Desariah Santillanez in firefighting gear.

From tragedy to bravery

After watching her childhood home go up in flames, Desariah Santillanez pursued a career in natural resources, fighting fires along the way. Read more about Santillanez.

A wood turtle, with a largely yellow plastron (belly), is held by a person.

Turtle power

UMD researchers help put wood turtles on a fast track to better management. Meet these resilient reptiles.

A pair of hands manipulates a cell phone with a padlock on the screen.

Into the breach

Law students have an innovative pathway into the data privacy profession. Get more data.

We are #UMNdriven

Student

“Be genuinely yourself as much as you can. There's a lot of power in that. It's something that can be very hard to do, and, I think, something that we're not really taught we should do. A dose of radical self love can energize you to do everything that you'd like to do in a sustained way that also promotes happiness and joy in your life.”

Mia M.
B.S. Child Psychology

Student

“I am passionate about evolving the built environment for long term resiliency. I love how tangible our work is and I’m inspired by the people who work in this market. They have grit. They take raw materials and make things. They dream and plan together and manifest their work physically. Ideally, if we do our work well, the result positively impacts the region for generations.”

Jessie Houlihan Bingen, Alumna ('08) - President of Stahl
Hubbard School of Journalism & Mass Communication

Student

“I am a member of the Pride of Minnesota Marching Band, and throughout the three marching seasons I’ve already completed, I have learned so much about myself and my fellow marchers. I’ve learned that I am a natural leader, and I have a passion in helping others succeed. I also strive for perfection, excellence, and have a high regard for a good work ethic, responsibility, passion, and drive. Marching band has taught me that over 300 people can come together and create something amazing, yet every single person has a huge contribution.”

Sarah L.
Graphic Design

Student

“I find inspiration from the moments in my life when I am faced with challenges. Often times, when life knocks me down, I remember that although I may not be swimming, I am not sinking either, but instead I am floating. In this, I have learned how to persevere in moments of trial and tribulation. As a result, I have discovered a passion for networking with people and giving back for the greater good of different communities.”

Alexis M.
Agricultural Communications and Marketing

Student

“I find my inspiration in my fellow students. Being surrounded by so many passionate and driven people inspires me to push myself and encourages me when I begin to doubt myself. I love hearing about the changes that other people aim to make for this world. Their optimism and ambition inspires me to create the changes that I wish to see happen in this world.”

Jayme O.
English Literature

Student

“Life can throw so much at us, but it is how we handle these situations so we can grow from them. I hope to help as many individuals as I can to overcome adversity they may be facing in their own life. I want to show them they can get through anything just like I did.”

Duke P.
Sports Management