Join us for these heart-to-heart conversations about struggles, success, inclusion and friendships. “Golden Conversations" is a video series that explores the authentic experiences college students are having, such as mental health, finding mentors and the challenges of being a first-generation college student. Watch the topics highlighted below that interest you and subscribe to see future videos.
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There has been a lot of talk lately about whether college is worth the time and investment. Hear current ASU students weigh in — some of the benefits they’ve experienced may surprise you.
Experience the excitement and nerves as college students talk about meeting their friends for the first time! Watch as bonds form and laughter fills the air in this heartwarming glimpse into the start of lifelong friendships. Don't miss out on the magic of new beginnings!
Listen to this engaging conversation between an ASU sustainability student and an expert in conservation science as they share what motivates them and brings them hope. Whether you're a global citizen or a sustainability advocate, this discussion will help you navigate the emotions surrounding climate change.
Internships in a big city can be a huge benefit for students' personal and professional growth. More opportunities means more ways for students to gain experience and make connections for their future. Listen to these students’ experiences.
Many students enter college with preconceptions — and even fears — but end up discovering that what they experience is much more positive than what they were expecting. Hear these students share what they were most worried about when starting college, and how those worries disappeared shortly after classes began.
Delve into the transformative impact of The Difference Engine, an interdisciplinary entrepreneurship opportunity at ASU. Discover how ASU students, faculty and staff are creating real solutions for structural inequalities, fostering innovation and driving change in the community.
How do we overcome loneliness together?With the decline of mental health in recent years, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy declared an advisory on the epidemic of loneliness that has been sweeping the nation’s youth. In this Golden Conversation, Dr. Murthy and former Miss America Emma Broyles discuss how we can find strength in returning to our true nature of interconnectedness. |
Uplifting and celebrating your cultural communityIn this Golden Conversation, Associate Athletic Director of Inclusion and Championship Life Alonzo “AJ” Jones sits down with his son, Ahlias Jones, the president of the Black African Coalition and the National Pan-Hellenic Council. The two discuss the impact of making education accessible to all, celebrating Black culture, and the skill and discipline it takes to be a leader. |
What can we achieve by overcoming fears?"Courageous people build the future.” In this Golden Conversation, student Victor Oleynik sits down with his mentor Mark Naufel, to talk about turning fears into motivators. As both a Ukrainian and Russian, Victor has seen both sides of his countries’ histories and has made it his goal to unite them. Listen as they examine their individual struggles with fear and how facing fears head-on was the first step toward achieving their greatest successes. |
The world isn’t so big and scary once you get to know the people in it. Connecting with people from different cultures and backgrounds can help you see things from a different perspective. In this Golden Conversation, ASU international students sit down with their friends to discuss the differences and similarities they share. Students say it takes effort to go out and meet new people, but their expanded worldview and lasting friendships make it all worth it.
Living on campus challenges you to become more responsible and expand your understanding of others. In this Golden Conversation, ASU student Ethan sits down with his mom, Mona, to discuss their growth as individuals and together throughout Ethan’s college journey. Though their personal growth was different, they agree on one thing — living on campus gives you the opportunity to develop the skills required to become a responsible, empathetic and social adult (plus, it’s fun!).
Building self-confidence through work experiences, relationships and making choices can give you the confidence you need to be successful. Rik hired Joe as a student designer in his first year of college and the two talk about challenges and what has helped their self-confidence increase especially regarding major and career choices.
Strong mentoring relationships can lead to published success, and can benefit both the mentee and the mentor. ASU student Nikhil Dave sits down with his mentor, Professor Ramon Velazquez, to talk about how they both benefited from their mentorship relationship. The two were just published in a prestigious scientific journal, Acta Neuropathologica, for their research on Alzheimer’s disease.
It's not weak to go get help. In fact, it shows strength to admit you need it. Something as simple as talking to someone can help you feel better and manage stress. In this Golden Conversation, ASU student Michael sits down with his long-time friend, Sohum, to talk about battling depression and managing his bipolar disorder. Michael credits Sohum with providing critical support as he navigates his mental health journey.
Military veterans bring a breadth of experience to the community. When worlds collide, we learn from each other. In this Golden Conversation, Erik V., a student veteran, and Michelle L., director of student success and partnerships for the Pat Tillman Veterans Center, discuss all aspects of being a student veteran on campus, including why it is important that student veterans and traditional students learn from each other.
Communications student Kaley Z. and Professor Dr. Diane Gruber discuss how being the first in their family to achieve higher education impacted their lives and families. The duo also talks about the challenges of being first-generation, such as enduring a steep learning curve to understanding how to operate in a college environment, or convincing their parents that this was their chosen path — and the trials and triumphs that follow.
Hear from Maria and Shanae, two students who transferred to Arizona State University and took advantage of leadership positions, each finding success during their time at the university. Through their conversation, discover insider knowledge about what it’s like to be a transfer student — as well as tips on how to make your transfer as smooth as possible.
In this Golden Conversation, ASU student Deven joins Mirabella at ASU resident Pencie to discuss their budding friendship and the mutually beneficial relationships Sun Devils can share at different stages of life. In addition to being a resident of ASU’s on-campus retirement community, Pencie is an alumna committed to the success of fellow students.