Many inspiring stories emerge during graduation weekends. At the University of New Mexico, one of the graduates, Brandon Salazar, shared his experience through a video series posted on social media.
In a two-minute video, Salazar, the first in his family to attend college, offered advice to new first-generation college students. He emphasized that it’s perfectly normal to feel scared or nervous.
He encouraged them to explore the campus, noting that many first-generation students attend the University of New Mexico and that more will come.
Salazar highlighted that by pursuing education, they are paving their paths and helping other students gain the same opportunities.
From orientation onward, he received common advice about finding a campus community.
Salazar found his community during his first year at university through the College Assistance Migrant Program, designed for students with experience in agricultural fields.
He also joined the El Centro de la Raza and participated in the New Student Orientation. Salazar hopes to remain in higher education and work in student affairs within his Lobo community.
During a Saturday commencement ceremony, the School of Engineering and Natural Sciences at the University of California, Merced, recognized 600 graduating students.
Lucia Barboza served as the student keynote speaker. In her speech, she urged the newly graduated engineers, scientists, and changemakers to continue discovering new knowledge.
Barboza stressed the importance of considering how their work impacts people, stating, “What is an engineer or scientist without their social impact?”
She concluded by emphasizing that both their creations and the communities they serve are significant.
San Antonio College recently shared inspiring success stories from its students. Dr. Luis Balarin recounted his journey from the college’s premed track to medical school.
He emphasized the demanding nature of the medical field and how San Antonio College supported him academically and personally throughout his journey.
Originally from Peru, Dr. Balarin moved to the United States without knowing English.
Sixteen years ago, he arrived in San Antonio with his wife and family and began taking the premed courses necessary for medical school at San Antonio College.
According to Dr. Balarin, community colleges offer a comprehensive premed program. Utilizing the student advisory program gave him valuable guidance on pursuing a medical career, which can often be costly.
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