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.
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.