Eastern Oregon University > Mountaineer Magazine > Fall 2020 > Student-athletes speak out

Student-athletes speak out

Four student-athletes shared their expectations of EOU, goals for the future, and how they think EOU can contribute to larger conversations about race and equity.


Alexander Zuluaga

Alexander Zuluaga

Psychology, ’21

Men’s soccer (Forward)

“I was expecting to see a lot of student-athletes like myself that have the same goals in mind, to find like-minded people, which I have.”

“It’s easy to get distracted in a bigger city, but being here has kept me focused on what I want to achieve in soccer and academically.”

“I’d like to try out for a soccer team. I want to get my bachelor’s degree as a thank you to my parents for everything they did for me. Maybe I’ll go to vocational school to become a vitals monitor in surgical rooms.”

“The university needs to be open to criticism, and willing to hear people out. They need to listen to students’ concerns because there’s a lot of opportunity to progress.”


Noel Orozco

Noel Orozco

Business Administration, ’21

Wrestling (Heavyweight)

“It’s a very close community, very supportive. Everybody knows each other, and it’s very welcoming.”

“I want to absorb everything from my teachers, become a national champion and just be involved on campus.”

“The university could add a free resource to help students learn and understand what people of color go through. There are a lot of people from small towns in Eastern Oregon where they just haven’t been exposed or they just aren’t really educated on what people of color deal with.”

“Providing counseling for people of color who need it would make a difference.”


Yahaira Chavarria-Mondragon

Yahaira (Yaya) Chavarria-Mondragon

Exercise science, ’22

Women’s soccer (Defense)

“I was looking for a school with small classes, where professors know you and want to help you. I’ve loved it so far.” 

“La Grande is a small town with a hugely supportive community.”

“I would love to attend grad school and go into occupational therapy.”

“EOU is a very welcoming place. There’s so many opportunities for everyone.”

“Everyone’s allowed to grow and follow their dreams. In order to continue making EOU a place where everyone feels welcomed and supported, the university should reach out to students, professors and staff to continue looking for ways to make EOU a great place to be.”


Marco Retano

Marco Retano

Physical education, ’22

Wrestling (Heavyweight)

“I definitely expected to adjust because I grew up in one town my entire life. I had to learn what it’s like to not be known and how to build new relationships.”

“I know people who are my dear friends now who just needed that exposure. It’s about finding a way to create experiences for people coming in from rural areas who just haven’t had that opportunity.”

“99% of it is a great experience … I have white friends who are getting to know me and I’m getting to know them, and we’re learning about each other. When we get our education, it’s not just about the books, it’s about meeting new people and learning about the world.”