Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ÊÓƵ

My Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ÊÓƵ experience remains etched in my memory as a transformative journey from the arid landscapes of Arizona deep into the heart of America's dairy state. As a prospective student, I was drawn to Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ÊÓƵ not only for its stellar academic programs but also its tight-knit community. The prospect of being part of a smaller, more focused classroom where I could receive individualized attention appealed to me. However, it was the warm and welcoming environment that truly stood out. From my initial interactions with the LU tennis team, I felt as though Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ÊÓƵ was more than just an educational institution; it was a supportive and caring home where I could see myself grow. Although I vividly remember all of the late nights studying, fueled by Toppers Pizza, what remains most prominent is the sense of belonging and the freedom I discovered during my time at Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ÊÓƵ.

Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ÊÓƵ has had a profound and lasting impact on the person I am today-- it not only provided me with a strong academic foundation but also instilled within me the values of social impact, health equity, and perseverance. I learned the art of writing, questioning, researching, exploring, and expressing through discussions with peers and professors throughout my classes. Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ÊÓƵ also nurtured my creativity and encouraged me to explore diverse paths, from organic chemistry and anthropology to tennis. Here, I discovered my capacity to pursue multiple passions and shape my journey according to my aspirations, leading to my career today as a gender and health researcher and photographer in the international development sector.

But the most enduring lesson Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ÊÓƵ imparted was the art of building a supportive community and speaking up for what I believe in. I discovered how a community can provide the space and freedom to express your authentic self and reach your full potential. The friendships and sense of belonging continue to influence the relationships I build in Washington, DC, and worldwide. Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ÊÓƵ was a blissful bubble of growth where I immersed myself in different cultures, subjects, languages, music, and art forms. As I reflect on my Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ÊÓƵ story, I am grateful for the support and freedom I found there, and I carry those lessons with me in my life today.