How did you end up at UNI?
I started with the CIEP program at UNI before starting my undergraduate career. 

Why did you choose to pursue this degree at UNI?
I got interested in student affairs when I worked as a student program coordinator at the Center for Multicultural Education (CME) at UNI. I selected UNI's postsecondary education: student affairs master's program because it would give me plenty of opportunities to practice through internships and assistantships what I would learn in night classes. I also had a great undergraduate experience at UNI and I knew that UNI was  already a great fit for me.

What did you gain from your experience as a graduate assistant? 
I am a graduate assistant in the Office of Academic Advising for the Panther Access, Connections & Engagement program, a transition and support opportunity for incoming UNI undergraduate students. As a graduate assistant, I have an opportunity to work with students who face an access gap in higher education. I empower students to explore, articulate and achieve their academic, career and life goals. In my role in academic advising, I ensure students are apprised of meaningful opportunities related to their goals and help them identify barriers and ways to overcome them.

What does completing your degree mean to you?
Completing this degree means so much to me as a first-generation student and I am excited about working in student affairs.

What challenges did you face as you worked toward this degree – and how did you overcome them?
I was far away from home, and had to adjust to a new environment which was very challenging. However, I met great people at UNI and now have a support system that has helped me feel at home away from home.

How did UNI help you achieve your goals?
UNI helped me achieve my goals as I gained valuable experience throughout the postsecondary education: student affairs curriculum, my graduate assistantship work in academic advising and through internships, which gave me the opportunity to engage with students in various contexts and at various levels. I gained experience in and out of the classroom, which has prepared me to be a competent student affairs professional.

What’s your best memory of your time at UNI?
My best memory at UNI is with the Student Affairs Pre-Professional Association (SAPA) and the opportunity to build relationships with the PSE cohort. 

We often say UNI is student focused; a place where professors care--and teach; a place where learning happens in and out of the classroom;  and is perfectly sized. How do these statements ring true for you?
I would say that UNI is a place where professors care and teach about what they are passionate about. I can say that my professors have been great mentors, and they really care about student success. My professors have always provided great feedback that has helped me grow throughout the program.

What advice would you give to students considering UNI?
UNI is the perfect university if you're looking for a university that cares about  your success and where you can learn in and out of the classroom.

What three adjectives describe yourself? 
Empathetic, friendly and motivated

What's next?
After graduation, I will be a full-time academic advisor.