Personal Statement; Iowa State University

Personal Statement:
My dream is to work as a professional at the university level, to educate and influence students to pursue a higher education. The College of Human Science and Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies of the Iowa State University will help me attain the necessary tools to develop a better understanding of the Student Affairs program in the world of academics. I believe one needs to learn from the best to become the best, in an educational setting where theory is translated to practice. Obtaining my Masters Degree in Higher Education with specialization in Student Affairs will empower me to better serve my community, my people, and to realize my dream as a professional.

Migrating from Mexico to the U.S. was a new experience and a challenge; I had to make new friends, adapt to a new culture, and learn a new language. Mrs. Moyer, my first English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher, helped me to surpass those challenges. Although they only possess a seventh grade education, my parents have always given me the best education and inspiration to continue my studies. They inspire me to pursue a career where I can make a difference.

My experience as an undergraduate has helped me dig into the buffet of activities at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Not only will I be graduating with a B.A. in Spanish Education, English as a Second Language and a minor in Dance, but I will also be graduating with a firm knowledge of what I love to do: helping students to succeed.
I have learned how to work and achieve excellence both academically and in my personal life. My dreams are becoming reality: get an education and never stop dreaming. In order to achieve excellence through my academics and civic life, I have overcome obstacles and challenges in which I have greatly utilized my commitment, responsibility and dedication to higher education.

During my undergraduate college career I have grown as a better person, student, and leader. I have learned to work with diverse groups of people with different ideas, beliefs, and values. I am always working to my full potential to obtain what I dream and wish. As an active student leader at my university, I have gained the courage and determination to put myself in leadership positions. I have been involved in extracurricular activities, such as: Student Coordinator for the Office of Multicultural Affairs, Director of Student Organizations for Student Government, Vice-President for the Hispanic Student Association, Academic Mentor for Student Support Services, Recruitment and Public Relations for Sigma Lambda Beta International Fraternity, Inc., a Chancellor’s Ambassador, Student Leaders for Summer Advising and Enrollment, Chair for the Nebraska Cultural Unity Conference, among other student organizations.

As a result of my grade point average (GPA) and involvement in the classroom, I have achieved excellence in my academics by being awarded the Peter Kiewit and Dream Scholar, Outstanding Sophomore of the Year, Outstanding Young Latino Leader of Nebraska, and UNK Distinguished Service Award. Also, because of my passion for dance and dedication to students, I have developed my dance technique in the classroom. Specifically, I have had the privilege to teach dance to students with documented developmental disabilities. While I have passed my passion and love for dance on to them, they have taught me a key meaning of life: to do my best at all times.

My outgoing, energetic personality, my passion and experience working with students, and my leadership skills make me a strong candidate for a Masters Degree in Higher Education with specialization in Student Affairs at the Iowa State University. While I complete my graduate studies, I see myself networking with faculty, staff, and administrators across the ISU campus. This networking will allow me to better understand how the university system works as it relates to assisting students. I believe that my personality, skills, and talents will help me to work yet again with students from across the state, nation and the world.