Meet Your Fall 2025 Orientation Leaders: Kendal Orija ‘27
At UNH Manchester, orientation leaders help incoming students feel welcomed, supported and part of the community from day one. One of those friendly faces you’ll see this fall is Kendal, a psychology major who’s learned just how capable she is since starting college and who’s eager to help new students find their footing, too.
Get to Know Kendal
What brought you to UNH Manchester?
The easy, breezy commute from my house and small class sizes allow for a more connected relationship with professors and peers.
What’s your favorite memory at UNH Manchester so far?
My favorite memories are anytime I finish a puzzle on the puzzle table in the UNH Manchester Library.
What do you love most about being an OL/PAL?
I just love talking to people and hearing their experiences. Being social and helping students come out of their shell. I enjoy seeing that happen.
What surprised you most about college life?
The class schedule! For me, the switch from four different high school classes every other day to five courses spread out through the week was a big change and made it much easier to manage my time.
What’s one thing you’ve learned about yourself since starting college?
I’m capable of more than I thought.
Campus Life + Advice
What advice would you give to new students?
You will find your footing.
How has being involved on campus helped you grow?
My confidence has definitely increased since getting involved here at UNH Manchester.
What campus resource has helped you the most and why?
Most likely our mental health counselors at UNH Manchester. They’re a great resource when you’re feeling overwhelmed by schoolwork.
Academic Favorites
What’s been your favorite class and why?
I took Ethics of AI Laws my first year. It was really interesting considering how prominent AI is becoming. The debates also helped me work on my public speaking skills.
Is there a professor who’s made a big impact on you?
Probably Dr. Mian—he’s awesome. He really knows his statistics (especially from a psychology angle). He’s friendly and approachable, and it’s easy to ask for help or guidance when you need it. Highly recommend taking any class he teaches!
Fun Favorites
Favorite Manchester restaurant?
Boba’s Noodles. Their spicy miso noodles? OMG, I love it.
Favorite spot in New Hampshire?
Franconia Notch and North Conway—beautiful hiking spots.
Dream vacation destination?
Cannes, France.
Favorite movie?
Aquamarine
Favorite book?
The Kite Runner
Let’s Dream a Little
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Indonesia—specifically Raja Ampat, for the coral reefs.
If you could try anything and not fail, what dream would you go after?
Free diving.
Where do you hope to be in 10 years?
I hope I live in a house in the country with chickens, goats, dogs and my cat Suki. I’ll work at a psych hospital, own a nearby bookstore (but still won’t read the books), and sell fun knick-knacks on the side. I’ll also hire a farmhand for the days I’m working
Just for Fun
As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a babysitter.
We’d be surprised to know that…
I really, really want to start a poker club.
If you could go on a road trip with anyone (past or present), who would you bring and where would you go?
I would love to frolic in the Irish countryside with Paul Mescal.
Get ready to meet Kendal and the rest of your orientation crew this fall. They’re here to help you settle in, make connections and start strong. Learn more about orientation here.