Husker Student Power

At Nebraska your success is driven by Husker Student POWER, a simple phrase that is more than a spirited cheer. Huskers think boldly, propel ideas further, and persevere through challenges. As you embrace new opportunities and explore university resources, you’ll discover your POWER: Purpose, Ownership, Well-being, Engagement, and Relationships.

PURPOSE

Find, deepen, and achieve your purpose for pursuing higher education

Why are you here? What do you want out of your Husker experience? Whether you’ve planned your future since you were five or you're totally undecided about your major, honing your purpose is key.

Explore new areas and develop your sense of purpose through the following campus experiences:

  • Attend a “welcome event” sponsored by your college and/or department
  • Meet with an academic success coach to plan a study schedule and set goals
  • Visit instructors during office hours to discuss success strategies and career planning
  • Join a Recognized Student Organization (RSO) related to your academic or extracurricular interests

Find more ways to achieve your purpose

Hannah-Kate Kinney
Orientation Leader

“I was excited to start in my major but realized there were far more career options I could choose from. My first semester at UNL, I got a job within my college to connect with others from my major and learn more about the opportunities in my field. I was able to do job shadowing and hear from real professionals about the work they do. This opened many doors and helped me choose the career path that is best for me!”

Hannah-Kate Kinney, orientation leader

OWNERSHIP

Take ownership of your story and your educational journey

What’s your story? Our culture, values, and experiences shape who we are. Your story is important to our Husker community—and it’s only just beginning. Step outside your comfort zone, discover different viewpoints, and gain global perspectives as you engage in conversations and experiences with peers whose opinions, customs, identities, and personal lifestyles differ from your own.

Learn about yourself and peers through the following experiences:

  • Participate in Husker Dialogues
  • Explore Education Abroad opportunities
  • Attend open houses and events at the Jackie Gaughan Multicultural Center, LGBTQA+ Resource Center, Women’s Center, Lied Center and more
  • Engage with a peer mentor

Learn more ways to take ownership

Carlos Ortega
Orientation Leader

“I wanted to pursue an involvement on campus that engaged both my culture and career aspirations, that is why I established a recognized student organization called the Future Teachers of Color where I now serve as the vice president and primary programmer. Through this organization I was able to connect with others from a similar background and create resources to help them be successful in their future career.”

Carlos Ortega, orientation leader

WELL-BEING

Be the best version of yourself

College is the ultimate test of balance and taking care of your well-being is crucial. Whether you're looking for stress management activities, encouragement for healthy eating, a workout partner, or financial tips, you’ll find a variety of activities and support services to help you succeed.

Take care of your well-being

Gabi Modica
Orientation Leader

“After I moved into my residence hall at UNL, I had a hard time transitioning and being away from my family. I didn’t talk about it with anyone because I was embarrassed. My friend convinced me that I should go speak to someone about the way I was feeling, and I am so glad I did. Here at UNL, we have Counseling and Psychological Services, or CAPS, right here on campus. I was able to understand that it was ok to be missing home. It is important to know that what you are feeling is valid and it is important that you have someone to talk through things with.”

Gabi Modica, orientation leader

ENGAGEMENT

Engage in experiences that prepare you to excel in a global society

Develop your leadership skills through involvement in student government, clubs, volunteering, or campus employment. Getting involved on campus and in the community allows you to create meaningful contributions and gain relevant experience for the future.

Engage in your college experience

Adam Kendrick
Orientation Leader

“I was nervous about attending such a large university in an unfamiliar place where I knew no one. But when I got to campus, I got involved in organizations like the University Honors Program, I went to every event I could like Party at the Union and the Big Red Welcome Street Festival, and I started introducing myself to my professors. Pretty soon, campus started feeling like a much smaller place. I recognized people as I walked to my classes, my new friends introduced me to Nebraska traditions like Runza, and I quickly realized that 1/3 of the student body at UNL is out of state students.”

Adam Kendrick, orientation leader

RELATIONSHIPS

Build relationships with your peers, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members

Campus may feel a bit overwhelming at first, but don’t worry! The key is to put yourself out there and be open to everyone you meet. Build relationships in small groups—in your classrooms, residence halls, study groups, and student organizations. Relationships will help you stay motivated and support your goals.

Learn about how to build more relationships

Santiago Giraldo
Orientation Leader

“I was worried about finding opportunities across campus and about picking my classes for the coming semesters. I reached out to my academic advisor, and they were able to help me. We talked through my degree planner and picked out classes that would apply to my program. They also helped connect me with opportunities in research and internships. My relationship with my advisor has been one of the most impactful relationships I have cultivated at UNL.”

Santiago Giraldo, orientation leader