09/23/2026
Happy Hispanic Heritage Month!
This month, we’re celebrating the cultures, traditions and stories of Hispanic and Latino students in the NNU community. Meet Jamie Diaz Montes, a freshman psychology major, as she shares what her Mexican heritage means to her.
My name is Jamie Diaz Montes. I am a freshman majoring in psychology.
For me, being of Hispanic heritage means recognizing and celebrating my Mexican roots. My family is from a small town in Guanajuato. One holiday we celebrate is Día de los Mu***os (Day of the Dead). Hanging out with my family, helping out with making the food, and celebrating day of the dead makes me feel connected to my Hispanic roots. Not only does celebrating my culture's holidays make me feel connected, but knowing where my family comes from makes me feel grounded and comfortable with who I am.
Being Hispanic American has played a huge part in shaping me into who I am. My parents would always tell me, "Échale ganas!" Which in English means give it your all, or putting your all into everything you do. Working hard has become a part of my character.
I am most proud to celebrate Día de los Mu***os. It reminds me to honor my ancestors and to keep the memory of my departed loved ones alive. This holiday brings my family and community together. For many people who are not familiar with this holiday, it represents death and sadness. However, it is quite the opposite. Día de los Mu***os is a time to remember their loved ones, and for me it represents where I am from.
My experience at NNU has been amazing so far. I love my psychology classes and have made amazing friends here. The community here is also very supportive and hospitable. I am also excited to be a part of the Cultural Diversity Association club! However, being apart from home kind of makes it a bit lonely.
A fun fact about me is that I really love taking care of plants. I am also the first in my family to go to college!
