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Show ORIENTATION A2 DEAR STUDENTS, .What an exciting time of your life to be here,at Utah Valley University! As a fellow student, I am thrilled to write a few words and.share some advice. , If I get the opportunity to meet you individually (which I hope I do), I will likely ask, "How did you choose to come to UVU?" The responses I hear often fascinate me. We have each chosen to come to this incredible university for many different reasons. Regardless of what brought you to this point, you are beginning a very fulfilling and exciting journey. Your range of available options, right now, are limitless. President Holland has referred to UVU as aj'blossoming university." In a real sense, yew: have the opportunity to blossom, improve your knowledge, skills and increase yopr opportunities as a student here. Just as a seed may find itself in any number of places, it must grow and bloom where it is planted. *As you begin your education at UVU, you can'decide to bloom and grow into whatever you want. My advice for you, during your time here, is to bloom where you are planted. -Are you interested in becoming a business executive? Do you want to be a graphic designer? Do you want to be a doctor? Do you want to be a math teacher? Whatever you want to do and be - do it and be it. Utah Valley University will provide you with the necessary resources as you begin your journey. You are expected to do your part in the expedition. The following are just a few of my recommendations on how you can bloom where you are planted at UVU: • Get involved in extracurricular activities. - Join a club, write for the newspaper, join a student government committee, play intramurals, go to a basketball game, come to a debate or hear an academic speaker, participate in the engagement zone — the list goes on. • Know your professors. - Introduce yourself to your teachers and expect the most from them. • Meet often with your academic advisor. - Work with your advisor to set your educational plan. • Do an internship related to your field of study. - Visit career services and explore all the possibilities. I have personally benefited from getting involved, knowing my professors, meeting with my academic advisor and doing an internship. There are several other ways for you to make the most of this world-class education you are receiving. If you ever need someone to talk to, or have any questions, my door is always open. Please come see me. I hope to meet you soon. Richard T. Portwood Office - S C 105 Phone -(801) 863-8175 Over 96 percent of students who have attended this in- 1 stitution have attained their education goals. Photo by Shsyne MaryottAJVU Review- the With newly acquired university status, 58 bachelor's degrees and three Master's degrees, Utah Valley University has become a prime destination for educational pursuits. According to the Department of Institutional Research and Information and surveys conducted from 2005-2009, over 96 percent of students who have attended this institution have attained their educational goals. Statistics show that 95 percent of surveyed students who graduated with their associate degree plan to continue their education; 84 percent of surveyed students graduating with their bachelor's degree also plan to continue their education. Half of the combined total of those students surveyed plan to continue their education at UVU. UVU offers many outstanding programs to students from all walks of life. In addition to being well known for trades and hands on experience, several academic programs require students to participate in internships. "About one third of the majors here at UVU require an internship and for the rest it is highly encouraged. It makes a huge difference in being able to find a job," said Marsha Haynes, director of internships and student employment. "National statistics show that the starting salary of graduates who participated in an internship are much higher than those who don't." By ANDREA LINDGREN News Editor President Matthew Holland encourages diversity within the student population and intends to maintain academic strength within the institution. "I hope [to help] move the University from its transition as a state college to a bonafide university that's respected throughout the region, if not the nation; that we will be seen as simultaneously staying open and welcoming of students and faculty of different places in life, different perspectives and background, but that we have solid unquestioned reputation for real academic excellence here in what we do," Holland said. The goal for "real academic excellence" is already becoming a reality. Graduates have gained important skills to ensure their successful future. According to the graduating alumni surveys, "graduates rated their personal and intellectual growth highest in three areas: knowledge in their major field of study, critical thinking and communication skills." Many students have been involved in door-opening opportunities because they have completed their education at this institution. Whether it's getting a bachelor's in Art Education, a master's in Business, winning a gold medal at SkillstJSA ig%screen printing, presenting cutting edge research on the H1N1 virus or traveling abroad to help those in need, all this can be accomplished at UVU. |