You’re the big 5-0. For 50 years you have transformed the lives of students, including mine. When I first transferred to MSU Denver I was terrified. I was afraid that I was making a monumental mistake. Transferring is a big process. I was worried that I’d do all this work to transfer and then decide that I didn’t like it.

I left my old university because I felt like I didn’t belong. I wasn’t happy. I was at a huge university and felt like a needle in a haystack. Then my mom’s friend told me about how her son attended MSU Denver and loved it. Plus, I heard great things about the broadcast and journalism department. So, I took a chance on you.

Transferring to MSU Denver ended up being the best decision I could have made. You’re a hidden gem that many people don’t know about or give much credit. Students describe you as “scrappy”. That’s exactly what you are and is what makes you more special than other universities.

Instead of being a college town, you’re located in the heart of Denver. Students can enjoy their lunch break eating at the one of many restaurants located on the Sixteenth Street Mall or relax after class by watching a play at the Denver Convention Center. They can also blow off some steam at Elitch Gardens across the street. Sports fans enjoy the convenience of watching their favorite sporting events at the Pepsi Center and Sports Authority Stadium.

You’re rooted in a rich history that can be seen woven throughout the buildings. Students can explore the Tivoli Student Union and find old boilers, brass railings and carved doors from when the Tivoli was a brewery in the early 1900s. Then they can check out the historical churches and view the beautiful mosaics.

You’re a non-traditional school, which I see as a benefit. Instead of students worrying about finding the next party, they are working and focusing on school. Plus, there are a variety of different age groups from recent high school graduates to the elderly. This has helped me get a lot of different perspectives when working on group projects in class.

Also, the classes are smaller with no more than thirty students, unlike other universities that have classes of up to 200 students. This allows the students to have more one on one time with professors. This will be able to help me later on when I need references to jobs. It also has allowed me to meet more students and gain connections and friendships that will stay with me for life.

Many of the teachers at MSU Denver work in the field they teach, teaching at night or in their free time. This gives students a unique perspective as they are learning from actual people in their fields.

Because of you, MSU Denver, I want to be a news reporter. The tools and classes offered have allowed me to be more confident in myself and my abilities to hone in on my skills. Specialized programs are offered to help students get real life experience, such as MSU Denver’s Emmy award-winning newscast, The Met Report. In the program, I have learned how to write and film like a broadcast journalist, using professional equipment in a real studio.

Not only do you offer more opportunities than other universities, you’re cheaper than most universities. MSU Denver is ranked second on the most affordable universities in Colorado according to affordableschools.net. Just because a university is expensive, doesn’t mean it’s better. You are a great example of this.

I want to thank you for all you have done for me and will do for me in the future. Happy Birthday MSU Denver. Here’s to 50 more years!