Darrin Johnson
Memphis, TN

Hi, I'm Darrin Johnson from Memphis and I'm one! I'm one of Tennessee's Best.

Initially, I wasn't sure whether or not I would attend Middle Tennessee State University. My first choice was Embry-Riddle, one of the top aerospace schools in the country. However when my mom heard about MTSU's In-flight Program, which helps high school students find academic programs to supplement their education, I decided to visit MTSU. But I didn't arrive on campus like most other visitors'I came in a chartered airplane. That was the perfect start to my high flying week-long visit. Not only was I able to speak with current students who were our counselors in the program, I was able to experience college life first-hand by living and studying right in the middle of campus. The program, taught by professors in the Aerospace Department, allowed us to fly in the University's aircraft, learn on flight simulators, and use cutting edge technology while learning all about aviation. I enjoyed myself so much, I came back the next summer, too.

When it came time for me to make my decision about which college to attend, my choice was obviously MTSU. I love MTSU. We have many resources on campus and I take full advantage of them. We have more than 300 student organizations in which to get involved. The residence halls are in the process of being renovated and refurbished with new facilities and state-of-the-art technology and you just can't beat the atmosphere. In addition, construction has begun for the College of Education and the new Student Union Building. People come here to learn and to have fun. You get the whole college experience at MTSU, not just pieces of it.

Being involved has changed me significantly and helped me grow as a person. I've learned so many things that I never expected to find out about myself. It has been an incredible education experience in and out of the classroom. While being here, I received both my private pilot's license and instrument rating. While aerospace takes up a great deal of my time'classes, flying, studying, flight simulators, and more'I still have time to be involved on campus. I'm a Student Ambassador for the Alumni Association; a member of the MTSU Scholars Academy, which provides great opportunities for networking and ensures retention graduation among minority students; and elected into the position of Student Government Association Election Commissioner. In the past I have been a Student Government Association Senator for the College of Basic and Applied Sciences; a member of the NAACP; a model for Savoir-Faire; and a resident assistant in Monahan Hall.

I really enjoy being a Student Ambassador because I am able to meet many people. I never know who I am going to be shaking hands with at an event'a senator, a congressman, an astronaut, an author, or a scientist. I really enjoy the opportunity to be a representative for my university at special events. I like being able to put a face on the student body for so many of our guests.

I enjoy my experiences in the classroom just as much. All my professors have been very helpful. Whenever I have had a question, my professors have been available after classes, during office hours, or even by appointment. I have always received the help I needed when I need it.

Another great aspect of MTSU is the financial aid and scholarship opportunities offered to students. MTSU really helps students find ways to finance a college education. I have received the Dream, Darrell Freeman, Hope, and the Tuskegee Airmen scholarships. My education, with the flight labs, is very expensive and the scholarships make it affordable. I have to keep my grades up but that is small price to pay for the financial support I receive each semester.

So many people talk about how huge our campus is with more than 25,000 students but it really doesn't feel that way. In reality, MTSU feels like a small school. You're able to get to know your professors, your classmates, the administration, and campus resources quickly and it really shrinks campus. We have all the resources of a large public university but it really does feel like a small college with lots of personal attention.

Come join us. Be one of Tennessee's Best at Middle Tennessee State University. You'll be glad you did.