Salazar-Gomez is one of four California college students selected this month as Cal Grant College Crew Captains. They serve as ambassadors for the California Student Aid Commission in helping to inform high school students all over the state about the availability of the Cal Grant program's "free cash" for college. Salazar-Gomez, who received formal training in Los Angeles prior to the launch of the Cal Grant publicity program on January 16, actively participates in events all over the state.
"Attending college wasn't even on my radar after high school graduation, and instead I enlisted in the military," said Salazar-Gomez, a CSU Stanislaus senior majoring in Criminal Justice.
Nevertheless, his high school soccer coach encouraged him to continue playing soccer competitively at the college level, and Salazar-Gomez enrolled at CSU Monterey Bay after enlisting in the Army Reserves. He was called into active duty and served for two years with a U.S. Army peacekeeping force in formerly war torn Kosovo before his unit was deactivated. Salvador's daughter, Ximena, now 2, was born during his two years abroad. He returned to finish his college degree at CSU Stanislaus and has booked himself into a very busy schedule to reach his career goal.
Salazar-Gomez, who describes himself as self-motivated, plans to complete his degree in May and pursue a law enforcement career. In addition to his full-time academic schedule, he works a night shift at a child care facility and three days a week as a CSU Stanislaus Outreach student ambassador. He and his wife, Yazmin, also have a one-year-old son, Osiel, and Salvador entertains them with his accordion and guitar playing of traditional Spanish music.
"I knew a college education would enable me to secure a better paying job and help provide for my family," Salazar-Gomez said. "I tell students that whatever hurdles life may throw your way, you can continue your education and achieve your dreams -- no matter what they may be. The Cal Grant program has helped me pay for the cost of my education."