Editor’s note — This is part of a weekly student conversation series featured on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Medium page as part of Hispanic Heritage Month. This series features students who are making an impact on and off campus.
Isela Tercero’s childhood experiences ignited her passion for education. Currently double majoring in agricultural education and applied science in Broken Bow, Nebraska, she is preparing to take advantage of opportunities to grow in Nebraska and make an impact as an educator after her graduation.
Tell us about your experience as a first-generation college student. How did your experience lead him to become an NSE leader this summer?
Although being a first-generation student can be challenging, the opportunities I experienced at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln were ultimately rewarding. I remember coming to university. I was looking forward to what campus life had in store for me, but I also felt scared to leave everything I knew and go to a new place. When I experienced my own orientation day, I received a warm welcome to the university, which made me feel better about heading to the university. Seeing all the resources available to help students succeed and grow, I was excited to call UNL home. I applied to be an orientation leader, helping other students entering the university and creating the same welcoming environment I felt.
What originally attracted you to the major? Is there anything in particular you hope to accomplish as a geriatric educator?
The biggest values in life that motivate me are education and family. Growing up, my core philosophy was shaped by my parents’ stories and experiences. I cherished the opportunity to learn from them whenever I had the chance. My parents had to quit school to support their family. Seeing them sacrifice everything they have to provide a better future for their families is the basis of my career motivation. Hearing their experiences gave me a different perspective on the importance of education.
Attending college didn’t seem easy, but I was able to persevere and overcome the challenges of attending college. I feel very blessed to have the opportunity to study what I like in such a rich environment. This helped me uncover my immense passion for teaching and helping others receive the best education possible. Agricultural education combines helping others while learning something new every day, as agriculture is a constantly evolving industry. I will always have the unique opportunity to further my own education while striving to educate future youth in the field of agriculture.
You’ll be involved in many things across campus, from Greek life to professional organizations to organizations that allow you to make an impact in your community. Why was it important for you to participate and how did it impact your college experience?
It was important for me to participate as I entered college. Because I wanted to make the most of every opportunity that came my way. I have been very involved in the school system since I was a child, and I felt that it gave me a greater sense of belonging. Once I started college, I knew I was looking forward to participating in a variety of activities. UNL did not disappoint me. Because not only have I strengthened my leadership skills here, but I’ve also made some of the best connections and friendships. I have had the opportunity to enrich my college experience by participating in various organizations on campus. I can definitely say that I have grown as a person through the experience I was involved with.
Can you talk about your participation in Ag Ed Roadshow and how it helped you with your future after graduation?
The Ag Ed Roadshow is an experience that allows university agricultural education majors to visit different agricultural education programs and learn how different programs operate. This was an eye-opening experience for me as it gave me the opportunity to think about what opportunities I would like to pursue when I become an educator myself. Additionally, I had the opportunity to network with current agricultural educators in my field and connect with current colleagues. Being able to see first-hand what my career could be and what I could accomplish as an educator made me look forward to life after graduation. I am passionate about my future career and am grateful for the opportunity to see a day in the life.
Is there something you want to achieve in your life?
I want to be an educator who positively impacts the learning and development of my students. Great educators create the foundation for lifelong learning. I think great educators do this by empowering their students to think critically and become independent learners. A good teacher can make a big difference in anyone’s life, and I hope to be that kind of support for learners. Education is such an important part of an individual’s life that it is an honor to have the opportunity to help enrich that experience for others. My goal in life is to give the gift of a good education to others. Because education is a very important part of daily life.
What or who inspires you?
My parents and sister inspire me every day. My parents are an inspiration to me because they sacrificed everything they knew to build a better life for my family. I got a little taste of it when I went to college, but I couldn’t imagine it on the scale that they experienced it. Despite the challenges they face in life, they are the hardest working people I know. They work to give my family a life full of love and support. I have always been so inspired by their resilience and ability to bounce back from adversity.
My sister is an inspiration to me. Because from an early age, she had to take on many responsibilities to support her family. She taught me her biggest lessons in life and she always took care of me. She is someone I can always count on to be by my side. I respect her with all my heart and am grateful that she has such a wonderful person to look up to.
What advice would you give to other students looking to make an impact on campus?
My best advice is to get involved in on-campus activities. Participating allows you to make new friendships and meet people you wouldn’t have met otherwise. The campus is full of experiences and events to nurture and grow your time as a Husker. You can participate in something familiar, something within your major, or even try something new. Examples include student government and on-campus employment that support participation in the surrounding community.
