Meet Our Alumni 

Natalie

Lozada

ALL IN THE FAMILY
BY ENEIDA DEL VALLE

When it came time for Natalie Lozada to make her decision to go back to school last year, selecting the school was the least of her concerns. “Both my parents attended and graduated CWE,” says the South Bronx native and mother of a 14-year-old daughter. “They were both born in Puerto Rico and raised here. My father went to law school and my mother got her master’s in education. They both gave me the inspiration I needed to take this step and complete my education.”

After attending two other colleges— College of Mount Saint Vincent’s and Borough of Manhattan Community College— Natalie decided to give school another try. “I was looking to finish my undergraduate degree and since both my parents attended here, I was familiar with the program.”

The evening classes made it an easy transition for Natalie who holds two full-time jobs— one as a food service coordinator at Hebrew Home for the Age and the other, as a full-time and devoted mom. “It hasn’t been easy for me raising my little girl by myself while working hard to provide for us,” she explains. “I decided that no matter what it took, I was going to be an inspiration to my daughter by completing my education and moving to greater things.”

According to Natalie, she’s been able to make a smooth transition from being a single parent and worker to student. “I find my classes not only highly educational but rewarding in so many aspects,” she says. “The professors genuinely care about their students and never hesitate to assist in any way. The advisors go out of their way to ensure we receive the proper guidance with classes and career paths.”

Coming back to school did come with its fears for Natalie but ones she was able to overcome with the help of her academic advisor. “Just because you did not attend college the typical way, it is not mean it’s too late. CWE proves that you can receive a topnotch education at any age, level or stage of your life. You will not be shortchanged in any way.”