Ep 10. Xavier University of Louisiana
- March 13, 2023
- 26 min
The College Tour season 8 episode 10 takes viewers on a virtual tour of Xavier University of Louisiana, a historically Black university located in New Orleans. Hosted by renowned journalist Karan Thapar, the episode showcases the campus and its diverse community of students, faculty, and alumni.
Thapar begins by highlighting the unique history and mission of Xavier University, which was founded in 1925 as the only Catholic institution of higher learning in the United States that was open to all races. Today, Xavier remains committed to promoting social justice and equality through education.
Throughout the episode, Thapar interviews a variety of individuals who help to illustrate the many facets of life at Xavier. He talks with President Reynold Verret, who shares his vision for the university and discusses the challenges and opportunities that come with leading an HBCU. He also speaks with students from a range of disciplines, including biology, psychology, jazz studies, and journalism, who share their experiences and insights about studying at Xavier.
Thapar also explores the numerous resources that are available to students at Xavier, both academic and extracurricular. He visits the university's state-of-the-art science center, which is home to cutting-edge research facilities for areas such as bioinformatics and environmental science. He also meets with members of Xavier's nationally renowned jazz band, who explain how music is integrated into the curriculum and discuss the many benefits of being part of such a talented group.
In addition to highlighting Xavier's academic strengths, Thapar also shines a light on the university's vibrant campus culture. He talks with members of the student government association and learns about the many clubs and organizations that are available to students, from the debate team to the robotics club. He also speaks with alumni who have gone on to successful careers in fields such as medicine, law, and education, and who credit Xavier with providing them with the tools and support they needed to achieve their goals.
Throughout the episode, Thapar emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion at Xavier, both in terms of the student body and the curriculum. He notes that while Xavier is grounded in Catholic tradition, it has always been open to people of all faiths and encourages dialogue and understanding among people from different backgrounds. He also cites Xavier's commitment to social justice and advocacy, which is reflected in its many programs and initiatives focused on issues such as sustainability, human rights, and community service.
Ultimately, The College Tour season 8 episode 10 gives viewers a comprehensive and engaging overview of Xavier University of Louisiana, showcasing the many ways in which this unique institution is preparing students to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Whether you're a prospective student, a fan of HBCUs, or simply interested in learning more about higher education, this episode is sure to be both informative and inspiring.