Neira

My Regions:

UWC USA, UWC Costa Rica, UWC Pearson College, Waterford Kamhlaba, UWC East Africa and all the UWCs in Asia

What's your educational background?

United World College Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Class of 2013

Bachelor of International Area Studies
Minor in Spanish
University of Oklahoma
Class of 2017

Master of Arts in International Studies
University of Oklahoma
Class of 2019

As a student, where did you leave your mark on campus?

Somewhat broadly speaking: international student community. Through my academic and personal engagement with the College of International Studies, Davis Scholarship program, The United World and the International Advisory Committee, I have worked alongside many amazing students, faculty and staff members to build community and help make our campus not only more diverse, but also more inclusive.

Define the OU Family in your own words.

I am a first-generation college student, so my undergraduate experience was a never-ending chain of “firsts.” Gradually realizing that the complex world of academia is within my reach and my realm of possibilities has been an ongoing process. The UWC Scholars Office, Student Life, faculty and staff in my college and so many other incredible people working behind the scenes never failed to listen. It’s the people that make the place—those willing to (un)learn, those who deeply care and who are dedicated to helping us succeed. OU has a lot of incredible folks working to help us all get to the finish line. They will not give up on you.

When was the moment you felt the greatest Sooner pride?

I am continually proud of so many of our students who are fierce advocates for change. Our college campus is a place where so much growth takes place daily, and I am in awe of our student body for bringing to light so many important academic and equity-related matters. Advocating for yourself and others is a challenging task, and I am incredibly grateful for people who advocate for historically marginalized groups and their spaces. We should always strive to do better and be better—and we do.

What was the greatest gift you took with you after graduation?

OU expanded my family way beyond I could have imagined possible. From growing my international friendships to building and nurturing my academic relationships—I now have so many people I am connected to in Oklahoma and all over the world. They all check in and help me grow in so many ways, both professionally and personally. Their presence in my life is the greatest gift of all.

Reveal one secret about campus.

Oklahoma Canyon Garden! It is hidden at the lowest level (Lower Level 2) of Bizzell Memorial Library. There are a few chairs next to the glass walls overlooking the garden—this has always been my absolute favorite study spot!

What is your favorite OU tradition?

Eve of Nations— the largest annual cultural event in the state of Oklahoma, happening every April! This is the International Advisory Committee's way to show a glimpse of OU’s international cultures through a variety of performances and amazing food.

What advice do you have for prospective students?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions—anything and everything that comes to mind. Reach out to your admissions counselor, meet people on our campus, and talk to as many of them as possible. This is how you put together an image of a place and decide where to spend the next few years of your life. Choosing what college to attend is a big step—and we are aware of that and here to help. Ask away!