It’s time to meet Cassie, a recent graduate from OLLU and current professional softball player, and NAIA World Series champion. Cassie is here to tell us all about her journey at OLLU and how it shaped her to be the champion she is today. Cassie, throwing it over to you. Take it away.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. I’m a transfer student and a softball player who came to Our Lady of the Lake University three years ago, looking for a fresh start. I lived a large NCAA division 1 university for a small NAIA school on the west side of San Antonio. I felt a sense of belonging right away. From supportive teammates and wonderful professors to the gorgeous chapel and beautiful green spaces, everything at OLLU seemed too good to be true. From day one until now, I’ve been surrounded by people who have helped me grow as a person and as an athlete. The experience has been like finding a second family. I joined the softball team at just the right time. We’ve become a national powerhouse. We advanced to the NAIA World Series last year for the first time in school history. We were eliminated after the first two games, which was disappointing, but my teammates and I vowed to come back strong, and we did. This year, we returned to the World Series, swept all four games, and won the national championship. It was amazing. I pitched all four games and got to be part of the first team at OLLU to win a national championship at any sport. The impact has been phenomenal. Frost Bank lit up its 23-storey downtown building in OLLU blue. Fans welcomed us home with the celebration on the OLLU softball field. The San Antonio mayor issued a proclamation declaring June 6th as OLLU Women’s Softball NAIA World Series Champions Day. Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined this or this. After the World Series, I signed a contract to play professional softball. OLLU has changed my life and I’m forever grateful. Now, back to you, Alex.
– Cassie, congratulations on your big win and your future career as a professional softball player. What an amazing day that must have been. Let us know when the next game is, and we are all coming to see you pitch. Thank you again for sharing your story.
It’s time to meet Abel, a senior visual and new media arts major from San Diego, California. He’s here to share his inspiring story of how after two decades in the Navy, he felt a calling to return to his passion, art. Abel, tell us about how OLLU is helping you return to your childhood dream. Please take it away.
– Thanks for that introduction, Alex. Hello, everyone. I grew up in Southern California in the 1980s, skateboarding the streets and creating artwork inspired by San Diego Chicano and surfside aesthetic. My dream was to go to art school. That dream took a 20 year pause when I joined the Navy and left my body a culture behind. My last station in the Navy was in San Antonio where I retired in 2019. The Veterans Administration helped me choose a school, and that’s how I discovered Our Lady of the Lake University. I registered without visiting the campus or knowing where it was located. When I arrived for my first class, I was surprised to find that it was in the heart of the city’s west side, the Barrio. I discovered that OLLU is a Hispanic-serving institution and the birthplace of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities. School where most students looked like me. Two decades in the military left me feeling disconnected from my Mexican American culture, but when I arrived at OLLU, I found my culture right here. As a kid, I wanted to create artwork like I saw in the murals of San Diego. Today, I’m an intern with the San Antonio Street Art Initiative, a team of muralists that are transforming downtown San Antonio with their artwork. My childhood dream became a reality through the guidance of my art professor. She’s a visual artist who focuses on Chicano themes and Mexican American culture. I followed her instruction and advice to become the artist that I am today. When I finish school, I plan to write grants for community art projects, and organize solo and group art exhibitions. Many thanks to OLLU for helping me fulfill my aspirations. That’s my story. Now, back to you, Alex.
– Abel, we are absolutely amazed with your artwork. You have a true talent, and we can’t wait to see downtown San Antonio once you’re finished with it. Thank you for sharing your art with us. That was awesome.
Okay, everyone, let’s head over to meet up with Brynlee, a junior music education major from Eagle River, Alaska, and sister to someone we met earlier, Skylar. Brynlee is here to tell us about what she’s been involved in at OLLU. From admissions ambassador to the Spirit Team, there’s a lot to be involved in on-campus. Take it away, Brynlee.
– Thank you so much for that wonderful introduction, Alex. What’s up everybody? I grew up as a military brat bouncing around from place to place, and I spent my formative years in a small town called Eagle River, Alaska. All that traveling helped me develop a love for people and small town living. Although I initially wanted to attend a larger university, I found my sweet spot at Our Lady Lake University, a small school with big opportunities. At this incredible university, I enrolled as a music education major. I also became a tour guide and an admissions ambassador. In these roles, I am constantly meeting new people and making new friends. Best of all, I get to show them all the places and spaces I love at this university. One of my favorites is the beautiful mall area shaded by gorgeous live oaks. It’s the perfect place to study, relax, or hang out with friends. I also spend a lot of time right here in the gym inside the university Wellness and Activity Center. Here, I get to cheer on the volleyball and basketball teams alongside my cheer team. There’s nothing quite like a game day when the students fill the bleachers and the drum line rolls into action. The energy and electricity is amazing, and the good vibes do not stop outside the gym. This small town girl has found a home-like community here at OLLU. The students are friendly, and the faculty is engaging and supportive. When you walk across campus and see a professor, they’ll know you by your first name. I wouldn’t wanna be anywhere else. Back to you, Alex.
– Brynlee, it is so amazing that you’ve found a home away from home and game day sounds electric. We’ll have to make it back for a game. I cannot wait for that. Thank you for sharing your story and thank you for taking part in The College Tour.
Let’s meet Crista, a senior majoring in biology with double minors in chemistry and forensic science from right here in San Antonio, Texas. She’s a first generation student with a unique story about her journey to OLLU. Crista, tell us all about what made you choose OLLU. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. I have a long history with Our Lady of the Lake University. As a young girl, I lived four minutes away, passing by the beautiful campus daily and dreaming of attending, but way before that, my mother had been accepted but couldn’t attend because she became pregnant with me. With online programs not available at the time, she worked full-time to support us and never got the chance to return. Now years later, here I am at OLLU, fulfilling both my dream and my mother’s. OLLU has exceeded my expectations and provided a transformative experience. I’m a first generation student, a Latina changing my family’s dynamic and creating a new legacy. Here at OLLU, I am thriving academically and spiritually. As a biology major, I spend a lot of time in labs, which has been both an invaluable and rewarding experience. I’ve also been blessed with wonderful professors who provide excellent instruction and guidance. They know me by name and are easily accessible. I’ve also been blessed with great friends who, like me, enjoy visiting the grotto, attending mass, and learning in the labs. The university has been very generous, providing everything from financial support to meals during finals. The help I’ve received from everyone, faculty, students, and staff has made this higher education journey more than special. It’s been magical. My love for science has intensified to the point where I plan to pursue a master’s degree in biology after I graduate. I hope my accomplishments and journey inspires others, just like I was inspired to attend OLLU as a little girl. I think back to 5-year-old me looking at the great big buildings that resembled a castle. And now, inside those castle walls, I found the home. That’s all for now. Back at ya, Alex.
– Wow, Crista, it’s amazing that you’ve been dreaming of attending OLLU since you were little, and look at you now, pursuing a degree in science. Thank you for sharing both you and your family’s story, and good luck with your master’s degree. We know you’ll do great. Take care.
Now, introducing Aaliyah, a senior majoring in biology with minors in chemistry and environmental science from Brownsville, Texas. Finding the right college for you can be hard, but after just one visit to OLLU, she knew this was the place for her. Aaliyah, tell us what it was that made you choose OLLU. Take it away.
– Thank you, Alex. Hey, y’all. When I began looking at colleges, I wanted to find a school where I wouldn’t get lost in a packed auditorium or a crowded classroom. I didn’t wanna be just a number. I wanted a place small enough to fit in to be known by my name. After one visit to our Lady of the Lake University, I knew it was the school for me. My first year took an unexpected turn. All my classes went online due to COVID, but the pandemic did not stop me from building connections with my professors. When in-person classes resumed in the spring of 2022, I immersed myself in campus life. I became a student minister and connected with students, faculty, and staff through our social and wellness events. I worked as a peer mentor, and became a member of the OLLU Honors Program, and that was just the beginning. I joined Sigma Zeta, the Math and Science National Honor Society, and then I became chapter president. Wow. We have strong math and science programs here at OLLU and many gifted STEM students. Alumni have gone on to become doctors, surgeons, optometrists, and dentists. I never thought I’d lead the local Sigma Zeta chapter, but serving as president has been fun. On Earth Day, our chapter held a fundraiser where a biology professor laid in a box full of creepy crawlers. Students paid to guess how many cockroaches it would take to cover our professor. The event drew local media coverage and raised enough funds for Sigma Zeta to attend the National Convention. Aside from Sigma Zeta, I also belong to the Ronald E. McNair Scholars program and the EcoJEDI Scholars program. Once I graduate, I plan to get my PhD, and come back and teach. Hopefully, with the same passion my professors have shown me. I’m so grateful. Back to you, Alex.
– Aaliyah, you are involved in so much on-campus. Wow. Students at OLLU can participate in a wide range of clubs, organizations, and honor societies, catering to various interests and fields of study. It seems like there truly is something for everyone here! Thank you so much for sharing your story. Take care.
Okay, everyone. We’re heading over to meet Roman, a senior mass communication major from Weslaco, Texas. Roman is here to tell us about his experience with the Mission and Ministry team at OLLU, and how sharing his faith has helped him find a close-knit community. The floor is yours, Roman. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hello, everyone. When I was in high school, I wanted to attend a college that fosters creativity and spirituality. When I visited our Lady of the Lake University, I found a Catholic university that felt just right. Faith is important to me, and when I began classes in the fall of 2021, I was not disappointed. As a mass communication major with a theology minor, I joined the Lakefront Media team. Right away, I felt not only like I belonged, but that I had something valuable to contribute. I’m having a time of my life at OLLU, but I’m also growing spiritually, and that’s been very rewarding. Mission and Ministry provides a space for students to lean into their callings. Some of us explore those callings at retreats. I’ve been able to share my faith and spiritual journey at these retreats and have been inspired by others. Those of us in campus ministry have formed a close-knit community. We attend mass, do outreach, and hang out at the Elliot House, which is where we meet for fellowship and prayer. Campus ministry has inspired me to create faith-based music. ♪ You’re my maker ♪ ♪ You’re my maker ♪ ♪ I’m gonna scream in victory ♪ ♪ My life is blessed ’cause you’re my creator ♪ I got involved in the music department and created an EP, “Party in Heaven”. A video of one of the singles was shot and edited by my fellow mass com students. It’s now out there for the world to hear. OLLU has allowed me to grow academically, campus ministry has shaped me spiritually. As I look forward to graduating next year, I’m grateful for the foundation I’ve been able to build and excited about the future. That’s my story. Now, back to you, Alex.
– Roman, those retreats sound fantastic and creating an EP. How cool is that? We’re so glad that OLLU is helping you grow academically and spiritually. We’re looking forward to seeing what you do next. Thanks again for sharing your story and take care.
Let’s all meet Marissa. A fourth year doctoral student majoring in counseling psychology from Beeville, Texas. She’s here to share how OLLU is equipping her to serve her community. OLLU is renowned for its diverse student body, particularly, its strong representation of Hispanic students. Marissa, tell us how OLLU has helped you become proficient in Spanish and, in turn, help your community. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. And hi everyone. As an aspiring psychologist, four years ago, I began looking for a doctoral program that would prepare me to serve people near and dear to my heart. My search led me to Our Lady of the Lake University. OLLU develops strengths-based practitioners through live supervision and countless opportunities. More importantly, OLLU offers the only program I could find with a certification in psychological services for Spanish-speaking populations. Since I live in a community with a large Spanish speaking population, I wanted to become proficient in the language and the nuances that come with it. This is my fourth year in the doctoral program, and it has been illuminating and awesome. As a graduate student, I have spent seven semesters working with clients under live supervision at our program’s training clinic. The clinic is known as the Community counseling Service, or CCS. At CCS, I have worked with clients from a variety of backgrounds, and I provided therapy and assessment services to couples and families. The experience has strengthened my skills as a clinician and taught me how to collaborate with team members. It has led to multicultural discussions with my cohort members and professors. After I graduate, my indispensable training will set me apart, and my new skillset will help fill a void. There are few bilingual professionals in the community that I call home, and there are many hurting people who don’t have access to Spanish-speaking professionals. Thanks to OLLU, I’ll be able to fulfill a longing and bring bilingual services to a population in need. That’s all I have. Wings up. Back to you, Alex.
– Marissa, you’re absolutely right. The skills you’re acquiring now will undoubtedly propel your career. We can’t wait to see all the places you will go in life, and fantastic job helping those in need. Thank you for sharing your story. That was amazing.
Service is a core value here at OLLU, and here to share what that means to her is Skylar, a recent graduate from OLLU from Eagle River, Alaska. Community service and engagement are integral parts of the OLLU experience. The university encourages students to participate in service learning projects and volunteer opportunities. Skylar, we can’t wait to hear how you have helped your community. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. And hi, everybody! My college journey began like that of many high school athletes. A coach recruited me and offered me a spot on the inaugural Our Lady of the Lake University Spirit Team. All of my involvement became service-oriented, and service is a core value of OLLU. Cheering introduced me to campus life and I joined Kappa Delta Chi which promotes unity, honesty, integrity, and leadership among women. With the support of my cheer sisters, my sorority sisters, and my coworkers, I created a program that grew and impacted a lot of people. It’s called Rags to Riches. The inspiration for this project came from personal observation. At the end of every semester, I noticed a lot of clothes and personal items of my friends wound up in a dumpster. I thought, “I bet someone could benefit from this.” So, I rounded up some bins and created a donation drive. Instead of throwing things away, students began to donate. The response was amazing and the generosity overwhelming. The first year, I filled up three truck beds full of items. The second year, we filled a full trailer. The third year, I had to rent a U-Haul to fit all the donations. Giving became infectious. Everybody wanted to donate. Everything collected was donated to the local women’s shelter. Many of our classes include a service learning component that lets us put our coursework into action by helping area non-profits. I never dreamed Rags to Riches would take off the way it did. I’m proud to have served and created a project at OLLU and can’t wait to see what’s next. That’s all from me. Back to you, Alex.
– Skylar, you are a rock star! We can’t imagine what Rags to Riches will look like in a few years. By providing access to clothing and professional attire, you’re helping your community feel empowered, and prepared to pursue career opportunities, and succeed in life. Thank you for sharing and keep up the amazing work.
Let’s meet Catherin, a junior biology major from Mission, Texas. She’s here to tell us all about the activities students can take part in on Elmendorf Lake Park, whether you’re participating in an outdoor learning lab or taking a kayak out for some fun, it’s a cherished recreational space for both students and locals. Tell us more, Catherin.
– Thank you for that great intro, Alex. I grew up in a small town in the Rio Grande Valley about four hours south of San Antonio. I attended a charter school where I had most of the same friends from pre-K to 12th grade, so transitioning to college was scary. I wasn’t sure how I’d adjust, but to my relief, I quickly found my place at Our Lady of the Lake University. Classes are small, the professors are helpful, and students are friendly. Although I attend college in a big city, OLLU is a small community that has the warmth and feel of home. As a junior biology major, ane of my favorite activities is hands-on learning at Elmendorf Lake, an outdoor lab right next to university. I participated in a six-week summer lab program looking for invasive plants that can kill bacteria. Other biology students have gone out in boats to collect plankton from the lake. But the lake is more than just a lab. It’s great for recreational use too. Some students kayak, others fish, and even hike. There are 1.6 miles of trail that wind around Elmendorf Lake Park. That’s 30 acres of tranquil and beautiful space. The most dragging sunsets can be seen from the park amid beautiful sight and sounds. Ducks paddling in the water and egrets soaring through the light and shadows. It is a photographer’s paradise. But that’s not all. Every April, OLLU holds a Confetti 5K run to raise money for student scholarships. The race takes runners and walkers past native trees and plants along the banks of the lake, and through the picturesque park. The university got its name from nearby water. It was founded on the lake in 1895. More than 125 years later, students continue to enjoy its beauty and benefits. Back to you, Alex.
– Catherin, we will meet you on the lake after this. Who wouldn’t wanna relax out there after class? And how cool is it that students are able to get hands-on learning experience right there in the water? The blend of natural beauty and modern amenities makes it a beloved destination for both residents and visitors alike. We’ll see you out there, Catherin. Take care.
Joel is a senior majoring in mass communication with a focus in digital film production from right here in San Antonio, Texas. He says the faculty at OLLU has been a huge supporter of his academic career. Joel, tell us all about your time at OLLU and what you’ve been up to lately. Take it away.
– I’m a transfer student and a proud Mexican American. I wanted to attend a school where I could learn about acting in film and studying mass communication in media. I also wanted a school that valued my Mexican American culture. Our Lady of the Lake University is that school. It’s not only a Hispanic-serving institution, it’s a school that has helped me grow and pursue my aspirations. As soon as I enrolled, all kinds of opportunities opened. Without hesitation, I took advantage. at OLLU, I’ve learned how to write screenplays and teleplays. I’ve anchored multiple newscast for Lakefront Media. I’ve also written stories for the university magazine. One story won an award for journalism excellence from the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association. Our faculty has played a huge role in my success. One of my professors is a former television news reporter, another an award-winning playwright who wrote a role for me in the play about the university’s founders, and that is an honor I will always be grateful for. Since I arrived, I’ve been able to work as a marketing coordinator for NBCUniversal slash Telemundo 60. I’ve also landed an internship with the city of San Antonio as a video promotional director. As an actor, writer, and director, my goal is to create films that promote cultural diversity. Only 24% of Latino adults in the US obtain a college degree, and I will be a contributing factor to get that number to increase, and my hope is that I encourage others to do the same through my work. I hope to become a role model for other Latinos who aspire to make a difference. Together we are stronger. Thank you for allowing me to share my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Joel, you’ve certainly been busy both on and off campus. The faculty at Our Lady of the Lake University sounds like a dedicated group of professionals committed to providing a high quality education that really cares about its students. And it sounds like your internships are giving you a fantastic head start in your career. That’s amazing. Good luck and thanks again.