Texas Border Business
By Veronica Salinas
At 32-years-old, student Luis Elizalde is proving that it is never too late to rewrite your story and chase your dreams.
Like many first-generation students his journey has been filled with challenges. He began at STC in 2014, but after his father lost his job and a serious car accident left him injured, Elizalde made the difficult decision to take a break from school.
Despite these obstacles, Elizalde refused to give up. Motivated by his family and his own desire to create a better future, he returned to STC and earned his Associate of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies in 2022.
“When I graduated with my associate degree, my dad cried because he saw his first son get a college degree,” he said. “That moment meant a lot to me because it represented years of sacrifice, struggle and perseverance. Out of all my cousins on both sides of my family, I’m the only one with a degree and that is a responsibility I don’t take lightly.”
Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership, Elizalde is set to graduate in two years with plans to pursue a master’s degree.
Along the way, he has found both his voice and his purpose through leadership opportunities at the STC Mid-Valley Campus.
Since 2019, Elizalde has worked as a student activities assistant, where his goal is to one day become a full-time employee. His involvement extends beyond his role as a dedicated member of the Student Government Association and the Student Leadership Academy, serving in multiple positions including, president, vice president, secretary and parliamentarian.
“STC has given me opportunities to grow as a student, a leader and a person,” he said. “From the people I’ve met to the leadership roles I’ve held, everything has prepared me with the kind of hands-on experience that you can’t get from just reading a textbook. STC has given me the confidence in myself and it makes me want to be more involved every day.”
Elizalde initially had his sights set on Engineering, but his path shifted when he discovered the joy and fulfillment if working with students.
“I used to work with the GEAR UP program, supporting students and guiding them through their educational journey,” he said. “That experience opened up my eyes to how rewarding it was to help and I realized it was something I wanted to do long term.”
It was in those moments of guiding, supporting and seeing growth that he realized the true impact he could make, which led him to a future where he could dedicate himself to helping others succeed.
Elizalde credits his parents for encouraging him to continue his education, as well as the lessons he’s learned from overcoming hardships.
“I never gave up because of my family,” he said. “They were my reason to keep going even when things got tough. I want to prove to myself and to them that no matter how hard life gets, you can create a better future if you stay committed.”
As the oldest son and a role model to his youngest brother, Elizalde offers advice to others who may have taken time off from school.
“Don’t let age hold you back,” he said. “Think of your age as an asset because it represents how much wisdom and experience you’ve gained over the years. That gives you an advantage over others who may not understand life’s challenges yet. The struggles you’ve been through aren’t setbacks, they’re lessons that prepare you for the future.”
Through perseverance, leadership and determination, Elizalde continues to inspire not only his family, but also the students and community around him.
