"My ENMU degree is how I will be able to teach, it will also give me the knowledge and experience to become a great teacher," said Eva, who is minoring in social studies. 

Eva, a 2015 graduate of Carlsbad High School, takes some classes online, but prefers on-campus ones because she is a "people person."

She first became interested in ENMU in the fourth grade when her sixth-grade brother was participating in the Southeastern New Mexico Regional Science Fair on campus.

"I was walking with my mother to the CUB (Campus Union Building) and I just remember feeling at home. I told her then that I was going to go to college here. Then I decided to be a teacher, and ENMU has an amazing teaching program.

"I truly love the atmosphere of this university.  The program I am part of gives me real training and experiences, as well as allowing me to make lifelong friends."

Eva says she is creating lifelong memories at ENMU.

"I have amazing teachers here--ones that I will remember and refer to for the rest of my life. ENMU still has the ‘at home' feeling for me which allows me to feel comfortable in making new friends and being active on campus."

She is the president of ENMU VOICES (Voices of Inclusive and Committed Education Students).

"We do a lot of volunteering in the community as well as campus events. This organization has brought me closer to students in the community and peers here at ENMU," she said.  "Also this organization helps me to build connections with the professors in the education department. I have had so many great experiences at ENMU."

Eva would recommend ENMU to any prospective student.

"ENMU is a fantastic university; it is a second home. ENMU cares about the students and wants everyone to succeed in having his or her dream career." 

The daughter of Brian and Janet Dugas, Eva has made the Dean's List every semester, and is also the Membership Chair of Kappa Delta Pi (honor society for the education department).

After receiving her bachelor's degree in elementary/special education at ENMU, she wants to get licensed to teach in sign language as well Braille. After that, she wants to get a doctorate in special education.

Eva said, "I think of my future students and how I can help them in their education."