2026 Orientation Leaders
Welcome to The Pack!
At UNM you will be introduced to a number of opportunities and programs, but our strongest asset is the people you will meet.
Below are a few of your peers that will help make your transition to UNM as smooth as possible - your New Student Orientation Leaders!
Click Learn More to get to know each leader.

Bella Austin
Film
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Hometown:
Durango, CO
Class Standing:
Sophomore
Why I Chose UNM:
I chose UNM because it has a very good film program and a lot of opportunities with film. I also love how it isn't a huge school.
Best UNM Experience:
My UNM experience has been very good so far. I love the people I have met and the amount of connections I have made at the school. The community is very good.
Advice for New Lobos:
I would say becoming friends with upperclassmen within and outside your major is very good for making connections and getting to know the school better.

Aaliyah Ayanniyi
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Profile information coming soon.

Zoe Baca
Architecture
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Hometown:
Albuquerque, NM
Class Standing:
Senior
Why I Chose UNM:
Growing up in New Mexico with a very sports focused dad, I grew up going to unm games and loving the environment and culture that surrounded the Lobos. I always knew that one day I'd be able to contribute to the love the school showed me as a kid.
Best UNM Experience:
I have met so many beautiful people and friends that I attribute to UNM. Silent Lights is my favorite unm experience because we all giggle at how silly we look but still sing and dance like nobody is in silence.
Advice for New Lobos:
College is what you make of it, so put yourself out there. Get involved, talk to new people, be yourself. Life is too short to be anything but you.

Jonah Bearden
Business Administration
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Hometown:
Windsor, CO
Class Standing:
Junior
Why I Chose UNM:
Albuquerque has a beautiful culture of community, with many scholarship opportunities. I think the students embody that and make it a truly magical place to work together.
Best UNM Experience:
Joining my Fraternity (Pi Kappa Alpha) was the most immersive experience that has taught me leadership and servitude through lots of hands on experiences and opportunities, establishing lifelong friendships along the way.
Advice for New Lobos:
Talk to every single person you have the capacity to, there is a lot of meaning in making small talk and remembering names. Be open to every unique perspective you meet!

Sebastian Bentley
Pre-Economics
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Hometown:
Eugene, OR / Albuquerque, NM
Class Standing:
Sophomore
Why I Chose UNM:
I chose UNM due to the large array of opportunities available at the college along with the financial viability. As well I lived here for most of my formative years and my mom has lived here most of here life so I wanted to stay in the land of enchantment.
Best UNM Experience:
Having lived on campus I was able to enjoy all sorts of things from sand volleyball to game nights with lovely company. Though I must say close second was sitting down with one of my professors at their office hours and talking about the economics of oil for an hour straight
Advice for New Lobos:
The point of college is to build yourself into an adult. Though the main focus of academia always illuminates gaining valuable knowledge for the workplace, something equally important is the new friendships, social skills, and emotional skills that you'll develop and use throughout the rest of your life. The degree is very important, don't ignore your homework, but there's so much more to growing as a student then the workload.

Des Bickerstaff-Peoples
Biology
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Hometown:
Boston, MA
Class Standing:
Junior
Why I Chose UNM:
i chose unm bc i wanted to experience a new environment
Best UNM Experience:
working on campus as an nso leader and resident advisor
Advice for New Lobos:
embrace the journey even when it's hard.. the finish line is so worth it

Angelica Breceda
Business Administration Concentration in Accounting
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Hometown:
Jalisco, Mexico
Class Standing:
Sophomore
Why I Chose UNM:
I chose UNM because I wanted to stay connected to my Mexican roots. New Mexico is a very diverse community full of culture and people from different backgrounds. Since I came from Mexico to pursue a higher education, I found Albuquerque to be such a welcoming environment. The people and the food remind so much of my hometown, while also giving me the opportunity to meet new people and experience new cultures and traditions as part of my college experience.
Best UNM Experience:
My best UNM experience has been attending to the football games. I love the enthusiasm of all students!!
Advice for New Lobos:
Welcome to UNM, new lobos!! As an NSO leader, I want you to know that we've all been in your shoes before. Experiencing a new environment can feel scary, but this is also your time to grow, learn, meet new people, and discover yourself. Enjoy the process!! Don't be afraid to ask questions, as NSO leaders we're always eager to help. And remember, feel the fear and do it anyway!!

Lizzie Briske
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Profile information coming soon.

Christopher Calles Mejia
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Profile information coming soon.

Amy Camilli
Elementary Education
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Hometown:
Albuquerque, NM
Class Standing:
Senior
Why I Chose UNM:
I chose the University of New Mexico because it felt like the right fit for me academically and personally. I like that it offers strong opportunities in my field while still having a supportive, community-focused environment. Being in Albuquerque also stood out to me-the culture and setting make it feel like a place where I could really grow, not just in school but as a person.
Best UNM Experience:
Joining my sorority!
Advice for New Lobos:
Work hard, play hard. And don't be afraid to try new things or sit next to that person on the first day of class.

Jacob Cavanaugh
Exercise Science
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Hometown:
Houston, TX
Class Standing:
Senior
Why I Chose UNM:
I came on a visit for track and field, and really enjoyed with the people I met, the community and the mountains.
Best UNM Experience:
Hanging out with the people that I love at football games and several other UNM hosted events throughout the semesters.
Advice for New Lobos:
Don't be afraid of change, embrace new experiences and enjoy the journey.

Isabella Chavez
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Profile information coming soon.

Desiree Davis
Criminology
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Hometown:
Albuquerque, NM
Class Standing:
First-Year
Why I Chose UNM:
Because UNM is my hometown and my family mean everything to me.
Best UNM Experience:
Creating connections with all different types of people.
Advice for New Lobos:
Live your life the way you want to.

Kellen Eisner
History
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Hometown:
Portland, OR
Class Standing:
Junior
Why I Chose UNM:
I chose UNM because of the incredibly large and welcoming community that made me feel at home from the first day I visited. I'm truly blessed to be able to learn, grow, and laugh with the all incredible people here.
Best UNM Experience:
My favorite experiences have been events such as Red Rally and Fiestas, sitting in the student section at the Pitt for the first time, and taking "Reacting to the Past" classes taught by Dr. Richardson.
Advice for New Lobos:
UNM is an amazing place filled with opportunities for growth and the truly the best people who will help you. To make the most of your time here: Don't be afraid to branch out of your comfort zone, embrace challenges, and don't hesitate to ask for help.

Ana Garcia
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Profile information coming soon.

Isyss Garcia-Ingram
Exercise Science
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Hometown:
Albuquerque, NM
Class Standing:
Junior
Why I Chose UNM:
UNM felt like home from the start! From all the resources offered, to the fun events every week, I feel at place at UNM.
Best UNM Experience:
My favorite UNM experiences have been the social events put on by AASS, or the Fro!
Advice for New Lobos:
Utilize all the resource centers on campus! They can help you with anything, from classes to finding new student organizations to join.

Aralyn Goldsmith
Political Science
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Hometown:
Aztec, NM
Class Standing:
Sophomore
Why I Chose UNM:
I chose UNM because it has allowed me to stay rooted in the state that shaped me while still pushing myself to grow. UNM gives me the space to lead, get involved, and make a real impact, while getting an incredible education for a low cost.
Best UNM Experience:
My best UNM experience has been finding community everywhere I go. No matter your interests, talents, or aspirations, UNM has the resources, organizations, and people to support you. Getting involved with the Associated Students (ASUNM) has been especially meaningful for me I've made close friends, built valuable connections, and had opportunities I never could have imagined finding in my first year of college.
Advice for New Lobos:
It's okay not to have everything figured out right away, but it's not okay to struggle in silence. Take your time, explore your interests, and trust that you'll find your place. There are so many people here who want to see you succeed, and so many resource centers and student services designed to support you every step of the way. Utilize these as much as you can!

Tiana Griego
Pharmacy
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Hometown:
Los Lunas, NM
Class Standing:
Sophomore
Why I Chose UNM:
I chose UNM because it is close to home, and I was able to get out and go to school while still being able to have time for family and friends.
Best UNM Experience:
My best UNM experience was joining ELL in my first semester. I got to learn a lot and know more about the campus and ASUNM, which I plan on going into more through my years at UNM.
Advice for New Lobos:
Try the new things out before you say you hate them: it might actually be something you really like and will do for the rest of your college life.

Karla Guzman
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Profile information coming soon.

Cleo Hahn
Communication
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Hometown:
Albuquerque, NM
Class Standing:
Senior
Why I Chose UNM:
I already had familiarity with the city as an Albuquerque resident, and have visited the campus many times over the years. I also appreciated the generous financial aid and wide availability of degree programs, having been unsure what I wanted to do after high school.
Best UNM Experience:
Field trips with my different student organizations are always stimulating! I particularly enjoyed the two honor society conventions I've been to.
Advice for New Lobos:
I highly recommend joining different student organizations, and looking into those that you get invited to! The benefits can transcend what you know and you will thank yourself later.

Ellie Hinzman
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Profile information coming soon.

Brianna Joseph
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Profile information coming soon.

Claire Kilcullen
Nursing
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Hometown:
Los Lunas, NM
Class Standing:
Junior
Why I Chose UNM:
I chose UNM for nursing because it offers a well-respected program with strong clinical training and hands-on experience early on. I was really drawn to the opportunity to work with diverse patient populations, especially in a state like New Mexico where there are unique healthcare needs.
Best UNM Experience:
Finding a home away from home.
Advice for New Lobos:
Just do it.

Lourdes LeDoux
HILA and Spanish
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Hometown:
Nambe, NM
Class Standing:
Senior
Why I Chose UNM:
UNM has always been a home to me. Both my parents attended the University and I grew up visiting campus and attending sporting events. Being a Lobo is now apart of my identity. I love the student events like Silent Lights and Fiestas. I also love the fact that UNM is an R1 University where I have gotten the opportunity to do research and present it at conferences. Overall, UNM has given me a home and identity.
Best UNM Experience:
My best UNM experience was being able to study abroad. UNM makes study abroad opportunities obtainable for all student. I studied in Caseres, Spain for a month where I was immersed in the Language and Culture while also receiving college credits towards my degree.
Advice for New Lobos:
Hello New Lobos! If I could give you any piece of advice it's to try everything, go to sporting events, talk to new people, join a club or student organization. I am a big believer that there is a place for everyone on campus, you just have to find it.

Melany Marquez
Architecture
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Hometown:
Fort Worth, TX
Class Standing:
Sophomore
Why I Chose UNM:
I chose UNM because I wanted something different. I wasn't fully set on going out of state, but I still wanted to keep my options open in case I changed my mind last minute. So I applied to a few schools outside of Texas, and UNM was one of them. When I visited in person, I instantly loved it, the campus was so beautiful and the whole vibe just felt right.
Best UNM Experience:
I have had many amazing experiences like meeting new people and making a great friend group but I will say i definitely LOVED going to the basketball games the school spirit was great and I loved getting the big hot dogs
Advice for New Lobos:
Do not be scared to meet new people!! I will also say don't lack on your school work it's great to hang out with friends but you are also there for school :)

Miles Marshall
Exercise Science
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Hometown:
La Junta, CO
Class Standing:
Junior
Why I Chose UNM:
The environment and the architecture is what drew me in, the people are why I stayed!
Best UNM Experience:
The New Mexico vs New Mexico State game this past year was one of the best experiences I've had in a long time, enjoying the crowd the team and the atmosphere alike was incredible!
Advice for New Lobos:
Enjoy every second of it. The good, the bad, and the great!

Aliyah Martinez
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Profile information coming soon.

Jayne Medina
History
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Hometown:
Santa Fe, NM
Class Standing:
Sophomore
Why I Chose UNM:
I really really liked the Duck pond during my NSO tour
Best UNM Experience:
I have met so many different and kind people here. In my classes and in my student work too. This school is so expansive and so filled with genuine and sweet people.
Advice for New Lobos:
Stay true to your values and be genuine. You will meet hundreds of people here and as long as you are true to yourself you will succeed.

Hassan Mteuzi
Music theory and comp.
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Hometown:
San Jose, CA
Class Standing:
Sophomore
Why I Chose UNM:
Free tuition was the best opportunity at education I've received for college. I saw it as a great way to encourage New Mexican residents to pursue a degree, so I acted on it!
Best UNM Experience:
Meeting plenty of new and exciting people from vast origins
Advice for New Lobos:
New lobos, be financially responsible!

Kendall Nobles
Exercise science
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Hometown:
Houston, TX
Class Standing:
Senior
Why I Chose UNM:
I chose UNM because of its student focused initiatives !
Best UNM Experience:
All of the resource centers that have been available to me!
Advice for New Lobos:
To put your self out there socially and don't be afraid to make new friends!

Victor Nyachwaya
Computer Science
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Hometown:
Rio Rancho, NM
Class Standing:
Junior
Why I Chose UNM:
I chose UNM because I wanted to be closer to home, has a great engineering program, and is affordable.
Best UNM Experience:
Fiestas, Welcome Back BBQs hosted by the African American Student Services, and being a part of student government.
Advice for New Lobos:
Pursue your academic and career goals but don't let life pass you by while at it.

Amara Ortiz
Business Administration
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Hometown:
Albuquerque, NM
Class Standing:
Sophomore
Why I Chose UNM:
I chose UNM because it felt like home and offered so many opportunities to get involved, grow as a leader, and build meaningful connections.
Best UNM Experience:
My best UNM experience has been the people I've met. Through NSO and getting involved on campus, I've made meaningful friendships and found a strong sense of community.
Advice for New Lobos:
Get involved, stay curious, and don't limit yourself. Some of the best opportunities and friendships come when you step outside your comfort zone. UNM has so much to offer, so take advantage of every opportunity and enjoy the journey.

Jan Poreba
Electrical Engineering & Physics
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Hometown:
Katowice, Poland
Class Standing:
Sophomore
Why I Chose UNM:
UNM offered the exact degree program I wished to pursue--a dual degree in Electrical Engineering and Physics--while also allowing me to continue my long-standing passion for guitar in Prof. Daniel Ward's studio. Plus, I was able to benefit from the really strong scholarship opportunities offered here!
Best UNM Experience:
Performing with the UNM Guitar Quartet and Concert Choir; being part of these representative ensembles and representing UNM through them has been incredibly meaningful to me.
Advice for New Lobos:
Get involved early and find your community, whatever that may mean for you. For me, joining Greek Life made a huge difference--it pushed me out of my comfort zone and introduced me to wonderful people, many of whom I now consider very close friends!

Makenna Ramon
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Profile information coming soon.

Dom Rodriguez
Business: concentrated in finance and accounting
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Hometown:
Denver, CO
Class Standing:
Sophomore
Why I Chose UNM:
I chose UNM so I would not be far from home but still have enough distance to be challenged and grow as an adult and individual.
Best UNM Experience:
My best experience at UNM has been the student events. I feel as though UNM is very supportive and welcoming to any and all, often offering events for all students of all interests to enjoy.
Advice for New Lobos:
The opportunities you're looking for are usually not your room. Go find them.

Bailey Rutherford
Secondary Education (ELA)
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Hometown:
Artesia, NM
Class Standing:
Junior
Why I Chose UNM:
I chose UNM because it was accessible and supported my pursuits in finding my community and identity!
Best UNM Experience:
Working for ASUNM, traveling up to the roundhouse to advocate for student needs and scholarships became the most impact and thrilling experience at UNM.
Advice for New Lobos:
Find your home! Whether a student organization, student leadership, or other extracurriculars, finding a space that celebrates who you are and fuels your passions will keep you excited about college and all it has in store!

Alina Storey
Exercise Science
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Hometown:
Albuquerque, NM
Class Standing:
Sophomore
Why I Chose UNM:
I choose UNM for the community life and culture that is cultivated here!
Best UNM Experience:
Joining my Sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated!
Advice for New Lobos:
Take advantage of any and everything offered, attend clubs, go to events, and eat the food!

Mia Woodard
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Profile information coming soon.
