Alexander Ayala
"During my training at NLU to become a school psychologist, I've become familiar with the challenges that disabilities pose to the learning and livelihood of students of various ages. It's critical for these students to receive supports and accommodations from caring adults to help them overcome the barriers that their disabilities create. As a person living with disabilities myself, I've made it my life's mission to become the best advocate I can be for the students that I'll encounter during my career. I've received indispensable support from NLU's Disability and Access Services to help me continue my pursuit of my degree to march ahead with my mission. As I have received support, so will I deliver - I will pay it forward to all of the students I come across that are in need."
Regina Dismukes
"My Experience being a Orientation Leader/ Peer Mentor was a great experience for me. I was able to be a support system for first year students both personally and academically. I gain valuable leadership skills by being a resource for first year students, since I know a little bit more about NLU because I been here for four years, so I was able to give them insight on my experience as a student. I was able to connect with my mentees on a personal level where I got to understand their purpose and their career fields. I'm very grateful to be a peer mentor because I was able to utilize the network that I've gained with the FYE program staff and mentors to secure a internship. Being a Orientation Leader/ Peer Mentor helped me grow as a person, student, and future counseling psychologist."
Nia Esparza
"As a student worker on campus I find the daily tasks of my job are teaching me to be a well rounded employee. The various skills I have learned during my time as a resident advisor and working in the coffee shop and store have allowed me to gain experience that will help my future career path. I feel like I will be better prepared for my career after graduation because of the transferable skills I have learned."
Kelly Pires
"NLU and the VMP has been such a great extended family! After separating from the military they allowed for me to feel included and helped my transition into life after the uniform."
Rosy Corderos
As a first year first generation doctoral student my experience at National Louis University has been the most welcoming and nurturing. I have had the honor of sharing space with the Veteran student population, participate in the day of racial healing circles, be mentored by amazing faculty while working on my research and continuously engage in building relationships with students and the NLU community.
DaZay Green
I never thought in a million years that I would be a college student with a learning disability. When I found out that I had a learning disability, I was scared and nervous, and I didn't want people to know about it because I thought so many people would judge me. It took me a very long time to be comfortable with my learning disability. It wasn't that I was different, it was just that I needed to be taught differently than other students. I am so proud of myself and I have accomplished so many things at NLU. I am a Student Ambassador at National-Louis University, Alpha lambda Delta's National Honor Society First President, and a Freshman Orientation Mentor. I have done so much with a learning disability. I always say that it doesn't matter what your background is or what your circumstance is. You can do anything that you put your mind to.
Marquita Motley
I am in awe that I am approaching the end of my undergraduate experience with NLU! I am receiving my Bachelor of Science in Health Care Leadership and will participate in the October commencement ceremony. This milestone is happening after 20 years, the birth of my daughter 14 years ago, and seven wrist reconstruction surgeries. My most recent surgery occurred in February 2021. I was unsure about pursuing accommodations since this was a short-term situation. Marquetta Scott, Director of Accessibility and ADA Accommodation Services, explained that it does not matter how long the accommodation is needed; the department's goal is to ensure the success of NLU students. Marquetta gave me valuable resources, and I felt encouraged & empowered after our meeting. I encourage everyone to do whatever they can to promote and support accessibility services at NLU, their workplace, etc.
Sebastian Ramirez
Becoming a First-year Mentor was one of the best decisions I’ve made because it allowed me to help individuals navigate their way into a new environment, and it allowed me to get out of my comfort zone and give back to an institution that’s helped me grow as an upcoming professional. I need to be a resource to someone who needs guidance, and I am proud that my mentees can come to me without me reaching out to them first. I was able to build relationships with my peers, mentees, and my amazing boss. My experience as a First-year Mentor has been amazing 10/10 mainly because I had outstanding training, I was able to work with groups of individuals to strategize the best methods of engagement, and I loved planning out events for students to enjoy. Although we were virtual for most of the experience that did not stop me nor other mentors from making it the best experience possible. I was not only able to advocate for my mentees, but I also had a fun and memorable experience with my peers whether that was training, orientation, or our meetings. Overall, I encourage others to give back and be a resource to those who need guidance and be the change they want to see.
