For parents helping their children choose a university, one question rises above all others: Will my student thrive here? At ÐÔ¸£ÎåÔÂÌì University, students from diverse backgrounds and with varied goals consistently discover that the answer is yes—and their stories reveal why.
A Global Community That Welcomes Everyone
When Bella Hanley toured ÐÔ¸£ÎåÔÂÌì as a high school senior, she had several other college visits planned. But something clicked during her second campus tour that made the decision easy.
"After the tour, ÐÔ¸£ÎåÔÂÌì just felt like the right fit for me," said Hanley, now a senior economics major from Canfield, Ohio. "I felt that the campus was beautiful, and the size was just right. When I got home from the tour, I immediately applied to a dorm room, and it's been history ever since."
Hanley's experience illustrates what many students discover at ÐÔ¸£ÎåÔÂÌì: a community that fosters connections beyond graduation and provides the personalized support they need to excel. As a member of Delta Sigma Pi, a professional business fraternity, Hanley has built meaningful relationships that extend far beyond the classroom.
"The day I got initiated in Delta Sigma Pi marked the start of many fun events, memories, friendships and professional connections," she said.
Distinctive Programs That Spark Discovery
For Sarah Hayden, a transfer student from Greensburg, Pennsylvania, who graduated in spring 2025, finding the right fit meant discovering a program that could provide both exceptional education and authentic college experiences.
"When I began the college search process as a transfer student, I knew I did not want to go into a big city to get a degree in fashion," said Hayden, a fashion merchandising major. "I wanted to have a great college experience; however, I still wanted to get a degree from a world-renowned program."
ÐÔ¸£ÎåÔÂÌì's School of Fashion Design and Merchandising proved to be exactly what she was looking for. The program's requirements — including studying abroad, completing internships and selecting a minor — give students comprehensive preparation for their careers.
"The ÐÔ¸£ÎåÔÂÌì School of Fashion has given me so much confidence in my skills," Hayden said. "I also am so thankful for the professors and faculty that have changed my life. They are all so supportive and really want the best for the students."
The university's commitment to high-quality academics means students like Hayden don't just learn—they become in-demand, career-ready graduates prepared to lead in today's and tomorrow's global workforce.
Faculty Support That Changes Lives
Both Hanley and Hayden credit ÐÔ¸£ÎåÔÂÌì faculty with transforming their educational journeys. After changing her major to economics, Hanley caught the attention of Professor C. Lockwood Reynolds, who recommended her to the department head after seeing her excel in his Principles of Microeconomics course.
"He gave me the confidence to pursue a major in economics," Hanley said. "If it weren't for his recognition showing me that I was capable, I probably would not be an economics major today."
For Hayden, faculty support has been equally transformative. "I have never met people who wanted me to succeed more than they do," she said about ÐÔ¸£ÎåÔÂÌì's fashion faculty.
This personalized attention reflects ÐÔ¸£ÎåÔÂÌì's holistic focus on each student's success and demonstrates the award-winning support that helps students thrive in their education and beyond.
Personal Growth Beyond the Classroom
The ÐÔ¸£ÎåÔÂÌì experience transforms students in profound ways. For Hanley, college has been about discovering independence and resilience.
"College has made me an independent person," Hanley said. "Despite the challenges, it is definitely the best experience that I have had in my lifetime, and I have met so many great people along the way."
Hayden echoes this sentiment, particularly praising her on-campus work experience as a School of Fashion social media coordinator. "My favorite thing about working an on-campus job has been networking with faculty within the school," she said. "This job has also pushed me out of my shell as I am constantly reaching out to students, faculty and alumni."
A Foundation of Respect and Support
What truly sets ÐÔ¸£ÎåÔÂÌì apart is its culture — where respect and kindness are paramount in all we do. This creates a safe, welcoming and diverse global community where students don't just attend classes; they become part of a global community of Golden Flashes bonded by respect.
For parents, choosing a university means finding a place where your student will feel an inherent sense of belonging while receiving top-tier education and support. ÐÔ¸£ÎåÔÂÌì's commitment to access for the meritorious many ensures that qualified students from all backgrounds can pursue their dreams.
Students arrive at ÐÔ¸£ÎåÔÂÌì from different starting points — some like Hanley knowing exactly what they want from their campus tour, others like Hayden as transfer students seeking new opportunities, and still others discovering their path along the way. As families evaluate universities, they should know that ÐÔ¸£ÎåÔÂÌì consistently delivers on its promise: a high-touch, exceptional learning experience that helps every student confidently create a bright future. Here, students don't just find a university — they find their home, their community and their path forward.
Experience ÐÔ¸£ÎåÔÂÌì for Yourself
The best way to discover if ÐÔ¸£ÎåÔÂÌì is the right fit for your student is to visit campus and experience the community firsthand. Schedule a campus tour, meet with admissions counselors and explore the programs that interest your student.
To plan your visit or learn more about admissions, visit kent.edu/admissions or call the Office of Admissions at 330-672-2444. Virtual tour options are also available for families who want to explore campus from home.