Student Spotlight: Blessing Coranez

A peer mentor coach in the Asian American Resource Center’s (AARC) OHANA program, Blessing Coranez is a junior majoring in philosophy and minoring in communications. Born in the Philippines and raised in the United Arab Emirates, Coranez came to the U.S. in eighth grade. Coranez’s transition to the U.S. highlighted cultural differences that presented as early challenges of being a Filipino American student.

Coranez recalls, “Life was not easy. I felt alone, vulnerable and incapable of achieving my dreams. But if I were to go back in time, I wouldn’t change what took place in my life.” The hardships Coranez faced as a Filipino American and an immigrant transformed her to the person she is now. “Despite the odds being against me, it was all conquered by leaning toward family-centeredness and faith-based virtues, which I perceive to be my core Filipino values,” she said.

Coranez’s journey demonstrates perseverance and the strength of cultural identity. Her decision to major in communications was influenced by her participation in forensics speech in high school and volunteering at the 2023 Global Leadership Summit. These experiences fostered her love for public speaking and helped her develop valuable skills, including time management, critical thinking, communication and effective oral presentation.

Inspired by the Asian American entrepreneurs and the advisors she met at the Global Leadership Summit, Coranez hopes to become a motivational speaker. Alternatively, she is considering a position as an NIU InterVarsity Christian Fellowship staff member to mentor students in faith-based leadership through the University’s Association of Campus Religious Organization. After graduating, Coranez hopes to get an internship for global communications and corporate marketing to explore the business world, enhance new skills and have the chance to travel.

As an active member of AARC, Coranez’s perspective on campus events and resource centers has been transformed. The experience pushed her out of her comfort zone, and fostered confidence and support. Coranez values AARC’s commitment to student well-being, academic enhancement and leadership development. Her message to fellow Asian American students is encouraging: “Never let your circumstances hold you back. Whatever it is that you aim to do, it is always possible. Problems and unwanted circumstances are inevitable, but your choice not giving in will get you through anything. Your circumstances should not discourage you from achieving what you dream to be in life.”

Coranez urges students to take chances and embrace risks, viewing failures as temporary setbacks. Her journey is an inspiring example of resilience, cultural pride and the pursuit of dreams.

By Christian Paolo Eslava

The AARC Peer Mentor Program connects first-year and transfer students with peer mentors who provide guidance on navigating the transition to college life.