Faces of NLU: Lady Gil

From National Louis University's Wheeling Campus, Lady Gil brings a passion for student success that transforms lives one conversation at a time. As Associate Director of Student Success for the Undergraduate College at the Wheeling Campus, Gil's journey began with her undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education. Through various work experiences, she discovered her true calling: supporting college students as they navigate their academic journeys. This passion led her to pursue a Master's Degree in Community and School Counseling, providing her with the essential tools to help students overcome both academic and personal challenges.

"I discovered my passion for supporting college students," Gil reflects on her career path. Her educational background has proven invaluable in her current role, where she helps students succeed not just academically, but personally as well.

When asked about a meaningful interaction with an NLU community member, Gil shares a powerful story that exemplifies her impact on student success. She recalls working with a first-year Undergraduate College student who constantly questioned whether she truly belonged in college.

"In our first few check-ins, she admitted feeling overwhelmed-juggling school, work, and family responsibilities all at once. She was close to giving up, saying maybe college just wasn't for her," Gil remembers.

Through consistent support and regular check-ins, Gil helped the student develop study strategies, connected her to tutoring resources, and most importantly, reminded her that asking for help was not only acceptable but encouraged. The transformation was remarkable.

"By the end of the term, she wasn't just passing her classes; she was proud of what she had accomplished," Gil says. "What touched me most was hearing her encourage other students who were struggling. Watching her go from doubting her place to lifting others up reminded me why I do this work."

For Gil, National Louis University can be summed up in one word: transformative. She explains that NLU empowers students to embrace their identities, honor their values, and use their lived experiences as strengths. This philosophy aligns perfectly with her approach to student support, where she encourages students to see their backgrounds and experiences as assets rather than obstacles. The student she mentored exemplifies this transformative power-growing from self-doubt to confidence, from isolation to community building, all while maintaining her authentic self and unique perspective.

Gil's advice to new students is both practical and inspiring: "Come to NLU as your whole self. Your identity, your story, and your values are your strengths, and they will shape the way you grow here." She emphasizes that altering one's true identity isn't the goal of a college education. "College isn't about changing who you are, but about building on what you bring-your resilience, your voice, and your dreams. Lean on the community around you, because you are not alone in this journey."

Lady Gil's work at NLU's Wheeling Campus demonstrates the university's commitment to student success and the power of believing in each student's potential. Through her dedication to supporting students from all backgrounds, she continues to embody the transformative spirit that makes NLU a place where every student can thrive.