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“The atmosphere is more welcoming here than at other places,” Valenzuela said, explaining why he came to LCU, “and the best way to have an awesome college experience is to get involved.”
Valenzuela graduated from Artesia (NM) High School, where he was a two-time district champion in tennis. He was also active in the band, a talent he continues to use at Lubbock Christian University. A seven-year trumpet veteran, Valenzuela says he looks forward “to making the band better and the band making me better.” This attitude is apparent in all aspects of his life; the desire to improve and help others improve carries over to tennis.
“People really enjoy doing what they’re good at, and that’s tennis for me,” Valenzuela said. “More than playing I really enjoy helping other people learn to play, whether that’s teaching them from scratch or helping them up their game.”
Valenzuela began long-boarding about six months ago while looking at colleges; riding places on-campus he realized, is “a lot faster than walking.” He eventually decided to bring his talents to LCU as an accounting major. When asked why he chose this major, Valenzuela said “the reasons are endless.” He describes LCU’s accounting program as “one of their strongest areas.” Math, he says, is his one of his best subjects, and he “likes to number crunch.” In addition he makes note that accounting majors are in high demand, and often receive high payrolls. Perhaps the most important reason Valenzuela chose his major is because “it’s something I could do for the rest of my life.”
“One of my favorite mentors is an accountant,” he said, describing what inspired him to major in accounting.
One of the most difficult parts of college life for any new student is expectation. Valenzuela, however, realizes that like in any other part of life, he will reap what he sows. He says he needs to mature and he “expects…to make the difference whether large or small.” Nevertheless he anticipates making “lifelong friends” in college as well as getting “the best education I can.” Living life to the fullest, Valenzuela is already leaving a lasting mark on the campus and in the hearts of his peers. He says his goal is “to become president [of student senate],” but even with his many goals and talents, he is not distracted from the ultimate goal of a closer walk with God.
“(At LCU) I expect to get closer to God,” Valenzuela said. This is one expectation all should have for their time at Lubbock Christian University.
September 2, 2010
By: Bryan Hettick
By: Bryan Hettick
Freshman Profile: Niko Valenzuela
Already many students have seen him cruising down sidewalks and hallways on his long board. His love for tennis is also becoming common knowledge across campus. Still more people have experienced his love for people and leadership, particularly as he represents the class of 2014 in the student senate and the band. Hardly two weeks into class and freshman Niko Valenzuela is already heart and mind into Lubbock Christian University.
Niko always seems to be enjoying life to its fullest.
Valenzuela graduated from Artesia (NM) High School, where he was a two-time district champion in tennis. He was also active in the band, a talent he continues to use at Lubbock Christian University. A seven-year trumpet veteran, Valenzuela says he looks forward “to making the band better and the band making me better.” This attitude is apparent in all aspects of his life; the desire to improve and help others improve carries over to tennis.
“People really enjoy doing what they’re good at, and that’s tennis for me,” Valenzuela said. “More than playing I really enjoy helping other people learn to play, whether that’s teaching them from scratch or helping them up their game.”
Valenzuela began long-boarding about six months ago while looking at colleges; riding places on-campus he realized, is “a lot faster than walking.” He eventually decided to bring his talents to LCU as an accounting major. When asked why he chose this major, Valenzuela said “the reasons are endless.” He describes LCU’s accounting program as “one of their strongest areas.” Math, he says, is his one of his best subjects, and he “likes to number crunch.” In addition he makes note that accounting majors are in high demand, and often receive high payrolls. Perhaps the most important reason Valenzuela chose his major is because “it’s something I could do for the rest of my life.”
“One of my favorite mentors is an accountant,” he said, describing what inspired him to major in accounting.
One of the most difficult parts of college life for any new student is expectation. Valenzuela, however, realizes that like in any other part of life, he will reap what he sows. He says he needs to mature and he “expects…to make the difference whether large or small.” Nevertheless he anticipates making “lifelong friends” in college as well as getting “the best education I can.” Living life to the fullest, Valenzuela is already leaving a lasting mark on the campus and in the hearts of his peers. He says his goal is “to become president [of student senate],” but even with his many goals and talents, he is not distracted from the ultimate goal of a closer walk with God.
“(At LCU) I expect to get closer to God,” Valenzuela said. This is one expectation all should have for their time at Lubbock Christian University.
