“Échale ganas, tú puedes con esto y más.”
Keep giving it your all – you can handle this and even more.
Those words from her mother became a source of strength for Laura Velasco throughout her time at UNK, reminding her to persevere through every challenge and keep moving forward.
“My mom has been the most influential person throughout my undergraduate journey,” Velasco says. “No matter how difficult things became, she always encouraged me to give my best effort and never forget why I started. Her unwavering belief in me gave me the confidence to pursue my goals.”
The Shelby native graduates from UNK on Friday, becoming the first member of her family to earn a four-year college degree. She’ll receive a bachelor’s degree in biology with a health sciences emphasis while representing the College of Arts and Sciences as a gonfalonier.
Along the way, she embraced countless opportunities to get involved and lead, including founding UNK’s Alpha Psi Collegiate Latino Honor Society chapter, serving in UNK Student Government and participating in undergraduate research. The Susan Thompson Buffett Scholar was also involved in Health Science Club and Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society, and she served as a New Student Enrollment leader and vice president of the Hispanic Student Association.
Velasco plans to remain at UNK to pursue a master’s degree in health sciences while preparing for dental school, with the goal of becoming a pediatric dentist.
Before receiving her diploma, she reflected on the experiences, mentors and memories that have shaped her time as a Loper.
What does this moment mean to you?
This moment means a lot to me. As a first-generation college student and Latina, the path to earning my degree was far from linear. It took hard work, perseverance and the support of many people along the way. I hope my journey inspires future students to believe in themselves and pursue their goals, no matter where they come from.
Why did you choose UNK?
I chose UNK because of its welcoming community, smaller class sizes and the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with professors who genuinely care about their students’ success.
How would you describe your time here?
My time at UNK has been incredibly rewarding. I am grateful for the professors, mentors, classmates and friends who encouraged and supported me throughout my college journey. They helped shape me into the person I am today.
What’s your goal as a pediatric dentist?
I want to create a positive and welcoming environment where children feel comfortable going to the dentist and can build healthy habits that last a lifetime. I believe the dentist should not be a scary place for children, but a place where they feel safe, supported and cared for. By helping children have positive experiences early on, I hope to encourage healthy habits and reduce fear of dental care as they grow older.
How did UNK help prepare you for this career?
UNK challenged me academically and personally. My classes, research experiences and leadership opportunities helped me develop the knowledge, critical thinking and communication skills that will benefit me throughout my education and future career.
What’s your favorite UNK memory?
Some of my favorite memories are the random 2 a.m. walks with friends, talking about life, laughing together and making memories I’ll always cherish.
How about your favorite class?
Gross Anatomy of Movement was my favorite class. Working with cadavers gave me a deeper appreciation for the human body and reinforced my passion for pursuing a career in healthcare. I’m especially grateful to instructors Ali Camero and Kenzie Todd for making the course such a meaningful experience.
What advice do you have for current and future Lopers?
You can do hard things. Set your mind to your goals, work hard and don’t compare yourself to anyone except the person you were yesterday.
