As a freshman at Georgia State University, Kwizera Richard enjoyed creating videos in his dorm for his YouTube channel. He wanted to do more but didn’t have the right tech to help.
His peers recommended visiting the Creation and Technology Lab (CATLab) on campus, where students can check out technology for their personal use. Little did he how much the lab would mean to him and his creativity.
“I was able to get my hands on the equipment that I couldn’t otherwise afford,” Kwizera said. “Whenever I go to the lab, there are always people working on something really cool and collaborating with other students”
Kwizera rented microphones, cameras and lighting that he used to shoot and edit his videos, and he drew inspiration from other creatives at the lab. Those resources helped improve his creativity and content in a big way, and now he’s paying it forward to others on campus.
As part of the application for Best Buy’s College Crew campus ambassador program, Kwizera and nine other finalists were asked to nominate their favorite campus organizations to receive some new tech. He didn’t hesitate to nominate the CATLab.
“I thought it was the perfect choice because there are a lot of students like me who are creatives but can’t afford the equipment to create,” Kwizera said. “The lack of equipment shouldn’t be the reason why you don’t pursue something creatively.”
Thanks to his nomination, the CATLab recently received a donation to purchase new technology to help students pursue their creativity and passions, just like Kwizera did.
“To have the chance to give back to the lab in a way is really cool,” he said. “Now CATLab can provide even more tech resources and upgrade the equipment in the lab.”
‘Opportunities for success’
The Undergraduate Business Career Center (UBCC) at the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management also received a donation for upgraded tech to support students on campus, thanks to College Crew member Jack Foley.
The center offers students on campus a space to help with professional development. Jack heard about it from his friend, Izabella, who volunteered there to help other students with their resumes, cover letters and career exploration.
But when the pandemic began, the UBCC had to support students virtually. Izabella lent her personal laptop to students who didn’t have the proper technology for virtual interviews or networking opportunities.
Jack knew this center could use the tech support, so he nominated it to receive new tech from Best Buy. And he’s looking forward to seeing how the technology will benefit students in their career journeys.
“I’m really excited that the tech is going to help students at the University of Minnesota,” he said. “This will support them as they pursue future jobs, especially during a time that hasn’t been easy for students networking and interviewing virtually. It’s going to give hardworking students opportunities for success.”
Interested in joining Best Buy’s College Crew program? Applications open July 6. Click here for more information.