Camilla Sansón

What is your favorite campus tradition?

Touchdown push ups!!

What is your favorite spot on campus?

The Basilica. When it is completely quiet and peaceful as well as when the harmonious chorus penetrates the building on Sunday Mass.  

What is your best Notre Dame memory? 

Waking up on football weekends to my roommates’ music and getting ready for the big day. Singing the Alma Mater with all my friends at the stadium. 

What is your favorite Dining Hall Meal?

Soft serve ice cream with freshly baked chocolate chip cookies! 

What is your favorite thing about dorm life?

You become friends with upperclassmen, people from different majors and interests who you might have not met in other circumstances. There is always something going on. From movie nights, to spa nights, karaoke and sports! Also, having your best friends as roommates and next door neighbors is an exceptional experience. 

What clubs/activities are you involved in?

National Immigrant Justice Center, Casa de la Amistad, ALFPA Association of Latino Professionals For America, SIBC (Student International Business Council), Hall Vice-President. 

What made you choose Notre Dame?

The goals and the people who I have met here perfectly match the idea of the person I want to become. This means taking the extra step to make a change in the world and leave a long lasting legacy. I am proud to call Notre Dame my home!

What is your favorite part about being an international student at Notre Dame?

Everything is new; culture, food, jokes, perspectives. Being able to find common interests with other people is as exciting as learning about the differences. When people ask me about where I am from, I am always excited to talk about all my favorite activities to do, the food, and the people! But most importantly, I love being able to meet other international students. 

How did you adjust to life on campus?

I became really close to my roommates, I met other people from Latin America who helped me get involved, and I said yes to all the activities/plans available!

How do you celebrate your culture/heritage at ND?

I have a flag in my room and I keep in touch with other people from Nicaragua. This way we are able to show our national pride. Last year, I met Rec Sports kickboxing instructor who is also from Nicaragua, and offered to give me her “huipiles” which are our national costume. 

What advice do you have for international students?

After congratulating them on making the best decision of their lives, I would tell them to take advantage of EVERYTHING. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone! Follow your passions, even though you may be the only one you know doing it. You will meet people along the way who will become some of your best friends. Don’t be afraid to speak up! More people are interested in knowing your perspective than you think. Principally, be open minded and value your time as four years go by in a blink of an eye!