Silicon Valley Team Feature: Samantha Aldana

Meet Samantha Aldana: Wellness Program Specialist and Advocate for Student Well-Being

As the Wellness Program Specialist for Northeastern University’s Silicon Valley campus, Samantha Aldana – better known as Sam – brings a compassionate and holistic approach to student wellness. With a master’s degree in dance/movement therapy from Sarah Lawrence College and a bachelor’s degree in dance from Saint Mary’s College of California, Sam’s journey into the world of mental health and wellness has been one rooted in movement, empathy, and the exploration of the human experience. 

In her current role, Sam works to support students’ mental, emotional, and physical well-being throughout their time at Northeastern. She also remotely assists the Charlotte campus, expanding her impact across campuses. “My role is designed to support the health and wellness of our students as they go through their Northeastern experience,” she explains. “It’s a dedicated space for students to seek non-judgmental guidance and support for their wellness-related experiences.” 

What makes Sam’s work unique and deeply fulfilling are the diverse conversations she engages in daily. From stress, anxiety, and grief to hope, joy, and self-compassion, Samantha supports students as they navigate the many facets of being human. “We discuss everything to do with the beauty and chaos of being human,” she says. It’s this range of dialogue and the personal connections she forms that keep her passionate about her work. 

Despite the rewarding nature of her role, Sam acknowledges the challenges that come with it. Many of the pressures students face, particularly around internships and the job market, are beyond her control. “It can be frustrating when the most significant stressors students face are things I can’t directly change,” she shares.

A key strength that Sam brings to her role is her ability to help individuals expand their sense of identity beyond their roles as students or professionals. She encourages students to recognize that their worth is not tied to their grades or career status, but to their overall well-being. “I want our students to live expansive and meaningful lives,” she says, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion, vulnerability, and presence in the face of life’s challenges. 

Sam’s connection to Northeastern goes beyond her professional responsibilities. With a background in dance/movement therapy – a therapeutic approach that blends psychotherapy with somatic experience – Northeastern’s experiential learning model resonates deeply with her values. Her experience in dance therapy informs her approach to student wellness, focusing on helping students live fuller, more easeful lives. 

Sam is particularly proud to be part of the Wellness Program Specialist team, a group that was established in 2022 with the mission of promoting student health and well-being. “I’ve been so lucky to work alongside the most caring souls in this journey,” she reflects. “I’m proud of what we’ve achieved so far and excited for what’s to come.” 

Outside of work, Sam finds joy in life’s simple moments. “I love living,” she says. She cherishes the feeling of wind on her face and watching local dogs gather at the park in the evenings. Spotting vibrant leaves on the sidewalk or seeing her partner walk through the door after work brings her a sense of contentment. Sam also enjoys lighting candles, curling up with a good book, and doing spontaneous, silly dances around her living room. Whether tending to her plants or watching sunlight move across the walls, she finds peace in both doing everything and nothing at all. 

One of the most powerful resources in Sam’s personal and professional life has been the practice of mindfulness. She recommends Jon Kabat-Zinn’s book Wherever You Go, There You Are as a foundational resource for anyone looking to explore the practice of presence and mindfulness. 

Samantha Aldana exemplifies the spirit of wellness at Northeastern University, fostering a supportive environment for students to thrive. As she continues to inspire students on their journeys, we are grateful to have Sam as a guiding force in our community.