Ruben Saldaña, a senior Communication Studies major and first-generation college student from Corpus Christi, Texas, is on a mission to redefine his family's trajectory through education and opportunity. Motivated by a desire to break the cycle of limited opportunities that have defined previous generations, Saldaña approaches his academic journey with pride and assuredness. As he navigates the challenges of higher education, Saldaña is driven by the belief that his success will not only elevate his own prospects but also uplift his entire family.
From serving as a Dean's Student Ambassador (DSA) for the College of Media & Communication (CoMC) to being part of Vitality Dance Company, Saldaña epitomizes the spirit of engagement and leadership. Despite the uncertainties that often accompany forging a path unfamiliar to him and his family, his strategic choice of studies have proven to be the key to unlocking his potential.
I'm currently in the process of applying to law school now with the hopes of beginning my next phase in Fall 2024.
“What drove me [to CoMC] was the program itself [for Communication Studies] and Lori Jones,” said Saldaña. “She put me in the loop for what it means to be a Communication Studies major. The things I learned while studying are also beneficial for my future plans— my end goal for my educational career is to become an attorney who practices family, criminal and civil law. I'm currently in the process of applying to law school now with the hopes of beginning my next phase in Fall 2024.”
From personal hardships to societal barriers, he encountered setbacks that would have deterred many others. However, with determination and resilience, he persevered, refusing to allow circumstances dictate his future.
Having those lacks of resources from my parents and being the youngest child in the family, I can say I accomplished everything that most would say I would not have.
“My mom and dad did not complete middle school,” said Saldaña. “They stopped their education at eighth grade and dropped out. Having those lacks of resources from my parents and being the youngest child in the family, I can say I accomplished everything that most would say I would not have. Doubting someone and playing on their negative downfalls is something I have never been a fan of— no matter what, if someone wants to achieve something they have their mind set to, they are more than able to do so.”
Whether through peer mentoring programs, volunteer initiatives, or advocacy efforts— especially as a DSA— Saldaña channels his empathy and compassion into tangible actions that benefit those around him. With a commitment to fostering inclusivity and empowerment, he strives to create a more equitable and supportive environment for all. He is devoted to paying it forward by helping peers handle similar challenges.
I know there are people out there who may feel lost, don't know what to do, or where to go and I wanted to be able to help them.”
“I highly recommend any first-generation student here to take advantage of the resources that both CoMC and the university have to offer,” said Saldaña. “Even if you need guidance, I would love to be that for anyone. That's part of the reason I joined DSA for the College of Media & Communication— I know there are people out there who may feel lost, don't know what to do, or where to go and I wanted to be able to help them.”
With each milestone achieved, Saldaña reaffirms the significance of his decision to pursue his studies in CoMC, not only for his own personal growth but also for future generations of Red Raiders. His journey serves as a testament to other first-generation students, highlighting the transformative power of education in reshaping lives and recreating new pathways to success.
“I want to emphasize the positive impact the College of Media & Communication will have on your life to any high school student or anyone considering pursuing a degree here,” said Saldaña. “You're not tied down to one narrative with CoMC— when you receive a degree in this college, you are able to do so much and enter many different industries. Choosing to study one of the seven majors the college has to offer allows you to build off other aspects of communication. The career paths are endless.”