For Texas A&M University-San Antonio student Jacqueline Rubio, the path to higher education and military service has been a journey of firsts. A first-generation college student and the first in her family to pursue military service, Rubio is a standout cadet in the University’s Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program.
A Dallas native and Skyline High School graduate, Rubio came to A&M-San Antonio in fall 2022 with two goals: to attend a university with small class sizes and join a collegiate ROTC program. She found both at A&M-San Antonio, a decision that has shaped her academic and personal development.
“I’ve always known I wanted to serve,” said Rubio.
Rubio began her military training early, participating in JROTC throughout high school. Her dedication continued at the university level, when she enlisted in the National Guard in spring 2023 and contracted with ROTC in October of the same year. She currently holds a scholarship through the ROTC program, which covers her room and board in exchange for eight years of part-time service in the National Guard following graduation.
Rubio is the only remaining cadet from her original 2022 cohort at A&M-San Antonio, a fact that has deepened her sense of purpose and pride.
“At first, it felt a little lonely,” said Rubio. “It's definitely not a light commitment to make. You're dedicated to something bigger than yourself. And it's completely understandable to say, oh, well, this is not for me. It's not for everybody. It's a lot of work.”
A&M-San Antonio first established its ROTC program as a cross-enrollment agreement with St. Mary's University in 2009. Later, in 2015, the program became part of the University of Texas at San Antonio's (UTSA) ROTC program.
As part of her Army ROTC experience, Rubio has undergone leadership development, military skills, and adventure training. The program has basic and advanced courses, including classes that cover team organization, planning, and decision-making, all skills she can use throughout life.
“At first, my mom didn’t really understand why I’d choose to sleep outside for field training,” Rubio laughed. “But now, they see how independent I’ve become and that I can do this.”
Beyond the classroom, Rubio serves as a peer leader in the Office of First-Year Experience, where she applies the skills gained through ROTC to help mentor incoming students and support their academic success.
“ROTC teaches you how to think on your feet, adapt to challenges, and keep pushing forward, skills that I use every day in school and work,” she said.
Rubio credits ROTC not only with providing financial relief, but also with instilling a mindset of discipline, resilience, and service.
As she prepares to continue with the ROTC program at A&M-San Antonio into the next academic year, Rubio reflects on her experience with gratitude.
“It can get very challenging at times, but ultimately you're not only representing the school, you're representing the country and what we stand for.”