When Jerrome Hamilton walks across the stage at Freeman Coliseum on May 20, he’ll close a chapter defined by transformation, leadership, and legacy.
Hamilton, a first-generation college student and military-connected senior, never envisioned himself in college—let alone as a campus leader, mentor, and soon-to-be U.S. Army pilot.
“I never planned on going to college,” he said. “But one day I drove past A&M-San Antonio and thought, ‘I should apply.’”
Born and raised in Germany, Hamilton was immediately drawn to the University’s international business management program.
“I chose it more for the leadership aspects, because I felt like that would help me become an officer in the military,” he said. “Being raised overseas and knowing German, international business just made sense.”
Through A&M-San Antonio’s partnership with the Army ROTC program at the University of Texas at San Antonio, Hamilton pursued that dream relentlessly—despite the logistical challenge of commuting between campuses daily. The long hours spent in traffic could have been discouraging, but Hamilton saw opportunity in adversity.
“I think my biggest impact was helping bring more of the ROTC program to A&M-San Antonio,” he said. “Now cadets can do their training, classes—even physical training—here. They don’t have to make that drive. It’s a big change, and I’m proud to have played a part in that.”
Hamilton credits the University’s strong support for military-affiliated students as a key to his success. He noted the contrast with other schools he attended, saying A&M-San Antonio stands out for its recognition of service members and its inclusive, supportive environment.
Outside of ROTC, Hamilton was deeply involved in student life—serving in Student Government, working as a First-Year Experience (FYE) Peer Leader, and leading as president of his fraternity, Omega Delta Phi. But stepping into those roles didn’t come naturally at first.
“I was really shy when I started,” he said. “But joining the fraternity and having mentors helped me come out of my shell. Then I joined FYE, where I had to get comfortable presenting to students. That pushed me even further.”
Those experiences, he said, helped shape him into a confident leader—comfortable speaking publicly, adapting quickly, and mentoring others.
“I always tell people: My goal was to leave this place better than I found it,” he said. “Even if someone doesn’t remember my name, if they remember the person who helped them get started—that’s enough.”
Next up: fulfilling a childhood dream. Hamilton is preparing to become a pilot, specifically in medical evacuation for the U.S. Army.
“After going to Air Assault School and flying in helicopters, I knew that’s what I wanted to do,” he said. “I want to save lives on the ground.”
As he reflects on his time at A&M-San Antonio, Hamilton says the most rewarding part has been watching others grow—especially the students he mentored.
“Seeing them come in shy like I was, and now they’re leading too? That’s full circle,” he said. “That’s what it’s all about.”