Niayla
Newcomb, New Mexico
Niayla has enjoyed exploring her many interests at NMH, from dance and wrestling to student leadership roles.
What brought me to NMH:
My connection to NMH first began through my older brother, Deshayne ’24. I remember touring different prep schools in New England with him as he planned his next steps after junior high. During this process, I fell in love with the NMH community for myself. I saw a genuine future there, a place where I felt like I could spend my high school years learning and growing into the person I was destined to become. Now, that might sound corny and a bit cliché, but I have seen real change and growth over the years, whether that be academically, socially, or athletically.
My activities at NMH:
The NMH Dance Company, girls’ varsity wrestling, Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Student Diversity Committee, Peer Health Advocates, the Native Affinity Group, and serving as a main stage choreographer. I enjoy finding balance between my different loves here on campus.
The most challenging part of my time at NMH:
Coming in as a 9th-grader from a reservation in New Mexico, the culture shock was really tough. I had never lived in a space where snow actually reached feet, I never needed to own a proper winter coat, and I didn’t know how to live with a roommate from a different background. It was hard to adjust to a place where Native culture is not highly represented. Over time, I met people who created space and allowed for Native voices to be heard. I do a lot around campus to advocate for marginalized people, such as being a part of the Student Diversity Committee and a leader of the Native Affinity Group.
What’s special to me about NMH is the community. People here are very understanding, supportive, and open-minded, especially for international students. It’s a place where it's easy to find your place and feel supported.”
My favorite spot on campus:
The Ruth Dance Studio in the Rhodes Art Center. As a dancer, the studios have become my second home, and I spend most, if not all, of my free time there. I struggle with expressing emotions through the English language, and being able to tell a story or connect with others in art forms is something I really appreciate and enjoy. The studios allow for creative energy and a special flow through not only my personal growth but also finding connections and pathways for others to grow as well.
My favorite food in Alumni Hall:
It gets a bad rep after a while, but I personally really enjoy the “Southwest Bar” (aka Taco Tuesday). I think it stems from the fact that I am from the Southwest and don’t have much access to food from my home state and other areas in the Southwest. It brings a sense of familiarity every Tuesday and is something I look forward to every week.
My favorite activity:
My favorite activity on campus is being a part of the NMH Dance Company. Dance has been such an important and impactful part of my experience at NMH. The Dance Company is a space welcome to all and holds so many bonds and strong connections between both students and faculty.
My favorite NMH tradition:
My favorite NMH tradition was actually recently brought back in my senior year. This is International Carnival, a night dedicated to trying foods from all over the world and various cultures! It is truly a night full of
What I will miss most about NMH:
The community NMH brings not only within its students but also with faculty as well. I have met some of the best people during my time here, and making connections around campus has been so easy with the different opportunities given.
Plan for the fall:
I plan to attend Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington. I am looking forward to majoring in sociology and minoring in dance.