When Alex Melgar arrived at PC during his freshman year, he came with a clear intention: join a club or two, maybe get a little involved. What he didn’t expect was to discover a leader within himself.
“When I first arrived, I was motivated but unsure of myself and hesitant to see myself as a leader,” Alex said. “Today, I’m more confident, outspoken, and intentional. I trust my ability to lead and advocate for others.”
A Foundation Built on Support
As a first-generation college student, Alex was automatically connected to PresbyFirst+. The program became the foundation of his PC experience. Encouragement from faculty, staff, and upperclassmen gave him the courage to take his first steps into getting involved on campus.
Alex joined the Hispanic Appreciation Organization and applied to serve on the First-Year Council for Student Government. These opportunities would set the trajectory for his college career.
PC has a culture where people genuinely want you to succeed, that made stepping out of my comfort zone feel possible.
Alex Melgar ’27
From Class President to Campus Leader
The transformation was gradual but profound. Alex ran for and was elected Class of 2027 President during his freshman and sophomore years. Now, as a junior, he serves as Student Body President—a role he never imagined for himself.
As a student coordinator for Student Volunteer Services, Alex works with local nursing homes to create meaningful connections between students and elderly community members. He serves as Vice President of the Hispanic Appreciation Organization, gives campus tours as a student ambassador, and has been an orientation leader since his sophomore year.
“The biggest surprise was how comfortable I became taking the initiative,” Alex said. “I learned that I didn’t need to wait to be asked to lead or contribute. I could step up on my own.”
Finding His Place, Then Helping Others Find Theirs
The turning point came at the beginning of his junior year, when Alex realized underclassmen were looking to him for guidance.
“That was the moment I realized I had transitioned from just finding my place at PC to helping others find theirs,” he said.
Ready to Serve
After graduation, Alex plans to pursue a career in public policy or public service, where he can continue advocating for communities and creating meaningful change. Thanks to mentorship from the Political Science and History departments and hands-on leadership experiences, he’s ready to take on that challenge—confident in abilities he once doubted he had.