Amanda Rullan Vilanova

Amanda Rullan Vilanova

Amanda Rullan Vilanova is a law student, who completed a bachelor's degree in marketing from NIU in 2021.

Hometown: Bayamón, Puerto Rico

Year: Expected graduation from law school: 2024

Major: Juris Doctor (J.D.) law degree

Transfer from: Savannah State University

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
I graduated in 2021 with a bachelor's degree in marketing, a minor in Spanish and a minor in business innovation and entrepreneurship. My undergraduate degree was completely covered by an athletic scholarship. Now, in law school, I have a President’s Scholarship. NIU makes 100% sure that finances are not a barrier for any Huskie to achieve their educational and/or professional career goals. 

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
I always knew I wanted to be a lawyer, and after pursuing my dream of playing D1 collegiate volleyball, NIU gave me the opportunity to stay home and commence my law degree

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am in law school because I want to develop a legal career in the immigration field to advocate for a more progressive, compassionate and just system that contributes to the advancement of our country. 

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
NIU has the resources and facilities of a big school, but the care and attention of a small school. It is always easy to feel at home here! 

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
Engaging in extracurricular activities! Joining intramural sports teams, joining clubs and engaging with the different resource centers on campus. 

Are you involved in any student organizations, mentoring programs or extra-curricular activities? If so, which ones? How have they added to your experience as a Huskie?
I am a 1L rep for the Latinx Law Students Association, and it has been an amazing experience. I have been able to connect with people from other countries, and we've embraced each other’s cultures. 

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
Professor Robert Jones! He teaches civil procedure, constitutional law and evidence at the law school. He is so funny and personable! He definitely knows how to simplify complicated topics. He genuinely cares for each of his students.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
I like the East Lagoon because it is such a peaceful spot to sit down and take a break from the fast-paced environment. 

What advice would you give to a student who is applying to colleges?
Be on top of things and do not be afraid to reach out to the school’s departments to ask the questions that will help you choose the right fit for you. 

Coming to college, what is something that you have had to learn to do differently?
I wish I could have taken advantage of the resources available on campus sooner. 

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I work out in the Rec Center and play intramural sports.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
NIU has become my home away from home! I have met my best friends here, and I am so happy that I didn’t only get the opportunity to be a Huskie once as an undergraduate student-athlete, but also as a law student in round two. 

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