By Alexandra Wigmore, NU Scholar (July 2018 Cohort)
Master of Arts, Education with Single Subject Credential in Health Science – Los Angeles
https://portfolium.com/AlexandraWigmo
The NU Scholar’s Program has changed my life in the best way possible. When I started as a National University graduate student to earn my Master’s degree in Education with a Single-Subject credential in Health Science, I knew that I was taking a leap of faith going back to school after so many years. I was nervous, but felt a pull to earn this degree. I had been through different career paths in my life, but nothing has made me feel as whole as helping young people through service, compassion, and education. I knew I needed to continue my life in a field where I could serve and help change the lives of others.
I had only been enrolled in my program for a few months when I received a life-changing email inviting me to apply for the NU Scholar’s Program. At first, it seemed too good to be true, and I researched this program and called many different people to make sure I was really understanding what it offered. I saw so many opportunities that this program could offer me—as well as ways that I could contribute to this program—and I worked hard to prepare for the application and interview process.
I still feel lucky and beyond grateful to have earned a spot in the July 2018 Cohort. While I knew this program was special, nothing could have prepared me for just how meaningful it has been and continues to be. This program offers a pathway to be your best self, and the support, encouragement, and drive I feel from being in this program are unlike anything else I’ve experienced. We are encouraged to form connections with fellow scholars, administration, and staff, and receive the warmest and most supportive feedback. I am encouraged to pursue my dreams and I never feel that something is too far out of reach. I have met inspiring people who have added to my knowledge, passion, and insight into how to change the world for the better.
One key aspect of the NU Scholars Program is creating a Community-Based Leadership Project. While I was intimated by this at first, now am just inspired, especially as I learn how I am not alone in this pursuit. The NU Scholar’s Program has provided me with networking tools, leadership and editing skills, more informed opinions, positive insight, and constructive thoughts on how to take my ideas from inception to execution. The connections I continue to make through this program have convinced me that we can all achieve what we set our minds to.
The NU Scholar’s Program is a chain reaction of hope, drive, accomplishments, positive influences, and hard work. As an NU Scholar, I have so many people I trust whom I can turn to for extra support and advice. I am provided with trainings, readings, community service projects, and advice to grow as a person, leader, student, and scholar. The NU Scholar’s Program has been my motivating factor through my time at National University. The support that this program offers me keeps me going as I continue to work my hardest and to strive to be the best version of myself. I have always had a passion for helping others, and the NU Scholar’s Program has given me unique opportunities to make my dreams a reality. I have realized, through this program, that no dream or idea is too big, and that with the right support, anything is possible.
The CSEA Student Voice 