Gerardo Diaz 
Major: Psychology with a minor in Biology 
 
Campus Activities and Achievements:  Alliance, National Society of Leadership and Success, Library Aide at the Sueltenfuss Library (best job ever), and Volunteer with Grace Place: Alzheimer’s Activity Center Volunteer, Meal-on-Wheels of San Antonio, and the San Antonio Fatherhood Campaign.  
 
Impact of OLLU: OLLU has impacted my life in a number of ways. Although I moved to San Antonio from the Rio Grande Valley, about a four hour drive, I have definitely grown so much as an individual here. I’ve learned so much about myself and have learned so much more academically. I can honestly say, without any doubt, that deciding to come to OLLU has been the single greatest decision I have made in my life so far. I cannot imagine my life without all of the experiences I have had here and without all the people I’ve met: faculty, staff, and students. From my first visit up to the few days before graduation, OLLU has always felt like home and words are not enough to sum up my three and a half years here. 

An important life lesson: I would have to say that the biggest life lesson I’ve learned is how to enjoy my own company. I’ve definitely gained a greater sense of independence since that moment and have realized just how much creative power I truly have over my own life. It has really empowered me and helps me feel more at ease when things go awry. I have become more self-sufficient and learned to rely on and trust in myself. 

Plans for the future: With my degree and experiences from OLLU, I hope to do what I can to add to the field of psychology and to the renaissance of a field of research that deeply fascinates me. I hope to bring to the world what my time at OLLU has brought to me. Though I do plan on staying home for the remainder of the month after graduation, I want to return to the San Antonio to attend graduate school in the fall. I am currently in the process of completing graduate school applications.