Originally published on October 28, 2020.
Daniel Maldonado is a first-generation college student and attending Southern Utah University helped him discover his passion for being a leader and helping others.
Born in San Diego, California, Daniel is the third of five children (four boys and one girl). He went to Eastlake High School and graduated in 2013.
Following his high school graduation, Daniel attended SUU majoring in criminal justice with a double minor in history and political science, all the while making the best of the school’s small classes and close relationships with professors.
“It was evident that professors really cared about my future and success and that was the first time I had someone of their degree believe in me,” Daniel says. “So, if anything, the professors and administrators of SUU gave the confidence to be successful and pursue what I wanted to pursue.”
Daniel was also able to work with and learn from other students by participating in some of the school’s leadership organizations, such as SUUSA and Sigma Chi. He graduated with his bachelor’s degree in 2017.
Daniel decided to continue his education in Lubbock, Texas. He is currently attending Texas Tech University and plans to earn his master’s degree in higher education, a path for which he gives credit to SUU.
“When I originally came to SUU my dream was to get into law enforcement. However, at the start of my senior year and joining SUUSA my career path changed to wanting to work in higher education,” he says.
Daniel also works in higher education as a Graduate Hall Coordinator, where he helps run one of the school’s residence halls by working with community advisors, a departmental committee, and the complex council.
“I learned how to become a leader at SUU,” Daniel says. “Being a part of organizations like Sigma Chi and SUUSA allowed me to develop as a leader by giving me opportunities to serve in positions to serve students. I also learned what my passion/calling in life was from being a part of SUUSA.”
Tags: Criminal Justice College of Humanities and Social Sciences Alumni SUUSA HSS
