Meet Angel, one of the most involved students you will ever meet. Angel is a junior from neighboring Fort Worth and a visual communication design major. When he isn’t playing in a campus mariachi band or helping students learn about Deaf Culture and sign language, you can find him in UTA’s state-of-the-art glass blowing studio. Let’s go there now and learn more from Angel.
– Nice Alex, thanks. When I first began to live for colleges, I wanted a school that was close to home, but I also offered a lot of things to do outside of the classroom. At UTA, I find a campus that not only helps students focus on their education, but also on their hobbies and interests. I love how at UTA, I’m able to pursue my passions through organizations and clubs even if they’re outside of my major. There are literally hundreds of clubs you can join and if you have a passion without a club on campus, you can create one. I’m part of several clubs like the MavTHAT ASL Club, which our students learn about American Sign Language and Deaf Culture. I’m also part of Mariachi Los Inetes, which provides line of music at UTA events. The Glass Blowing Club or 2100 Club allows members into UTA’s State-of-the-art studios. Here anyone can learn how to make glass art. Being part of the club may lead you into the glass program with more advanced courses like neon are taught, you may even end up minoring in glass if you love it. Student clubs like these are a big part of UTA. There are hundreds of groups that compliment your academic work, provide leadership development and enhance and enrich the college experience. And UTA offers hundreds of innovative degree programs and minors to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need. Being part of clubs like UTA’s helped me meet students with similar interests and gain skills useful in my future. I’m thankful to UTA for the chance to follow my passions and helped me become a better designer. That’s my story, Alex, does our color interests you.
– Thank you, Angel. You’ve now got me so interested in glass blowing. UTA has hundreds of student clubs and organizations so that Mavericks can pursue their passions and it looks like Angel is involved in a bunch of them. Keep chasing your dreams, Angel.
Up next is Alex. This industrial engineering junior from Frisco, Texas is all about creativity, and it looks like he found the perfect job in UTA’s Fab lab. If you can dream up an idea, Alex could probably tell you how to develop it. Over to you Alex.
– Thanks Alex, cool name. When choosing a university, I wanted to choose somewhere full of opportunity and I found that in spades when I came to UTA. The opportunity closest to my heart would definitely have to be my job at the Fab Lab. At UTA’s Central Library, there are multiple makerspace areas available to all students. Here the Fab Lab and the studios give students access to 3D printers, kilns, sewing machines, laser cutters, screen printing, motion capture equipment, and so much more. I first visited the makerspaces here in order to 3D print parts I needed to build a lightsaber for a convention and to film a documentary about the space race for a class. I’ve been able to turn my ideas into reality in ways I never even imagined. I even picked up some skills I needed for internships I applied to for some of the biggest companies in the world. Whatever idea for a project you have, whether it’s a prototype for your engineering class, designing a 3D model for your art project or if you have an idea for a business you wanna start with your friends, you can explore and develop these ideas in these spaces. And don’t worry, you don’t actually need to have any prior experience with any of the machines or processes. Our talented team of full-time staff and student assistants will help ensure that your project can go from an idea in your head out into the real world. Makerspaces like the ones here at UTA, allow students like you and me the ability to take what we learn in class and bring it to life. The ability to experiment and find new applications for what we learn is such a valuable part of the learning experience here at UTA. From one Alex to another, back to you.
– Wow, Alex, your energy is incredible. It’s truly impressive how students at UTA can turn concepts from the classroom into products you can see you can touch and feel. I can see why you’re so passionate about your job and how makerspaces can bring learning to life. Thanks for telling us about your incredible work. Take care, Alex.
Meet Faiyaz, this grad student in Information Sciences says UT Arlington is the perfect place to launch his career in business, and Faiyaz is doing everything he can to prepare himself before he graduates. But before he does, he’s also making sure to help other students by connecting them to jobs and internships at UTA’s Career Development Center. Take it away, faiyaz.
– Thanks Alex, hey everybody. Growing up in Bangladesh, I was always curious about the endless possibilities of United States knowing that one day I’ll end up here. And I chose UTA because the potential it had for me to launch my career in business. There are so many things going on here at UTA designed to help students get started in their careers. I work at the UTA Career Development Center where I can practice networking skills and learn about project management, which is what I ultimately want to do. We also connect students to jobs and internships. There’s also MavMentors, which is a virtual mentoring network. Employers offer students and alumni help in direction as they begin their journey in the business world. They also help students with career choices and in making decisions on grad school, and UTA gives incredible internship opportunities through the Mavs Edge Program. While working on finishing their degree, students are able to get real-world experience that is essential to future success. UTA also hosts competitions where students get to showcase their leadership skills and business acumen. Last spring, I participated in a business competition where we had to solve real-world analytics problems, and that was a great experience where me and my team placed third. Finally, we have the MavPitch Competition. It’s like Shark Tank but for UTA students. You can win up to $15,000 to support your entrepreneurial ideas. Since this competition began back in 2018, UTA has awarded almost $1.4 million to more than a 100 student-led businesses. UTA has done a great job prepping me for my career in the states. I’m thankful that there are so many resources out there for students like me with dreams of a successful career in business. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– We all love your hustle Faiyaz, with its mentoring programs, business competitions, and networking opportunities, UT Arlington is setting up its students for success when they graduate, and here’s a fun fact. UTA students who graduate with a bachelor’s degree earn the highest first-year medium wage among graduates of all UT system universities. Unbelievable, great job Mavs.
Let’s hear from Angel, a graduate student in the social work program from nearby Garland, Texas. Angel is balancing schoolwork with their full-time work responsibilities. She says, the university’s commitment to accessible learning allows her to meaningfully engage with her professors and classmates while still allowing time for her job and her family. Take it away Angel.
– Alex, thanks a bunch for that introduction. As a child I carried the common dream of saving the world. I took a winding path that included me changing majors 10 times, but I stand here today dedicated to pursuing a master’s in social work driven by my aspirations of becoming a licensed therapist. My family sacrifice fueled my determination as a first-gen Vietnamese student. I honor their legacy pursuing a brighter future at UTA. The University of Texas at Arlington embraces the importance of flexibility and recognizes the value of online learning. With options for both in-person and fully online classes, this forward thinking approach caters for students like myself who balance full-time work commitments. My program offers two options, a 12 or 16 month online cohort allowing students to pursue a master’s in social work without compromising their professional responsibilities. Through immersive coursework, interactive platforms and access to invaluable resources, I can engage in meaningful collaboration with professors and peers from the comfort of my own home or even at my favorite barber shops. Moreover, this flexible format grants me the precious gift of quality time with loved ones who serve as a constant source of inspiration and support. UTA’s curriculum, distinguished faculty and practical training equipped me to tackle complex challenges now and in the future. With the focus on community engagement and diverse populations, it aligns perfectly with my goal of fostering meaningful change and making a positive impact in individuals and communities’ lives. UTA’s School of social work empowers students to impact lives with compassion. Aligned with my purpose, it’s renowned as a top-ranked program recognized for excellence. It offers affordable education, prioritizing quality without financial strain. Choosing UTA to pursue my dreams resonates with my passion for making a genuine difference in individuals, communities, and families. Back to you, Alex.
– Angel, your determination as a first-generation student is so inspiring. Your story helps shed light on UT Arlington’s commitment to catering its academic offerings to ensure access for students in all stages of their academic and career journeys. We all know you will keep making a difference. Thanks again, angel.
It attracts students from across the globe with students representing more than 60 countries. Absolutely amazing. Seyi is a senior education major and future teacher from the Big D, Dallas, Texas located just 30 miles down the road. And she says she found her footing by living on campus and getting involved in her residence hall, making lifelong friends and important connections. Tell us what it’s like to live on campus here at UTA. Take it away Seyi.
– Thank you Alex, hi everyone. Right after going to community college for two years, I began looking for a university to transfer to and UTA was at the top of that list. I quickly learned that living on campus is a great way to make lifelong friendships. With easy access to more than 800 on-campus events, you are never too far away from a fun time and making meaningful connections. I knew I wanted to live on campus, but I was unsure of where. Did I want a traditional residence hall or apartment style housing. After going on one of the housing tours that are offered, I decided to pick Kalpana Chawla Hall. It was a great decision for me. I joined the Hall council as a residence hall advisory board representative. I helped plan a huge campus event called the Block Party, and I participated in the bed races tradition with other members of the Hall council. I also made a lot of friends from living on campus. There are so many ways to make great connections when you live on campus. It also gives you access to 24/7 support, whether academic or not, which helps you succeed and be part of the 90% of students who stay on track to graduate. At your walkable to downtown Arlington with its many restaurants, live music, theme parks and sporting events, including the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers. Want to live somewhere with a pool, hammocks, massage chairs, or community kitchens, then UTA Housing has the options for you. And guess what? First-year students get priority for housing. I’m so grateful for the opportunities I was able to get by living on campus. That’s my maverick story. Back to you, Alex.
– I’ve gotta admit Seyi, the bed races sounds so much fun and with downtown Arlington just blocks away and the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers just a couple miles up the road, UTA is in the middle of all the action. Thanks again for sharing your story.
Let’s meet our next Maverick, Zoe. A senior industrial engineering major from Arlington. This hometown scholar is a first-generation college student who’s already interned at a fortune 500 company and is ready to launch her career. Take it away, Zoe.
– Thank you Alex, hey everyone. As a first-generation college student, I looked for university that provided quality education and a multitude of opportunities. UTA has supported my dream of becoming an engineer and helped me discover my passion within the Industrial Engineering Department. When deciding which engineering major to pursue, I was inspired by my engineering professors to explore all options UTA has to offer. The College of Engineering has a diversity of engineering programs with 12 undergraduate degrees, nine minors, as well as several master’s and PhD programs. After completing my first industrial engineering course, I knew where I belonged, and as an engineering student ambassador, I have the privilege of helping current and prospective Mavericks discover where they also belong. The College of Engineering provides resources openly accessible to all students. The engineering career fair opened the door to my first internship at a fortune 500 company. Now as a current senior, my angle of being an industrial engineer is within sight. UTA grads have gone on to do great things such as become astronauts, entrepreneurs and fortune 500 executives. Thanks to UTA, I am destined to succeed. UTA engineering is exciting, innovative, and multifaceted. Students interested in the health care industry may consider biomedical engineering, while other students interested in sustainability may consider resource and energy engineering. Whether engineering is just a part of your interest or your ultimate career goal, UTA definitely has you covered. The knowledge and experience I have gained for being an engineering student at UTA, set a strong foundation for my transition into professional career as an industrial engineer. My future is looking very bright thanks to UTA. Mav up everyone and back to you, Alex.
– Thank you Zoe. UTA is an engineering powerhouse with interdisciplinary research centers and aerodynamics, photonics, water transportation and plenty, plenty more.
Let’s hear from Jeremiah, a double major in clinical and applied physiology and philosophy. Research opportunities abound for UTA students and this junior from nearby Carrollton, Texas spends most of his time in the lab. UTA is a top research university both in Texas and nationwide with opportunities for students to pursue answers to some of the world’s greatest questions. Jeremiah, you are up.
– Thanks for that introduction, Alex. Growing up, I wasn’t convinced that academia was for me, but eventually I decided to pursue a career in medicine by beginning my studies at UTA and I’m so glad that I did. Since my first semester at UTA, I have been motivated to pursue physiology research and I got to do so through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program. It’s allowed me to dig deep and truly understand what it means to be a scientist, and in doing so, I’ve discovered my passion for the art of scientific research. I’m a true believer in the fact that UTA provides equal access to opportunities for people of all backgrounds, especially when it comes to research. My research mentors at UTA have played a crucial role in shaping my educational journey, providing invaluable guidance and support. Their mentorship deepened my understanding of research and fueled my passion for exploring new knowledge. UTA’s abundant opportunities for undergraduates as a top research institution facilitated my transition from physiology to informatics research. At UTA, I’ve been amazed by unexpected opportunities that have exceeded my expectations. Engaging in research here has not only boosted my professional growth, but also imparted invaluable life lessons, allowing me to explore new horizons beyond the classroom. That’s all for me here Alex, take it back.
– Thank you, Jeremiah. UTA is designated as one of the very top research universities in the United States and recently hit a major milestone for academic and research excellence in Texas. It’s one of the most diverse and impactful research institutions in the country spending roughly $134 million on research expenditures every single year. Thanks for sharing your story, Jeremiah.
It’s time to meet Trey, a junior from Tyler, Texas majoring in construction management. He’s found his home at UTA thanks to the National Society of Black Engineers. One of more than 300 student organizations at the university. He’s here to tell us about some of his favorite UTA clubs and traditions.
– Thanks Alex, what’s up everybody? When I first started thinking about college, I had a big decision to make on whether to stay local in Eastern Texas or to move away from home. One big factor in my decision was not only the caliber of school, but the caliber of the community as well. Arlington, Texas is truly a great place to live and learn, and UTA is set up to where you can quickly build a community among your fellow Mavericks students. With over 300 student organizations, UTA is invested in creating an environment to where all students can fill at home. One event that led me to success was the Engineering Welcome Bash. This event led me to a student organization called the National Society of Black Engineers, which allowed me to meet up with upperclassmen and alumni. It’s important to set up a support network while in college, but it’s also important to have fun and UTA is packed full of fun traditions throughout the year. Two of my favorites are Waffleopolis and International Week. waffleopolis is a huge party where you can meet new friends and dance all while getting to eat waffles and ice cream. International Week is another great tradition that allowed me to experience the diverse cultures we have on campus through cultural events and food showcases. UTA has one of the most diverse undergraduate populations in the country and that diversity is something it celebrates. Cultural events like the annual scholarship benefit Powwow allow students to share their heritage and learn more about others. From the engaging environment in the classroom to the lively campus life, UTA is packed full of opportunities to grow as a person. Well, that’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Thanks Trey. Great work highlighting the incredible diversity of students who attend UTA and share their cultural heritage. UTA is one of the most diverse undergraduate campuses in the country with rich traditions that are both fun and informative, thanks again.
Time to meet Dominique, a senior broadcasting major from the DFW area and get this, the oldest of nine siblings. She started her college journey at a community college, but quickly learned why UT Arlington is one of the nation’s top destinations for transfer students. Dominique, tell us your story.
– Thank Alex, and hello everyone. When I was ready to transfer to university where I would continue my education, I wanted to make sure I made the right decision for myself and the future that I’m building. UTA has everything I need to further pursue that future. As the oldest of nine children, it is very important to me that I set a good example for the younger ones. So after two years of online school, I decided it was time for a change. I chose one of the most popular destination universities for transfer students in the US. UTA checks in at number five on the US News and Roles Report list of universities that enroll the most transfer students. From the first time I set foot on campus, I knew I made the right decision. From making connections with my professors and classmates, to working on campus at my student newspaper, I knew I’d found my home. UTA does an exceptional job of creating dynamic pathways for transfer students like me. It’s the only university in the area to be nationally recognized by the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society for its successful transfer students. UTA supports transfer students through their time here with a strong emphasis on academics, transfer-dedicated services, and support their financial aid and scholarships. Their continuous support both academically and financially has allowed me to pursue my dreams. No matter where you start your college journey, you’ll feel right at home here at UT Arlington. I could not have imagined I would’ve ended up in such a supportive community surrounded by so many who wanna see me and you succeed. I am proud to be a maverick. Well, that’s my story. Take it away, Alex.
– That was great Dominique. UTA seems so welcoming to transfer students, and clearly takes the time and effort to make sure transfer students succeed when they become Mavericks. That’s why UTA is a recognized role model nationally for its success with transfer students, which is absolutely amazing. Thanks Dominique.
Let me introduce you to Leah. She was born in the Philippines and grew up in Mesquite, Texas. This high school valedictorian came to UTA for the same reason as tens of thousands of other students to make the world better by being a nurse. Tell us all about it Leah.
– Thanks Alex, hey everybody. When choosing a university, UTA immediately stood out to me for so many reasons. It offers extensive financial and scholarship support, it’s the perfect distance from home and I love its size and incredibly diverse student population. Most importantly, it has a distinguished nursing program that attracts students from all over the country. UTA’s College of Nursing and Health Innovation is the number one producer of nurses in Texas and one of the largest in the country. It’s also a four-time designated National League for Nursing Center of Excellence, a designation awarded to institutions that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in nursing education. Since entering UTA as a freshman nursing scholar, I’ve been met with supportive faculty, plentiful resources that cultivate student success and a culture that empowers students to excel. Plus, the department offers fantastic scholarships and career opportunities. One of my favorite experiences is clinicals. Nursing students are placed in small groups with an expert faculty member guiding and equipping us with skills and knowledge to become the best future healthcare professionals we can be. Aside from getting hands-on experience, the best part has been forming strong bonds with my clinical group where I’ve even met some of my best friends. UTA has a brand new state-of-the-art smart hospital that provides simulation training to student nurses like me. This innovative facility features mock patient rooms, advanced medical robots, and virtual reality simulations. Enabling students to immerse ourselves in scenarios and develop skills in a hands-on environment. CONHI has provided me with invaluable knowledge, skills, and experience as a future healthcare professional. Beyond these opportunities, UTA has helped me blossom socially, spiritually, and personally. After graduating in home play at Globe Life Field as a high school valedictorian, I cannot wait to walk in the same place as a proud UTA Maverick. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you Leah for being a part of a proud tradition of UT Arlington nurses, and sharing why it’s one of the top programs of its kind in the nation. With incredible facilities and dedicated faculty, it’s no wonder this is the largest public university nursing program in the United States, awesome job.