UA is a big university, but in many ways it feels like a small college, Jason says.
Jason Render Jr. is a sophomore majoring in political science/criminal justice.
Hometown
Akron, Ohio
High School
Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio
Why did you choose The University of Akron?
I chose The University of Akron because they offer a vast variety of majors, as UA is a large university, but after visiting the campus and meeting professors and staff while getting to see students, I saw that The University of Akron gives specialized attention to each student like a small college. There is also a great sense of community on campus, and The University of Akron was able to offer me a very competitive financial aid offer.
How would you describe your Akron experience?
My time at UA has been great, as I've grown and learned more about my major and life. Some of my most memorable experiences so far have been when the UA men's basketball team beat Kent State on a couple of last-minute plays last spring, helping to organize and plan the Black Male Summit, and joining the Student African American Brotherhood and getting to impact the community with the group.
Since attending UA I have grown as a person, as I've been challenged in the classroom and through my involvement with on-campus organizations. I have become a free-thinking leader and learned how to use my own voice for change.
Have you participated in experiential learning?
I was involved in an internship through the Summit County Prosecutor’s Office for the 2018 summer, where I assisted the attorneys in case and office tasks.
Are you involved in any extracurricular activities?
I was an active member of the Student African American Brotherhood my freshman year. We had weekly meetings to discuss current events in the United States, especially those which directly affected the African American community, while actively volunteering on campus and in the Akron area community. This year I will be the treasurer and on the board.
Also, I joined the admissions team this past January of 2018 as a student assistant, and I have loved getting to be one of the first faces people see, and an example of all of the great people we have on our campus, as I educate prospective students and families about everything this campus has to offer.
After applying in the spring of 2018, I have been awarded the position of UA Student Ambassador as I go into the 2018-2019 school year. In this position I will be representing the student body at various UA events and will work closely with the University president while also assisting at events for alumni and visiting dignitaries. I will also be volunteering on campus at a multitude of events.
What are your goals?
I hope to get even more involved on campus through student organizations, become the president of a student organization, and help to continue to actively recruit more students to the University.
After graduating from UA with my bachelor’s degree, I hope to go into law school and then one day work in the national security field. UA has prepared me to achieve these goals as I have been challenged in and out of the classroom daily, while also having the opportunity to connect with many professors who have extensive knowledge and oftentimes experience in the national security and law fields.
What advice would you give to prospective students?
Some advice I would give to prospective students planning to enroll at UA would be to definitely come down to campus for a visit, as you will be able to feel the true sense of community and meet professors and staff members who are here to help you achieve every one of your goals!
THAT'S WHAT MAKES US.
