True bravery lies in taking risks and trusting that, eventually, the outcome will justify the leap. Sometimes, we can define ourselves through unexpected paths and choices.
Valentina Herazo-Alvarez never imagined that her journey would bring her to Natchitoches, La. Born and raised in Cartagena, Colombia, she dreamed of becoming a celebrated singer in the United States. It was Northwestern State University of Louisiana’s exchange program that set her on a path which ultimately drew her to Natchitoches permanently.
Her high school’s music program first opened the door to a life-changing opportunity when former NSU president Marcus Jones began recruiting international students. In 2016, Herazo-Alvarez received a music scholarship to study in the U.S. For her, that experience completely changed her life.
Double majoring in English and music, Herazo-Alvarez showed her determination to succeed. Her love for the English language and literature led her to graduate in 2022, preparing her to take on a leadership role in NSU’s International Student Office.
Herazo-Alvarez understands that being a young woman in leadership comes with significant challenges, and she has experienced situations where she was not taken seriously or heard. However, she never let those struggles deter her from pursuing opportunities.
Her responsibilities require empathy, energy and a deep understanding of students. Even when others doubt her, Herazo-Alvarez is confident that her perspective can add value.
“Somehow, I fell in love with higher education and the international student part of the job. I was always very curious about the job,” she said.
Her perspective and understanding of international students comes from being one herself. Now the director of International Students and Study Abroad, Herazo-Alvarez has seen firsthand how complex the process is.
“International students must maintain strict visa requirements, keep a certain GPA and navigate policies,” Herazo-Alvarez explained.
Herazo-Alvarez expressed that international students often feel like citizens of two worlds. They may feel uncomfortable, which leads to homesickness while navigating a new country. She encourages people to have patience and kindness, recognizing that moving to another country requires strength and adaptability.
Although Herazo-Alvarez’s original goal ended in America, sharing that visiting Disney was her childhood dream, her goals have evolved. Today, her dream focuses on impacting students’ lives.
As a woman in leadership, Herazo-Alvarez shares a message for leaders across the globe: “You are never behind, and you are exactly where you are supposed to be.”
She teaches young women to stay persistent in the possibilities that come with opportunities. “Be courageous, trust your journey and continue dreaming because the world is much bigger than you think,” she said.
Herazo-Alvarez encourages women to not shy from traveling abroad, as it allows for growth, new perspectives and discovery of concepts they presently could never imagine.
From Cartagena to Natchitoches, Herazo-Alvarez embodies true character. As a leader and mentor for international students, she serves as a guide, and her story proves that our most significant paths can be the ones we did not predict.
