When Amy Ruiz arrived at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, she was stepping into uncharted territory – the first in her family to attend college.
Now, the senior from Grand Island is leading the way for others, helping fellow first-generation students find confidence and community through UNK’s First-Gen Lopers organization.
A multimedia major with a minor in 2D art, Ruiz carries her family’s dreams with her. She’s proud to represent the next chapter in a story built on hard work and perseverance.
“Being a first-generation college student as well as a Hispanic woman is something I am incredibly proud of,” she said. “When I think about becoming part of the 30% who graduate citing these characteristics, I know it’s not just an achievement for me, but also for my family and community. My parents, especially my mom, have worked so hard to give me opportunities they never had. Earning my degree is one way I can honor their sacrifices.”
For Ruiz, a college degree means more than a diploma to display. It’s a gateway to opportunity.
“This degree opens many personal, professional and financial doors,” she said. “It gives me a stronger chance to create a better future for both myself and my family. More than anything, I want to give future generations in my family the hope and confidence that they can also attend college and be able to graduate.”
Building a community
As president of First-Gen Lopers, Ruiz wants others to know they belong at UNK – and that they don’t have to navigate the college experience alone.
“This role is important to me because it allows me to welcome first-gen students and provide them a safe space where they can ask questions and connect with others who share similar experiences,” she said. “I want to show them that they’ve already achieved so much by making it this far and that they should be proud of their accomplishments.”
Members of the organization meet regularly to organize activities that foster friendship and support, including a Halloween-themed coloring night scheduled for 6-7 p.m. Thursday at the Think Tank inside the student union. The group is also hosting a fundraiser from 10 a.m. to approximately 1 p.m. Oct. 31 at the student union, where they’ll be selling chocolate-covered popcorn and pretzels.
Through these gatherings, Ruiz hopes to spread a simple but powerful message: “Being the first in your family to attend college is not only OK – it’s something to be proud of.”
Designing her future
In addition to leading First-Gen Lopers, Ruiz channels her creativity as advertising manager for The Antelope student newspaper. It’s a role that blends her artistic talent with real-world experience.
“This is my first year working for The Antelope, and I’ve really enjoyed being part of the newspaper and getting the opportunity to design ads for both the paper and the Kearney community,” she said. “It allows me to do something I am truly passionate about – graphic design. Not only am I expanding my portfolio, but I’m also growing my networking and leadership skills.”
Ruiz is also active in Students in Mass Media and Ad/PR Club, giving her additional ways to collaborate with peers and refine her professional skills.
She credits UNK’s multimedia and art programs with preparing her for life after graduation.
“UNK focuses on real-world preparation,” she said. “We work on projects that resemble what we might encounter in our careers, and our professors consistently encourage us to update our portfolios to be ready for any potential employers.”
After graduating in December 2026, Ruiz plans to return to Grand Island to work as a web or graphic designer. Eventually, she hopes to work for a large company in an even bigger city.
Something that will always stick with her, though, is the sense of community she found at UNK.
“One thing I really enjoy about being a Loper is how welcoming everyone is,” she said. “The staff and students are always happy to help and welcome everyone from the community to attend events. There’s always something going on that gives you a chance to meet new people and make friends.”