“I'm from a rural community in Oklahoma, and so there weren’t a whole lot of opportunities. I honestly picked OSU because of the wide variety of opportunities, and it excited me about how they could impact my future. As a biochemistry and molecular biology student, the idea that I can do research in whatever I want is just insane to me. The opportunities are just as big as the sky, and it didn't really seem possible when I was in high school.”

“As an international student, I want new students, especially young international students, to feel like they belong here and can dream as big as anyone else. I know how hard it is when you first arrive and don’t know anyone, so I’m trying to start more conversations and open doors for people to connect and feel at home.”

“It gives us a standard to live by. It's about being more than a student. It's about being respectful and showing everyone who walks on campus that they're welcome here. We want to show everyone that we are a tight-knit community.”

“Everywhere you go at OSU, people, especially those who aren't from here, are super nice and true to their character. Everyone here treats each other with respect, no matter where they are from, and it really is truly intentional.”

“I’m a speech pathologist by trade, so I advocate every day for people with special needs, language differences and dialects. Our communication disorders department is deeply rooted in advocacy, community involvement and awareness, not just for our field but for OSU as a whole.”

“When it comes to talking about your character in general, I think a lot of people at Oklahoma State University have the character to stand for what's right, whether it be morally or academically. It makes one proud to be a Cowboy.”

"These are principles we don't just live by as students. Anybody who's been here — alumni, professors, anybody who's involved with OSU — we're making a promise that we're gonna put your best foot forward until the job is done, even if it's hard."

“Growing up, my family taught me that we were to always give it everything we had. The best feeling is going to bed at the end of the day after a hard day's work, knowing I did my best, and I carry that with me as an OSU student.”

“I’m a graduate student from Nigeria, and there have been times when the course load was heavy and difficult. But my passion for the research I’m doing and the dedication of my colleagues keep me going. I’m inspired by others who live by the Cowboy Code, and that inspiration pushes me to do what’s right.”

“I’m a personal believer that growth doesn't come without a lot of struggle, so you have to do things that scare you to make you grow. When I first started college, I was super introverted and scared to talk to people. Learning that other people aren't a threat and that they’re there to pour into your life and not someone to be afraid of was one of the best things in my life.”

“College comes with trials and tribulations, but I have a strong desire to do what’s right. I’m surrounded by friends who motivate me to stay true to my values and have integrity. They push me to be my best every day.”

“A lot of people fail at moments in life or go through hardships, but in the end, they persevere even if they do it alone and end up achieving their goal. As a college student, I’ve been supported by friends and professors in the hard times.”

“There’s something special about saying that. Anyone can start something, but OSU gives you the tools and support to finish it. I’m in the Riata Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and I actually started a business. I’ve had two mentors help me bring it to life, and that’s what makes OSU unique.”

“I started college at a different school and played softball. However, when life didn’t go as expected, I transferred to OSU. It was important for me to finish my education, and I felt supported by people here to help me do that.”