UNC Community

"At the end of my sophomore year I had the opportunity to take a course over the summer in Trieste, Italy. I was able to travel to 4 countries throughout my study abroad experience. Those being, England, France, Italy, and Croatia. Throughout my study-abroad experience, I was able to gain knowledge from a different perspective and learn about other cultures. That being different food, music, traditions, education, and languages. This trip gave me personal growth and mind-openness. This experience has been one of the best in my college career so far. Being a first-generation student I never thought I would take a course across the country. I personally think it is important to consider studying abroad even if it is only for a month. You will realize the potential you have and what else there is in this world for you to discover."

"UNC has given me the opportunity to be involved in many groups, both within my major and outside! I've been grateful to be included in the World Percussion Ensemble. I was asked to join as the first non-percussion major in the group and the percussion studio welcomed me with open arms. I am incredibly lucky to be able to participate in a group that has such a fantastic learning environment and has allowed me to continue my passion for music while being an art major!“ 

“The summer before I began classes at UNC, I was awarded the Reisher scholarship, and I can honestly say that access to education is what saved my life, because without it, I would have struggled to find employment with a criminal record and two young children to support.  Beginning in 2014, it was the Reisher program and UNC faculty who helped me create a space on campus to honor victims and survivors of domestic sex trafficking, and ultimately provided the foundation upon which I was able to start Free Our Girls.  After graduating with my BS in Finance in 2016, I continued to work full time at building this nationally-serving non-profit.  In the fall of 2018, I decided to return to grad school at UNC to pursue a MA in Sociology because one of the greatest weaknesses in domestic anti-trafficking work currently is an utter lack of adequate data to support exit and recovery services that are so desperately needed.  In addition to Free Our Girls, I am excited to announce that Dr. Henderson and I are launching Avery Research & Consulting so that we can continue our work in providing a platform for victim and survivor voices to be heard by the agencies and professionals who need to hear them.   If I had to offer one piece of unsolicited advice, it would be to NEVER give up on yourself and a better future.  For nearly a decade of my life, I heard abusers tell me daily that I was worthless, stupid, and would never succeed without them.  I am living proof that anything is possible when you believe in yourself – and the last 6 years are just the beginning!“ 

“Being at UNC is very liberating and gratifying! It helps that I found an amazing forever family before I transitioned into college. Growing up, while moving around so much and finding out who I am as a person in the world, kind of took a toll on my confidence of being a functioning, participating human within society. But finding such an amazing family and then having their support to come to a school like UNC really changed my mindset. It gave me not only confidence but also a sense of security. I don’t hang onto my parents for dear life while navigating the tribulations of young adulthood, but it’s comforting to know that they are there should I ever need them. If I were to give any advice or guidance to those coming into or already in college, I would say to hold your head high, be confident that you will overcome the obstacles set in your way, and be prepared to have fun and be thrown into the crazy whirlwind of adulthood! We all have bad days, but it’s your choice on whether or not that bad day will define who you really are.” 

“I recently graduated from UNC with a degree in Early Childhood Special Education. I started back up again to get my master’s degree in Special Education. In my undergraduate education, I loved having small classes and access to many different experiences in my field. My advice to current Bears is to think of your schooling as an investment. It’s your money, so use it wisely. Take school seriously, get the most out of your money, find a passion, and continue to pursue that passion every day.”

“As a first-generation college student, I didn't know what to expect after high school. I applied to 8-10 schools before the end of the fall semester of my senior year. I decided to attend the DPS Day event on UNC's campus that same fall, had no desire to attend. It wasn't until a former admissions counselor, Ruby White changed my life for the best. When I received an email about the "Black Admitted Student Trip" happening in May, regardless of my previous experience I knew I had to attend. After that day and a half stay on campus, allowed me to see there was no other place I could be but UNC.  Over the past three-and-half years here on this campus, I've been blessed beyond measure. Living, working, and being classmates with some of the most awe-inspiring I have ever met is the reason why I'm still here. It has been easy, many bumps in the road and often times uncertainty on what direction to go. However, through the endless and deeply rewarding opportunities that this university has provided my peers and I, is what has made all the time spent here worthwhile. As I enter this last semester and near a close to this chapter in my life, I look forward to building with the tools, exposure, and Loved obtained here.”

“As a first generation college student, leaving my friends and family from my small town wasn’t easy. I remember the first few weeks living in the dorms, I would jump up in the middle of the night anytime I heard a siren, because I was so used to my quiet country life. Going to UNC was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I met great professors and other students that really made the transition to a bigger city away from my family better. I am proud to graduate from the School of Special Education this December as a UNC Bear.“

“Coming from a family in which neither parent made it past elementary school, it is an honor to demonstrate that my parent’s sacrifices of coming to a new country, working long hours, and sacrificing time together are finally paying off. Being a minority and first-generation college student in the educational field can be intimidating, but through the diverse learning opportunities at UNC I have learned to embrace being a Latina in a minority field of work. Becoming a first-generation college student and moving to Colorado from California has been the most rewarding adventure I’ve had so far. Thanks to the Cumbres program, as well as Dr. Francie Murry and Dr. Jennifer Urbach I was able to find my place at UNC. Fall 2018 I will officially become the first in my family to graduate from UNC with my bachelor of arts in Special Education with an endorsement in English as a second language thanks to all of those who have continuously, and unconditionally supported me throughout this journey here at UNC.”

“I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. Growing up, I was the oldest of four, so I naturally played the “teacher” role often with my siblings. When applying to colleges, I knew UNC had a top-notch teacher education program, so it was an easy choice. In the past four-and-a-half years, I have grown in my faith and found a strong Christian community. I have also grown in my passion and experience as a teacher. Here at UNC, my professor taught, not only information, but shared their experiences, wisdom, and passion for teaching. I am so thankful to be graduating as a UNC bear!”

“When people ask why I chose UNC, I always say, “because of the people”. I chose UNC because I randomly met a professor, at a high school event, who talked to me about the Cumbres program, a program for students who aspire to be educators, and ever since, he and his colleagues made sure I had everything I needed to be successful in college. Cumbres connected me with many resources others on campus who were also very welcoming and supportive. Professors were always nice and willing to help, and many of them have become life-long friends.  As a student I loved that there were many opportunities for involvement for people who looked like me.  Currently, as the DREAMer Engagement Program Coordinator and I collaborate with many partners on campus to provide a smoother transition and a successful college experience for DREAMers, and it is evident how much other staff members care for our students. Everyone is willing to go out of their way to make sure students succeed. UNC es definitivamente mi hogar dulce hogar.“

“I am a senior studying History with licensure in Secondary Education. I chose UNC because I knew it would prepare me for teaching and also for the amazing history faculty. Besides teaching, my biggest passions are in sports and my roles Outdoor Pursuits where I’ve called home since my freshman year. I’m also very big on traveling and am currently writing this while in Nepal on a faculty led study abroad. This is actually my third Faculty Lead Study Abroad (FLSA), the previous two being to Iceland and Guyana, all under the geography department. I decided to join the Nepal trip to experience new cultures, learn more about conservation, and because it is being led by the amazing Dr. Karen Barton (TAKE A CLASS WITH HER IF YOU CAN). Sko Bears!”

“I hope to become a viable member of the medical community, whether that be through med- or P.A. school, through researching and developing possible antibiotics for the emerging species that come to be immune to established antibiotics, or as a medic in the field for the military or peace corps. All very intuitive paths of my biology major! UNC offers very accessible research. The professors are quick to suggest students for very important and applicable lab techniques or clinical experience. UNC also offers many opportunities to enjoy both the small town of Greeley and Colorado as the beautiful state it is while being a cheaper, yet very legitimate university. Outdoor Pursuits has truly driven that concept home!

My advice to other students–Experience immediately! Opportunities are easy to take ahold of and it merely takes the confidence to talk to people and put yourself out there.”

“I chose UNC because I wanted to use the opportunity to get out of New England and see what Colorado had to offer. It feels as if I just got here, but the end of my college experience is only 15 weeks away. When I graduate in the spring, I aspire to take all my experiences here and apply them to my future-I never want to become complacent. I started my adventures here in Colorado and I can't wait to see what the rest of my travels have in store for me. For those students coming up after me, I hope they never forget what they learn here- not just in their classes, but through their relationships, trials and successes, late nights, and new found independence.”

“I was born in Matamoros Coahuila, Mexico, and I am an Enrollment Coach and University Recruiter, and I am also the coordinator of the DREAMer Engagement Program and Multicultural Outreach Recruitment and Ambassador Program at UNC. I arrived to UNC 9 years ago with 10 dollars, broken English,  and many dreams and hopes, however, because of the many resources and people who are committed to student success, I graduated Magna Cum Laude and found my passion and current job, which is to help students from historically marginalized communities pursue their dreams. Through my experiences at UNC, I have learned that everyone has a chance to be someone here, no matter where you come from or what your goals are. My advice to students is to find their passions, find what makes you smile and happy, and find a career that will let you “be the person you needed when you were younger.”

Aspiring graphic designer KT: 

“As a graphic design student at the University of Northern Colorado (Go Bears!), I have had many opportunities and professional learning experiences here. The design program is amazing and has provided me with in-depth training I can use in my future career. I’m getting real-world experiences with my internship here on campus designing communication and marketing pieces ranging from postcards and posters to booklets and promo items. I’m also utilizing my videographer skills by being able develop and create informational videos that help our current and future bears understand some of the processes here on campus. It’s been great to see my work being used in practical situations and helping the university help others. My entire experience so far here has encouraged me to look at things from a different perspective as well as help me realize that my dreams are coming true.”

The story of Talia Carroll - Director of the Marcus Garvey Cultural Center:

“I’ve lived an interesting life – well, at least I think it’s interesting; you be the judge. For the early years of my life I was raised by a young, single parent. We were financially poor, but absolutely rich in love. When my family talks about me as a young child, it seems I must have been fun and kept them on their toes. I guess the only thing that’s changed is that I’m fun, but also have a family reputation for being lovingly pushy. You know, because I care about everyone living their best lives. When I was young, my parent married and we became a military family. That means I got to live in three different countries (Portugal, Singapore, and Spain) and travel extensively as a teenager. It’s during these experiences where I’d categorize my family as middle-income (perhaps you’re aware that folks in the military don’t earn a lot of money). I recall still being that same lovingly pushy person I told y’all about a moment ago. I shared that because I try to be consistent in how I show up in life. I offer the same lovingly pushy energy to anyone who’s willing to accept it. It’s where my top five strengths really shine – like sunshine bright. My greatest, most fulfilling moments as a human are offering support to people and helping them know how great they are. Sometimes, it’s hard to really see ourselves as cool, helpful, kind, thoughtful humans, so it takes someone to remind you. Being able to offer those kinds of reminders fill my cup immensely.

As the second person in my family to attend and graduate from college, I think people made some assumptions that I knew what I was doing. I did not. Matter of fact, none of my educational experiences were easy fully understood by me. So, when I have the opportunity to connect with students and students of color in particular, I do my best to offer a level of encouragement I know was helpful to me as an undergraduate. Each student’s experience is different, so I do my best to individualize “advice” or informed suggestions as they navigate their academic and life experiences. Ultimately, if we’re putting in everything we’ve got and doing the best we can, that’s all that matters. Our lives are just a bunch of squiggly lines trying to figure out the ‘right’ way to go, but really as long as there’s movement, we should celebrate. So, students, celebrate the victories…the itsty bitsy ones that don’t always seem worth it to celebrate, and the gigantic ones you want to scream from the mountaintop (or just the corner of the busiest intersection on campus). Speaking of victories and a life changing college experience, I secured a full scholarship (yes, even after having no idea how to be a college student) that paid for my undergraduate degree. I’m still pretty proud of that and always want to hear the victories of students I encounter.

As a result of the challenges and victories I got to enjoy, I realized that higher education was for me. Every single day, I am fortunate to connect with some amazing humans – students, staff, and faculty – who make UNC what it is. Recently, I had the opportunity to engage with a group of students about what it looks like to think about and reach our potential. It was a healing space for me as I thought about so many of the people in the room whose stories I know. They are intelligent, beautiful, charismatic, funny, hard-working, ever-evolving people who are growing into better versions of themselves every single day. So, who wouldn’t want to be in higher education when you have the opportunity to be filled up by such good energy? And sure, it’s not every day that I get to be immersed in that kind of beauty and joy, but I sure do cling to it when it comes my way.

As the director of the Marcus Garvey Cultural Center, I have had countless opportunities to scream with joy, cry with, hug, challenge, encourage, and listen to countless students who are getting closer to graduation as each day passes. I get to work with colleagues who are truly invested in and care about students (which brings a smile to my face, of course). And, I continue to explore opportunities to work with faculty on addressing the academic support of our students, which a particular emphasis on being culturally responsive. In addition to the relationships I build and try to nurture, I wouldn’t be who I am if it weren’t for the challenges I frequently encounter – whether it’s with people, processes, or management of resources. It’s at UNC and in the role of director, where I’ve developed who I am as a practitioner-scholar and for that, I’m grateful. I look forward to continued opportunities to learn, grow, and connect on our campus!”

What is it like being a first-generation student?

“As a first generation student coming to college was a very rough transition. It was hard finding the support I needed, my parents didn’t know anything about the application process for schools and for financial aid. My mom dropped out in 9th grade and my dada in 10th grade, so me going on to college was huge. Although it was a rough path, I found my way with the support of school counselors and advisors. UNC’s different clubs and programs most definitely gave me the boost I needed. Not only do they help you feel included, but they also give you lots of great information for important things such as internships and grad school applications. I’m now a junior and going strong towards the finish line! And it’s safe to say I will not be going into grad school completely blindfolded this time.”