Author: Kylie Creasser
When UNC Charlotte junior Natalia Rohena steps on stage or into a meeting, her confidence shines through. As a Marketing major with a minor in Spanish and pursuing a Spanish for Business certificate, Natalia has found creative ways to connect her passion for performance, leadership, and communication across her academic and professional journey.
Performing On and Off the Stage
Natalia has been performing in musical theatre for more than ten years, a passion that began in fifth grade and continues today at UNC Charlotte.
“Since I have been performing for 10 years, I wanted to continue pursuing this hobby of mine which I have so much passion for,” she said. “When I began college, I auditioned for the school’s production of Legally Blonde the Musical and received the role of Serena. The following year, I performed for the student organization STAR in their production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.”
Now, she hopes to land a supporting role in the upcoming 2026 Spring Musical. For Natalia, theatre is more than a hobby—it is a form of professional development.
“Being on stage teaches you how to think on your feet, present yourself confidently, and connect with people,” she explained. “Those same skills are what make you stand out in business.”
Building Confidence Through Sales and Leadership
Beyond the stage, Natalia channels that same confidence into her role as Vice President of Engagement for the Charlotte Sales Network, a growing organization that helps students gain real-world sales experience.
Since joining last year, she has helped the club grow from about 50 active members to more than 200 in their GroupMe. “I want to make sales something we can actually practice,” she said. “We are adding presentations and interactive meetings so students can get hands-on experience.”
Her goal is to make the organization as inclusive as possible. “No matter your major, you need to know how to sell yourself,” Natalia shared. “That is how you reach realistic goals.”
Creativity Meets Career at Hotworx
During her time spent at Hotworx, Natalia combined her interest in marketing, sales, and customer connection. She assisted with social media, created promotional materials, and helped lead client outreach.
“I have learned to take initiative and bring my own ideas,” she said. “Even little things like designing posters or writing scripts for phone calls helped me understand marketing on a deeper level.”
She also found ways to bring her bilingual skills into her work, using Spanish to connect with members and make them feel welcome. “It breaks barriers when you can talk to someone in their own language,” she said.
A Global Perspective
Natalia’s passion for language deepened after studying abroad in Santander, Spain, where she spent over two months living with a host family and taking immersive Spanish classes.
“Going abroad gave me a huge confidence boost—not just in speaking Spanish, but in putting myself out there,” she said. “People are understanding and willing to help when they see you trying to learn.”
Looking Ahead
Natalia plans to keep growing through both business and creative outlets. She is interested in exploring real estate and high-ticket sales, and eventually launching her own sunglasses brand inspired by self-confidence and affirmations.
“I used to be self-conscious, but sunglasses made me feel confident,” she said. “Each pair I design will have affirmations on the arms. It is about spreading positivity and helping people feel empowered.”
Advice for Other Students
When asked what she would tell other students trying to balance work, involvement, and personal growth, Natalia smiled.
“Pushing yourself beyond what feels comfortable is what truly helps you grow—in knowledge and as a person.”
Her advice reflects the way she lives her own college journey—taking risks, trying new things, and staying open to opportunities that build confidence along the way.