Antelope Intros is a recurring GCU Today feature that introduces some of our new employees to the people around them in a way that is fun and informative. Employees are eligible to be featured in the month following their orientation.
TYLER OLENDER
Job title: University admissions counselor
Job location: Orlando, Fla.
What attracted you to GCU? I was initially introduced to GCU during my internship in college when I attended a youth conference. The GCU admissions representative was incredibly interactive with the students at the conference, and he left a positive and memorable impression. Fast forward, when I applied for this position with GCU, I was impressed with the rapid growth, the commitment to serving the community and the quality education provided to students. How could I not want to be part of this type of community?
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I love Walt Disney World! I’m an annual pass holder and I go to a Disney park at least once a week. Chances are we’ll run into each other if you find yourself visiting one of the Disney parks. I would love to show you all the Disney secrets and fun tidbits! I also drink two cups of coffee a day. Orlando has great, locally owned coffee shops, so driving around the suburbs of the city and discovering new shops is always a fun adventure.
What are you passionate about? I am most passionate about meeting new people and building friendships. We all have a unique story with our own perspectives about life and situations. Taking the time to listen to those stories and seeing the value in being friends with others who are different from ourselves is what putting love and community into practice is all about.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? Attending new employee training at GCU was my first time ever visiting the western part of the U.S. While here, I went to the Grand Canyon twice, saw the red rocks in Sedona and walked around Flagstaff. Being a lover of food and coffee, exploring the Phoenix area and eating amazing food was a highlight of the trip.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I have an elastic face. In other words, the skin on my face is really stretchy. (Ask me to show you!) And I recently ate a deep-fried tarantula while visiting Cambodia. Tarantula was a specialty item served on the menu of the restaurant I was at. The tarantula was coated in various spices, so it had a little bit of a spicy kick to it.
What are you most proud of? I’m most proud of making the decision to start working on a master’s degree. Going back to school has opened my eyes to a lot, and I couldn’t be more thankful for what I have learned so far. I have taken a brief break from classes since starting the new job, but I will start again soon after enrolling in a program through GCU. Go Lopes!
*****
DOUGLAS ULRICH
Job title: University admissions counselor
Job location: Philadelphia area
What attracted you to GCU? The excitement surrounding the University through the numerous advertisements was something that fired me up! Once I was on campus, the passion that everyone shares for GCU was truly inspiring. GCU, without a doubt, is a special campus, and I am very excited about my future here.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I like anything workout related. I am a certified personal trainer, so I spend a lot of my free time in the gym, either helping clients or helping myself. I also train in Brazilian jiu jitsu! I enjoy doing anything that will keep me moving and keep me active!
What are you passionate about? As cliché as it sounds, life. I try to make the most out of every day. Granted, it doesn’t always happen, but I try my best. I like to find the positive in everything, regardless of the situation. A saying I really enjoy is, “Every day may not be great, but there is something great in every day.”
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I have only experienced the Valley during my new hire training, but so far I would have to say ... the GCU employee gym! I can’t wait to get out and experience what else the Valley has to offer.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: Most people do not know that I was a model for Visit Philly, a Philadelphia-based advertising agency focusing on getting travelers to … visit Philly. I was also an extra in the movie "Creed," which was amazing because "Rocky" is one of my favorite movies. Being footsteps away from Sylvester Stallone was surreal!
What are you most proud of? I would have to say my brothers. I am a middle child, but I am book-ended by two awesome brothers. My older brother always has set the bar high and has helped push me in all aspects of my life. My younger brother is the most determined and driven individual I have ever met, and he keeps me driven! I am proud of my brothers because of how I have helped them grow, but I am even prouder because of how they have helped me grow! I am also very proud of my beard. It takes a lot of time and effort to keep this manly beard maintained!
