Ruben-Sanchez-Defuses-Challenges-with-RVCs-Help.php

Ruben Sanchez Defuses Challenges with RVC's Help

• Students
• 11/26/2024

Rock Valley College is where Ruben Sanchez, a Veteran EOD Expert with 22 years of military service, has rediscovered a sense of purpose and is now ready to pursue his dreams.

 

 

"I switched over to Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and disarmed bombs for the last 12 years."

Ruben began his military career in the U.S. Army, starting in Aviation (AVN), and went on to deploy twice to Iraq. After a particularly tragic tour, Ruben took on the challenge to become an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician. His military journey has taken him to Kosovo, Kuwait, Pakistan, and many other places.

After leaving the military, he explored job opportunities in California before moving to Tennessee, hoping the change would help. Instead, he found himself feeling lost and exhausted. "Coming out of the military, single father, had my kids with me full-time, and nothing was how I felt it should be going," said Ruben.

Seeking a fresh start, relocated to the Rockton area. Ruben was struggling to find his way, attempting to run from problems, only to fall into a state of severe depression.

"Going from bedridden, weeks without a shower, not doing anything, to all of a sudden, awake, I realized this situation was not acceptable; we need to do something." Ruben stated. He recognized his mental health challenges and sought help from his local VA, beginning treatment soon after.

As time progressed, so did he. Ruben had an epiphany and woke up from the rut he had been in the past few years. Psychoactive therapy became the topic of discussion that opened Ruben’s eyes to all the possibilities. His focus and goal in life is to help kids, veterans, or anyone who has experienced trauma.

To achieve this, he understood a certain level of education was necessary to follow his passion, which led him to RVC. “The moment I decided to go back to school, everything changed. I found this new love for life, possibilities, and even learning. Now I want all the experiences!” Ruben exclaimed.

Rock Valley College was the stepping stone that paved the way for him to chase his dreams and start transforming them into reality. Pursuing a degree in Psychology begins a new chapter for Ruben. "School is the answer for now. More education can't be a bad thing. From philosophy classes to sociology, it has been eye-opening from day one. The staff has been awesome. Everybody's been helpful," Ruben shared.

The connections he is forming with professors will leave a lasting impression on him. He is inspired by Sociology Professor David Dosier, Philosophy Professor Dr. Michelle Rotert, and Anthropology Professor Lien Vu. Ruben believes, “if we had more professors like this, no one would think school was boring.”

Upon arriving on campus, Ruben quickly became President of the Student Veteran's Association. During his leadership, he began making a significant and positive impact on those around him.

Ryan Russell, Trade Grant Recruiter, Program Specialist, Workforce Development, see's Ruben as someone who can use their life experience to an advantage to help and connect with others, as well as welcoming older and younger veterans in with open arms.

"Ruben has had an impact on not just the veteran population but the student population as a whole. I cannot count on both hands the times we have walked around campus, and he is stopped by fellow classmates or throws a wave to a friend. His contagious laughter and spontaneous jokes are the backbone of keeping morale high."

His efforts and contribution to helping and connecting with others extend beyond that. As President of the Student Veteran's Association, he organizes 'Coffee with Vets' every Monday at 8 AM. Ruben's goal for these meetups is to help fellow individuals gain valuable insight through listening, encouraging questions, and connecting peers with different organizations that offer support for those who may be struggling.

Milana Herman, Program Manager, Faculty, Enrollment Services, recognizes Ruben's significant value and influence, which plays a key role in shaping the campus culture.

"While only in his first term at RVC, Ruben has managed to bring a new sense of energy, fresh ideas and a unique sense of humor to every conversation that he has, any meetings he may attend and the bonds of friendship he has created between clubs, age, ethnicity etc."

When Ruben began his educational journey, he prioritized learning as much as possible. However, he quickly realized there was more to absorb than what was taught in the classroom. Upon discovering the option to join clubs, he eagerly jumped aboard. His current club involvements include the Philosophy Club, E-Sports, and Belegarth–a group focused on medieval fighting.

Ruben’s search for help continued as he came across resources that guided him through his studies. “The Math Lab and the Writing Center have been huge in helping me get assignments done. The number of services–I really had no idea there was so much support to be successful,” said Ruben.

It’s clear for Ruben what path he’s supposed to be on, and he finally found his passion, drive, and dream to move forward. Ruben Sanchez’s journey at Rock Valley College is a compelling testament that no matter where you are in life, what struggles you face, or how lost you may feel, there’s always support to help you discover your passion and reignite your spark. For Ruben, his pursuit was school–and it could be the path you’ve been waiting to walk down as well.

“My advice for anyone is to get up and do it! Start small or jump all in; get with an advisor and start planning. There is no tomorrow, only right now.”