Chase Northrup is following in his parents’ footsteps by becoming a Rebel. His parents, Nancy and Victor Northrup, were students in UNLV’s nuclear medicine program and met while working in the radiology department at Valley Hospital. Chase plans to study mechanical engineering.

Why UNLV?

Chase: There’s a lot of freedom here, a lot of choices and opportunity. And it's really affordable. 

Mom: I’m a native Las Vegan. He is, too. I love the fact that UNLV has a great engineering program. It’s exciting to see where his interests will take him. He can start here with his undergraduate work and see where it takes him. If he goes on to graduate school, it won’t be with a lot of debt.

Hopes for your education?

Chase: I just want to design and engineer things. My dream is to become an aerospace engineer. I think space exploration will become important to our generation.

Mom: I want him to be a well-rounded, independent individual when he graduates — someone who found a career choice he loves and is living his dreams.

Any fears?

Chase: Not really. Maybe giving into peer pressure (and the temptation) to not study.

Mom: That he won’t get enough sleep. Other than that, I think he's ready and I’m just excited for him.  

Tips for next year’s incoming class?

Chase: Apply early and keep up on deadlines.

Mom: I’ll be back again next year because I have another son. I highly recommend all parents attend orientation. There’s so much to learn about what’s at your kids' disposal — from counseling services to clubs. UNLV has certainly grown a lot since I was a student. I loved going to UNLV but I didn't live on campus. After going through orientation, I'm going to encourage him to consider it.