Isabella Camacho

What is your favorite campus tradition? 

My favorite ND tradition is football season. I think the school spirit in this University is incredible and I am moved by how united the community is. This season is one of the examples of the close community that makes up Notre Dame.

What is your favorite spot on campus?

The Grotto and Duncan Student Center. The Grotto is a place where I can pursue my spirituality, and always feel comfortable and blessed in. Duncan Student Center, on the other hand, is a place where I get work done and enjoy the different resources offered.

What is your best Notre Dame memory?

I think one of my best Notre Dame memories is singing along to the Alma Mater in the stadium the first game of 2018 fall season. It was incredible seeing everyone join to sing this and share such an important moment we all have in common.

What is your favorite Dining Hall Meal?

The freshly baked cookies no doubt.

What is your favorite thing about dorm life?

The random selection freshman year. My roommate and I are very close and I am very grateful I got to know her and call her one of my closest friends.

What clubs/activities are you involved in?

The Marketing Club and International Admissions.

What made you choose Notre Dame?

I chose Notre Dame because of the community and the special place it is. From the day I received my acceptance I was amazed at how special people at Notre Dame are, and I continue to be positively surprised by this community. I came for HISE (Hesburgh International Scholars Experience) where I met people I know will be a part of my life forever. This was an experience that marked my heart and as soon as I came to visit I knew this is where I belong.

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

I get to share my culture and traditions with others while learning from my peers as well. I think there is pure beauty coming from differences; being exposed to other cultures and learning from experiences other than my own is of great value to me. I have learned so much by just speaking to my peers, and I am happy to be able to plant a small seed of Colombia in the people I meet.

How did you adjust to life on campus?

Adjusting to life on campus for me was really smooth. People say you find who is similar to you and naturally friendships just click. This was the case for me, I was not worried before coming because I knew I would naturally find "my" people. Also, everyone at Notre Dame is so welcoming and friendly, feeling this type of attitude was definitely helpful.

How do you celebrate your culture/heritage at ND?

I am able to speak constantly with the other Colombian students and Alumni. We are all very passionate about our country and truly enjoy sharing our feelings about our home under the dome as well as the birthplace we all have in common. Furthermore, including Colombia in class discussions and daily conversations allows me to bring a small light from home.

What advice do you have for international students?

I would say place yourself out there, as well as appreciate and make the most of the international community at Notre Dame. Being exposed to other cultures and learning from others is more important than we think. Meet, ask, answer.