When Orianna Camargo arrived at Barry University from Venezuela, she never imagined that rowing, something she had never tried before, would become one of the most defining experiences of her life.

Orianna’s student athlete journey began in the Fall of 2016, as a second-semester sophomore. Facing financial hardships and seeking a way to support her education, she was advised to join Barry’s rowing team as a walk-on. With no prior sports experience, she entered the novice program, a yearlong training designed for beginners before they can advance to the varsity level.

“I wasn’t the most naturally gifted athlete,” she said. “But my hard work, determination, and persistence earned me a place on the team and the respect of my peers.”

Rowing not only gave Orianna a team, but it gave her a community, a purpose, and a scholarship. After her first year, she successfully advocated to have her books covered and as she progressed, her athletic scholarship started at $5,000 and increased semesterly.

But the support didn’t stop there. During her final undergraduate semester, Orianna’s father was battling cancer. The emotional and financial strain was immense but once again, the rowing team became a source of strength. Barry’s rowing program awarded her a full scholarship, easing the burden on her family and allowing her father to focus on his treatment.

“I’ll never forget the relief that brought to both of us,” she says. “It’s something I carry with me to this day.”

Orianna’s impact extended well beyond the rowing team. She served as a Resident Assistant, a Graduate Assistant for First-Year Experience and New Student Programs, and even represented Barry at the 2017 NCAA Leadership Forum in Washington, D.C. One of her proudest moments was receiving the Sister Jeanne O’Laughlin Service Award at the Bucky Awards in 2018, a true reflection of her leadership and service across campus.

Today, Orianna holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Barry University and serves as the Associate Director of Housing & Residence Life Operations, helping guide new generations of Buccaneers as they begin their own journeys.

“Rowing, a sport of dreamers, taught me vital life lessons: resilience, teamwork, and perseverance. Just like in rowing, where success depends on synchronization and support, life requires a strong support system and determination. This experience transformed me into the person I am today, instilling values of ethics, hard work, and resilience that I carry into every role I undertake.”

Orianna Camargo’s story is proof that with grit, support, and the right opportunities, even the most unlikely paths can lead to extraordinary destinations.