Jacqueline Soto Palafox

What does Commencement/graduation mean to you?

What graduation means to me is opening a new stream of opportunities or only for myself but for my family as well. 

Did you have to overcome any difficult challenges during your education to make it to graduation? If so, what were they?

I had to overcome a few complex challenges throughout my academic journey to make it to graduation. One of the most significant challenges I experienced was losing my younger brother to childhood cancer in my sophomore year, which was around the same time when the global pandemic broke out. Words will never be enough to truly describe what I feel when it comes to the loss of my baby brother; today, I can only pray he is in a better place. I remember my baby brother would often tell me to “Focus.” when he would notice I was struggling with homework. I made a promise to my baby brother, telling him I would make him proud by not giving up and graduating on time. Another significant challenge I experienced through my academic journey was the global pandemic caused by COVID-19. The pandemic forced all students to go through online learning. Although COVID-19 broke out in 2020, I have managed to pull through by taking the time to care for my mental health and managing my priorities from highest importance to least. Another significant challenge I experienced was becoming a new mom! Although my son is a blessing, and I love him with all my heart, the transition from not being a parent to becoming one has been stressful, to say the least. A way I have been managing is by prioritizing what’s most important. These are a few of the significant challenges I have had to overcome throughout my journey at National Louis University. 

What has your experience at NLU been like?

My experience at NLU has been successful, I have learned so much, and I have established important relationships. 

What are your plans for the future?

I plan to attend graduate school and obtain my Master’s degree in Clinical Psycholgy.