2023 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!
Ahadu 🐺
Hometown:
Alameda, California
Major(s):Business Administration with a concentration in Finance
Year in School:Sophomore>
- Why did you choose UNM?
I chose UNM, because I believe that it is the best School New Mexico has to offer.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My best UNM experience I have had is when I traveled to Austin, Texas with my student organization called B.L.A.C.K ( Brothers leading in cultivating knowledge) and there is where we attended a black male retreat hosted by UT Austin.
- What advice can you offer new students?
Find some type of support system early! This could be a friend group, student org or etc.
Alex 🐺
Hometown:
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Major(s):Exercise Science
Year in School:Sophomore
- Why did you choose UNM?
Since Albuquerque is my hometown, I always knew I was going to be a Lobo! Campus is so close to home, this community is family.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My favorite UNM experience has to be volunteering in Lobopalooza! Bringing this event back was so fun, I loved the carnival rides.
- What advice can you offer new students?
Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and try something new. I guarantee you can find your interests campus, just got for it!
Amaka 🐺
Hometown:
Rio Rancho, New Mexico
Major(s):Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing
Year in School:Sophomore
- Why did you choose UNM?
I chose UNM because I love Albuquerque and I felt I have the best opportunities here. I also love how close I get to be with family and how affordable it is.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My best UNM experience has been meeting so many different people from different backgrounds.
- What advice can you offer new students?
Stay true to who you are and find people who align with you and your values . Try to have a good time and learn as many lessons as you can!
Ammar 🐺
Hometown:
Brooklyn, New York
Major(s):Business Administration with concentrations in Accounting and Finance
Year in School:Sophomore
- Why did you choose UNM?
I chose UNM because it is regarded as the top rank college in New Mexico. Also, it was close to my house.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My NSO experience was probably my most fun experience I had in UNM. There were many fun activities and it was overall a very enjoyable experience.
- What advice can you offer new students?
Choose a major that you will enjoy because if you don't have the passion for the subject you are studying, you will not enjoy your time at UNM!
Amy 🐺
Hometown:
Taos, New Mexico
Major(s):Secondary Education
Year in School:Senior
- Why did you choose UNM?
I could tell that a lot of people had really good experiences here and it made a lot of sense to take advantage of all the resources in-state.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
I’ve gotten to be a part of some great community spaces here where I’ve made the majority of my friends and done a lot of fun projects.
- What advice can you offer new students?
Go to the events that places like the SUB and residence halls put on. There is often free food and that’s where I’ve met some of my best friends.
Bella 🐺
Hometown:
Los Angeles, California
Major(s):International Studies
Year in School:Junior
- Why did you choose UNM?
- UNM is an environment for students to thrive academically as well as grow through their college years. They also have a lot of options to help support their out of state students!
- What has been your best UNM experience?
Red Rally! It’s a great event to show your school spirit.
- What advice can you offer new students?
Use your resources on campus! UNM has so many resources on campus to help you thrive academically, socially etc. so don’t be afraid to use them.
Bethany 🐺
Hometown:
Portland, Oregon
Major(s):Psychology
Year in School:Junior
- Why did you choose UNM?
When I was thinking about future colleges, I wanted to go somewhere where it has warm weather, the diversity and a want to go out of state. UNM was the best option that fulfilled what I was looking for. I am glad to be an upcoming junior where I can showcase to future students what UNM has to offer!
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My best experience would probably be working at Asian American Pacific Islander Resource Center where I get to meet so many AAPI students at UNM! I love hosting events where we showcase different AAPI cultures and get to eat different food from many cultures.
- What advice can you offer new students?
It is okay if you do not what the future holds, live in the present because that is what matter for your future self.
Braidyn 🐺
Hometown:
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Major(s):Nursing
Year in School:Sophomore
- Why did you choose UNM?
I love what UNM has to offer, the community, the classes, the experiences, and the people!
- What has been your best UNM experience?
Being able to connect with new people, to go play late night soccer or volleyball and create new lifelong friendships.
- What advice can you offer new students?
Your grades don’t define you. You’ve got this. Try your best and don’t forget to enjoy college!
Delaney 🐺
Hometown:
Artesia, New Mexico
Major(s):Business Administration
Year in School:Sophomore
- Why did you choose UNM?
The opportunity given by not only that state, but UNM themselves was too generous to not be taken. But also the ability to walk through the same university as so many people in my life have, is amazing.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
As bitter sweet as it may seem the last week my friends and I had together. I will be forever grateful that fate brought us together.
- What advice can you offer new students?
Take the jump. You’re not the only one feeling unsure. To grow, each of us has to push the limits of who we are!!
Gabby 🐺
Hometown:
Tohatchi, New Mexico
Major(s):Psychology
Year in School:Senior
- Why did you choose UNM?
I chose UNM as it allowed me to be close to home. This assisted me to balance my school and spend time with my family. UNM is overall a great school and I am glad I chose to come here. I am even more glad that you chose to come join the Lobo community.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My best UNM experience has been becoming an Orientation Leader last summer of 2022. This is where I established social networks and opportunities. Most importantly, I have met lifelong friends that are uniquely cool to surround myself with when having a bad day or needing advice.
- What advice can you offer new students?
Get out there and meet new people. College flies by trust me. Enjoy every moment of it. College is way more than going to classes. Have fun while taking care of your responsibilities. ;)
Gabriella 🐺
Hometown:
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Major(s):Political Science
Year in School:Sophomore
- Why did you choose UNM?
I chose UNM because it was close to home and is a beautiful campus.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My best UNM experience has definitely been fiestas. It was so much fun to volunteer, eat the great food, listen to live music, and hang out with friends!
- What advice can you offer new students?
Try to get involved as soon as you can! College can be tricky to navigate and it’s always good to have people you can count on.
Georgie 🐺
Hometown:
Red Wing, Minnesota
Major(s):Dental Hygiene
Year in School:Sophomore
- Why did you choose UNM?
I wanted to be somewhere new and step out of my comfort zone. The campus at UNM is beautiful and I fell in love with it when I toured here. I felt at home at UNM so I knew I needed to come here.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My best experience at UNM has been working on campus. I have loved working on campus and working with my peers. Working on campus makes making friends and meeting people a lot easier.
- What advice can you offer new students?
Go to the events on campus. Even if you aren’t interested in the event or activity they are holding go to the events because all the ones I have been to are so much fun.
Jadyn 🐺
Hometown:
Rio Rancho, New Mexico
Major(s):Global & National Security
Year in School:Junior
- Why did you choose UNM?
I chose UNM because it offered me a great education and the full college experience while being close to home. Not only is the University affordable and accessible, the community both on and off campus is tight-knit.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My best UNM experience has been becoming involved in campus life. By joining Greek Life, Student Government, and volunteering I have made my best friends and memories. These organizations have also helped me learn more about other communities and grow professionally.
- What advice can you offer new students?
My biggest piece of advice would be to get involved! UNM offers various extracurricular activities and there is something for everyone. Second, don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. There are always events happening on campus that benefit you!
Janessa 🐺
Hometown:
Santo Domingo Pueblo
Major(s):Psychology
Year in School:Sophomore
- Why did you choose UNM?
Luckily enough, there were a variety of scholarship opportunities that helped pay for my expenses and it’s not too far from home.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
I don’t have to ask to go to the bathroom or come up w an excuse to leave class like in high school.
- What advice can you offer new students?
You only live once. Don’t take life too seriously. : )
Jazzmann 🐺
Hometown:
St. Louis, Missouri
Major(s):Nursing & Psychology
Year in School:Sophomore
- Why did you choose UNM?
I chose UNM because it has a great nursing school.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My best UNM experience had been doing greek life.
- What advice can you offer new students?
The best word of advice I can give to new Lobos is always be yourself, be true to you and you won't have to find friends, friends will find you.
Jewel 🐺
Hometown:
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Major(s):Criminology
Year in School:Sophomore
- Why did you choose UNM?
I chose UNM because I was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I knew since I was very little I'd be a Lobo!
- What has been your best UNM experience?
Some of my best experiences with UNM have been the extracurricular activities - for me this is the basketball, football, and baseball games.
- What advice can you offer new students?
Take care of your physical and mental well-being while in college. You're going to be exposed to so many new things, places, people, and experiences that it'll be very easy to feel overwhelmed. Enjoy UNM for all of its experiences.
Jiaju 🐺
Hometown:
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Major(s):Business Administration
Year in School:Senior
- Why did you choose UNM?
I wanted a place that offered good classes and extracurricular activities.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
The honors college has unique classes that helped me go beyond the traditional college courses.
- What advice can you offer new students?
Go and socialize a lot especially the first couple semesters.
Julián 🐺
Hometown:
Hatch, New Mexico
Major(s):Chicano and Chicana Studies & Spanish
Year in School:Junior
- Why did you choose UNM?
I chose UNM because I wanted an experience beyond rural Hatch Valley. I wanted to expand my knowledge of New Mexico and explore interests in a new environment. UNM gave me the opportunity to grow as an individual and scholar.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My best experience at UNM has been getting involved with multiple students organizations and getting to have a home away from home with El Centro de La Raza.
- What advice can you offer new students?
Get involved, speak up for whats not right, and never settle for less.
Karen 🐺
Hometown:
El Paso, Texas
Major(s):Biochemistry
Year in School:Sophomore
- Why did you choose UNM?
UNM was the university that I chose because I was interested in pursuing a career in pharmacology. This university had the only pharmacy school in the state of New Mexico, but since I am from out of state, I was also interested in living in a different place. Scholarships and financial aid that were available helped me afford to take classes and stay in the dorm, even as an out-of-state student. Since I am a Mexican American student, when I read that UNM was one of the few majority-minority schools and that it was an accepting and kind environment where you will be respected, regardless of who you are, it helped me decide.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
If I had to decide I would have to say it probably would be the Silent Lights, I went to this event during the fall semester with a group of my friends. The three DJs played different kinds of music, the event was amazing and so much fun. This was also a chance to make new friends and be part of the Lobo events, something to keep in mind was that all of this was free and available for University of New Mexico students.
- What advice can you offer new students?
My advice would be to learn about the resources, go to job fairs, and to club fairs. There is always a place where you will feel comfortable and even if the college can be confusing at times always reach out and ask for help!
Karina 🐺
Hometown:
Artesia, New Mexico
Major(s):English & Religious Studies
Year in School:junior
- Why did you choose UNM?
I chose UNM because I love Albuquerque! It was affordable and accessible to my needs when I was applying to various colleges. It also helps that the campus is beautiful!
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My best UNM experience has truly been my time serving as a New Student Orientation Leader! This is my second year doing it because I loved it so much the first time! I was able to make many connections with campus partners, and I even found lifelong friends while doing it!
- What advice can you offer new students?
College is the time for you to grow, so don't be afraid to explore and try new things! Step out of your comfort zone!!
Leaf 🐺
![Leaf](:"/render/file.act?path=/images/2023-nsols/leaf.png")
Hometown:
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Major(s):Secondary Education - Math
Year in School:Sophomore
- Why did you choose UNM?
UNM was close to home, and while that is a great thing it also has some amazing programs especially for education. This was also the college both of my parents went to and where my brother is going. Got to keep the tradition alive!
- What has been your best UNM experience?
All the activities thrown! Burning the aggie, the beginning of school meet up in the sub. It all helps get you excited about being a lobo and lets you meet more people!
- What advice can you offer new students?
Use all the resources you are given! There are so many places, clubs, resource centers and so much more that can be used to help get the best out of your college life. They are their for your benefit so make use out of them!
Lobo Louie 🐺
Hometown:
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Major(s):Wolf Conservation Sciences
Year in School:Senior
- Why did you choose UNM?
Well, it's a long story... UNM used to have a live Lobo as a mascot that was taken care of by the cheerleaders. Things were great, until later on in the 1920’s when a child teased the wolf and was bitten, necessitating that the wolf be taken away. That's how I came along! I guess you can say, "I didn't choose the Lobo Life, the Lobo Life chose me!"
I am certainly glad the child was okay, but I do owe my career to that incident.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
Wow! There are too many to count. If I had to sum it up to one experience I would say the best experience is being in The Pit with 18,000 other Lobos chanting “Everyone’s a Lobo, woof woof woof!”.
- What advice can you offer new students?
You are now part of the Pack! Everyone helps everyone around here and you are no different! Don't be afraid to ask for help! Also, be sure to remember that 'Friends don't let friends go to State!'
Mack 🐺
Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia
Major(s):Nursing
Year in School:Junior
- Why did you choose UNM?
I chose UNM because I really enjoyed the social atmosphere, and the Nursing program felt like a great fit for me.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My best UNM experience thus far is meeting the people that I hold today to be my best mentors and friends.
- What advice can you offer new students?
Do not be afraid to put yourself out there; making friends with students, and developing good relationships with professors will help you so much throughout your time here!
Makayla 🐺
Hometown:
N/A
Major(s):N/A
Year in School:N/A
- Why did you choose UNM?
N/A
- What has been your best UNM experience?
N/A
- What advice can you offer new students?
N/A
Miriam 🐺
Hometown:
San Antonio, Texas
Major(s):Political Science & Chicano and Chicana Studies
Year in School:Sophomore
- Why did you choose UNM?
I chose UNM Because as an out-of-state student from a major city, I wanted to explore a small city with new opportunities. Once I got on campus I knew that UNM was the place for me with all the support that I was given as a student!
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My Favorite UNM experience is Silent Lights. I had never been to a silent dance so I was very confused at first but I had the most amazing time ever! I was able to change the station to different types of music and dance the night away with my friends!
- What advice can you offer new students?
1) get out of your comfort zone! I know you don't know anyone and it might be awkward at first to put yourself out there but that's how you make UNM your new home. 2) Use the resources on campus! There are so many organizations and resource centers that are ready to help and support you through your time at UNM you just have to seek them out.
Secondly, use your recourses!!! UNM offers really good recourses that are so beneficial when you use them! I highly recommended using the free tutoring service called CAPS and there are so many others like counseling, medical and recreational services.
Nathalia 🐺
Hometown:
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Major(s):Psychology
Year in School:Sophomore
- Why did you choose UNM?
I chose UNM because of how affordable it was! It was also really close to home so I can be with my family and friends.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My best experience at UNM has to be Fiestas! Everyone had gotten together and we have multiple DJ’s and performers! Also being part of a sorority and being involved on campus definitely shapes your experience.
- What advice can you offer new students?
Get Involved and Make Friends! Also make the most out of college because this is the time of your life where you get to be yourself and have as much fun as possible. It’s not just about classes it’s also about making many memories.
Nick 🐺
Hometown:
Denver, Colorado
Major(s):Anthropology and Political Science
Year in School:Senior
- Why did you choose UNM?
I chose UNM because of the diversity and culture it has. Growing up in Denver, I never met people or ideas I encountered in Albuquerque and UNM. It has also contributed significantly to my education, introducing me to ideas and concepts I find integral to my future goals
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My best experience at UNM has been the tiny moments. Things like studying, going to the duck pond, or walking around campus might not seem like much, but I consider them the foundation for greater ventures. They have often led to driving up to the Sandia Crest, going to the Artwalk, or shopping at the Railyards.
- What advice can you offer new students?
You're responsible for your own experiences. In my first year, I expected people and moments to just come to me, which ultimately resulted in disappointment. You have to be proactive in finding your community and activities. When you have the ambition and desire to do something, jump on it. The worst feeling in the world is regretting not doing something.
Nyla 🐺
Hometown:
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Major(s):Biology
Year in School:Sophomore
- Why did you choose UNM?
I chose UNM since it was the school that would be the most affordable for my twin brother and I to go to at the same time. I also chose to stay close by to my family!
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My best UNM experience has been meeting new people. Meeting new people from diverse backgrounds has allowed me to be open to trying new things and joining organizations such as LoboTHON and Emerging Lobo Leaders!
- What advice can you offer new students?
College is what you make of it! There is more to college than just going to class so be involved and try to meet new people along the way! The more involvement you have will make your adjustment to UNM much easier!
Tessa 🐺
Hometown:
Las Cruces, New Mexico
Major(s):Journalism and Mass Communication & Political Science
Year in School:Sophomore
- Why did you choose UNM?
I chose UNM because it felt like home to me. With my mom being an alumna of UNM, I grew up with a strong sense of loyalty and connection to the university. UNM's vibrant campus culture and welcoming community made me feel instantly comfortable and excited to be part of the Lobo family. Moreover, the decision to attend UNM was also driven by practical considerations. As a cost-conscious student, UNM provided the most cost-effective option for me and my family.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
The best part of my UNM experience has been all of the amazing different people I have met. UNM has such a rich and diverse community and it’s been amazing to see everyone come together to show school spirit.
- What advice can you offer new students?
Remember that it's perfectly okay to not have a concrete plan right now. College is a time of exploration and self-discovery, so allow yourself the freedom to explore different interests and career paths. Embrace this period of growth and personal development, as it's an opportunity to broaden your horizons and discover your true passions. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. College is the perfect time to push your boundaries, try new things, and meet new people. Embrace the unfamiliar and embrace the challenges, as they will shape you into a more confident and resilient individual. Trust in your abilities, embrace the journey, and make the most of your time as a Lobo!
Trina 🐺
Hometown:
Rio Rancho, New Mexico
Major(s):Art Education
Year in School:Sophomore
- Why did you choose UNM?
I chose UNM because it has an amazing art program, and this is my hometown where all of my family still lives!
- What has been your best UNM experience?
As an art education major, I get to witness and be a part of a ton of the art museum exhibits inside the Masley hall, where young children get to present their work and it’s been an amazing experience getting to be a part of this. I also have been able to be a part of selling artwork along with my classmates at certain events outside the SUB!
- What advice can you offer new students?
Go for what you want to do and what you want your future to look like! I started doing something I didn't’t necessarily want to do because I was talked into it, but ended up changing my major last semester to something I am extremely excited about! Don’t be afraid to follow your dreams, and it is always okay to change your mind for a major.
Vanessa 🐺
Hometown:
Rio Rancho, New Mexico
Major(s):Biochemistry
Year in School:Sophomore
- Why did you choose UNM?
I choose UNM because of the diverse campus that makes you feel welcome and makes you feel like you always have a place. With the support I have been able to be put on a successful path to accomplish my goals for the future. Also UNM was very financially affordable and close to home which played a big factors in choosing this university!
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My best experience at UNM was being able to meet new people from diverse backgrounds that allowed me to make some of the best of friends. With the diversity I was able to try new things while being more involved.
- What advice can you offer new students?
A word of advice for new Lobos is never give up on your dreams! There is going to be bumps in the roads or sudden unexpected changes but if you keep showing up for yourself and putting in the work, everything will fall into place because it’s all part of the plane, and everything happens for a reason.
Yasmeen 🐺
Hometown:
San Diego, California
Major(s):Architecture
Year in School:Junior
- Why did you choose UNM?
I chose UNM because, at the time, it was the better option for me: it has a good architecture program and I would be qualified under the Amigo's Program (where out-of-state students will pay in-state tuition if they are transferring from qualifying colleges). I believe it is my best option out of the expense of going into a different state.
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My best experience at UNM has to be the helpful community. Coming from someone who is from out-of-state and has no local connections coming in, I was afraid of navigating my way around campus and even around Albuquerque, NM. I am grateful to say that I have the most helpful connections from friends, classmates, staff, and many others that made my first-year experience worthwhile.
- What advice can you offer new students?
The best advice I can offer new Lobos is always to ask questions. Do not be afraid if it is outrageous or if it has been answered because you are asking for yourself and others who may not be able to speak up. Also, it is good to know the information now than it is later down the line or at the last minute.
Zoe 🐺
Hometown:
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Major(s):Exercise Science
Year in School:Sophomore
- Why did you choose UNM?
I chose UNM because it had the most opportunities and resources for a great price. I also wanted to stay near my family and friends. I have no regrets!
- What has been your best UNM experience?
My best UNM experience was probably the Fiestas Music Festival this spring! It was so fun to hang out outside with my friends and peers while listening to awesome music and eating good food.
- What advice can you offer new students?
Use any and all resources and programs as you can! They are here to help everyone succeed and have an amazing college experience. It seriously can make the college experience
Designed by Sophia Saavedra
