Student Andrea Nuñez is proof that hard work and perseverance pay off.
“I was working at my family’s business, managing and implementing new things, but I still wanted more. I wanted to find my calling,” says Andrea.
“So I decided to go to college – I made an appointment at Gateway, toured the campus and talked to an advisor. I wasn’t sure what program I wanted to do at first, but within minutes, I decided on Interior Design.
“From the first day of classes, I clicked with my program instructor. And now I truly see her as a friend and mentor. I go to her when I have questions or need guidance.
“Gateway is a community that is waiting for you with open arms. I am so thankful that I am here. It really is life-changing,” she said.
While Andrea knew going to college was a step in the right direction, there was still some initial apprehension.
“When I left my stable job, I didn't have money or know how I was going to do this,” says Andrea. “But I made it work. And now I’m in a completely different place doing all these great things.”
In addition to pursuing her passion for interior design, Andrea has become involved in other Gateway activities and groups.
She was selected to serve as Gateway’s student representative on the college’s board of trustees.
After giving it some initial thought, Andrea finally decided to interview and was selected for the role.
“I was hesitant to try for the role at first. It was scary – just thinking how everyone would then know me,”
As if that doesn’t keep her busy enough, Andrea also works in the Student Life office and is a member of several student clubs.
“Gateway’s Student Life coordinator asked if I was interested in being a team lead. She said, ‘I know you've got this.’ She’s been an instrumental part of my journey here,” says Andrea.
“She always hypes me up and empowers me to do more… I didn't even know anyone was watching my efforts.”
Andrea is also the president of American Society of Student Designers student chapter, vice president of Latinos Unidos – a club that’s grown from only two people to nearly 10 – and vice president of the National Society of Leadership and Success.
“It’s all about networking and making connections. It can be just being someone’s friend – you never know what can happen next.”
She rounds out her college experience through Gateway’s Student Government, which she said is lots of fun and offers a lot of learning.
“We get to travel, meet and network with like-minded students and sharpen our leadership skills. We even went to the Capitol to speak about Wisconsin Student Government and advocate for others!”