From first-generation college student to trailblazing leader: How GSW shaped Alex Espitia’s journey

Graduating from college is a monumental accomplishment for anyone, but for first-generation college students, it represents a triumph over unique challenges. Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) prides itself on fostering student success through its close-knit community. At GSW, students are surround by strong support networks, both on and off campus, laying a foundation for their academic and professional development.

Among GSW’s December 2024 graduates is Alex Espitia, an Integrated Studies major with a minor in Political Science and certificates in Criminal Justice and Leadership. A native of Newton, GA—a small farming community of just 3,000 people—Alex has been no stranger to hard work, assisting on farms alongside his mother since the 10^th grade. As a first-generation college student, Alex has always strived to show his family that it’s never too late to pursue an education. He hopes his journey to graduation inspires them, saying, “Tomorrow is an opportunity to better ourselves and better our future.”

Alex credits the President Jimmy Carter Leadership Program and his time as Student Government Association (SGA) President as transformative experiences that molded him into the leader he is today. An accomplished campus trailblazer, Alex has received multiple accolades, including Mr. GSW (2023-2024), Mr. Freshman (2022-2023), Storm Spotter of the Year (2023), and Canes Spotlight (October 2024).

Reflecting on his path to college, Alex recalls applying to 26 different institutions before visiting GSW. “The moment I stepped on campus, I knew this was where I belonged,” he says. “You’re not just a number here, you’re a name,” he states. “GSW’s faculty and staff genuinely care about your success and want to see you succeed, even after graduation.” This personal connection played a pivotal role in Alex’s growth from a first-year student to an accomplished graduate and leader.

Back home in Newton, Alex has the support system of his mom, grandmother, and brother cheering him on every step of the way. He talks about his hometown with the same warmth he has for GSW, expressing a desire to serve both communities. About his family, he says, “They don’t stand behind me; they stand beside me”, emphasizing the instrumental role they’ve played in his success.

Alex also highlights the mentorship of Mikela Barlow, Coordinator of the Carter Leadership Program, as a key influence. The recipient of his silver coin, Mikela encouraged him from day one to stay open to change and new opportunities. Alex began his college journey as a nursing major, inspired by his desire to help others in honor of his late stepfather’s memory. However, new plans took shape when the Carter Leadership Program opened the door to community involvement and a broader understanding of service. Alex discovered there are countless ways to impact lives and serve others beyond healthcare.

This realization led him to switch his major to Integrated Studies with a focus on Political Science. Conversations with mentors, including Georgia State Representative Mike Cheokas, further shaped his career goals, sparking his passion for government and public service.

During his time at GSW, Alex excelled in leadership. As SGA President from 2022 to 2024, he restructured the organization to foster growth—increasing membership from 20 to nearly 100 students—and achieved 1,000 service hours for the group. He also spearheaded the passage of meaningful legislation, something the SGA had not accomplished in years.

Alex sought to embrace his Hispanic heritage on his father’s side by founding Alpha Psi Lambda, a national co-ed Latino fraternity. Through this organization, he aimed to foster a sense of community among Hispanic and Latino students, and promote cultural awareness on campus. His vision was not only to grow the Hispanic/Latino population at GSW but also to create a platform for educating others about the richness and diversity of their culture.

Currently, Alex works at GSW as the Executive Assistant to the Vice President of Student Engagement and Success. Since graduating in December, he will continue in his role while pursuing an online graduate degree in Higher Education Administration, with a focus on student affairs and engagement.

Looking ahead, Alex envisions community involvement and being part of higher education administrative changes. His long-term career goals include a political career, with aspirations ranging from State Legislation to Congress, and perhaps one day, even President of the United States. It might sound ambitious, but Alex leading the White House isn’t such a stretch after spending just a few minutes with him.

After all, Alex learned many of his core values from the legacy of former President Jimmy Carter, another family-focused Georgian from a rural community who dared to dream big. Through the Carter Leadership Program, Alex earned his leadership certificate and learned the importance of “serving others and making someone else’s day better when they least expect it.”

Outside of his academic and professional endeavors, Alex enjoys exploring nature, traveling, watching tv shows, and spending time with friends and family. He adds that since coming to GSW, he has also gained a new appreciation for watching sports. He is just as humble and down-to-earth as he is ambitious. Wherever life takes him, home will always be at the heart of who he is. One thing is for certain, Alex is just getting started.