High School: Ironwood High School, 1997 (Glendale, AZ)
New College Major: English
FAV’s/All About me: I am an adult re-entry student. I’m married, have a beautiful little girl, and another on the way. I’ve worked in the mortgage industry since 2000. I’m a member of the UFA club on campus.
Something people might not know about you: I’m an Arizona native.
Why I chose the West campus: The West campus is close to my home and office, so it is very convenient. Also, the New College offers a great program in the major I’ve chosen.
The best experience I’ve had at the West campus: The best experience I’ve had at the West campus has definitely been the interaction with the teachers, who have been extraordinarily helpful, not only with the course material, but with cogent advice on organizing for post-graduate programs.
My favorite thing to do in college: Research.
Fav class at ASU: ENG 380: Medievalism in Modern Culture
My future career/academic goals (jobs/grad school/volunteer etc): I hope to achieve a research-oriented professorship at a four-year university after earning a masters degree and subsequent doctorate. As an ambassador for the New College, I hope to encourage prospective students to take advantage of the opportunities unique to New College, giving a little back to the program which has treated me well.
Other Favs: Hitting the West campus Diablo Performance and Recreation Center (aka: the gym).
Advice to prospective NCIAS students: Pencil a schedule out with achievable goals, stick to it, but continually review and update it. If you need even a little help, ask the professors or visit the free tutors on campus. The best students I know are those who take advantage of all their resources.

High School: Lone Cactus, 2006
Community College: Central Texas College, 2009
New College Major: Life Sciences
FAV’s/All About me: I was born in Nayarit, Mexico. My mother and I moved to the U.S. when I was 2 years old. I’m happily married to my wife Lisa who will also be attending ASU West next semester. We’re both interested in the medical field, which is really nice because we can complete the same degree program here at ASU and help each other out.
Something people might not know about you: I joined the U.S. Army straight out of high school. I enlisted as a medic, aka health care specialist. Being in the military was not easy but it really helped me become the person I am today. Although it was a really interesting experience I realized that a bachelor’s degree is important even in the military, which is why I chose ASU.
Why I chose the West campus: I’m not used to living in the city, so downtown was not going to work for me. The West campus has a warm atmosphere where you almost feel like your home, so it’s easier to stay at the library for a few hours to study.
The best experience I’ve had at the West campus: Working with other students who are as determined as I am to succeed in life. I have made friends who have the same or similar professional goals as I do.
My favorite thing to do in college: I guess to study. I know it sounds nerdy but it’s the truth.
Fav class at ASU: So far, chemistry is my favorite class. It’s challenging but that’s what keeps it interesting.
My future career/academic goals (jobs/grad school/volunteer etc): I plan on becoming a physician and in the later future, re-joining the military to help save the lives of our own heroes.
Other Favs: My wife noticed that I have a “green thumb.” I always try to grow plants or at least keep them alive. I also spend hours watering my back yard. I also have 2 golden retriever puppies that are always keeping me on my toes.
Advice to prospective NCIAS students: Don’t let anything intimidate you. If you ever find yourself struggling, remember what your major goals in life are and let that lead you to success.

High School: Mountain Ridge High School, 2004 (Glendale, AZ)
Community College: Glendale Community College, 2007
New College Major: Sociology
FAV’s/All About me: I’m 23 years old and finishing up my last year with ASU. Most of my childhood was spent in Arizona but I also attended school in Minnesota and Michigan. I enjoy meeting new people, traveling, and, like anyone, spending time with friends and family.
Something people might not know about you: I used to study classic ballet.
Why I chose the West campus: I’m a fan of the smaller campus and am able to continue living at home with my parents since they live on the west side of the valley.
The best experience I’ve had at the West campus: Meeting my advisor for the first time ever was probably the best experience so far. She answered all my questions I asked and even gave information for questions I should have asked. I had never been more confident about school until then.
My favorite thing to do in college: Oh man, I’m going to sound like such a nerd, but whenever I feel somewhat overwhelmed by all the schoolwork, reading, and studying I love to spend time in the library. The library isn’t too quite, but isn’t too loud, the perfect environment for me to be progressive and get things done. It’s always like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders after about an hour or two in the library working. I don’t get to spend a lot of time on campus due to my job and my other volunteer positions, so whatever time I do spend on campus I’m always sure that I’m getting something done.
Fav class at ASU: This semester I am taking the course Death and Dying: A Cross-Cultural Perspective. I have taken many classes that discuss how people from different cultures live, it’s a very drastic yet interesting change learning about how different culture handle death.
My future career/academic goals (jobs/grad school/volunteer etc): I am still debating about continuing my education with a Masters in Education with emphasis on counseling. After fall semester I will focus more on making a decision but for right now my nose pretty much stays in my books for my classes.
Other Favs: My favorite foods are anything Italian and Mexican. Spaghetti is number one out of everything though. My favorite store is probably Target; you can find everything there. My favorite artist is Degas and I’m absolutely in love with his “Little Dancer” sculpture.
Advice to prospective NCIAS students: Listen to your advisors and, seriously, there are no stupid questions. When it comes to your college career and your future you are pretty much allowed to ask questions you feel necessary.

High School: Barry Goldwater High School, 2000 (Phoenix, AZ)
Community College: Glendale Community College, 2008
New College Major: Psychology
FAV’s/All About me:
I am 27 and a junior at ASU West. I have been happily married for about 3 ½ years and together with my husband for almost 12 years! I have a 7 year old son (who thinks that he is 30). I am almost an “Arizona Native,” since my family moved here when I was 2.
Something people might not know about you:
I had brain surgery in October of last year.
Why I chose the West campus:
I chose the West campus because it has smaller classes. I don’t like to be lost in a big crowd and I really enjoy the opportunity to get more involved.
The best experience I’ve had at the West campus: Meeting my undergraduate advisor, Elaine Rostad, was the best experience because she explained everything to me and made me feel at ease! She is very knowledgeable about the programs and will help you out in any way.
My favorite thing to do in college:
My favorite thing to do is to meet new people. I used to be such a shy person and since I started college I have really branched out.
Fav class at ASU: Psychopharmacology is my favorite class because it really touches on everything that I want to do when I graduate.
My future career/academic goals (jobs/grad school/volunteer etc):
I want to pursue a Ph.D or Psy.D so that I can work in a mental health hospital that specializes on treating disorders such as Schizophrenia.
Other Favs:
My favorite T.V. show is Grey’s Anatomy. I watch it every week and I have seasons 1 through 3 on DVD. I love to play with my son and just be with my family.
Advice to prospective NCIAS students:
Prospective students should get as much information as possible about a school before they choose to go there. Make sure to meet with advisors early so that you can transfer credits (if needed). Also, ASK QUESTIONS and listen to your advisors.

High School: El Camino Real
Community College: Glendale Community College
New College Major: Communication Studies
New College Minor: Spanish
FAV’s/All About me: Passion for social services in the community.
Something people might not know about you: I am extremely versatile and worked hard to be a good mom, a professional employee, and excellent student.
Why I chose the West campus: The program and resources to be successful are amazing.
The best experience I’ve had at the West campus: The interpersonal relationships with staff/faculty, plus all the student services that are available to have an amazing experience while in college.
My favorite thing to do in college: Social events and activities
Fav class at ASU: Public relations
My future career/academic goals (jobs/grad school/volunteer etc): Community relations and graduate school at College of Public Services, plus volunteer with community college for single parents to further their education.
Other Favs: In my free time I attend concerts, Phoenix Suns games, Cardinal/Coyotes, comedy and travel.
Advice to prospective NCIAS students: Take every opportunity possible to be involved with college activities and attain all the resources available to be successful while completing your degree. Also, do not be afraid to ask for help and become close to your professors.

High School: Piedra Vista High School, 2002 (Farmington, NM)
Community College: Paradise Valley Community College, 2008
New College Major: Interdisciplinary Arts and Performance
Minor: Cultural Anthropology
FAV’s/All About me: I am a media artist. I enjoy working with all aspects of film, audio and photography. I have also spent several years working in theaters and enjoy scenic design. I am a classically trained singer, and I also play the bass guitar.
Something people might not know about you: This summer I went to the Ecuadorian Amazon and made a documentary film about the Napo Runa, the indigenous people that live in that area.
Why I chose the West campus: I chose the West Campus because it has a small community feel. To me this kind of environment is valuable because it allows you to build relationships with professors more easily, thus opening yourself to greater opportunities within your field.
The best experience I’ve had at the West campus: My best experience was last spring at the Undergraduate Student Research Expo. I enjoyed sharing as well as investigating the research of others. I won second place in the creative arts category!
My favorite thing to do in college: I really like to get involved with student organizations and plan events and activities that I am personally invested in.
Fav class at ASU: Sound Performance
My future career/academic goals (jobs/grad school/volunteer etc): After graduation I would like to get an internship with National Geographic or Cirque du Soleil for a year. Then after that I plan to attend graduate school and receive my MFA. Eventually I would like to become a college art professor.
Other Favs: I love to dance! Especially to Latin music!
Advice to prospective NCIAS students:

1. Maintain a positive GPA
2. Get involved in student leadership positions. Not only can this be a learning experience, but also being associated with these types of activities sets you apart from the pack. This is important when applying for scholarships, jobs, or graduate school.
3. Participate in community service.
4. Work a job related to your field.
5. Get to know your professors.

High School: Cactus High School, 2007 (Glendale, AZ)
New College Major: Interdisciplinary Arts & Performance (IAP)
FAV’s/All About me:
Something people might not know about you: I was born in Mexico.
Why I chose the West campus: I chose ASU West because it is a smaller campus, everyone I have met is friendly, and it is close to home!
The best experience I’ve had at the West campus: I would have to say was the RECKless event last spring.
My favorite thing to do in college: I like to sit outside and mingle with friends on a beautiful day by the library or enjoy Fletcher lawn!
Fav class at ASU: IAP 102 – what course is this?
My future career/academic goals (jobs/grad school/volunteer etc): Eventually, I would like to go to graduate school for film studies and maybe even pursue a Ph.D. From there I plan on opening my own production company where I plan on producing commercials, sitcoms, and movies. If I make it big I would love to ultimately start my own non-profit organization that fights against global poverty and hunger.
Other Favs:
Advice to prospective NCIAS students: GO BIG, be the best but still have time to enjoy every moment.

High School: Maryvale High School, 2007 (Phoenix, AZ)
New College Major: Psychology
FAV’s/All About me: I am a first generation college student. I am active and enjoy playing tennis and doing yoga. I like to travel to new places, and I like to go horseback riding. My favorite football team is the Arizona Cardinals. Favorite basketball teams are the Phoenix Suns and the Lakers. I enjoy eating sushi and I love Jamba Juice.
Something people might not know about you: I can’t drive with heels!
Why I chose the West campus: To make close connections with other students, faculty and staff.
The best experience I’ve had at the West campus: I lived in Las Casas for a semester and it was a great experience to become close to my roommates and go to the football games together. I was also part of the Pathways Summer Bridge Program during the summer and I took two classes that helped me prepare me for college and I made really close friends. Being involved in clubs and organizations has been awesome as well; I can make a difference and help people around my community. Working for the Social and Behavioral Science department has been terrific, the staff is amazing and I learn so much, and they have become like my second family.
My favorite thing to do in college: Plan events for the West campus, volunteer, and grab lunch with co-workers and close friends.
Fav class at ASU: Interpersonal Relationships
My future career/academic goals (jobs/grad school/volunteer etc): I want to attend law school or earn a master’s degree in psychology and become a marriage or family therapist. I am planning to do an internship in a law firm and study abroad in Spain.
Other Favs: I would like to try snowboarding, skiing, and indoor skydiving.
Advice to prospective NCIAS students: Do not be afraid to do new things or taking the initiative to make friends and close connections because that is part of the experience in college. Take advantage of the great resources offered, and become involved on campus.

High School: Bourgade Catholic High School – 2006 (Phoenix, AZ)
New College Major: English with a Minor in Public Relations.
Something people might not know about you: I’ve lived in 5 different states and 7 different cities.
Why I chose the West campus: I couldn’t afford to live on campus in Tempe, and I saw my sister was having such a good time at West that I came here!
The best experience I’ve had at the West campus: I really enjoy the homecoming fair at West every year.
My favorite thing to do in college: I love joining clubs and being able to take a lot of different classes that I wouldn’t normally be able to take (such as the Beatles class) if I went to another school.
Fav class at ASU: I love all of my American literature classes, particularly post-Civil War.
My future career/academic goals (jobs/grad school/volunteer etc): I hope, after graduation, to obtain an internship with a baseball team during Spring Training to gain experience to apply to the Sport Management program at the University of San Francisco for my Master’s degree.
Other Favs: I love reading and watching movies. I’m extremely good at remembering movie quotes (if that counts for anything!) and my favorite TV show is Top Chef.
Advice to prospective NCIAS students: Make sure you get involved in any club or organization that interests you in college. New College offers the broadest array of classes at the West campus, providing you with a well-rounded curriculum – and there’s always room for taking interesting and fun classes outside of your major.