TU opportunities propel students toward success

Jordyn Classie knew the moment she stepped on TU’s campus that she was home. But coming to TU from New York, adjusting to college life wasn’t easy at first. As the only student at TU from her high school, and even her county, she arrived at TU not knowing a single person here.

“I was lost for sure. My first semester was rough at first, but I became involved in a club dance team and that gave me my start to embracing opportunities and getting involved,” Classie says.

That brave first step led to her building a life at TU centered around community and helping others feel at home on campus.

Work–life balance

Shortly after arriving at TU, Classie began working at Campus Rec as a Pilates, cycle, lift and core instructor. In August, she was promoted to group fitness manager. She continues teaching classes while supporting her coworkers.

Her second year at TU, Classie began working as a social media assistant for the admissions department. She creates posts for their social media accounts while attending events and filming campus to show prospective students what life at TU is like. 

“I love getting to work with other students and other departments here on campus,” Classie says. “It's my creative outlet and very rewarding. I've made a lot of connections and gotten of opportunities through that role.”

One of those opportunities is working as a peer academic coach for the Tiger Success Program, located in the Division of Enrollment Management. This new program allows students to mentor and support first-year students as they transition to college, helping them develop the academic skills, confidence and campus connections needed to thrive at TU. 

“It's just awesome,” she says. “I love getting to be a guide for them and showing what's so amazing about this campus. I hope to make them feel even more at home and safe here.”

Finding her Greek life family

Greek life has also become a large aspect of Classie’s TU experience, and she couldn’t speak more highly about the community. She is the vice president of philanthropy and service for her organization, Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity. 

“I get to work a lot on breast cancer research, education and awareness, which is something I hold very deep and close to my heart,” Classie says. “I love being able to support that philanthropy and give back to the community.”

Classie also serves as the president of Order of Omega. This organization is a national Greek leadership honor society, recognizing the top 10% of fraternity and sorority members for outstanding academic achievement, leadership, service and commitment. As president, Classie provides organizational leadership, coordinates initiatives, promotes academic excellence, community service and leadership development among members.

Classie also shared tips on how to make the most of the college experience, especially as an out-of-state student.  

“My biggest thing that I tell my freshman class all the time is you need to get involved,” Classie says. “The only way you're going to meet people, find who you are, know what you like and what drives you is by trying things out. There's no harm in trying.”  

Looking ahead

Classie graduates in the spring and hopes to continue her education in a doctoral program for clinical psychology. Her dream is to be a pediatric clinical psychologist, specializing in trauma and PTSD. Classie credits her expansive view of her future to the many connections with professors and supervisors she’s made. 

“There are so many opportunities, if you just grab them. [With] the experiences I've gained from being here through my many jobs opportunities and leadership positions, TU built me the perfect resume.”