Welcome to Iowa State University

Transcript

Okay everyone, to start us off, let’s meet Julia. She’s a senior studying agricultural business and economics with an emphasis in finance. She comes from a family with deep agricultural roots and uses her life experiences in her leadership role as student body president. She personifies the rich land grant history at this renowned campus. Julia, kick us off.

– Thank you, Alex. Hey, everyone. I grew up on a corn and soybeans farm in DeWitt, Iowa, where my family has been farming since 1854. Making my siblings and I seven generation agriculturalists. I chose Iowa State for the incredible faculty, staff, industry representatives and world class alumni network that complimented my academic interests. Here in Ames, I am a lover of intramural sports, belting out “Sweet Caroline” at football games, enjoying our standup comedy club skits, and exploring our campus greenhouses and nearby botanical garden, Reiman Gardens. This tropical paradise offers an ever changing kaleidoscope of colors, as up to 800 butterflies from nearly 80 species enchant visitors. This year, I am Iowa State University’s student body president. In this role, I work collaboratively with students to uplift students and advance initiatives related to college affordability, equity and inclusion to name a few. For the past three years, I have worked as a group fitness instructor for recreation services where I teach bar and Pilates classes. I’ve also worked in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Career Services Office. Just last year, after a 50 year hiatus, the Iowa State University Creamery was reopened. Providing students with additional food science and entrepreneurship opportunities, the creamery serves fresh, made from scratch ice cream, with flavors that honor Iowa State University history, traditions and people. Pretty sweet, right? Even sweeter yet though, Iowa State University was first chartered as the Iowa State agricultural college and model farm in 1858. Four years later in 1862, the Moral Land Grant Act by Abraham Lincoln, gave states land to use for higher education so anyone could go to school. Including the working class, women and minorities. In the early years of Iowa State students helped pay their way through school by carrying bricks on campus and supporting the construction activities of many of our campus’ historic buildings. In 1906, Iowa State University became the birthplace of extension and outreach. Something we are really proud of. Extension and outreach programs can be found across the United States, helping connect citizens with research. Supporting a rich research and student focus history, Iowa State University ensures safety is a top priority on campus. The Iowa State University Police Department, employs state certified police employed by the university. There are campus officers on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our engagement and inclusion officers have established a formal partnership with the office of diversity and inclusion to increase the opportunities to interact with students. Plus a no additional cost service SafeRide provides secure rides on campus from 6:00 PM to 5:30 AM for students. Here at Iowa State University of Science and Technology, a college education equips students with the knowledge and tools to enjoy their adventure, find their passions and join other Cyclones in creating, sharing and applying knowledge to make Iowa and the world a better place. As we seek to find solutions to the complex global issues we face together, I am encouraged as a member of the Cyclone community to take advantage of the growth opportunities presented through Iowa State University to create lasting positive change in the world around me. 30,000 plus Cyclones, eight colleges, 100 plus majors, 900 plus clubs, one amazing experience. Welcome to Iowa State University. Let’s see what Alex has to say about all that Iowa State has to offer.

– Welcome, indeed. Julia, excellent job showcasing the history and safety of Iowa State. I’m gonna have to stop by the creamery and grab some of that ice cream. I love ice cream, by the way. It’s clear you have a passion for agriculture and the university as a whole. As you said, Iowa State offers incredible opportunities to innovate and make the world a better place. And that is absolutely incredible. Thanks for sharing your story with us.