National University Scholars Program
National University proudly presents their competitive academic Scholars Program to reward exceptional students. Envisioned by President Dr. David Andrews, this program honors and celebrates the accomplishments of our outstanding students. Students receive a full scholarship, a monthly stipend, ambassador training, study abroad experiences, research opportunities, and a family of lifelong learners.
Opportunities For NU Scholars
The NU Scholars Program provides a number of specialized opportunities exclusively for Scholars, including:
Ambassadorship:
NU Scholars are the official student representatives of the university. Enjoy the privileges of attending special events, being introduced to prominent alumni, and exclusive roles as a university liaison.
Professional Networks:
NU Scholars will be invited to meet prominent alumni, speak to the Board of Trustees, and take leadership roles that serve to expand professional networks.
Study Abroad:
NU Scholars will have the opportunity to study abroad or create an intercultural experience.
Research Opportunities & Conferences:
NU Scholars will conduct research for publication or presentations. At the invitation of the Associate Director of the NU Scholars Program, NU Scholars may be invited to attend various conferences to present research.
Shared Governance:
NU Scholars enhance their leadership training by taking roles in shared governance. Scholars influence the future of the NU Scholars Program and sit on various committees at the invitation of the associate provost.
Community Leadership and Service:
Develop your role as a community leader by building partnerships with non-profit organizations. NU Scholars volunteer and organize fundraisers and donation drives, including San Diego Food Bank, Madera County Food Bank, Becky's House, March of Dimes, and the Multiple Sclerosis Society. NU Scholars also can be peer mentors to current NU students or organize and lead SafeZones workshops for their local community members, creating LGBTQ alliances.
Eduardo Davila
Bachelor of Science, Information Systems - San Diego. U.S. Marine Corp
"Born in the Bronx borough and raised in Yonkers, New York by two teenage Mexican immigrants, I have faced much adversity; however, these struggles kindled a profound impetus for improvement – in education, health, and understanding. In high school, I was blessed with the opportunity to serve as a student ambassador in France, Italy, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and the Vatican City. Unfortunately, because of some unforeseen circumstances, by the time I began preparing to go to college, my family’s financial instability exhibited no easy path to graduation. Growing up, I did not know what my future held, but what I was certain of, is that my family would always be my rock. Irrespective of the misfortunate events my parents were subjected to, they never strayed from working hard. Had I gone to college immediately, I would have almost eliminated the option altogether for my siblings. With a heart full of patriotism, a necessity to support my loved ones, and a handful of supporting individuals, I made the hardest decision of my life. Leaving my family and high school sweetheart behind, I joined the utmost elite fighting force – the United States Marine Corps. By enlisting, I was able to ensure that my loved ones would struggle no longer. I moved my immediate family to California, where I have been stationed since 2016.
I am a first-generation college student and an active duty Marine who has somehow managed to earn a certificate of commendation, and a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. I have worked as an information systems security officer, a network administrator, and a quality assurance inspector. I have also had the privilege of being a training non-commissioned officer at the Aviation Logistic Tactical information systems course aboard the Newport Naval Station, where I led and mentored accession level students in physical fitness, drill, uniform appearance, bearing, confidence, and all other areas of Marine Corps ethos.
Subsequently, I fell in love with this career field and have chosen to strive for my Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Management. It has been a few years since I graduated high school and there is a long path ahead of me, but it is never too late to start garnering a higher education. Afterwards, I plan to continue with my Master of Science in Management Information Systems and then my PhD in artificial intelligence. Being in the military is tough enough as it is, taking college classes simultaneously is even harder – there are weeks I have to work 80+ hours and keep up with my family – however, the faculty and staff at National University have gone above and beyond to facilitate my experience.
By offering online four-week classes, students such as myself are afforded the opportunity to work around their schedule and can focus on each class, retaining the most knowledge as opposed to using rote memorization to get by in several classes.
As a firm believer of education being a gateway to success, I always encourage others to go to college. Getting a degree may not be the only way to be successful; however, it creates a bastion for anyone to build upon. A college education exposes you to diversity and develops people into well-rounded individuals breeding acceptance of all others.
As an NU Scholar, I would like to invite anyone who seeks comfort and guidance to feel free to contact me at any time. If I do not know the answer, I will find it or point you in the right direction. With a love for meeting others, I cannot wait to make your acquaintance!"