Faces of NLU: Meet Yaritza Z. Rodriguez
A senior human services major discusses how she’s succeeded academically at NLU while navigating the challenges of a learning disability.
During her time at National Louis University, Yaritza Rodriguez has persevered through a lot, and she’s taken advantage of the support we provide at NLU to succeed, both inside the classroom and out. Yaritza says NLU’s reputation for supporting all students, regardless of background, is what initially drew her to the University:
“I chose NLU as my university because when I did the research and listened to previous graduates from NLU, they always mentioned how NLU worked with all students.”
While earning her undergraduate degree in human services, Yaritza has dealt with challenges, both academically and as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, but she says that NLU provided services that allowed her to persevere through difficult times:
“The biggest obstacle I had to overcome was taking math courses. Coming from a student who has a learning disability and has dyslexia in math, it was hard to complete my math work, but I had a fantastic math tutor who has helped me. Another obstacle I had overcome was learning virtually because of Covid. I am a student who dislikes being stuck at home, but I had to take courses at home, so it was hard at first, because I like to work in person. I made it through my junior year with good grades, though, so I am glad!”
If she had to describe NLU in one word, Yaritza says she “would describe National Louis as helpful.”
As far as her plans after graduation, Yaritza intends to help others through her future role as a counselor:
“I see myself working as a guidance counselor, giving back to my community, and also spending time helping my mom and grandma since they have done so much for me.”
Yaritza encourages fellow NLU/Kendall students to seek out help if they need it, just as she did:
“Always be communicative to your professors and enjoy your college experience!”
Learn more about NLU’s Learning Support services; see all our undergraduate programs or get in touch with an Enrollment Advisor by emailing enrollment@nl.edu or calling 888.658.8632.
