Student Spotlight: Roger Ruiz, Communication ’25

A Journey of resilience and achievement

By: Brett Copeland

You can hear his voice on the radio, see his name in publications, read his blogs, catch him on TV or see him around his hometown of San Antonio at life-saving community events. It’s been a dream career-come true for Roger Ruiz – one that now feels a little fuller as he has earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from UTSA’s 100% online degree program. 

His interest in communications began when he witnessed news happening just outside his childhood home. Ruiz said that seeing journalists and TV cameras during a crisis right outside his door originally inspired him to make a career in media and communications.  

“I became captivated by the idea of storytelling, of being the one who informs and connects people through media,” said Ruiz. “That experience sparked my interest in communications, which led me to pursue journalism and yearbook classes in both high school and college.” 

Ruiz has built his career in San Antonio, where he is currently a senior communications specialist for South Texas Blood & Tissue. After decades practicing communications professionally, he set his sights on another life goal: earning a college degree.  

Finding the Right Fit

“I had been considering returning to school to complete the journey I began years ago,” said Ruiz. “Having the opportunity to return and finish my degree where I first started has been both fulfilling and deeply meaningful.” 

It wasn’t until he found UTSA Online, fully online degree programs offered by the university, that he really considered it. At first, he was a bit apprehensive. 

“Once I began my first class, I was genuinely impressed by the level of commitment from the professors and their teaching methods,” said Ruiz. “The structure of the courses was unlike anything I had experienced before.” 

UTSA Online offers a curriculum that is truly industry ready, providing students with practical, applicable knowledge from day one. The flexibility of a fully online education allows students to balance their studies with personal and professional responsibilities. 

UTSA Degree, Flexibility He Needed

For adult learners like Ruiz, who are often juggling work, family and school, this flexibility is invaluable. The collaborative learning environment and the high level of engagement from professors ensure that students receive a high-quality education tailored to their needs. 

“As someone who has worked in the communications field for over 20 years, I found the program’s content to be extremely relevant and practical, essentially a turnkey for what professionals are doing daily in the industry,” said Ruiz.  

“Each professor brought something unique to the table, but Professor Ryan McPherson’s approach stood out to me the most,” Ruiz added. “His teaching style aligns directly with the demands of today’s public relations teams, challenging students to think critically and apply real-world strategy.” 

After graduation, Ruiz plans to take some time to reflect on the next chapter of his journey. It’s an opportunity to set new goals, both professionally, academically and in his everyday life. Ruiz said that the experience of balancing work, family, and school was demanding, but it also strengthened his discipline, determination, and resilience. 

“Personally, this journey has given me a deep sense of achievement and a level of confidence I once thought I lacked and, most importantly, has brought closure to a long-overdue chapter in my life,” said Ruiz. “Professionally, I’m inspired to set new goals, explore new ideas, and share what I’ve learned with others who are seeking guidance.” 

Familial Support

Ruiz, who is the first among his immediate family to graduate from college, said he was grateful for his family’s support, as well as the encouragement from his wife who is an alumnus of the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio.   

“From the guidance of my mom and aunts during my early years to the encouragement of my cousins as a young adult, I’ve been fortunate to have a strong support network,” said Ruiz. “Above all, my wife has been my greatest source of strength”  

 “Her constant encouragement and unwavering belief in me have played the most significant role in making my graduation this May possible,” he added.