your family so proud and now you can take your education and lived experience to assist people in similar situations. It’s amazing that Cypress can foster both academics and personal growth. Thanks for sharing your story.