Faces of NLU: Meet Asael Villa
A first-generation college student majoring in Hospitality Management shares why he chose to embark on his educational journey with Kendall College at National Louis University (NLU).
For Asael Villa, the process of applying to, and attending, college was something new. As a first-generation college student from the Chicagoland area, he wasn’t always sure how to navigate the process and where to go for help. Asael shared a bit about why he chose to get his degree at National Louis University and how he overcame the initial hesitation to ask for help.
When asked to describe how National Louis University has been for him so far, Asael simply said, “Amazing.” He explained that the helpful Enrollment Specialists made the process of applying accessible and clear, especially for someone who was a first-generation college student like him:
“Going to college as a first-generation student when none of my immediate family went to college themselves was difficult. It was difficult getting answers, but an Enrollment Specialist at NLU helped me every step of the way. The biggest challenge was asking for help, but the way I overcame it was by questioning everything.”
While Asael hopes to one day be working in the hospitality industry, he already feels as though he’s on the right path with the myriad resources and support he’s received at NLU:
“The amazing opportunities National Louis University offers help me develop and focus on the skills necessary for my career.”
These opportunities include internships, tutoring services, social activities, and volunteer opportunities, among others. Additionally, NLU students will enjoy comprehensive career services through the Career Bridge office throughout their program. These include opportunities to connect with experienced professionals in the Chicagoland area, resume writing, and assistance with finding, and landing, the right internship. They’ll be able to enjoy many of these benefits even after they graduate!
When asked to share a piece of advice with fellow, and future, students, Asael kept it simple:
“Never give up,” he said.
At NLU, we couldn’t agree more!
Interested in our Hospitality Management B.A. program? You can view all of our degree programs here or contact an Enrollment Specialist at enrollment@nl.edu or 888.658.8632 to talk more about your goals.
