What does it really mean to be a Husker? Take a look into the experience of our students and their defining journey.

Kylie works day in and day out to help international students feel at home in Nebraska. When international students arrive in Nebraska, they face more than just a language difference. They also encounter differences in culture, values, weather, and food — all while juggling their classes. This can cause stress in many students. As a counselor for Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), Kylie is there to help. Kylie feels especially passionate about helping students adjust to living and studying in a new country after her own experience with acclimating to U.S. culture. She runs the International Student Discussion support group as well as Stress Management Consultation for International Students. Both opportunities are designed with the intention of making it easy for students to drop in and connect with a counselor without having to register or check-in at a front desk. She says that while international students are her focus, they're not the only students facing stressful situations in college. "Everyone has all different levels of stress," Kylie said. "You are not the only one. If you feel you're overwhelmed by stress, seek out help." By participating in a group or private counseling session through CAPS, students can learn about coping skills and stress management tactics. It also provides them with the opportunity to meet face-to-face with a care provider. "To know that we are not alone, we know that logically," Kylie said. "But to feel that you are not alone, that's the connection that works to help support you to get through things."

Coming to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln involved a lot of firsts and lasts for Ramin. He would be a first-generation student leaving to visit the United States for the first time. His single-entry visa meant it would be the last time he would see his family for five and a half years and the last time he would see his home country. Though the transition was a big one, Ramin remembers being excited for the new experience. He threw himself into his studies and became involved in the community. He frequented coffee shops, the Outdoor Adventure Center and biking trails. Ramin even became president of the Iranian Student Organization and a graduate ambassador for the College of Engineering. Most significantly, Ramin became a husband and stepfather. Despite being so busy, Ramin still wanted to do more. When he learned about an opportunity to teach middle school students about STEM through the Girls Inc. Eureka! program, he was quick to volunteer. He identified with the challenge many of the girls will face someday in college as first-generation students like him, and he wanted to serve as living proof that if they worked hard they could make their dreams come true, too. "There were so many odds against me, and I made it." Ramin said. Ramin also wanted the girls to know that engineering wasn’t just for boys. At the end of their class session on polymers and recycling, he took them on a tour of the College of Engineering so they could see where they could study engineering in just a few short years. He’s seen firsthand how education can change people, and he wants to continue to help others learn and grow.

For Will, the LGBTQA+ Resource Center is more than just an office in the Nebraska Union — it's a community. As a first-year student Will became involved with the resource center through their Peer Mentor Group, where students are paired up with an upperclassmen mentor in an effort to help new students become acclimated and active in the LGBTQA+ campus community. He gradually became more and more engaged in the center's events and activities. Now as a senior, he is the center's library and resource coordinator. In this role, he gives presentations, recommends LGBTQA+ friendly counselors and doctors, and oversees the 1,500 items in the center's library. Will is also the president and one of the founding members of TRANSform, a club focused on a new support system within the LGBTQA+ Resource Center. The group promotes advocacy and support for trans students and works together on everything from housing policies to inclusive swim nights for those that might feel uncomfortable at public pools. The resource center gave Will a community at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, and now he's helping to expand it. "It's just nice to have people that are here to help you and support you," Will said.

When Aus started at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, it was a difficult adjustment. As a first-generation student from a small town, going to college was a brand new experience in a completely unfamiliar place. Thanks to the friendly faces of the orientation team at New Student Enrollment, Aus felt welcomed and encouraged. Now, Aus gets to be that same type of mentor figure to new students as an Orientation Leader for this summer's NSE. "There's something really beautiful in helping someone," Aus said. One way Aus likes to help new students is by informing them about the resources available on campus. Many students know about the library or the campus recreation center, but Aus wants them to know about others that can help them get a great start on college life — like the Explore Center or First Year Experience & Transition Programs. They also recommend other resources, like Legal Services and Husker Hub, for student needs. When Aus wanted to change their name, Legal Services provided them with lawyer representation, and Husker Hub made sure the change was reflected on their student account. Aus remembers feeling vulnerable during the process, but the staff in Legal Services and Husker Hub were open and understanding.

As an advocate for chronic illnesses, Josie is always happy to explain to people why her pup, Jeter, stays steadfastly by her side day and night. Josie has Type I diabetes, which causes her blood sugars to dip high and low quickly because her pancreas isn't making enough insulin. She's also hypoglycemic unaware, so she can't tell when her sugars dip low. Luckily, she has Jeter. Jeter was rescued by a Nebraska-based company that trains diabetic alert dogs. Using scent training, Jeter can smell when Josie's blood sugar is rising or dropping and alert her. She also taught him to do heartbeat alerts, tricks, and even tasks like fetching her juice when her sugars are low. Just like she was passionate in teaching Jeter, Josie is also passionate about educating others about service animals. She said it's OK to be excited to see a dog, but it's important not to distract the dog since it could cause them to miss important alerts that could affect the health of their owner. It can be stressful when people approach Jeter in public while Josie is just trying to go through a store or do other day-to-day tasks, but she's always willing to inform them about Jeter's important role as a service animal. "You can't really blame them if they don't know," Josie said, "I'm super happy to talk to anybody in a store, just about his job or how to handle a service dog if you see one."

As a student at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Jared is taking every opportunity he can to study the Korean language. Though it isn't an official program at UNL, he's been able to take courses on campus via the Big Ten Academic Alliance. Jared and his classmates study with a class from the University of Minnesota, video chatting in to each lecture. His passion for learning Korean translated into Jared being one of five Huskers to receive a Critical Language Scholarship from the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. This June he will return to South Korea for his second summer in the country to partake in an intensive and immersive language program. As an UNL Honors student studying psychology, he's using his time in South Korea to do more than just perfect his command of the language. He plans on making connections with professors and other psychology professionals so he can conduct research on cross-cultural psychology between the United States and South Korea. Jared plans to start distributing surveys, gathering responses and completing his thesis research during fall 2019, and then he intends to apply for a Fulbright award. One day, he would like to get his doctoral degree in psychology and use his knowledge to work with children.

By starting his own business devoted to sustainability, Gage is acting as the change he wants to see in the world. Gage is an environmental studies major, so it's no surprise that he has a passion for nature and sustainability. He had known for a while that he wanted to start a business centered around sustainability, but it wasn't until he was on a plane returning from studying abroad in New Zealand that the idea hit him. He wasn't quite sure what he was going to do, but he knew then that he wanted to do something that helped inform his peers about environmental issues while making an impact. He spent the fall 2018 semester testing different business models in his entrepreneurship class, but none of the ideas stuck. In December he landed on the idea to create a one-for-one t-shirt business in which a tree would be planted for every shirt that is sold. After that, things just began to fall into place. He found a t-shirt manufacturer that creates eco-friendly shirts made out of recycled bottles in Kansas City, then partnered with One Tree Planted to ensure that a tree was planted for every shirt purchased. He worked with designers to shape the look and feel of the brand and to create the t-shirt designs, and received help from a friend to assemble photos for the website. Before long, it was late February and his brand, Greenstain, was ready to launch. He had planned to print the shirts at Nebraska Innovation Campus on his own, but pre-sale orders were so large that he had to ask a friend to help. Now Gage has a local company handling the shirt printing, which saves the time he used to spend using the community tools at NIC. Gage wanted to see a brand that made their customers a part of the story and the opportunity to "be the change," so he made it himself. "I feel like my skill set and my strengths fit this position to start something that matters," Gage said. "So I was like, 'Cool, I have to be the one to do this.'"

When Katelyn saw the devastation left in the wake of the historic flooding in Nebraska, she could hardly believe it. She couldn't get the thought of the wildlife, animals, farmers and ranchers that were affected out of her mind. So, she scrapped her spring break plans and decided to help. She purchased milk replacer for the animals but realized her own contributions could only go so far. She started a GoFundMe page to share with her family and friends with the intention of raising $2,500. In 24 hours Katelyn had raised $4,500 — enough money to fill an entire trailer with donations. It was full of food for dogs, cats, chickens and horses, along with corn, oats, colostrum supplement, milk replacer, antibiotics, syringes and sedatives. But while it was her first trailer load, it wouldn't be her last. Katelyn took more trailer loads, carrying salt and mineral blocks, all purpose pellet feeds, fence posts, medications and veterinarian supplies to affected areas. At one point, she even received a donation of an entire semi-trailer load of feed from a company in Iowa. For Katelyn, organizing the donations on her own was about the timing. She knew that eventually larger organizations would be able to come in and help, but she knew it could take awhile. "I wanted to do something then and was able to with being on spring break," she said. "The calf that lost its mother didn't have a week to wait to get colostrum or milk replacer. That rancher or pet owner didn't have time to figure out which roads he was going to have to travel to get feed or supplies, along with everything else going on." It was simple for Katelyn. She saw the state that she was raised in and its animals in trouble and knew it was her time to help.

Hailing from Fairbanks, Alaska, senior Shannyn Bird knows a bit about getting out of her comfort zone. As a senior in high school she knew that she wanted to find a university with a strong research background and a tight-knit community, and knew she'd have to leave home to find it. Though it was a scary step to take, she packed up and moved more than 3,000 miles away to study at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. "If I had stayed in Fairbanks," Shannyn said. "I would definitely not be the same person I am now." Shannyn knew she had to set her own path, and that's something she's stuck to throughout her time at the university. Though she studies biochemistry and math, she isn't applying for a medical school program like most of her classmates. She wants to study law, something she got unique experience in as an Alaska youth court participant. Shannyn spent five years processing and sentencing low-level juvenile misdemeanor cases with other youth attorneys, judges and jurors under the supervision of practicing attorneys. This experience, coupled with the realization that she didn't want to work in a lab, made her decide to pursue a career where she could intersect her strengths. Shannyn hopes that when she is finished with law school she can pursue both her passions through environmental or scientific policy law. Though it's a different path than most of her classmates, it's her own — and that's one of the most important things she's learned. From her time at Nebraska, Shannyn has learned to find her own happiness and pave her own way. "I think that just having that inner sense of self is really important." Shannyn said, "Now I feel that the place I am doesn't determine who I am, I determine my sense of happiness."

Growing up on the Winnebago Reservation in northeast Nebraska, Colette Yellow Robe dreamed of pursuing an advanced degree. But after graduating from college with a bachelor's degree in sociology, she hit a wall. She couldn't find work, so she took a job in interior construction to make ends meet. While spending her days building walls and shelving, she had a moment of clarity. “I didn’t do all this schooling and sacrifice to do construction,” she thought, “I have to get myself going.” Colette balanced being a single mother, teaching assistant and research assistant all while working towards her PhD. When she was offered her current job as assistant director for non-cognitive development and leadership for the university’s TRIO Programs, a mentor warned her that she needed to put her education first. Colette took the job, and her mentor seemed to be right. Life kept moving. She got married. She had another child. Her father became ill and died. Her husband asked for a divorce as she was two chapters into her dissertation. Though all this may have slowed her down, Colette never let it stop her from achieving her goal. When she completed her PhD in educational psychology in 2014, her mother suggested that she re-adopt her tribal name and become Dr. Yellow Robe. By changing her name to reflect her Native American heritage, Colette found a source of strength to help her carry on. “Sometimes you have to do things for a reason,” Colette said. “It’s absolutely the grit and the glory. We have to learn things the hard way — but we persevere."

Michaela loves hearing other people's stories. In fact, she loves them so much that she's dedicated to helping others be able to tell their story in their own voice again. As a student studying speech-language pathology, she hopes to help people be able to communicate again through speech therapy. While on a mission trip to India, she saw the impact of the lack of speech therapy in children's lives. She saw how it changed them as a human and wanted to show that someone was listening to them. After her experience in India, she decided to do independent research on the impact and strengths of speech therapy in developing nations and even traveled to Uganda for an internship at a hospital there. She continued her research upon her return to Nebraska and hopes she can pursue it through graduate school. Her research wasn't just something she did to liven up her resume. For Michaela, it was an opportunity to grow into the kind of speech therapist she wants to be — someone who listens to those who are unheard and is there to help.

For Brian, being a member of the UNL Vietnamese Association (VSANE) gives him a voice. It's a voice that is heard in the large Lincoln Vietnamese community, but also a voice he uses to teach other students about a vibrant culture. One way he's doing that is by serving as the chair for VSANE's "Hello Vietnam: A Ticket to Childhood." The event is the RSO's biggest fundraiser of the year and features local Vietnamese food, dancers, singers and more. Brian says it's an important event for the university community, because it gives students the opportunity to experience the culture for themselves. "It's just important to see a different outlook or perspective." Brian says. "Hello Vietnam" is this Saturday and will reflect on the past and present experiences of growing up in the Vietnamese community. Some of the story is based on a popular novel from Vietnam, but Brian says a lot of it is based on the life experiences of VSANE members. Brian says that VSANE, as well as "Hello Vietnam," isn't exclusive to only local or international Vietnamese students. Any student interested in learning more about the culture can join the RSO or attend the event.

At a time when most people in Lincoln are sleeping, Jesse Esquivel is waking up and getting ready for the day. The full-time student usually wakes up early to be ready for work at 4 a.m. and then heads to class. When he isn't studying at @unlcojmc, he can be found attending meetings and brainstorming with UNL PRSA. For Jesse, it's worth it — he wants to be here, and he wants to do this. When he started classes in fall 2018, he saw award trophies on display in Andersen Hall. He decided he wanted one. Last month, the work he and PRSSA did for their Huskers Helping Huskers Pantry+ campaign earned a Nebraska PRSA Paper Anvil Award. He doesn't let the early hours hold him back. He told his dad he would get his degree, and after enrolling at Nebraska at 32, he's on his way. He says he feels welcomed by the Nebraska community and wants other non-traditional students to not be afraid. Jesse says that if they want it, they should go for it.

Though they may look fine at first glance, many spaces are not designed with those with disabilities in mind. Hallways can be too narrow to accommodate for wheelchairs or walkers, or access might be limited to ramps and elevators. After seeing first hand how difficult it was for her father to go through public areas while using a wheelchair, Rosemary knew she needed to make things better for others. The third-year interior design student is passionate about creating environments that are accessible for everyone. In one of her classes, she designed a multidisciplinary clinic for patients with ALS. As an ALS advocate, she knew that many patients often must visit multiple doctors in a single day and wanted to create a space that allowed the clinicians to collaborate with each other. She also focused on making sure the hallways were accessible and that the furniture pieces were functional, comfortable, and easy to help patients get in and out of. For Rosemary, interior design is all about fulfilling the space needs and well-being of others. She wants to help people through her designs so they can feel comfortable — no matter where they are.

No matter where a student is from, Abbey believes they should feel welcomed and included. When she saw a group of Rwandan students sitting by themselves at a dining hall, Abbey said she felt compelled to do something. A simple "hi" was all it took. That exchange, Abbey said, was the start of a unique friendship. Abbey learned words in their language (like "amakaru" for "how are you?" and "ndagukunda" for "I love you"), taught them American lingo and made herself available to help them with whatever they needed. Abbey's genuine love and interest for the group of students earned her the nickname, "The Good Samaritan." As the friendship flourished, Abbey accepted invitations to events within Nebraska's Rwandan community; they attended church together, and they supported one another in life on and off campus. This semester, Abbey was honored by the group of students at a ball they hosted. The Rwandan students made a video thanking her for all she has done for them. Abbey said that night was one of her favorite memories at Nebraska. The Rwandan students, like Cesar Harry Cyuzuzo and Mark Iradukunda, have "adopted" her into their community and have become family to her. However, Abbey said forming the friendship didn't take much work, and is something she encourages other students to do. Putting yourself in the shoes of students who are far from home and doing something as small as saying "hi" can have a huge impact.

Originally from Saudi Arabia, Hadi moved to Nebraska in 2014 to enroll into Nebraska's engineering program. As a kid, he had a fascination with how cars and other objects worked and he'd often ask his mother how a simple, plastic gas pedal could make a whole car move. During his freshman year, Hadi said he found himself stuck in the same routine of going to class and going home. While he was learning a lot in his classes, he began to feel that he was simply going through the motions and not fully enjoying his college experience. One day, however, his friend pushed him to get involved and join an on-campus organization. This decision, he said, put some "flavor" back into his college experience. Since then, Hadi has served as a New Student Enrollment Leader and a member of the math club and the Nebraska Engineering student advisory board. Making connections with people within his program has led him to participate in some unique opportunities. Right now, Hadi is assisting in creating "hands" for a robot that could be used in hospitals. Though technical and often frustrating, the robot will be able to complete mundane tasks, like sanitizing surgical instruments. His choice to get involved has helped him grow and gain the confidence he needs to succeed beyond campus.

Katy is part of the 85 percent of college students who have faced feelings of depression and hopelessness. For Katy, these feelings that began the summer before her sophomore year of college worsened when the school year started. She wasn't going to class and was self-harming, skipping out on social events and not doing what, at one point, made her happy. However, on social media, she made it seem like she was a thriving college student because she didn't want her friends and family to think that she was struggling. A suicide attempt served as a wake-up call for her to get the help she needed. Katy reached out to CASNR Cares, a safe place where faculty and students can get the resources they need if they're in traumatic situations. They helped Katy get into a hospitalization program. During her one month stay in the hospital, she focused on her spiritual journey, mental health and rediscovering herself. Katy learned that it's important to make a conscious effort to act against your own brain: taking your medication, going to therapy and staying away from harmful triggers. To further help her journey, Katy put together a wellness toolbox. This "toolbox" holds items, activities, and people she can turn to when she needs them, including puzzles, her mom and her favorite music. Following through with your therapy plan, fighting against your urges and relying on a "toolbox" are all part of being a survivor and continuing to survive. By sharing her story, Katy hopes to alleviate the stigma surrounding depression and mental illness. Nebraska provides numerous resources to help students through and beyond their mental health journey.

Just three years ago, Bridget Bickner was sitting in a biology class not knowing of the opportunities coming her way. Now, as a teaching assistant for microbiology classes, Bridget said it's rewarding to teach for the same class that helped fuel her passion for science. Serving as a mentor and educator has allowed her to pay it forward to other passionate students. Through the long lab hours and unique experiments, Bridget said she has found her place within the biological sciences department. What has also helped her find her place at Nebraska is the university's UCARE program. UCARE gives undergraduate students the opportunity to work one-on-one with faculty research advisors. The program, she said, has been one of the most beneficial aspects of her college experience as it has given her the chance to form connections with faculty within the field. Being part of the program eventually led her to apply for summer research programs, including one at Harvard University. The competitive program gave Bridget the opportunity to step out of her comfort zone and bring the skills she's gained at Nebraska to the east coast, researching why the plant species Phlox drummondii blooms in different colors. She said she owes her drive to apply for advanced research programs and her desire to spread her knowledge to others to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Grace Mosier is used to moving around. As the daughter of a retired Navy officer, she grew up living in eight different states and attending 11 different schools. Every three years, Grace and her family would pack up everything they knew, leave behind the friends they promised to keep in touch with and start a new life in a new home. When Grace chose the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, her high school classmates questioned her decision and were worried she wouldn't thrive so far from home. Of course, leaving the comfort of home and coming to a school without knowing anyone was scary. But Grace said moving so frequently has given her the ability to adapt and make friends easily. Since day one of her freshman year, Grace knew it was important for her to get involved and welcome her new life at Nebraska with open arms. Now Grace is making an impact on students that were in the same position she was through her work with @unl_nse where she has helped teach incoming students how to be successful at Nebraska. All of her involvements, from greek life executive roles to the Nebraska Alumni Advisory Council, Grace said she has been able to enhance her leadership and communication skills, become friends with other passionate students and create a home for herself here.

Finding a place to belong in college has always been important for Yajaira López-Villa and Ana Perez-Sinic. Being away from their families, Yajaira and Ana wanted to provide a home away from home for themselves and other Latina students. They thought the university needed more options for students to celebrate their culture and bringing Kappa Delta Chi, a national Latina sorority, to Nebraska's campus seemed like the perfect solution. They were drawn to the sorority's passion for latin culture, academics, immigrant rights and cancer research. While completing national's requirements, Yajiara and Ana decided to give their chapter the name EMERALD, the national chapter's stone. Ana, the president of EMERALD, said the organization gives Latina students at Nebraska a feeling of sisterhood and an opportunity to be part of something that is bigger than themselves. As EMERALD continues to grow, both Ana and Yajiara hope this group gives Latina women a place to go and serves as a community where they can write their own story.

When Jazmyn was a freshman, she sought out mentors to help her navigate college and overcome obstacles. This, she said, influenced her decision to help students herself. Being a mentor has allowed her to step into a leadership role that has impacted students all across campus, helping them be successful at Nebraska. As a peer mentor for First Generation Nebraska and through her mentorship of students in Oasis, Jazmyn has found her true calling: guiding and helping others. Throughout time, her mentorship style has evolved as she has connected with various groups of people across campus. Eventually, Jazmyn would like to transfer her leadership qualities into a classroom setting and work as college professor to further make a difference in students’ lives.

Paridhi lives by the quote "nothing worth having comes easy," and it's reflected in her work every day. Coming to the states from India was a challenge, but she thinks it was definitely worth it. She was working at the Indian Counsel of Agriculture Research when she was encouraged by one of her colleagues to check out Nebraska for her PhD. She's constantly impressed by everyone's politeness and dedication to their work here, from researchers to grocery store cashiers. Another challenge for Paridhi has been her work with millets in the food science department. Researching millets is important because most farmers are reluctant to grow them, despite being wonderfully sustainable crops. If she can prove that millets are beneficial and capable of being a food product, the proliferation of their growth will impact the planet for the better. When Paridhi isn't in the lab, she's goes on hikes, studies history or works on her statistics minor. She also appreciates spending time with the friends she's gained through her studies. The culture among the graduate students is very diverse, which has opened up the world to Paridhi without even having to leave campus.

Phát's family came to America from South Vietnam in 2010, and he felt compelled to give back to his new home. His grandfather had been a lieutenant in the South Vietnamese army, so Phát wanted to continue the tradition of service in his family. He joined the army reserve his senior year of high school and soon decided that he would pursue a career in the military. He's currently in the university's ROTC program as a S1 Personnel, handling the paperwork and managing the well-being of 90 cadets. He appreciates the tight-knit, friendly culture of the group. Everyone is unified under the same dedication to serving. After graduation, he's interested in exploring explosive ordnance disposal. Beyond ROTC, Phát has explored his own cultural heritage through other organizations on campus. He helped establish the university's first Asian interest fraternity, assisted in creating an Asian student leadership conference with the Asian Student Union, is the external vice president of the Vietnamese Student Association, has served on the scholarship committee for Define UNL and assists in fundraising for North Korean refugees through UNL Link. Phát believes college is the best time to find your niche and follow it. Swipe over to hear him talk about stepping out of your comfort zone.

While studying abroad, Tristan learned new dance techniques and was excited to bring them to the states. After returning to campus, she discovered that there was not a student dance organization that fit her passion, so she decided to start one. Now in its third semester, the UNL Hip Hop Dance Club boasts a strong membership. Tristan and her vice president Jordan teach anyone that wants to learn, regardless of their dance experience. Members can also audition for the club's team to perform at campus competitions and events. Tristan and Jordan both immensely appreciate the welcoming atmosphere of the organization. Dancing is vulnerable, but the crew makes everyone feel comfortable trying new things. In the future, Tristan and Jordan would like to expand the club's YouTube presence and collaborate with other local artists.

While some kids spent their summers at the swimming pool, Maggie was doing math workbooks. This may sound like torture to some, but she loved it. Her mother was a math teacher and showed her how numbers could be a fun challenge. Having encouragement from her mother to pursue STEM, Maggie applied to the Raikes School at Nebraska to study computer science. During her sophomore year, she caught the attention of Google and joined their internship program for the next two summers. The infamous, sexist Google memo was released as one of her internships wrapped up, and she was immediately contacted by her team. They assured her that they immensely valued her as a woman in their workplace. She'll be going back again after graduation as a full-time software engineer and she couldn't be happier. She has no hesitation returning to the company because she knows that the good eggs far outnumber the bad. She thanks the Raikes School for giving her so many opportunities to work with real clients, build her portfolio and meet her closest friends. It's the experience she's gained here that paved the way for her dream job.

As a Chicago native, Bari knew that immersing herself in Nebraska activities was vital to connecting with new people. Soon after starting college, she found a group that embodied her interest in women empowerment: the Creative Commons. She believes that having a space where everyone builds each other up combats the stereotype that women need to tear each other down to get ahead. Bari started as a regular member and worked her way up to vice president. In her leadership role, she embodies the club's motto of "Build. Empower. Collaborate." by brainstorming new ways the organization can help members explore and hone their creative skills. When a particular speaker resonates with a member, or they learn how to use a new design tool, Bari can see their self-confidence growing. She's excited to see how high members will reach.

Sustainability is something Eric has always been interested in, but after taking a geology course freshman year, his passion was ignited. Now an environmental economics major, he gets involved with anything and everything that impacts sustainability. He's been a part of Sustain UNL for several years, an environmental student organization that puts on popular events such as Earthstock and brings in community leaders to talk about environmental solutions. Off campus, Eric's currently working with Gene Hanlon, the recycling coordinator for Lincoln, to help educate residents about the cardboard landfill ban that will go into effect this April. Looking back, he realizes that his childhood shaped him into an environmentalist. Seeing his mother reuse food containers and getting clothes from his brother taught him that it's important to reuse and recycle. Eric doesn't believe sustainability is a partisan issue. We all share this earth, and we should use any resource as effectively as possible. Whether it's to cut down economic costs, preserve resources or help people, sustainability is important to everyone in some way. In fact, Nebraska recognizes this and gives students the opportunity to apply to the UNL Green Fund, a fund that helps students turn their green ideas into reality. Eric encourages students who want to make a change to get involved and seek out projects that spark a fire in them.

Jewel Rogers is many things. She is a community builder for South of Downtown, a writer, a TEDxLincoln speaker, a management entrepreneurship major and a performer. But, above all, she is a revolutionary. She sees a revolutionary as someone who is simply an agent for change. Change does not mean something abrupt, intimidating or scary, but rather just movement forward. Jewel is particularly interested in revolutionizing urban development. While initially pursuing architecture, she thought that change was laid in the designs of structures, but she realized that what was more important was directly helping the lives that would be in them. Jewel dreams of creating the largest urban cooperative in America, leveraging collective economics to rebuild gentrified or dilapidated areas. She wants the people's needs in these areas to be taken into heavy consideration with any architect's design. In the mean time, Jewel performs spoken word at events, volunteers with youth at the F Street Recreation Center and is creating a documentary that features local change-makers. She wants to show people how attainable it is to make an impact at a small scale. If she makes even one person realize their potential, then she's made a difference.

In high school, Matthew was a math and science guy. There was always an answer to a problem with a fairly strict binary between right and wrong. Outside of class, though, he regularly participated in plays, and once he began college, he knew music had to be a part of his life. With any music major, things aren't always cut and dried, and that's something Matthew has learned to embrace. Originally, he intended to minor in vocal performance, but during his audition, the faculty insisted he declare it as a major. Now in his sophomore year, he's been a part of eight shows, with the next being Avenue Q, a comedic, puppet-based musical with adult themes debuting March 2. In class, he's training his brain with music theory, his ear with aural skills and his voice with diction courses. While most of his classmates will go on to get their masters and doctorate to teach, Matthew is determined to be a musical theater performer. He loves performing because it allows him to explore a part of himself that he doesn't always show, letting loose with his emotions. He's willing to go anywhere in his career, as long as he's inspiring people and being inspired by them through art. For now, he's not getting caught up with future plans and appreciating the time he's spending at Nebraska.

Lawrence Chatters doesn't have the phrase "slow down" in his vocabulary. He's currently working on his PhD after getting his masters degree in educational psychology, which some would consider a full-time job. But that's just the start for Lawrence. Throughout his years at Nebraska, he's worked at the Multicultural Center, the Women's Center and, currently, the athletic department as a diversity consultant. At the core of his job, he makes sure that student athletes from all walks of life are being seen as a whole person through inclusive programming and outreach. During his three years with the athletic department, he has helped establish the Nebraska Athletics Diversity and Inclusion Summit, a yearly event that brings together student athletes, staff, administrators and coaches to focus on inclusion, turn inward and better understand themselves to create better teams. Outside of his campus work, Lawrence started the Goldwin Foundation, which provides funding for national children's hospitals to purchase equipment outside of their budget and champion underfunded research. He's also an international DJ, owner of an energy drink company, a husband and a father. To Lawrence, all this work is connected because he's serving people, whether it's creating a special event through his music or sitting in on a board meeting at a hospital. He advises people to never underestimate their own potential. Giving yourself the opportunity to experience a multitude of things makes you a well-rounded, better person.

If there's one underlying theme in Vic's life, it's that he works relentlessly to help others. He's an English and History major, but his interests have led him into politics, too. He currently interns at Nebraska Appleseed, a nonprofit organization that fights for justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans. Specifically, Vic works in the child welfare branch, producing a podcast that focuses on the voices of LGBT youth in foster care and highlighting the discrimination they may face in the system. Over the summer, Vic also interned for senator Tammy Baldwin in Washington, D.C., through the Victory Institute, an organization that empowers young LGBT people to become elected officials. After college, Vic wants to be a social worker for a few years to know what it's like on the ground level. He doesn't feel like he's cut out to inform policy without experiencing it personally. With almost 30% of kids in foster care identifying as LGBT, he believes it's important to have people working with them that they can relate to and trust. Although some would call Vic an overachiever, he wants people to know that he has battled with mental health throughout college, and he's proud of that. He's thankful for the university having a great support system and professors who have worked with him, not against him, throughout his four years.

In 2006, Shadid's family came to Lincoln from Morelos, Mexico for her father to pursue a doctorate in genetics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. When it came time for her to think about college, she knew that Nebraska was exactly where she wanted to go. Influenced by her father's studies, she was naturally attracted to science, declaring biochemistry as her major. She is one of the few women and students of color in her classes, but she absolutely loves what she does. You can find her outside of class in the biological systems engineering department as an undergraduate researcher working with bio fuels. In the future, she plans to go into the research and development of cosmetic science. Although Shadid's life is packed with her research and studies, this doesn't stop her from pursuing other interests. She's currently a part of the Lambda Theta Nu multicultural sorority, the Cuddle Raptors frisbee team and, of course, the Cornhusker Marching Band as a rank leader in the piccolo section. The electric feeling of performing in front of 90,000+ people every game day is incomparable. As her last year in the band comes to an end, she's thankful to have played alongside such a dedicated, hardworking group.

Jan has been the director of the Women's Center since 1998, but that's not where her NEBRASKA story began. She started her undergrad at Nebraska, but at the end of her freshman year, her mother suddenly passed away. When she came back the next fall, no one asked if she was okay. She kept it together for two more years, but eventually flunked her classes and dropped out. After three years, she came back to school and discovered the Women's Center. She felt completely welcomed, and the people there gave her resources and connections to cope with her loss. That experience has shaped how she directs the center today. Now, there are a lot more men interested in violence prevention work, and Jan has even created a men and masculinity class that's being offered this spring. More services have been created, too, like free confidential counseling, 6,000 gender-related books and outreach programs. These programs include UNL Prevent, a relationship violence peer education group that focuses on bystander intervention and sexual assault awareness, and Healthy Outlook Peer Educators, a group that focuses on body image and self esteem. When reflecting on her time so far, Jan is most proud of the alumni that took the center's philosophy of empowerment and collaboration to make real change in the world. One has gone on to be the director of the Women's Fund in Omaha, another works in Denver at a eating disorder recovery center and many more are making a positive impact in our community.

After Arthur's parents fled Vietnam and came to the U.S. as refugees, they were determined to create a new, better life for themselves and their family. Naturally, there was pressure on Arthur to satisfy the parents that sacrificed so much for him. He graduated high school at 16 and studied in the College of Engineering based at UNO's Scott Campus, a decision he didn't have much control of as a minor. As soon as he turned 19, he boldly transferred to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to study architecture, develop his photography skills and make his own success. When he arrived in Lincoln, he really wanted to shoot a Husker football game but didn't have any way to get a photo pass. This didn't stop him from capturing the atmosphere around the stadium, uploading the compilation video to YouTube and soon after, being hired by the digital communications team as their only student videographer. Now he has free rein to shoot whatever he wants on game day. While at UNO, he briefly worked for the student paper, and they will occasionally bring him back to shoot events, such as Barack Obama landing in Omaha. When asked why he got into photography, Arthur says it was the people. He doesn't see the point in having a lot of followers or recognition if it's not backed by meaningful relationships. He wants to show others the best of themselves.

When Erasme came to NEBRASKA, he did not expect to have such a warm welcome. He found that the people here are friendly and approachable, especially when he gets lost on a campus that's 8,000 miles away from home. Erasme is here through the Rwandan Scholarship Program, an experience that offers Rwandan students an opportunity to pursue a Bachelor of Science in integrated science at CASNR. As of this year, there are 105 students currently on campus through this program. These scholars have committed to return to Rwanda upon graduation to serve in critical areas across research, extension and training. They represent the talent needed to advance agriculture in Rwanda. Erasme has three concentrations in water and soil management, leadership and entrepreneurship and food safety. Rwanda has a high population with little land, so learning to manage that land and feed its people through agriculture is crucial. Erasme also appreciates learning how to better his communication skills to bring people together and figure out important solutions to these issues.

Carter came to UNL for many reasons. He's from Lincoln, his family is full of alumni and he has many friends on campus. Most importantly, though, was the film program. Being a part of a Midwest film school is a bit unusual, considering most are along the coasts. Although the program is small, the quality of education is phenomenal, and it's one of the best in the region. His love of cinematography evolved from his initial interest in photography. With videos, though, the story runs deeper. He could study it for his whole life and never quite grasp everything. It's a whole new level of technicality and creativity. Luckily, he has a ton of learning opportunities, whether it be class activities, competing in film competitions put on by Cinema 16 or his own projects. He even filmed a music video for Salt Creek, a Lincoln-based band.

After visiting the Raikes School of Computer Science and Management, Jessee fell in love. After coming to NEBRASKA, he filled his time with any opportunity available. He claims his life is just like his dining hall habits: he puts a lot on his plate. He's a part of the aerospace club, a manager for the school's capstone design studio, works remotely for IBM, is working on an app and, surprisingly, is a part of the ballroom dancing club. Even more surprising is students from the Raikes School make up a large chunk of the members. He realized that he should fill his time with more than just work, so he turned to dancing after a couple friends encouraged him to join. He's a member of the competitive segment of the club, but there are casual classes on Tuesday nights at 9 p.m. in the Union's ballroom. He's glad he joined, and he encourages students to "take risks and explore new opportunities. Change happens outside of your comfort zone."

When Michael came to Lincoln for school, she did not expect it to be much different from her hometown, Des Moines, but she quickly grew to love the university, city, and particularly, the local art scene. As a sophomore, she discovered the Tugboat Art Gallery and dreamed of being a featured artist some day. A few years later, it became a reality. Although Michael has been a part of multiple shows, one of her favorites was "Chew on This," an interactive piece inspired by a cow tongue from an earlier project. She had a bizarrely personal moment when thinking about the cow's tongue, and it made her reflect on the responsibility and helplessness she feels about being environmentally conscious. Installation visitors were given instructions to chew on wheat grass while interacting with the tongue and discussing their thoughts and experience with the people around them.

Michael is thankful for Lincoln's welcoming art community and her opportunities to grow as an artist and learn even more off campus.

Michael Johnson is a senior majoring in ADPR and art from Des Moines, Iowa.

Alex is from South Dakota, but he’s been a Husker fan his whole life. His mother forced him to even consider other colleges, but he always knew exactly where he’d go. In fact, he loves NEBRASKA so much that he spends his time being as involved as humanly possible. He works with admissions, has been a campus host since freshman year, has been on the board of directors for the student alumni association for three years, is a part of the Iron N student group, was nominated for homecoming royalty and just wrapped up his role as a New Student Enrollment leader. It’s no surprise that his mantra is “stay away from your dorm room.” Alex also gives recruiting tours for football on game days, and one of his dreams is to coach Husker football. There’s no doubt that Alex is a lot like other students with his love for our school and sports, but he is unique in his extreme involvement and passion for people. He tries to average three to five new friends a week, and if you see him on campus, definitely say hello.

From the moment she stepped foot on campus, Emma was involved. Attending a Red Letter Day prior to her freshman year, she was encouraged to apply to be a CEHS ambassador. Though she was originally hesitant to attend the university, her experiences throughout her time here have reaffirmed Nebraska as her home. In Lincoln, Emma is heavily involved as a student researcher, beyond her organizational and community involvement and on-campus positions. She prides herself on her hard work ethic, and sees this determination present in many of her peers. She notes how many opportunities this university has available, and encourages students to take advantage of them all.

Coming to college as a first-generation student, Carina truly did not know what to expect. The success she has experienced on campus primarily came from her personal initiative, especially being willing to ask questions. In her high school, Carina was surrounded by people like her. The university, though, was the first time she realized how much of a minority she was. During her time on campus, she has found people that she relates to and has built meaningful friendships. She is fiercely passionate about all that she does. She connects with many other students based on their similar drive and motivation to accomplish goals. To the campus community, Carina encourages, “No matter what obstacles are in your way, know that with perseverance you can accomplish anything."

Hailing from a smaller town in Nebraska, Yajaira was overwhelmed when first stepping foot on campus. As she’s advanced in her college career, she began to create a family at the university, making this once seemingly huge campus not feel so large. Her time in Lincoln has taught her the importance of adaptability. From schedule changes to cultural shifts, she sees a need for everyone to develop this vital skill of flexibility. Yajaira has made it her mission to learn in hopes to help others. Though she’s pleased with the changes she’s seen on a university-wide scale since her freshman year, she believes action falls on all of us, not just administration and faculty, to make this campus more welcoming to all. Whether encouraging a high school student to pursue college or being more intentional in our inclusivity, we can all always get better.

Moving from Turkey to Nebraska with her family shortly before her freshman year of college, Ceren experienced a slightly different move than other international students. One of her favorite parts about Nebraska is being surrounded by nice people. The people she met after her move were open-minded and welcoming. This kindness is something Ceren also emulates to everyone she meets. Though she knew moving to a new country would present a lot of changes, she was surprised by how many friends she was able to make from all around the world. She knows her higher education experience in Turkey would be vastly different than her time at Nebraska, but she wouldn’t change it for the world.

For many, attending college can be a culture shock. Hailing from Nebraska, Jazmin did not assume she would have this same experience at a university in Lincoln. Jazmin’s high school was predominately comprised of minority students, much different than this university. The tradition and pride she holds for her Mexican heritage has allowed her to connect with many people, especially international students. What started as a Facebook search for students with an interest in soccer has bloomed into friendships with people from across the state, nation and world. Throughout her time at NEBRASKA, she has made a concerted effort to be a better listener in an attempt to learn from others. These listening skills especially aided her during her research abroad, studying hyenas in Botswana. “You can’t enter their country with your perspective,” she warns, encouraging peers to be more open-minded both domestically and internationally.

From Texas to Tennessee to Nebraska, Donde Plowman has worked with thousands of students across the U.S. Her experiences as a mom of a Nigerian-born son and her work over the years with minority students have helped elevate her appreciation of diversity in all environments. Beginning her tenure at Nebraska as the dean of the College of Business Administration, Donde’s role as a female leader in a male-dominated field didn’t deter her from leading CBA to new accomplishments. She credits our welcoming and accepting citizens for helping her. In a new leadership job at the university, she continues to focus on excellence, community and impact, and she believes respectful interaction and interest in the viewpoints of others allow us all to do better.

Walking on campus as a senior, Sydney is watching her college career come full circle. From entering campus knowing almost no one, to now, constantly recognizing acquaintances and friends on the sidewalk, she is appreciative of the situations that have put her where she is today. The growth and culture shock she was forced to face in adjusting to college life is something she willingly put herself through multiple times throughout college by interning abroad. She sees her eagerness to grow mirrored in many of her peers. As she puts it, “Everyone here is working toward a greater purpose.” As she pursues her larger destiny in life, she recognizes the importance of always learning and growing. She encourages everyone to ponder, “If you could strive to be better, what would that look like?” Campus can be a tough place; we might as well teach and encourage others to be better, to be more culturally sensitive and understanding to make all feel welcome.

After spending nearly twelve years with the U.S. Army, Joe assumed college would be a piece of cake. “They’re not trying to kill me,” he reasoned. His tasks during deployment were straight-forward; college, however, was harder than expected. He was, and remains to be, constantly busy - with classes, internships and his work as a student veteran peer mentor. Though his education at the university is not easy and takes a great deal of effort, he, like most other students, finds college to be pretty fun. The values instilled in Joe during his military career transfer over to his role as a student - motivation, focus and hard work. Though he is grateful for the work of fellow student veterans in creating a resource center and accompanying student organizations, he sees great opportunity for more veterans to attend the university. The maturity and work ethic of these students is well-developed, preparing them for a successful career as a student. His education at Nebraska has given him a great advantage when going into his post-collegiate career, and Joe readily praises his professors and advisers for their help. As he has been for years, Joe is and will continue to be a life-long Husker.

As a first-generation student of Afghan descent raised in the Midwest, Leemah has always understood her cultural and racial identities are fluid. Taking pride in the different aspects of her life, she has found the university to be a great place to call home during the transformative years of college. Though she has experienced personal growth throughout her time, she did not always understand her place at this university. The resources on campus, as well as the education she obtained from classes and involvement, have allowed Leemah to carve out her own place and grow in her understanding of people both similar and different from her. Her convictions have developed steadily with her knowledge - a friendly reminder that people can and will believe in you if you believe in what you’re saying.