Describing herself as not the “cookie cutter leader,” Natalie Weinstein has embraced her uniqueness and is encouraging students to impact others wherever they might be. A graduate of Manchester Central High School, Weinstein came to UNH Manchester with a goal to further her skills in her chosen career, and just that. Not wanting to stay at a residential campus and after procrastinating during her college search, UNH Manchester was a great choice because it was a commuter school, close to home and affordable.
Weinstein had a plan – a plan that has changed since her first day on campus, but, at the time, a plan that didn’t allot time to see what the community within UNH Manchester had to offer. Being undeclared and having a passion for helping others, she researched the best social work programs across the country and set her sights on pursuing them.
Now on the threshold of her sophomore year, Weinstein has found her place within the UNH Manchester community. She first applied to be an Orientation Leader because her First Year Seminar instructor and her Peer Assistant Leader saw potential in her and thought she would be an asset to the team.
“I was so hesitant,” Weinstein said. “I was so set on not getting involved.”
But something changed during that first year. Her plan to pursue a social work degree is still front and center, but now she sees the benefit of making the most of your time where you are and connecting with the people around you. She noted that “fresh starts” such as the college moving to a brand new building, the growth within her first semester and the literal arrival of spring influenced her to start searching for more new beginnings and opportunities.
“The world was just telling me that you can do this to better yourself and better your school,” Weinstein said.
Even though this is her first year as an Orientation Leader, she has taken it on as if she were seasoned in the role. The one-on-one connection with the new students that walk through the door for orientation is what she is most looking forward to. However, her team is not far from her excitement either.
“We are not just employees, we are team members,” Weinstein said. “We help each other.”
Not only does Weinstein want to connect with new students this summer, but she also wants them to "grow to change." Reflecting on her own experience, Weinstein wants first year students to find those moments of connection. She believes that everyone can make an impact and leave the college better than they found it. With her positive outlook, communication skills and a personality that makes everyone want to know her, Weinstein will impact more than just the new students: She will surely reach her goal of making UNH Manchester a better place.
