Jezelyn Torres (BS ’26) pursued her passion and followed her dream to earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies from the College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences at Purdue University Northwest (PNW).
Originally from Chicago, Torres grew up with an acute awareness of the need for accessible mental health services. Her passion for the field began in high school, where introductory classes in psychology sparked her curiosity.
“I loved learning about all the different areas and topics in the psychology field,” she says. “I grew a deep passion for it, wanting to get involved, provide clinical services and repay my community with the education I’ve gained.”
While at PNW, Torres was involved with the Student Government Association, including serving as student president during the 2025-26 academic year. In that role, she worked on initiatives that supported students by enhancing student wellbeing and ensuring access to campus resources.
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A member of the Honors College, Torres served as vice president on the Honors Student Advisory Board and Community Service chair. She attended the National Collegiate Council Conference for Honors, where she was invited to be a student mediator. In addition, she was also a member of TRIO.
After graduation, Torres would like to continue her education. She has applied to several graduate programs and is currently studying for the LSAT exams. In the future, she would like to focus on family law, applying knowledge from her psychology degree to create a different kind of practice.
No matter what degree you’re pursuing, you’ll always have support and resources available here at PNW. Don’t be afraid to explore your options: you are capable of big things.
What did you like most about PNW and the Psychology program?
“I really liked the close-knit campus, it was a very supportive community and department. The professors were very hands-on and willing to help. The faculty and staff provided a lot of support and there was always someone willing to help you flourish in the best way possible.”
How do you think your involvement in campus organizations and activities helped define your success at PNW?
“My involvement let me explore many different areas of interest and helped me make a difference on campus and in the greater community. These opportunities allowed me to really grow as an individual, a student and a professional and that will help define my success in the future.”
Did you face any challenges while attending PNW?
“Coming into PNW, one of my main challenges was finding a place within the university, not because they weren’t there, but because I was timid and a bit unsure. Once I started putting myself out there, exploring the student organizations and getting involved, I started feeling more comfortable. There’s a lot of opportunity here for community building.
My second challenge was that some of the coursework was really challenging at times. I was able to find success by using the resources that are available on campus, like the Tutoring, Writing and Career Centers. They helped me flourish and go into my courses with confidence.”
What words of advice would you share with prospective students looking to attend PNW?
“It’s important to know, no matter what degree you’re pursuing, that you’ll always have support and resources available here at PNW. Don’t be afraid to explore your options: you are capable of big things.”
Was there anyone at PNW who inspired or encouraged you along the way?
Administrator of Honors Student Leadership and Programming
“Throughout my four years at PNW, she has always encouraged me to keep going and give myself some grace. She pushed me to take on leadership positions and saw potential in me that I couldn’t see for myself. I can always count on her.”
