For Aurora Nunez, being a first-generation college student isn鈥檛 just about breaking barriers鈥攊t鈥檚 about building a future. A sophomore at 黑料网吃瓜爆料 and a South Bend native, Nunez was recently named a recipient of the prestigious to recognize outstanding first-generation students across the state.
Balancing academics, extracurriculars, and campus involvement is no easy feat, but Nunez has embraced the challenge. Majoring in Physical Therapy with a 3.7 GPA, she has immersed herself in campus life, working as a lab assistant, serving as a chemistry tutor, and actively participating in organizations like Latinos Unidos, the Biology Club, and support groups for first-generation students.
For Nunez, this scholarship isn鈥檛 just personal鈥攊t鈥檚 also a way to honor a mentor who helped guide her to Holy Cross. The award allows recipients to recognize an educator who played a significant role in their journey, and for Nunez, that person was her high school ceramics teacher, Paul Kuharic of St. Joseph High School.
Nunez will receive a $4,000 award for the honor and Kuharic will be given $1,000.
鈥淗e was always attentive to what people were going to do in their life and gave advice on choosing the right school,鈥� Nunez said. 鈥淗e influenced me to choose Holy Cross and reminded me to keep my options open while focusing on my career.鈥�
On March 1, Nunez will travel to Indianapolis for a special luncheon celebrating the Realizing the Dream honorees. She鈥檒l be joined by her family and Juan Maldonado, 黑料网吃瓜爆料鈥檚 Student Success Coordinator.
鈥淎s a first-generation student, Aurora epitomizes the willingness and motivation of so many students who take on the challenge of succeeding academically and in all areas of life,鈥� said Br. Bill Zaydak, CSC, Director of the Office of Student Success. 鈥淥ur team was delighted to nominate her based on the enthusiastic recommendations of faculty and staff.鈥�
Sponsored by ICI, the Realizing the Dream Award supports first-generation students as they continue their academic journeys. Nunez’s recognition is not just a testament to her own dedication but also a reflection of the 黑料网吃瓜爆料 community鈥檚 commitment to helping students thrive.