Never settle for less, strive for more
Graduate Profile: Emely Oviedo
Entering unfamiliar territory as a first-generation student, Emely Oviedo found comfort in Governors State University (GovState) where she left no stone unturned.
An honors student, athlete, and student athletic training aide, Emely did it all and her academic journey is only just getting started. Set to earn her bachelor's in Psychology from GovState this year, Emely will go for a double masters in Athletic Counseling and Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Springfield College in Massachusetts.
Big things are ahead for Emely, though for now, she's basking in the excitement that comes with Commencement.
GovState Newsroom: What attracted you to Governors State University?
Emely: Governors State University was the perfect fit with me because is allowed me an affordable college experience that was close to home. Participating in athletics was also another important aspect for me, and I was offered a starting position on the Women’s Soccer Team. I felt that I would grow and be successful in a place of comfort like Governors State.
GovState Newsroom: What clubs and/or activities were you involved with?
Emely: Women’s Soccer, Honors Program / GovState Honors College, The National Society of Leadership and Success, Social Development Research Lab, Student Athletic Training Aide.
GovState Newsroom: What song will always remind you of this time in your life?
Emely: Los Caminos de La Vida by Los Diablitos. This song is one I grew up listening to as a young girl. Which translates to the paths of life. The song is a reflection that touches on the appreciation of parent’s hard work and sacrifices to provide a better life for their children. It says that as a child you do not realize how difficult the paths of life can be until you grow up and must walk those paths yourself, and that once you realize all the sacrifices, there is an innate need to give back to your parents, family, and ancestors.
As a first-generation student and being the first in my immediate family to receive an undergraduate degree, this song motivates me to strive for more, for myself, for my family, and for all of those who come after me. It gives me strength that no matter the struggles, I will always have fight left in me to keep going until I am able to retire my parents and provide more for my siblings, community, and generations to come. Receiving my undergraduate degree is just one milestone, one more step, and the beginning of all I hope to accomplish.
GovState Newsroom: What are your dreams for your degree?
Emely: My dreams for my degree are to become a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the field of athletics. I hope to provide a holistic approach in mental health treatment of athletes and become an advocate for ending the mental health stigma in sport culture. I also hope to use my degree to serve minority and low-income populations in education and athletics. My long-term dream would be to own a facility that provides both physical and mental health training for athletes.
GovState Newsroom: What advice would you give to current and/or future GovState students?
Emely: I would give the advice to get involved, get out of your comfort zone, and enjoy your time as a student. Meaning, attend sporting events, study abroad, participate in research, ask questions, attend office hours, build new relationships. Do all the things you are afraid to do, it will help you develop confidence and build lifelong connections. There is no better time than now, to make mistakes and build resilience especially in the education field at the undergraduate level. This is a time for growth.