Today@Sam Article

Salute To Service: Yori Caldera

Nov. 11, 2024
SHSU Media Contact: Campbell Atkins

This November, as Sam Houston State University observes Veterans Day, meet the campus vets that have exemplified the motto, “The measure of a Life is its Service,” in our Salute To Service Series. 

Why did you choose to join the military?

YC: I joined the military for a multitude of reasons. Ever since I was little, I always had a desire for public service. Having lived in a small town that I would consider a bubble, I greatly wanted to make a change. I knew the military would not only develop me as a person and give me purpose, but also give me many career and educational opportunities. Since I like a challenge and push myself to be the best I possibly can, I chose to enlist in the United States Marine Corps.

What was your reason for continuing your education and choosing SHSU?

YC: Education is something that is very important to me. I love to learn, and I am a first-generation student. Therefore, I am eager to set a good example for my siblings, nieces and nephews. I knew that I wanted to attend Sam Houston State University since I was in high school. The College of Criminal Justice is ranked one of the best in the nation. I know that my attendance here at SHSU will set me up for success in the field.

What do you want your civilian peers to know about your service?

YC: I have heard many of the typical jokes about Marines from my peers such as, “Marines are crayon eaters,” and “Marines are crazy.” The jokes do not keep me up at night, but I would like for my peers to know that I served with individuals who either have or are pursuing higher education degrees; people who are innovators and later become business owners, and people who make Marines or recruit them. Military service is completely voluntary, the door is always open.

How has your service history impacted your academic life?

YC: My service has greatly impacted my academic life. While on active duty, I was tasked with completing several courses, some leadership, some instructional. In these courses, we were required to meet deadlines, ask questions, and there were no excuses for failure. I hold myself to the same standard now in my academic life. I treat it as a full-time job, and I am committed to meeting deadlines while putting forth my best work possible.

How easy or difficult was your transition from the military into an academic setting?

YC: My transition from military to an academic setting was relatively easy. I had attended college before I went to the military and obtained an associate's degree just a few months before I transitioned out. Therefore, I had experience in how to navigate an academic setting. I also visited the education office on base frequently to ensure that I was on the right track to begin college.

How has SHSU aided your transition?

YC: Many faculty members at SHSU have been very appreciative of my military service. This acknowledgment helps me feel included and very much welcome in the civilian sector. The Veterans Resource Center has aided my transition tremendously by ensuring my benefit requirements have been satisfied, but they also help me connect with other veterans and provide several means of support.

Do you have a hard time relating to your peers?

YC: I have had a hard time relating to peers because I am an older student. Throughout my time at SHSU I have gravitated towards other veterans and service members.

What are your future goals or dreams?

YC: My future goals are to be admitted into law school, obtain a J.D. degree and pass the bar exam. With that I hope to become a criminal prosecutor in the state of Texas. Long term, I would like to enter the government/political space and potentially run for a political office.

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