Ep 8. Sacred Heart University

The College Tour season 2 episode 8 titled Sacred Heart University takes viewers on a virtual tour of the private Catholic university located in Fairfield, Connecticut. The episode is hosted by renowned journalist and author, Karan Thapar, who brings his interviewing skills to the forefront as he talks to the university's president, Dr. John J. Petillo, along with various students and faculty members.

The episode begins with an introduction to the university's history and mission. Sacred Heart University was founded in 1963 by the Most Reverend Walter W. Curtis, Bishop of the Diocese of Bridgeport, with the aim of providing quality Catholic education to students of all faiths. Today, the university has over 8,500 students enrolled in 80 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs.

Dr. Petillo then gives viewers a tour of the university's beautiful 350-acre campus, highlighting its state-of-the-art facilities and buildings, including the Frank and Marisa Martire Business & Communications Center, the Bobby Valentine Health & Recreation Center, and the William H. Pitt Health & Recreation Center. Viewers also get a glimpse of the university's residence halls, dining facilities, and green spaces.

The episode then shifts focus to the academic programs offered at Sacred Heart University. Dr. Petillo and other faculty members discuss the university's emphasis on experiential learning and its commitment to providing students with hands-on, real-world experiences. The university's many resources, including its Center for Applied Mathematics, Center for Healthcare Education, and Center for Social Justice and Community Impact, are all showcased.

The episode also features interviews with current students of Sacred Heart University, who discuss their experiences studying and living on campus. They talk about the various extracurricular activities and clubs they are involved in, as well as the tight-knit community among students at the university. Viewers get an inside look at the university's student-run news channel, The Pulse, and the university's many athletic teams, including its NCAA Division I hockey team.

One highlight of the episode is a discussion on Sacred Heart University's commitment to service and social justice. The university's Catholic roots play a big role in shaping its mission, and the episode highlights the many service opportunities available through the university's Center for Social Justice and Community Impact. Viewers also hear from students who have studied abroad through the university's Global Affairs program, which has partnerships with over 40 universities around the world.

Throughout the episode, Thapar brings his insightful questions and commentary to the discussion, asking Dr. Petillo and other faculty members about topics such as the value of a liberal arts education, the university's efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity, and the role of technology in higher education. Thapar's interviews with students are equally engaging, as he encourages them to share their personal journeys and experiences at Sacred Heart University.

Overall, The College Tour season 2 episode 8 offers viewers a comprehensive look at Sacred Heart University and all it has to offer. From its scenic campus and top-notch facilities to its commitment to service and social justice, the episode paints a picture of a university that truly values its students and is dedicated to providing them with a high-quality education.