Name: Jesse Barraza
School: Northern Arizona University
Degree: Bachelor's of Science in Hotel Management
I chose Northern Arizona University because they have an outstanding hospitality program. I am a hotel management major, which I chose after working at Casino Arizona as a blackjack dealer. My plan after graduating is to get a job at Casino Arizona.
I enrolled in college right after high school but didn’t go far. I resumed classes 10 years later. Going back to school after being away from it for a while was extremely difficult, but after a few semesters it was like riding a bike – everything came back to me. My favorite thing about Northern Arizona University is how welcoming everyone is, no matter our situation.
Looking back, I wish I would started my journey right out of high school instead of 10 years later. Balancing school, work, and family is challenging. Having a plan and balancing your priorities pays off in the long run. School is tough, but knowing what you want to do with your life makes everything come easier.
The Salt River Higher Education program has played a huge part in my college success. My advisor, Erica Outcalt, is always there to answer my questions and goes the extra mile when I need anything. My thanks to Erica and the rest of the Higher Education staff!
