Angel Texas '25

Angel Texas '25
Major: Marketing
Involvements: Latinx Student Union, Latinx Business Association

When Angel Texas transferred to Loyola Marymount University, he knew he was stepping into more than a new campus, he was stepping into an opportunity to grow, lead, and be part of a mission-driven community. As a first-generation college student, Texas navigated unfamiliar territory with courage and purpose.

“I knew that LMU offered the smaller class sizes, and that's something that I really valued,” Texas shares. “LMU would give me more one-on-one time with professors, faculty or staff members.”

Since arriving, he has taken full advantage of the opportunities LMU offers, both inside and outside the classroom. Whether it was Latinx Student Union or attending an LMU Lions hockey game, Texas found ways to build meaningful connections and challenge himself academically and personally. 

Mentorship also played a major role in his journey. Karen Arizmendi, a transfer admission counselor who runs the ATLAS (Accelerating Transfer and Low-Income Access and Success) program, helped shape Texas's experience. They met for the first time during his transfer admission process and became even closer when Texas joined the team in the office. “She's able to really control and navigate the conversation and make me feel really comfortable,” he said. “I was very introverted, so going to anyone's office felt like it was a burden. But with her, I always wanted to.”

As someone deeply involved in Latinx community on campus, Texas was proud to contribute to attend the HACU Conference and represent LMU. He was able to learn about other opportunities for Hispanic students and opened the door for more students to have the same experience he did. “I wanted to get the most out of my two years at LMU. I wanted to get that college experience and meet new people because I came not really knowing anybody,” they explain. “I’m leaving knowing a lot more people than I would have thought.” 

He connects his time here most to Living a Life of Purpose. “I know now I have to live with the intention that I have a purpose, no matter what,” he reflected. “It will all be OK, no matter if rejections happen, doors close or doors open, you will end up where you need to be.”

Now, with graduation on the horizon, Texas is preparing for the next step. After some summer classes and finishing up his internship, he will be ready to join the workforce and take on graduate school in the future. 

His final message to LMU? “Appreciate the journey because it ends really quick.”