Neivi A. Núñez

NEIVI A. NUNEZ
President of the Model United Nations Club and Active Minds Chapter
Associate in Science (AS), 2026, major in Engineering Science

Neivi A. Nunez is an Engineering Science student at Hudson County Community College. She was born and raised in the Dominican Republic and immigrated to the United States, an experience that shaped my resilience, perspective, and commitment to growth. When she began college, she spent two years in the ESL program at HCCC, working to strengthen my English and adapt to a new academic environment. Today, she serves as President of the Model United Nations Club and Active Minds Chapter, and Secretary of the Society of Physics Students. In addition, she has served as a College Student Success Mentor, Peer Leader, and Office Assistant of Advisement, where she guides students through academic and personal challenges, helping them navigate college systems and connect with resources that support their success. Her leadership is rooted in mentorship and in making the path easier for others, especially for students who are navigating similar experiences. She is also a proud scholar of the Kaplan Leadership Program, where she continues to develop her leadership skills and prepare for long-term academic and professional success. As a first-generation college student and bilingual leader, she is committed to continuing this work by creating opportunities, building community, and inspiring others to pursue paths they once thought were out of reach.

"Hudson became more than just a place where I took classes; it became a community where I could lead, contribute, and feel seen. At first, finding my place was not always easy, especially because of my background and language transition, but over time, I found a strong sense of belonging through clubs like the Latin Society, leadership roles, campus events, and the people who supported me."

What resources or support services (e.g., tutoring, counseling, career services) did you find most helpful?

The resources I found most helpful at Hudson were Student Life, Career and Transfer Pathway, and the Mental Health and Wellness department. Student Life was especially important for me because it helped me navigate the college system, make connections, and make major decisions during moments when I felt uncertain about my future. Career-related support also made a big difference, helping me with my résumé, professional growth, and on-campus job opportunities. In addition, being connected to the Mental Health and Wellness Department showed me how much a college can do to help students succeed mentally, academically, and personally.

Were you involved in any student organizations, clubs, or leadership roles?

Yes, I have been deeply involved in student organizations and leadership roles during my time at community college. I served as President of Active Minds and the Model United Nations Club, and as Secretary and Member of the Society of Physics Students. I was also involved in organizations such as Phi Theta Kappa and the National Society of Leadership and Success. Beyond clubs, I also served as a Peer Leader, College Student Success Mentor, and office assistant of Advisement, which allowed me to support other students directly.

What were the biggest challenges you faced during your time at community college?

One of the biggest challenges I faced was adjusting to a new system, language, and environment while still trying to figure out who I wanted to become. As an immigrant student, I had to overcome self-doubt, language barriers, and the feeling that I did not fully belong in certain spaces. I faced moments when I questioned whether I was capable enough. Those challenges pushed me to become more resilient and determined.

What influenced your decision to attend community college?

My decision to attend Community College was influenced by both practical and personal reasons. As a first-generation college student, community college felt like the most realistic and accessible path for me at that stage of my life. I knew I wanted to continue my education, but I was still figuring out my direction, and community college gave me the chance to grow, explore, and build a strong foundation without the overwhelming pressure of a four-year program. Looking back, it was one of the best decisions I could have made because it gave me time to mature, dream bigger, and begin creating opportunities for myself.

Would you recommend a community college to others? Why or why not?

Yes, I would absolutely recommend community college to others. For me, it was a life-changing experience that provides affordability, opportunity, support, and room to grow. It gave me the chance to develop academically, discover my leadership abilities, and prepare for bigger goals that once felt out of reach. Community college can be an incredible starting point for students who are ambitious but still finding their path, and I believe it deserves far more respect than it sometimes receives.