Student Spotlight: Nicholas Smith

By: Jamie Campbell

Tell me a little bit about yourself?
I am a senior at UL majoring in Industrial Technology from Bogalusa, Louisiana. I  am the NPHC President and a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and LES (Louisiana Engineering Society)

What made you decide to be an Industrial Technology Major?
I started off as a mechanical engineer, but I did not like it at all. I changed my major to ITech because it was supposed to be the easier of the engineering programs. I found these classes more interesting.

What are some of your favorite memories and places on campus?
I  had a lot of good memories working in the dorms on campus as an RA. I met my best friends working in the dorms. The dorms were good days. Overall I’ve had a good experience at UL and I definitely feel like it was the right choice.

How has being a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. shaped you into who you are today?
I don’t think it has changed me, but Alpha has put me in better and different positions to improve my leadership skills.

Did you ever imagine that You would become the president of NPHC and as involved on UL’s campus as you are?
I kinda wanna say yes and no. In High school I was very involved, but before that I was very quiet and shy. So, being involved was something I always enjoyed doing, but I didn’t see it going to this extent.

How has step services been beneficial in your success in your major and on campus in general?
So STEP is very beneficial to my major. Being that I am an ITECH major, my major’s program is built around the University’s computer system.

How often do you use the computer services on campus and which programs do you use most often when using the computers on campus?
I use the computers in all of my classes with the exception of one, for this last semester. The programs we often use are Autocad, SolidWorks, Multisim.

Do you believe you possess good character? Explain.
Yes, I believe I possess good character. I try to keep a positive attitude, work hard, and stay humble.

What makes you a good candidate for any job?
I am versatile and in that I am not afraid of going into a different position outside of what I am comfortable in and willing to adjust to make whatever situation or place I am put in, work for my good.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I see myself working in my career in Texas and enjoying life because that’s what I feel like success would be and I see myself being successful within 5 years.

Describe yourself in 7 adjectives.
Spontaneous. Versatile. Committed. Hard Working. Humble. Honest. Selfless.

What advice would you give freshman you if he was just entering college this fall?
Dear freshman Nick,
First, take school serious from the beginning. It’s fun at first, but it does get old. And school debt is not a joke. Second, don’t be afraid to do those extra things you want to do. This is the time to make mistakes and not only learn, but to grow from them. Lastly, never worry about another’s opinion. People will talk about you regardless, so give them something to talk about.