Isaiah Sanchez didn’t have a roadmap for college. As a first-generation student, he often had to navigate unfamiliar territory on his own. Guided by faith, fueled by a desire to create opportunities for others and strengthened by a community that he says became family, the Stanislaus State exercise science graduate transformed uncertainty into purpose — and found his calling in service along the way.
“When I first transferred to Stan State, I wasn’t expecting much,” Sanchez said. “But what I got out of it was another home that I could always turn to.”
Throughout his time on campus, Sanchez embraced opportunities for involvement and leadership that helped shape his college experience. As a member of Nu Alpha Kappa and as a News Student Orientation Leader, he became known for welcoming and supporting fellow students while helping create a strong sense of community.
Strategic Operations Specialist Donovan Orozco praised Sanchez for consistently stepping up to support others.
“What makes Isaiah stand out is his perseverance and positive attitude,” Orozco wrote. “Even with a lot on his plate, he approaches his work and involvement with enthusiasm and professionalism. His commitment to involvement and the Warrior community reflects what it means to be a Warrior.”
Sanchez credits many campus leaders and mentors with helping him succeed, including President Britt Rios-Ellis and staff members throughout Student Affairs and Associated Students Inc.
“This campus wouldn’t be the same without the support they provide students,” Sanchez said.
The motivation that carried Sanchez through college was rooted in something larger than earning a degree: creating a legacy of opportunity for his family.
“I didn’t have family members to guide me, so I had to figure things out on my own,” Sanchez said. “I’m doing this for my siblings and my future kids, and that’s what motivates me.”
His experiences taught him to embrace challenges rather than fear failure.
“The most powerful thing I learned at Stan State is that failing is an important key to success,” Sanchez said. “Never let failure discourage you from what you can achieve.”
Outside the classroom, Sanchez found joy in spontaneous adventures, campus traditions and the friendships he formed along the way. Whether attending Warrior Day events or helping students during New Student Orientation and Commencement, he said the sense of belonging made his college experience unforgettable.
After graduation, Sanchez plans to pursue a master’s degree in occupational therapy and eventually open an occupational therapy office in the Central Valley to increase access and resources for families in need.
“With the help of Stan State, I want to create more opportunities and support for people in our region,” he said.
#StanGrad File
Name
Isaiah Sanchez
Hometown
Ceres, CA
Degree/Credential
Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science
What memories stand out most from your time at Stanislaus State?
“I will never forget all the opportunities that this University has provided for me and many other students when it came to Homecoming games, Warrior Day and the trips that this college has provided for us. Not only did I find comfort with the lovely students in this community, but also with the faculty. When I first transferred to Stan State, I wasn’t expecting much. But what I got out of it was another home that I could always turn to.”
Which faculty or staff member had the greatest impact on you, and why?
“I would like to thank President Britt, Dr. Arya Alami, Janice Herring, Clarissa Lonn, Cindy Visot, Heather Dunn Carlton and all of Student Affairs and Associated Students, Inc. I will always be grateful for the amount of time and effort they put in establishing a great community on campus.”
What advice would you give to current and future students?
“Walk with faith, not with sight. Don’t worry about the future you can’t see. Focus on how to get there with what’s right in front of you. Get involved and seek opportunities that will help shape your personal development. Explore connections and say yes to spontaneous adventures — you never know what people you will meet that can direct you to future opportunities. Most importantly, be yourself, surround yourself with people who will accept and motivate you to build positive characteristics and authenticity.”
Note: This article is part of the StanGrad series highlighting Stanislaus State students who are part of the Class of 2026. Read more StanGrad profiles.
