Danay Rivero ’10

Ms. Rivero is a reporter for Univision Network.

How did La Roche prepare you for your current position?

At La Roche I learned how to solve problems and overcome obstacles, and I was exposed to scenarios that helped me as a professional.

I was part of clubs, campaigns and many positive events that helped me to become the strong human being I am today. I express myself appropriately, and I am not afraid to confront problems. Academically I went from not communicating in English to studying communications, and today I am a journalist.

How did a degree from La Roche help you advance your career?

I have two bachelor’s degrees from La Roche: one in performing arts and the other in communications, media and technology. When I graduated I obtained a job right away teaching dance for the public system, but I didn’t have to limit myself.

I wanted to explore the other field I studied, and that’s how I decided to go into journalism. Even though my degrees are very different, everything I learned from both of them complemented me and helped me to be more prepared for any job. I would advise anyone to obtain a degree but also to implement what was learned during the years of study in your career.

Why did you choose La Roche?

I chose La Roche because the students get a more individualized education. The sense of community that La Roche has also makes it a better place and an environment, especially for international students. It’s a home away from home.

Would you recommend La Roche to a prospective student?

I highly recommend La Roche University. The education is exceptional, the class sizes are small, and the students get to be more involved with their professors. You get to experience all types of activities that help you to grow every day. By the time you graduate you are prepared for the real world.

What impact did La Roche have on you as a person?

It transformed my life. I appreciate other cultures more after interacting with the international community at La Roche. It built my leadership skills because I was exposed to responsibilities, and that also helped me in my personal and professional life.

But most importantly you breathe freedom all the time at La Roche. A perfect example is that everyone is accepted no matter their culture or religion, and they are free to practice and welcome others from other religions.

Were you involved in any clubs, sports or organizations at La Roche?

I was involved in the community service club, Spanish club and the Academic Center. I was given responsibilities, I felt useful and all the skills I gained helped me to be more confident and secure in my career.

Are you involved in any volunteer service projects now?

I volunteer at Kakes for Kids. This is an organization that prepares birthday parties for unfortunate kids, especially immigrant kids who cross the border without their parents and can't afford or have a company during their birthdays.

What are you most proud of when you look back on your La Roche experience?

The knowledge I gained from each of my professors, but also each international student who impacted my life and changed the way I see the world today.

Please describe an experience with a faculty or staff member who made a strong, positive impact on you.

Faculty members were always aware of the students – both academically and personally. A lot of us were away from home, and our families couldn’t get to us soon enough, but the faculty at La Roche would take care of you if you were sick, if you needed to get to the super market, if you were not well emotionally, etc. They made me feel at home.

What was it like to be an international student in Pittsburgh and at La Roche?

I am Hispanic and didn’t find many students from Latin America to share my culture, but this was not an impediment. I had a family of international students. We didn't share the same culture, but every immigrant has something in common: We are away from home and help each other.

Favorite memory of being a La Roche student:

The most rewarding experience was when I met international students. A lot of them came from counties that were experiencing wars. They came scared, with minimal supplies. Walking them through a process that helped them grow was very comforting, and it helped all of us grow.

What advice do you have for our students?

Always have a plan and, if possible, more than one. Volunteer in a place you would love to work because the employees get to know you. Appreciate your job, and you will earn your opportunity.

Knowledge is power, and what you learn is something no one can take away from you. But you can only be a wise person by reading. Reading will allow you to hold any type of conversation in any environment.