One aspect of building Native nations entails motivating American Indian/Alaska Native youth to become committed to their communities so as to sustain and move forward with the goals of American Indian/Alaska Native nations. This study determined the impact of one Native American Studies department on its Native students' life goals. Through its "Indigenized" approach to education, which included community-based partnerships, experiential methods in course activities, and critical interdisciplinary perspectives in curriculum, students reported that Native American Studies provided a home away from home; it enlightened their perspectives on Indigenous issues; and it motivated their life goals in dedication to Native communities. These students' experiences help to realize a goal of Indigenous education, which aims to encourage Native youth to become contributing members of their communities. The politics of "going back" to serve in one's community is also addressed by the students and suggests further research questions in need of continued exploration.