Breaking Barriers: Carla Salazar’s Journey as a First-Generation Student 

From the moment you meet her, Carla Salazar’s energy and drive are impossible to miss. A senior at Texas Wesleyan University studying Mass Communications with a minor in Spanish, she leads with purpose as the Social Media Coordinator for the Esports department and President of the Latinx Student Association (LSA).  These leadership roles not only gave her a voice but helped her find confidence as a first-generation college student and she has become known for her enthusiasm, kindness, and her ability to bring people together. 

Choosing her major wasn’t part of a long-term plan — in fact, it was almost spontaneous. “I literally just looked up Texas Wesleyan majors when I was sitting with my advisor,” Carla said. “Something about Mass Communications had everything I liked — making content, writing stories — and it turned out to be the best decision of my life.” Through the Mass Communications program, Carla discovered her love for storytelling and media production, learning how to share voices and experiences that deserve to be heard. It’s something she now does every day as she manages social media content for the university’s Esports department to craft stories, create visuals, and connect students to one another through digital platforms. 

As a first-generation student, Carla carries her family’s hopes and her own ambitions. She often reflects on how her journey represents something bigger than herself. “Being a first-generation student means breaking a barrier and fighting against what used to be,” she said. “Only 22% of Latinos hold a bachelor’s degree, and I’m proud to be part of that 22%.” 

Carla’s family has been her biggest source of motivation. Though her parents didn’t attend college, their encouragement has been constant. Carla says that it is their belief in her abilities has helped her to work harder, stay consistent, and prove what’s possible. 

Like many first-generation students, Carla learned to navigate tuition costs, financial aid, and scholarship applications on her own. But through persistence and community support, she found her footing. She credits the small campus environment and supportive faculty for making that possible. “Thanks to Smaller. Smarter., I feel more connected to my professors,” she said. “I can literally text them from my phone, and I appreciate that a lot.” 

As graduation approaches, Carla is reflecting on how far she’s come and the impact she’s had along the way. She’s proud of the community she helped build, the barriers she broke, and the example she set for other students who may be the first in their families to attend college. 

“I hope people who come from my background can see that if I can do it, they can too,” she said. “College is hard, but once you find balance, you realize you can handle it all.” 

Carla’s story is one of resilience and purpose. And through the TXWES value of community, the campus is a place where hard work meets opportunity and where every student, no matter their background, can create a future filled with possibility.