New Student Orientation is led by students from all majors and backgrounds who are actively involved at UNLV. They will share their student experience and answer any questions you have.
Join Our Orientation Leader Team
Looking for a job on campus where you can make a real impact and gain valuable leadership skills?
Adrian
High School: Gladstone High School
Hometown: Azusa, CA
Major: Hospitality
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I chose UNLV because of its affordable tuition and endless opportunities. This school has been ranked as one of the most diverse campuses in the country, and interacting with so many people from different backgrounds has allowed me to build various relationships.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
College is a time to discover what you want to do, don't feel discouraged to fail or even switch majors. Mistakes will be made, and that is completely fine. Remember to make the most of your experiences, meet new people, and get involved!
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
Since attending UNLV, I joined a multicultural fraternity, became an orientation leader over the summer, and even worked as a mentor in the Office of Admissions. Getting involved on campus has opened many doors for me and continues to shed light on my college experiences.
Alex
High School: Southwest Career and Technology Academy
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: English with a concentration in Creative Writing
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I wanted a place I knew would allow me to grow and explore my interest in careers.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Say YES to opportunities! Take Chances: life is too short to say no!
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I am currently involved with a service organization called Circle K International, where we help out in different communities through community service and fundraising for charities!
Alfred
Hometown: Singapore
Major: Hospitality Management
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I found my calling in Hospitality when I realized meeting new people from all over the world and ensuring their vacation is a lifelong memorable one was my passion. The Hospitality Program at UNLV is ranked as one of the best in the world. And thus, that is where my legs brought me!
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Coffee is your friend. Having a to-do list and being organized makes everything easier. Weekends are for catching up, sleeping in, and having fun!
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I am living my college experience to the fullest by simply meeting and engaging with my peers from all walks of life. I am a Program Assistant for Rebel Events Board (REB), which is the student organization that plans events such as UNLV Premier and UNLV Homecoming. I am also a Marketing Director for Epicurean Society, a food-focused student organization that plans food and beverage events for the campus!
Alina
High School: Basic Academy of International Studies
Hometown: Havana, Cuba
Major: Psychology
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I chose UNLV because I wanted to study somewhere that was near my family and close friends. I also liked the variety of majors offered, which was especially helpful when I started as an exploring major my freshman year. Finally, as a Latina student, I was drawn to the fact that UNLV is one of the most diverse campuses in the nation, which made me feel right at home!
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
The first tip I always share is to go to your classes! Even the ones where attendance is not taken. There is still information that is offered during lectures that you will not find in textbooks or PowerPoints. Secondly, do not procrastinate! Trust me, I have learned the hard way.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
Working as an Orientation Leader for the Office of Admissions has been my most unique and enhancing experience in college so far. It has helped me learn information about the campus that I would never have known as a regular student, and it has allowed me to meet people of different cultures and backgrounds, as well as help students enjoy their first time at UNLV! :)
Angelica
High School: Advanced Technologies Academy
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Secondary Math Education
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I chose UNLV mainly because it was closer to home, meaning my parents would pay less tuition. UNLV also offered me different scholarships such as the grid scholarship, to further help with financial aid. The huge campus and the opportunities that the Engineering College offered solidified my decision to attend UNLV.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Definitely make some new friends, whether it's from your classes or an organization you just joined. Sure, most new students also have their old friend group from high school, and that's fine since I still keep in touch with my friends from high school. But coming to college means that there are more people with different perspectives on the world, especially with UNLV's diverse student body.
Besides making friends to broaden your perspective, it's also nice to have friends in the same classes as you. There's a good chance your friends understand the material better than you do or have a better way of asking the question that you want to ask the professor after class. Also, it's helpful to have someone to rely on for notes when you happen to miss a class!
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
Besides being an Orientation Leader, I also started working at the Math Department's Tutoring Clinic and Coaching Lab for MATH 126 students. I'm also the secretary of an organization called Data Science Innovated, where we hold workshops where speakers from the industry come in and help us better educate ourselves in the world of data science.
Anthony
High School: Coronado High School
Hometown: Henderson, NV
Major: Kinesiology
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I chose UNLV because of the positive atmosphere that campus offered. It felt convenient for me to choose this school because it is close to home.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Don't be afraid to move outside of your comfort zone. Joining clubs is a good way to meet new people. Contact your professors and use the resources that are available to you if you have trouble in class.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I work part-time in the Admissions Office. I volunteer for events such as Festival of Communities and Fitness4Finals.
Ari
High School: Foothill High School
Hometown: Henderson, NV
Major: Jazz and Commercial Studies
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I really love the jazz program here, and it’s a great environment for me.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Go to all your classes even when you don’t want to. Talk to people; make friends, but most importantly, make your college experience enjoyable!!
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I currently have an internship with the Jazz Outreach Initiative, which occasionally works in conjunction with the music department here at the university. I am looking to get more involved with some student organizations, but I don’t want to overload myself with activities.
Bryan
High School: Rancho High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, Nevada
Major: Health Care Administration
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I love how the amount of resources provided have only strengthened me when it came to academics and being able to be successful at the end of this amazing journey.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Never give up! :) This adventure may be difficult, and you may have tough obstacles to get passed, but when you motivate yourself to the best of your ability, you'll aim for high results every time.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I am a part of a National Service Fraternity, Alpha Phi Omega, that takes part in Leadership, Friendship, and Service. We also do community service, and overall, it is a pretty fun organization to join. I also work on campus as a tour guide, and I honestly have loved every second of it!!
Daria
High School: Northwest Career and Technical Academy
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Art History and Graphic Design
- Why did you choose UNLV?
Long story short: UNLV was the perfect fit for me. It is close to home, has the program that I was looking for, and it was within my price range.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Reach out. Whether it is in the classroom or not, reach out to your peers. In my experience, having friends in classes with me makes it easier to show. In general, having friends on campus makes me want to be on campus more.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
Beyond working as an orientation leader, I am a part of 3 different student organizations: UNLV Scientista, Gameology, and Adventurers Wanted.
Darian
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Theatre and Hospitality
- Why did you choose UNLV?
Quite honestly, it feels as though I didn't choose UNLV, but UNLV chose me. As we all know, people hardly want to attend school within their city/state, and I was exactly the same. However, once I knew I wanted to go to school for Hospitality, I knew there was no better place to go than right here in my city. I've found a new home in a familiar place and a fantastic experience where I thought it wasn't possible. But now, I'm here at UNLV and proud to be a Rebel!
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Push yourself out of your comfort zone! I know this is something that we hear time and time again, but it holds up! Be open to new people and experiences so you can walk into this new phase of your life with a clean slate. By being open, you're allowing yourself an influx of possibilities and opportunities that may never present themselves without that mindset. You'll eventually find the comfort that came from your discomfort, and you'll be glad you took that leap in the end! (:
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I'm enhancing my college experiences by putting my efforts into organizations that I feel myself growing in, and walking away with more than I came with. I am an active member and serve as the Events Coordinator for The Women of Color Coalition. I serve as a Resident Assistant through housing (#teamtonopah). I also work in The College of Hospitality Dean's Office as a student ambassador, where I connect potential students and families with a tour of our college and all the information that they need to pick UNLV!
Destini
Hometown: London, England
Major: Nursing
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I was drawn to the diverse, immersive education that the school provides. The highly-rated Nursing program was also a deciding factor for me.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Try and fully immerse yourself in the college experience. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and try something new.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I am currently a member of the Student Nursing Association (SNA), which provides pre-nursing and nursing students with opportunities to volunteer in the community and make lasting connections.
Edgar
High School: Western High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Biology Pre-Professional
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I chose UNLV because it was in my hometown, and I was going to be saving money on tuition and housing by staying in-state. Also, UNLV has a variety of ethnicities and cultures that I get to meet and make friends with.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Be active and participate with your peers because you can make lasting friendships and connections.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I am currently working on campus as an Orientation Leader. I am also involved with HIT - Health Improves Together, a volunteer-based organization that goes out to the public, informing and helping people with health. It is also closely connected with the UNLV School of Medicine.
Elizabeth
High School: Las Vegas High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Pre-Nursing
- Why did you choose UNLV?
Honestly, as a local, I wanted to venture out, but at the end of the day, it was the best financial decision for my family and me. But I do not regret it at all. I have made so many connections, friends, and memories that I would not take back. UNLV has provided me with so many opportunities, and I have enjoyed my time here tremendously!
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Please get involved in anything on campus!!! Many of the students that attend UNLV are going to be locals like I am, and at first, it can seem difficult to get that full "college experience," but what you put into that experience is exactly what you get out. There are also plenty, plenty of people who are not from here, and the only way to get to know them is if you join clubs, get a job, or even attend some of the events on campus.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I hold a few jobs on campus. I am a mentor for freshman students, I work with younger students who visit our campus, and of course, I am an Orientation Leader. I have also decided to join a sorority this past semester!! These things have allowed me to create memories, experiences, and so many friends and networks. There has been so much room for growth, and I am not stopping here.
Em
High School: Northwest Career and Technical Academy
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Chemistry
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I chose UNLV because I wanted to have the chance to live at home while earning my degree. A large part of this choice was because I didn't want to leave my dear pet lizards (whom I love very much). I was also excited about the opportunities for students here at UNLV. I watched my mother work hard to graduate from UNLV, and it really inspired me to take advantage of those same opportunities.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Don't be afraid to seek help when you need it, whether it be academically or otherwise. Remember that the whole point of this university is to help you achieve your goals, so take your education by the reins! Talk to your professors, stop by tutoring or academic coaching, stop by Student Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) if you need it! Really, the most important thing I've learned since being here is that it's okay to ask for help.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
Aside from being an Orientation Leader for my third season in a row, I also work part-time in the Office of Admissions as a tour guide for early outreach tours. This means I have the chance to get middle and elementary school kids excited about college. I'm a Supplemental Instruction Leader for various chemistry classes each semester, but I focus mainly on organic chemistry (it's my passion)! Outside of work, I'm an undergraduate researcher in organic chemistry. I'm currently working on publishing a research paper. Finally, I'm on the executive board of a Dungeons and Dragons club that my friends and I created!
Jackie
High School: Liberty High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Theatre
- Why did you choose UNLV?
- Location — I wanted to be in an urban area.
- Money — I am super grateful that I receive enough financial aid and scholarships that my tuition is covered.
- People and culture — Everybody is different and unique. It can never get boring here!
- Opportunities — There’s a lot that UNLV offers, and I wanted to take advantage of that.
- My dog — I still get to see my dog every day. <3
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
- Listen to your intuition.
- Be fearless.
- Ask questions.
- Make mistakes.
- Embarrass yourself.
- Remember, we’re all human - not perfect machines. :)
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I am working on campus as an orientation leader. Also, I am in the Honors College.
Jainely
High School: Desert Oasis High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Psychology
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I chose UNLV because it was the best option for me. I really wanted to get out of Vegas. However, I realized that UNLV was somewhere I could get a good education for a much more affordable price, rather than going somewhere else and getting the same kind of education for more money.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Don't be afraid to explore and try new things. Whether it be attending a general meeting for an organization or studying somewhere new, UNLV is full of opportunities to further yourself as a person.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
Before I changed my major, I was involved with UNLV's Choral Program and ACDA (American Choral Directors Association). During my time, I helped plan and host several events throughout the semester and was also able to travel out of state to attend two conferences. Despite having a change in goals, I would not trade the experiences and memories for anything.
Currently, I am still looking for other ways to get more involved on campus: this job was one of the ways I have found so far!
Jason
High School: Desert Oasis High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Pre-Nursing
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I chose UNLV because it was an affordable option and allowed me to stay close to home. UNLV also offers so many different opportunities that enhance my college experience!
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Do not let a new environment like college scare you. If you are on top of your game and you work hard for what you want to achieve, you will be fine!
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I have been studying, and I am involved with being an orientation leader!
Jo
Hometown: San Diego, CA
Major: Hospitality
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I chose UNLV because of the many opportunities that this school has to offer! As a hospitality major, Las Vegas is home to entertainment, and it only felt fitting to continue my education here. I fell in love with the campus, and I always look forward to meeting new people.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Be bold and get involved on campus! You’ll meet amazing people through organizations.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I’m enhancing my college experience through leadership positions in my organization as well as working on campus.
Joey
High School: George Washington High School, Guam
Hometown: Hagatna, Guam
Major: Communication Studies with a minor in Sociology
- Why did you choose UNLV?
UNLV was the one college that stood out to me due to its top tier research and community involvement. For someone who is not native to Nevada, UNLV also felt like the right place for me because of its incredible diversity and inclusion.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Make the best of your experience by getting to know about your college. Step out of your comfort zone and discover the countless opportunities to engage in your campus and the local community. Give yourself a reason to be on campus besides just going to class and I promise you, you’ll have a stronger feeling of motivation towards college and many more chances of inspiration.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
When I transferred to UNLV, I joined a multicultural fraternity who dedicates their time to serve the community. While completing 15 credits or more per semester, I make it a goal to complete at least 50 hours of community service, go to school events and philanthropies while also working as an intern at the UNLV College of Liberal Arts. It’s crazy to say that I still have time to spend with friends and family, but let’s just say that I love getting involved!
Jordyn
High School: Green Valley High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Business
- Why did you choose UNLV?
My whole family went to UNLV, so the pride in becoming a Rebel was passed down. Also, UNLV offers so many different experiences you can’t get anywhere else.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Figure out what schedules work best for you, you may realize you like having breaks or maybe you like having classes all back to back.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
- I volunteer outside of campus, and I’m also involved in the Honors College here at UNLV.
JT
High School: Desert Oasis High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Criminal Justice
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I chose to attend UNLV because I have always had an interest in pursuing the field of law. Law School was important to me when considering where I wanted to go to school. When I saw UNLV's Law Program had consistently ranked top 100 in the US, I decided this was a perfect fit for me.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Try not to stress so hard! We have all been there, and sometimes we let our stress get a little out of hand. Just remember to breathe and stay on top of your work. College is a lot of work, and noting that as early as possible will be most helpful when it comes to managing your workload. Try and prioritize things ahead of time, and don't let procrastination get the best of you!
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
- Ever since enrolling at UNLV, I made it a personal goal of mine to become as involved as possible! I wanted to get more out of my college experience than just your typical academic experience. With that being said, the first organization I got involved with is called the Rebel Events Board. We are an organization that plans free social events for students on campus to broaden the sense of community here at UNLV. We want to bring together as many students as possible, show them a good time, and build a stronger bond with each individual. It is a great way to relieve stress and anxiety by having fun, eating food, playing games, and much more!
Julian
High School: Desert Oasis High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Criminal Justice and Psychology
- Why did you choose UNLV?
UNLV is in my hometown - where I grew up.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Make the library your campus best friend.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
The campus job of an orientation leader has given me much deeper knowledge and understanding of the UNLV campus and life, helping me to find a greater appreciation for my university.
Kamila
High School: Rancho High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Biological Sciences with a concentration in Ecology & Evolution and English
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I chose UNLV for a multitude of reasons. My main reason for choosing UNLV was how affordable it is and that it is centrally located, making it a short commute, regardless of where I’m coming from! I also chose it because both of my singalongs were Rebels, and I am excited to be one too!
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
I think the biggest thing to keep in mind is that campus is huge. I recommend coming in a few days before class and figuring out where your classrooms are so that you aren’t lost on the first day!
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I am currently a part of a few clubs and organizations. I am in a club called The Scientistas, which works towards empowering women in science. They host events for middle school girls here on campus while also offering different opportunities to travel to other universities, like Cornell, to showcase our research. I am also in an organization called LSAMP that pairs undergraduate students with mentors to help them through the difficulties of being a STEM major. I am also in a club called Adventurers Wanted: A DnD Club, where I get to play DnD with a bunch of cool people!
Leslie
Hometown: Pahrump Valley
Major: Music Composition
- Why did you choose UNLV?
UNLV is the perfect place for a Fine Arts student. I chose UNLV because it’s a new and different environment for me, but it is still close to home and everything and everyone I love. Luckily, I was close to one of the top 10 music colleges in the country. I have many great resources available to me, and I feel cared for.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
It won't be easy, but you are in a good place. You will find your fit soon, and you have time to get it together. It's ok to not to be ok. Just remember to keep going forward. You are in a good spot to do so.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I actually got this Orientation Leader job for the purpose of enhancing my college experience. I've been able to make connections, meet new people, and work with them. I'm doing something productive for my university, and the best part is that I enjoy it.
Lexie
High School: Liberty High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Entertainment Engineering with a minor in Theatre
- Why did you choose UNLV?
By choosing UNLV, I was given so many opportunities that I wouldn’t have otherwise been given if I had gone elsewhere. To name a few, I got into the Honors College, and UNLV is also the only university with Entertainment Engineering as a major, which only makes sense being in the Entertainment Capital of the World!
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Don't be afraid to try new things! College is the time to explore your interests and have fun while doing it. Find a good balance between fun and academics, or make it so you're having fun with your academics. College can be hard for everyone, but find what works for you and run with it!
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
Throughout my first year of college, I took a step back from all of the extracurricular activities. Now that I'm in my second year, I have become involved with the New Student Orientation staff and within the Office of Admissions. I've also gotten the chance to become more involved in my program through performances and public installations.
Madi
High School: Green Valley High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, Nevada
Major: International Business
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I chose to go to UNLV to be close to family while also having opportunities to go abroad. I also chose UNLV because there are opportunities in Las Vegas that will really help me with my career.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Try everything you can, and get super involved with campus. Not only does it look great on resumés, but you’ll really get the true college experience as well!
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I am super involved on campus! I am a part of 3 different organizations. However, the organization that I am most proud of is my sorority, Alpha Xi Delta!
Maria
High School: Eldorado High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Accounting
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I choose UNLV because UNLV has always been my dream college since I started high school. I took my first college tour at UNLV when I was in 8th grade. That day, I fell in love with UNLV because of all the opportunities this college has to offer plus the beautiful campus.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Get involved! I know students probably hear this a lot from teachers, etc, but they are not wrong. If you get involved, college would be more fun for you! You will probably meet people that are in the same major as you that can help you out, just in case you are stuck. Ask for help when you need it. There’s no shame in asking for help. If you can’t find the answer on Google, don’t hesitate to ask your professors. They’ll be more than willing to assist you.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I am doing my best to make sure I use as many resources that UNLV has to offer. I do work on campus, giving tours to middle school students - it's my favorite part of my job here at UNLV.
Mayra
High School: Las Vegas Academy of the Arts
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Biology and Dance
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I chose UNLV because I wanted to continue studying both dance and biology, and this university allowed me to do both in a way where neither interfered with the other.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Don't be afraid to be yourself. Our campus is so diverse, you'll be sure to find your crowd.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
- I am involved in a school club called ECEC, where we learn about the earth, go hiking, and occasionally go camping. I am also participating in a couple of optional dance productions that are enhancing my professional experience as a dancer.
Meagan
High School: Arbor View High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Theatre
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I did not want to live far away from my family and friends. The first time I came to UNLV, I felt like I fit in. I knew this college was right for me because of the strong sense of community on campus.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
You will learn things about yourself you never knew before while in college. I would also tell new students to choose their majors based on what makes them happy in life. At the end of the day, the only person who has to live your life is you, so you should do what you love.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I currently have two jobs on campus, and I am hoping to start my own club in the fall. I am also hoping to get involved with the plays/productions on campus this year.
Megan
High School: Desert Oasis High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Civil Engineering
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I chose UNLV because it is an amazing university that is close to home and provides students with opportunities to fulfill their dreams. By going to UNLV, I get to make my dream of becoming a civil engineer a reality, and I get to do that at one of the most diverse universities in the world.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
The words of wisdom I would share with new students is to always follow your dreams and believe in yourself. Every day, I have to constantly remind myself that I can do anything I set my mind to, and although some days are harder to get through than others, there will always be a light at the end of the tunnel. It will all be worth it in the end, and hard work and dedication will get you there.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I am enhancing my college experience by working on campus as an Orientation Leader and by being a part of a research team through the College of Engineering. I am able to work with concrete specimens in a research lab, and it has helped me get hands-on experience with a material that I will be using in my future job as a Civil Engineer.
Michelle
High School: Green Valley High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Biological Sciences with a concentration in Pre-Professional Studies
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I chose UNLV because I couldn't imagine myself anywhere but Las Vegas - my home, my family, my friends, my entire life. I continue to choose UNLV every day because it has given me the opportunity to create a unique experience for all the time that I’ve been here.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Here are a few things that I feel are important for all college students to resonate with:
- It's okay to lose sometimes; just keep fighting the good fight.
- Accept help.
- Be kind to yourself. (This includes eating & sleeping well! Basic necessities matter more now!) Also, be kind to others.
- Allow yourself to laugh, smile, and enjoy the little things.
- Study a little bit daily; so much easier said than done, but so necessary!
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I am enhancing my college experience by going out of my comfort zone and allowing myself to grow past my expectations. At UNLV, I work as the College of Sciences CSUN Student Government Senator and as an Orientation Leader. I am also involved as the Treasurer for the PreDental Society. Along with that, I love volunteering on campus (with organizations like Scientista) and off-campus (with the Las Vegas Rescue Mission and Three Square) while doing some Polynesian dancing for retirement homes from time to time.
Monique
High School: Basic High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Political Science
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I wanted to go to a college where I was as close to my family as possible and still have that full college experience. UNLV provided both of these, so choosing UNLV as the university to pursue my college degree was an easy decision.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Stress is not a way of life. Enjoy your experience, and take time to breathe if you ever need it!
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
Instead of going to class then going home, I am giving myself time to go to different club meetings, workshops, and much more. Having a job on campus has really encouraged me to meet new people everywhere I go. Whenever I receive different emails about exciting events on campus, I make it my mission to go and have a good time. There are so many things to do on campus, and going home right after class is not an option. :)
Morgan
High School: Basic Academy
Hometown: Henderson, NV
Major: Film with a minor in Theatre
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I started really looking at UNLV, not like someone from Las Vegas, but someone who is looking to get the most out of their college education, have great opportunities, and not graduate with hundreds of thousands of dollars of student debt. When I looked at UNLV in that way, it was truly the best option for me. I saw my future forming at UNLV, and now I'm living it.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
I would tell new students to take every opportunity presented to them. A free lecture is happening on campus? Go to it. A teacher is offering extra credit? Do it. Someone needs extras for a random student film? Help them. Everything can be an opportunity to network and meet new people, and who knows how it can help you in the future!
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I have been involved in a lot both on and off-campus. I was in a UNLV theatrical production, I've been in a choir on campus, and I costumed multiple shows at my old high school. They have been so crucial in giving me a break from intensive classes and just giving me a creative outlet to express myself.
Olivia
High School: Desert Oasis High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Political Science
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I chose UNLV because I have lived in Las Vegas my entire life and wanted the opportunity to do amazing things in the community that I call home. UNLV is on the rise and offers a lot of room for growth, and I wanted to be a part of that evolution!
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Become comfortable with being uncomfortable! College is a time that brings a lot of change. You will be exposed to new people, new ideas, and new passions. Learning to embrace all of this will push you to be the best and happiest version of yourself. If your path changes, understand that it is happening for a reason and just go with it, and seek success.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I am involved with the UNLV CSUN Student Government, where I have the opportunity to advocate for my peers and push for positive change on campus. This has given me the opportunity to push legislation creating new programs on campus and lobby public officials in Nevada for more resources for UNLV. I also work for the Office of Admissions for Admitted Student Fridays, and I am in the Honors College!
Romar
High School: Spring Valley High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Pre-Nursing
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I chose UNLV for its affordability, distance to home, and great nursing program.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Time management is key!!! You have to be able to balance classes, work, and your life in general,, and you only have so much time. Time management is definitely a skill I'd consider working on early.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
- Being involved in the gym’s intramural sports and being a part of the Admissions Office team has made my experience here amazing, but there is always something more to do, and I want to get more involved this year.
Simon
Hometown: Kathmandu, Nepal
Major: Business Administration, Information Technology
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I choose UNLV because of the unique setting it is housed in. Being at the heart of Las Vegas, I knew that I would be able to immerse myself in the rich cultural diversity this city holds. More importantly, seeing how well UNLV is progressing, I knew that I wanted to be part of an institution that I can grow with.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Be open to change, always accept new challenges, and remember, you are a Rebel. Make sure you make the change you want to see on campus and with whatever you do.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I work on campus for the Office of Information Technology as well as the Office of Admissions. In addition to this, I am involved with CSUN and multiple organizations across campus, including National Millennial Community and National and Nevada Historical Societies.
Trey
High School: Green River High School
Hometown: Green River, WY
Major: Kinesiology
- Why did you choose UNLV?
For the research opportunities and new experiences.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Study, go to office hours, join an organization, take some personal time, live your best life.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
I am a part of Greek life (Alpha Tau Omega), I am a Senator and Chair of Ways and Means in CSUN Student Government, I am a part of 5 departments, I do research on campus, and volunteer with multiple community partners.
Valeria
High School: Desert Oasis High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Psychology
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I chose UNLV because of the wide variety of opportunities it offered, especially in research! The benefits were also very attractive, including the low price of tuition compared to other institutions. Most of all, though, I am so pleased to attend a college with so much diversity amongst the students. This was definitely something I was looking for when I made my decision.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Form good study habits! I never believed in the true importance of a planner until I started college. There are so many new things that you are responsible for planning and remembering, but with organization and consistency, you can be successful. Also, don’t hesitate to take advantage of the many resources UNLV offers, like tutoring, the writing center, the health clinic, or the gym!
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
Throughout my first year, I have focused on finding ways to get more involved and making a plan for my upcoming years. I have volunteered at various community service projects, and DASH is one of them. I have also attended various workshops from Career Services and some Psychology Club meetings. These have allowed me to meet new people and also learn new skills. I plan on joining a research lab in the future.
Vintage
High School: Cimarron-Memorial High School
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major: Psychology and Film
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I took a tour of the campus the summer before my first semester, and I fell in love with Lied Library. What made me stay was the authentic positivity from everyone around.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
It's okay to not know what questions to ask, don't stress over the small things.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
- I'm involved with four different student organizations and a couple being Rebel Events Board (REB) and UNcomfortableLV, which are stress relievers for me. I also volunteer outside of UNLV with Fight4HER and Make the Road.
Will
High School: Palm Springs High School
Hometown: Palm Springs, California
Major: Communication Studies
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I chose UNLV because of the diverse opportunities. At every angle of this university, you can see a new opportunity from campus life through top tier research. I wanted to engage in new experiences outside of my comfort zone, and UNLV felt like the perfect place.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Your first year is going to be very overwhelming. College is an intense time to adjust too. Trust the process, and that you will succeed. UNLV has many awesome safety nets and resources to catch you if you fall. Be engaged in your classes and life, as there is no time in your life quite like your undergraduate career.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
On campus, I currently have five positions (with many additional assignments totaling to 10 overall) including, Resident Assistant, Community Assistant, Research Assistant 2.0, Orientation Assistant, and Drum Major for the UNLV Star of Nevada Marching Band. With a full 18 credit load, I find my schedule maxed out with all my involved positions. I would recommend finding a few organizations you would like to be involved with your first year. As stated above, your first year is going to be a whirlwind, so gradually getting involved with UNLV's campus life is a great way to start your journey. You have four years to make the most of your experience, so there is no pressure to join a billion clubs at once.
Zoe
High School: Desert Mountain High School
Hometown: Scottsdale, AZ
Major: Hospitality
- Why did you choose UNLV?
I choose UNLV because of the atmosphere, and also because the hospitality program is ranked as one of the top in the country.
- What words of wisdom would you share with new students?
Some words of wisdom for incoming students would be visit the school a couple times and then make your big decision on choosing a college.
- How are you enhancing your college experience?
- By joining different student organizations, I am enjoying my experience here at UNLV. I am involved with REB (Rebel Events Board) - they plan most of the events on campus such as Homecoming Week, Rebels After Dark, and UNLV Premier.