Hugh Downs School grad leads with heart and excellence at ASU
Natalia Tefft, recipient of the Dean's Medal for Outstanding Academic Achievement.
Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2024 graduates.
This fall, Natalia Tefft graduates from Arizona State University with two Bachelor of Science degrees — one in communication and the other in family and human development.
She is also the recipient of the Dean’s Medal from The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences for Outstanding Academic Achievement.
“This medal means everything to me,” Tefft said. “I’ve worked so hard, and it’s rewarding to be recognized for my efforts.”
When she began her college journey, Natalia had a clear vision of the career she wanted to pursue.
"I’ve always loved working with people, especially kids, which led me to study family and human development,” she said. “I fell in love with the classes and was thrilled with my choice of major."
That vision expanded when she discovered the opportunities available at the Hugh Downs School of Human Communication.
"I took an intro to human communication with Professor Elissa Adame and immediately added it as a concurrent degree because I enjoyed it so much," she said.
Through this program, she developed a deeper understanding of communication’s role in building meaningful connections — an understanding that enriched her academic journey and shaped her professional aspirations.
Tefft also participated in the Hugh Downs School’s study abroad program in England, Ireland and Scotland.
“It changed my life in the best way,” she said. “I took a leap of faith going on this trip without knowing anyone, and now I have lifelong friends and memories. Studying communication in three different countries opened my eyes to different cultural perspectives.”
Beyond her studies, Tefft made a meaningful impact through her work with children with autism, specializing in applied behavior analysis.
“It’s a limitless field that has taught me so much about how to help children thrive,” she said.
Reflecting on her time at ASU, she takes pride in graduating summa cum laude with a 4.0 GPA, earning the Dean’s Medal and receiving several scholarships.
“Balancing academics with multiple jobs has been challenging, so these accomplishments mean a lot to me,” she said.
Looking ahead, Tefft plans to pursue a master’s degree in special education with a focus on applied behavior analysis, where she hopes to become a board certified behavior analyst.
“I’m ready to take on my own caseload and deepen my expertise in the field,” she said.
Her advice to future students?
“Academics are important, but don’t forget about personal growth. Build connections, take chances and don’t put too much pressure on yourself. You’ll be remembered for who you were and the impact you had, not just your grades.”
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