![Leslie Avila](/content/iwill/stories/leslie_story/_jcr_content/contentpar/textimage/image.img.jpg/1566224834629.jpg)
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A New Home
Growing up in OKC, I had always heard about OU’s excellence in academics and undergrad experience. However, as a first-generation college student, I faced unique challenges before attending. I’m thankful to have a home in the OU Family.
![Leslie and Friend](/content/iwill/stories/leslie_story/_jcr_content/contentpar/image.img.png/1566156118590.png)
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My first year at OU was one of discovery. After switching between majors and struggling to find my calling, I landed on Construction Science in the Gibbs College of Architecture.
![Leslie in Hard Hat Leslie Avila on job site in hard hat](/content/iwill/stories/leslie_story/_jcr_content/contentpar/image_1918612879.img.jpg/1566160822669.jpg)
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Making a Difference
OU has given me the opportunity to work on amazing projects that give back to the community. Last year, we constructed affordable housing duplexes.
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Creating a Place for Others
![Women in Construction Science](/content/iwill/stories/leslie_story/_jcr_content/contentpar/image_1918612879_cop.img.png/1566157059093.png)
Last year, I started the Women in Construction Science program to help create a space for other women in the field. I was also on the leadership team for the OU Day of the Dead Festival.
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