A woman with strong passion for whatever may come her way. Driven and genuine, that is Nathalie Ascensao, a junior at USFSP majoring in Business Management with a minor in Leadership.
Ascensao was born in Boston Massachusetts from a Cuban mother and Portuguese father. Ascensao is fluent in Spanish, Portuguese and English with a diverse knowledge in both of her ethnical backgrounds.
When asked why she chose USFSP, her answer is one we commonly enjoy hearing, “I chose USFSP because of the smaller classes. When I toured the campus I felt right at home. The campus itself is beautiful and I like the green energy movement here.”
The biggest inspiration for Ascensao is her son, whom she had at the age of 19.
Ascensao is currently the president of Delta Sigma Pi, a co-ed business fraternity on campus since January 2015. Her reason for joining was the fraternity’s welcoming environment to her and her nine-year-old son, Anthony. “They welcomed us with open arms,” Ascensao said.
“My son attended executive board meetings with me and one day he said, “mom, you would be a great president because you are always telling me to be a good leader; I see that in you!” Ascensao added.
These sweet and loving words encouraged Ascensao to step forward in Delta Sigma Pi and run for president. Not only were her son’s words encouraging, but also the “brothers” of the fraternity showed their belief and gave her full support.
Ascensao has bright and big plans for Delta Sigma Pi, such as teaming up with other campus’ organizations to give them an inside look on DSP and to open community service events so anyone can be involved.
Another organization Ascensao is part of is the up and coming Toastmasters‘ on campus. This organization stands behind, supports and encourages students with their presentation and leadership skills.
On a more personal note:
K- Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
N- In 10 years I see myself as the CEO of a large company or as a business owner. I have visited smaller cities and have noticed the lack of entertainment some of these have; I would love to work with something in that area.
K- Numer one thing on your Bucketlist?
N- Be a motivational speaker that helps bring hope to people.
K- Coke or Pepsi?
N- Coke
K- If you could have an all-expense trip anywhere, where would you go?
N- The beautiful country of Greece!
K- Happily single or happily taken?
N- Single!
K- What you would advise to incoming freshmen?
N- Take every opportunity you have to travel. This will help you figure out who you are.