Hometown: Barcelona, Spain

Year: Senior

Major: Psychology and Criminal Justice

Involved in: Student Admissions Representative

Professors and staff walk beside you and guide you through the ups and downs of college. Who is a faculty member who has impacted you positively? How?

Participating in the Governor’s Giant Vision Competition was one of the most transformative experiences of my academic journey, and I owe so much of it to the support and guidance of my professors, Dr. Walters and Dr. Villegas. When I first learned about the competition, I was both excited and intimidated. The idea of presenting my business idea on such a significant platform in Sioux Falls felt like a huge leap. But Dr. Walters and Dr. Villegas believed in me from the start. They saw potential in my ideas that I hadn’t fully recognized yet and encouraged me to take this opportunity.

In the weeks leading up to the competition, Dr. Villegas provided invaluable feedback on my business plan, helping me refine my ideas and think through every detail. His experience and insights were crucial in shaping my proposal into something competitive. Dr. Walters, on the other hand, was a constant source of motivation. She helped me practice my presentation, offering constructive critiques and boosted my confidence when nerves set in. Although I didn’t win, the experience was incredibly rewarding. I learned so much about myself, my ideas, and the world of business. The competition pushed me to grow in ways I hadn’t expected, and it was a true honor to represent my university at such a prestigious event.

Looking back, I’m so grateful for the encouragement and mentorship from Dr. Walters and Dr. Villegas. Their belief in me made all the difference, and I’m proud to have been a part of the Governor’s Giant Vision Competition. It’s an experience that will always stand out in my journey, shaping my future ambitions and reminding me of what’s possible with the right support.

Aberdeen, South Dakota is a safe and friendly community with a thriving downtown with plenty of opportunities to get involved through the arts, athletics, and outdoor recreation. Please share an example of a time you had fun in Aberdeen:

Aberdeen has been a place full of welcoming experiences for me as an international student. I remember one time when I participated in several community events, and it was such a joy to feel the warmth and friendliness of the people here. The host families specially made a huge difference, going out of their way to make us feel like we truly belonged. We had fun together, whether it was sharing meals, attending local festivals, or just exploring the area. These experiences not only made me feel more at home but also helped me adapt to a new culture and environment.

Students, professors, and staff build an inclusive sense of community. Please share a time when you felt as though you belonged:

One time that stands out to me is when I first arrived in Aberdeen as an international student. I was a bit nervous about adjusting to a new culture and environment, but that changed quickly when I attended a community event organized for newcomers. The people there were incredibly welcoming, and I immediately felt a sense of belonging.

Starting with the scholars walk at convocation to the faculty cheering tunnel at graduation, your Northern Experience is marked with memorable milestones and traditions. What is a milestone highlight in your experience? 

The highlight was when my host family invited me to their home for dinner. We spent the evening sharing stories, laughing, and even cooking together. It wasn’t just about the food or the activities—it was about how they made me feel like I was part of their family. That sense of connection and acceptance made me realize that Aberdeen could be a place where I truly belonged, despite being far from home.

What is your favorite thing/activity to do in Aberdeen? 

My favorite thing to do in Aberdeen is go for a walk in Wylie Park especially in fall, it is beautiful and relaxing.

What is your favorite place off-campus to hang out? 

My favorite place off-campus to hang out is The Market on the Plaza coffee place. They have great food and great coffee. I study sometimes there or just hang out with friends.

Why did you choose Northern? 

I chose NSU because of its strong sense of community and the support it offers to students. As an international student, I was drawn to the welcoming atmosphere and the opportunities for personal and academic growth. The faculty's dedication and the smaller class sizes also made it the perfect environment for me to pursue my goals and feel truly connected to the campus community.

A favorite memory with my friends on campus: 

One of my favorite memories on campus was when my friends and I got together to cook and share stories from our different cultures. It was a fun and meaningful way to connect, learn about each other's backgrounds, and create lasting bonds over good food and great conversations.

The person I look up to is… 

The person I look up to is my husband. Meeting my husband here in the US was one of the most unexpected and beautiful moments of my life. As an international student navigating a new country, I often felt out of place, trying to adapt to a culture so different from my own. Then, I met him. He was kind, patient, and understanding, and he quickly became my anchor in this new world. We shared countless conversations about our backgrounds, dreams, and everything in between. He helped me see the beauty in our differences and taught me how to blend my culture with the one I was learning to love. His support and love gave me the confidence to pursue my goals, and he continues to inspire me every day. Meeting him wasn't just about finding a partner, it was about finding a sense of belonging in a place that once felt foreign.

I could not live without… 

I could not live without the support of my family and loved ones. Their encouragement, love, and presence are what keep me grounded, especially during challenging times. They remind me of where I come from, help me stay true to myself, and give me the strength to keep pushing forward in everything I do. Whether it's through their words, their actions, or just knowing they're there, my family and loved ones are my constant source of motivation and joy.