"I joined the American Indian Learning Community because I grew up away from my tribal community and I never had the chance to have classes or daily interactions with other Native youth. I went to a school that did not have an Indian Education Program, so being able to participate in events held just for Native American students was very important to me. By participating in the AILC, I was able to make friends who became my support system while here at UNCP. I got to take several General Education classes with members of the AILC which provided me with a great group to study with. I also was given the chance for 2 years in a row to be the AILC Ambassador/Peer Mentor where I got to help other Native Students who were incoming freshmen."