Why did you initially decide to become a Peacock?
I chose Saint Peter’s because I wanted to attend a school where I could create an authentic community that would support my academic success, preserve my personal beliefs, and keep my family connections. It needed to challenge me and provide me with support as a first-generation working student who also runs a family business. Saint Peter’s gave me that. From the beginning, I felt like I could build something here. I have been able to build relationships, develop my leadership experience, and envision a future that connects what I love: business, service, and community.
You mentioned support that the University was able to offer you. What kind of support were you able to receive?
The Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) and TRIO programs gave me vital assistance which allowed me to enter college, stay on track with my academic work, and develop my professional growth.
What was your major at SPU and what clubs or activities did you participate in?
I’m an accounting major with a minor in finance. I’m part of the Student Government Association (SGA), where I serve as CFO and oversee budgets for more than 30 clubs and organizations. I’m also involved with the Student Managed Investment Fund (SMIF) as a market analyst. I’ve been active in organizations like the Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA) and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice (DEIJ). On the academic side, I’m a member of Alpha Sigma Nu (the Jesuit honors society) and National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS).
Outside of SPU, you help run your family’s bakery! What is the history of the business?
Our family bakery, Santiago’s Bakery, is based in Elizabeth, N.J. We opened in 2018, when I was in 8th grade. My dad, my mom, and I work together through every stage of the journey. We specialize in Mexican pastries (pan dulce), traditional Mexican food, and custom cakes. We’ve expanded and built a strong customer community in Jersey City, so one of our goals is to open a location there in the near future.
As I got older, I became more involved in the parts of the business that keep everything running: organizing operations, helping manage inventory and supplies, supporting finances, and improving how we present ourselves to customers (including our branding and social media presence). What makes this special to me is that it’s not just a job; it’s been my personal growth alongside the bakery’s growth. I’ve watched our family build something from the ground up through hard work and consistency. The opening of Santiago’s Bakery 2 in Roselle during December 2024 marked a significant achievement that brought joy to our family because it demonstrated all our hard work and dedication had paid off.
Have you been able to bring anything you’ve learned at Saint Peter’s into the operations of the bakery business?
Saint Peter’s has helped me think more strategically and professionally about how we run the bakery. I’ve used my accounting and finance skills to create financial plans that track costs and have learned to manage business operations through structured systems for inventory management and price setting. From my marketing and communications classes, I’ve learned how to strengthen our brand, improve customer trust, and create better outreach through social media. My SGA leadership experience has helped me learn how to organize teams, delegate, create systems, and communicate clearly. Running a bakery teaches you real-life problem solving every day, but school gave me tools and language to make smarter, long-term decisions.
As the next generation in the business, what are some goals you have for it in the future?
My biggest goal is to keep growing the business while staying true to what makes it special. I want to continue improving our operations across both locations. I also want to keep building our digital presence and marketing so more people discover us and connect with the culture behind the products. Long-term, I want to expand in a way that’s sustainable, whether that means additional locations, catering partnerships, or even new concepts that build off what we’ve learned. For me, growth isn’t just about expanding; it’s about building something that lasts for my family and for the communities we serve.
You are a senior this year. Any plans for after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to continue building my career in accounting and finance while still helping lead our family business. I’m actively pursuing internships and professional opportunities for Summer 2026, and my long-term goal is to earn my CPA. I’m especially interested in roles where I can combine strong financial skills with real-world business impact. At the same time, I’ll continue helping grow Santiago’s Bakery and applying what I’m learning professionally to strengthen our business. Ultimately, I want to build a career that reflects both sides of my life: professional growth and family responsibility.
What advice do you have for any incoming freshman or new students at Saint Peter’s?
Come in with an open mind and a strong work ethic, but also with faith in yourself and your purpose. Saint Peter’s is the kind of place where you can truly grow if you let it shape you, not just academically, but as a person. Don’t limit your experience to the classroom. Get involved early, join organizations that align with who you are and don’t be afraid to step into leadership even if you feel like you’re still “learning.” Confidence comes from consistency, not perfection. Stay grounded in your values. It’s easy to compare yourself to others or feel like you’re behind, especially when you’re adjusting to college life. If you come from a hardworking family, if you’re balancing work, responsibilities, or being first-generation, don’t see that as a disadvantage. Carry it with pride. Those experiences build discipline, humility, and character. Saint Peter’s is special because people here genuinely want to see you win. Ask for help when you need it, build relationships with mentors, and don’t isolate yourself when things get stressful. If you are consistent, stay humble, and keep showing up with purpose, you’ll be surprised how many doors open for you here.