Wearing Many Hats
The University of Houston is known for attracting high caliber students who want to make an impact. We would like to introduce you to one student, Suzette Roldan who epitomizes this description by immersing herself in the full cougar experience. To say that Suzette Roldan wears many hats is an understatement. To begin with, Suzette serves as a University of Houston Ambassador, Orientation Team Mentor, and has also has participated in the Spirit of Houston Marching Band. We recently sat down with Suzette who explained how she juggles all her activities, and how her involvement has impacted her life as a student.
Q: What brought you to UH?
A: I am from Houston and always dreamed about going to UH. Many of my friends from high school enrolled in community college after graduation, but I envisioned a different path for myself. After much convincing, my parents agreed that UH was the perfect choice for me.
Q: Were there any obstacles that affected your journey to UH?
A: I faced definite financial hardships, but fortunately was offered a scholarship for being in the top ten percent of my class. I also received a scholarship from the Center for Mexican/American Studies. These great opportunities help pay for text books and allow me to take extra classes that will help me in my major. I still, however, work to further supplement my education.
Q:If you could relay a message to your donors, what would you say?
A: I would express to them my sincere appreciation for believing in me and allowing me to pursue my dreams. I want them to know that I will represent UH well in all my endeavors, and that their generosity has profoundly impacted my experience at UH.
Q: Why did you decide to become involved in so many activities at UH?
A: I want my time at UH to be one filled with cherished memories. I have made so many friends through my involvement as a UH Ambassador and Orientation Leader. I believe it is important from a networking perspective as I grow in my major. Through my activities, I also want to make a difference in the UH community.
Q. Why do you think your roles as a UH Ambassador and Orientation Team Mentor are important for the University?
A: As a UH Ambassador, I am, often times, the first face prospective students and visitors encounter at UH. I have the opportunity to enhance or change their perception of UH in a positive light. In my role as an Orientation Team Mentor, I train Orientation Team Leaders in planning and hosting student conferences. I enjoy seeing the peers that I have trained grow and develop in their roles. It’s nice to know that I am making a positive impact.
Q: What do you think prospective donors should know about the students at UH?
A: I want prospective donors to know that UH students take their role as a student very seriously, and that we want to make an impact while we are here. We have academic priorities and goals that we want to accomplish as we grow as students.
Suzette Roldan is a rising Junior and is current majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders as well as Human Development and Family Studies. She hopes one day to work with young people in the higher education field.