Northern Arizona University

I was born and raised in Nogales, AZ where Spanish was the predominant language spoken at home as well as in the community. Coming to Flagstaff my first reaction was culture shock, I needed all the 'raza,' I needed to be around people that were just as loud as me and that spoke my native language. I found my place in the STAR (Successful Transition and Academic Readiness) Program through the Multicultural Student Center, in which I took my first two classes on campus with a very diverse group. STAR was my liaison to my involvement on campus. I was selected as a BF Scholar which entailed dedicated 60 hours of community service every semester for my first two years here. My junior year I applied to be a Peer Advisor, and have worked for the MSC in making the transition for STAR students easier ever since. I have also had the privilege to work with the Chicana/o Latino/Hispanic community on campus and in Flagstaff. Being a part of the Hispanic Honor Society was a strong motivation for my academic success. M.E.Ch.A (Movimiento Estudiantil Chicana/o de Aztlan) has helped me re-connect to my roots and be aware of the social and political issues and struggles surrounding our community. In M.E.Ch.A we organized the 1st Cesar Chavez March in Northern Arizona, a Youth Conference, and are the hosts for the 2005-2006 M.E.Ch.A National Conference. After graduation I want to complete a Masters Program in Counseling with an emphasis in Student Affairs. I am also a member in the Minority Undergraduate Fellowship Program through the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators. My experience here continues to help me develop, change, and shape the person that I am today and will be in the future.

I had visited the campus several times, the university was in a great location, and the weather was beautiful. I felt the university offered the best value for the cost. My acceptance into the STAR Program was my final decision maker.

I like the faculty, staff, and students!!! The warm and friendly environment on campus makes me feel right at home.

Make sure to get to know what you prefer as your living style. Know what times you like to go to bed, how much sleep you need, how you study: in a quiet room or with music, at what times? What are some of your habits that would make it difficult for you to room with someone? Getting to know yourself is the best way to ensure a successful first semester at a university. If you get to know yourself and your roommate, adjustment will be much easier.

I've had many good professors, but the best professor I've was my ENG 105 instructor. She took the time to get to know her students personally. She tried to understand individual perspectives and graded accordingly. When I needed advice she was right there and was always available for Q&A time.

I never thought that there were so many other students that had changed their majors as many times as I did. I have learned that education puts you on the right path; all you need to do is keep your options open. I started out as a Marine Biology major, then Biology, then Nursing, then finally found my passion, Spanish Ed. I have worked on campus since my freshmen year and I learned that my passion was working with students my own age and making changes on campus.

Living on campus is a great experience. While it is true that you are placed in a setup completely outside your comfort zone, it helps you so much to grow and develop as a person. You have to take the regular safety precautions and use your common sense. The residence halls are fun and great way to meet and connect with many people on campus.