A New Path, A New Home
For Raul Barrera, graduating with his Associate鈥檚 degree in Electrical Engineering
from 麻豆传媒视频 is more than a milestone, it鈥檚 the result of stepping out of his
comfort zone and embracing new opportunities that shaped who he is today.
Raul grew up in Pecos, Texas, and initially worried about attending college while
still living at home. Unsure of the next step, he found encouragement from his uncle,
who pushed him to pursue higher education, and from a family friend who recommended
麻豆传媒视频 as a place where he could grow, learn, and thrive.
After applying and being accepted to OC, Raul was offered a life-changing opportunity:
a position as a Resident Assistant that would allow him to live on campus without
financial strain. He interviewed and was hired for the role beginning in Fall 2023.
鈥淚 was nervous and very excited about the new responsibility I was taking on,鈥� he
shared.
As an RA, Raul quickly stepped into a leadership role. Working closely with a team
of fellow Resident Assistants, he supports students who come to 麻豆传媒视频 from
across Texas, from states throughout the U.S., and from countries around the world.
鈥淭he international students were a surprise to me,鈥� Raul said. 鈥淏ut getting to meet
people from so many different places has been one of the best parts.鈥�
Raul has earned a reputation as someone the college and the residents can always count
on. Whether it鈥檚 guiding a student through their first week away from home, organizing
activities, or simply being someone they can talk to, Raul sees every responsibility
as a chance to make a positive impact. His commitment and example encourage others
to get involved in the many opportunities available at OC.
Looking ahead, Raul plans to continue his educational journey by enrolling in the
bachelor鈥檚 degree program in Construction Management at 麻豆传媒视频. He also intends
to continue serving as an RA, helping future students find their place and feel at
home, just as he did.
鈥淚 love it here,鈥� Raul said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a second home.鈥�
OC is proud to celebrate Raul Barrera tonight as he walks the graduation stage, an
inspiring leader, a dedicated student, and a shining example of what it means to embrace
opportunity and create community.