Tania Gonzalez ’24 chose Bethel because it was close to home, aligned with her beliefs and was an affordable option, thanks to the scholarships and grants she received. As a commuter, she quickly began looking for opportunities to connect with other students, whether it was through hanging out in the commuter lounge or through helping start UNIDOS, a club that fosters a sense of community and belonging for Hispanic students while celebrating their unique cultures.
“I found students who related to me culturally (at Bethel). It was really awesome to see them all come together and build that community of care. I want other students to feel a sense of belonging.”
Tania found her place at Bethel through professors who really cared about her and a mentor who helped her navigate life’s challenges.
“I really built a good relationship with my mentor, Dr. Bellefeuille. She was someone I could trust with academic and home life struggles. She was really insightful …. we shared life stories and I really valued the relationship I built with her.”
As a business management major and early childhood education minor, she plans to combine her passions for business and education to start a bilingual preschool in her community.