When Alyssa Martinez began exploring universities in 2023, her top priority was finding a school that valued diversity and inclusivity. PNW does that.

“I’m a first-generation college student and come from a Mexican household,” said Martinez, a junior Criminal Justice major. “I’m so proud of my heritage and I wanted to make sure my culture would be celebrated and not ignored. PNW has made me feel honored to be a part of the community.”

She said she was drawn to the university because it embraces her culture and others. She experienced that last year when she attended the annual Hispanic Heritage Festival and joined fellow students in celebrating Hispanic-Serving Institutions Week. Both events highlighted the diversity at PNW, and Martinez said that reaffirmed the university was right for her. She looks forward to more opportunities that highlight Hispanic culture and create connections across campus.

“It’s so cool that I get to come to classes every day and study something I am passionate about and then go to events that celebrate how awesome my culture is,” Martinez said. “It makes me feel every part of me matters to PNW and I feel seen.”

Martinez believes the reason why she and other students have this sense of belonging at PNW is because of the diverse range of opportunities available through student clubs, study abroad programs, job fairs and on-campus jobs for students. Last summer, she started working at the English Department as an office assistant. 

These opportunities help students reach their full potential before starting their lives after college and feel included while doing it, Martinez said. 

“The inclusivity and diversity at PNW are my favorite things while being a student here. I feel truly welcomed and included at PNW. I have also learned about other cultures,” she said. “I’m so grateful and have never felt more comfortable in my abilities than before coming to PNW.”