Nursing Major

I would tell my first-year self to talk to the person sitting next to you in class or introduce yourself to someone in the plaza at lunch. As a freshman, a lot of people are in the same boat as you where they are scared and they want to make friends, so just go for it! One moment that had an impact on me was when we had a guest speaker in one of my science classes. The speaker was a nurse and she told the class something that really stuck with me. She said that to achieve what you want, you have to believe in yourself, because at the end of the day you're going to be the one putting in the work and effort to follow your dreams. People will be there along the way to help you, but if you don't have faith in yourself, it's going to be so much harder to achieve what you want. That really helped motivate me throughout my whole college journey.

Graduate Student

Class of 2019

This university is unique in a sense that it has the "big university" feel but you never feel disconnected from the students or staff. Professors here are always willing to give you an extra 10 minutes or to meet you outside of class to help you further your learning or experience. Don't be afraid to speak up or challenge ideas, because what you learn from these constructive confrontations is far more valuable than any textbook reading. My first semester of my MBA program was very beneficial to my professional and social life. I made connections with leaders and student leaders who have pushed me and challenged me to take that next step in my life. From this unconditional support I was able to land an internship with Southwest Airlines, one of the top airline companies in the country and one of the top work/life balance cultures I have ever been a part of.