Alexandra Cruz English's connection to National Louis University runs deep. What began as her pursuit of a Master of Arts in Teaching has evolved into a profound full-circle journey that brought her back to NLU—this time as an Assistant Professor of Curriculum and Instruction, inspiring the next generation of educators.

When Alexandra was searching for the right graduate program, NLU's reputation stood out. "I chose NLU because of the quality education we are known to provide pre-service teachers," she shares. But it wasn't just the program's academic rigor that drew her in—it was the community. "The program in education and the community of educators—staff and faculty—was a deciding factor that allowed me to know I chose the right university for graduate school. I knew I would receive the help I needed to prepare me for my journey in education."

That intuition proved correct. Throughout her time as a student, Alexandra thrived, building the foundation for what would become a remarkable 17-year career in secondary education.

One experience stands out in Alexandra's memory as particularly transformative. When she needed to complete classroom observations throughout the Chicagoland community, she found herself struggling to make connections with schools. "One professor helped me tremendously to make those connections and even went to the schools with me to observe them," she recalls. That support didn't just help her complete an assignment—it changed the trajectory of her career. "I later landed a job as a paraprofessional and then classroom teacher in one of those schools. That support was incredible and transformative."

This wasn't an isolated incident. Alexandra found that her professors consistently went above and beyond. "Several professors took the time to nurture my growth. Many of them made sure I was successful in both small and big ways as I navigated a job, for example. They cared for my development as a teacher." Even after graduation, these connections continued. "After graduating from my program, I kept in touch with some professors who continued to guide me outside of the classroom."

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After 17 years of teaching secondary education, Alexandra has returned to where it all began. "My experience has come full circle," she explains. "I have now returned to the classroom in the capacity of Professor of Curriculum and Instruction to help other educators attain their aspirations." In her new role, she's committed to providing the same transformative experiences she received. "I was able to thrive within my program and as a professor here I want to provide the same wonderful experiences to my students that I was afforded."

When asked to describe NLU in a single word, Alexandra doesn't hesitate: "Inspiring!" Her explanation captures the heart of what makes the university special. "During my program and as I recently returned, I have been able to see how much those within this community truly care about students. Many of the conversations we've had center student wellbeing and ways they can help students be successful—not just in the classroom but beyond the walls of NLU."

For those considering NLU, Alexandra offers powerful encouragement: "NLU will change your life. You will be transformed for the better. You will walk out a completely different person than who you were when you walked in!"

Her journey—from student to educator to professor—stands as living proof of the transformative power of education and the enduring impact of a supportive academic community. At NLU, Alexandra found more than a degree; she found a home, mentors who believed in her, and a calling to pay that support forward to the next generation of teachers who will shape countless lives in classrooms across Chicago and beyond.