Commencement 2023: Leopoldo Torres Reyes

Leopoldo Torres Reyes, Associate of Science in Political Science, 2023

Leopoldo Torres Reyes patiently waited in line to enter the Maverick Center for the 2023 commencement ceremony with a smile as bright as the sun. By the look of Leopoldo's smile, one would never guess that he considered not attending the commencement ceremony.

As a first-generation, non-traditional college student, Leopoldo started his academic journey amid the pandemic. "My roommates and I were watching tv, and I blurted out to them, what if I go back to college," says Leopoldo. A thought that went from a random idea to a reality.

Although starting college during a pandemic may seem frightening, Leopoldo had a different outlook. "During the day, I was working my corporate job, and after work, I was going to college," says Leopoldo, whose mentality helped him succeed academically. Due to the global pandemic, learning had shifted into a virtual world, which meant no formal college events for students to socialize. For Leopoldo, that meant that he would strictly concentrate on his schooling. "I was a laser focus on my educational path, and it became my coping mechanism during the uncertain times," says Leopoldo, "but in retrospect, I wish once it was available, I would have taken some of the opportunities to attend social events."

As he waited in line in his gown and regalia, including the Mexican flag, to honor his mother- his biggest motivator- he hoped to help inspire his younger siblings to believe in themselves. As for why he decided to walk: "All my mother ever asked from my siblings and I was to get an education, and today I am doing this for her. Her dream was to go to college, which was impossible, so I am not walking for myself; I am walking for my mother, whose sacrifices and support have led me here today."

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