Juan Andres Tobon Orrego

Educational Background 

MA International Studies
       Class of 2027, University of Oklahoma  

BA Anthropology
      Minors in International Studies and Non-Profit Organizations
      Class of 2024, Univeristy of Oklahoma

United World College
       Class of 2020, Dilijan, Armenia       

As a student, where did you leave your mark on campus?

As an undergraduate, I tried my best to help creating spaces on campus where students felt they could belong. From being involved in student organizations like the Colombian Student Association and LatinArte, to working in the office of admission and recruitment both on the domestic and international sides.

Define the OU family in your own words.

OU is a place where people care about one another. Everyone is ready to help you, the only thing you need to do is ask for help.

When was the moment you felt the greatest Sooner pride?

As a first generation student and an international student, walking across the stage on graduation day I felt the greatest pride. I achieved what I had promised my twelve-year-old self and I made my family proud. That day, I reminded myself that I could dream as high as the stars and that the sea does not end in the horizon.

What was the greatest gift you took with you after graduation?

The greatest gift I took are the connections and friendships I made. Every person I met showed me a little bit of the their world and expanded my perspective. I am a better professional and a better human being because of the people I met here.

Reveal one secret about campus.

Farzaneh Hall is home to the iconic International Student Lounge, where anyone is welcomed. There is always free tea and coffee and it is a great space to have lunch, take a nap, play games, socialize with people, and get some studying.

What is your favorite OU tradition?

There are two traditions I love; one of them is game day. It always gives me goose bumps to feel the Sooner pride in every corner you turn, see people dressed up in crimson and cream, and hear the roar of the stadium with the band playing in the background. The second tradition is the Colombian Night by the Colombian Student Association. It is an opportunity for those of us who love Colombian culture to come together, eat amazing food, and dance to unique styles of music.

What advice do you have for prospective students?

Engage as much as possible with diverse people, be ready to be amazed, immerse yourself in new experiences, and be open to grow.