In May 2025, Michael Rivas graduated from Wichita State with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Before graduating, he shared his educational journey and its challenges with Wichita Public Schools (USD 259) high school students. Working with Wichita State Undergraduate Admissions’ Lead Admissions Representative, Baylee Almos, Rivas became a college access coach his senior year. He became integral in enhancing college accessibility and providing post-secondary planning to high school upperclassmen. Rivas connected with students about his honest experience as a first-generation, transfer and nontraditional student.
At his assigned schools, Rivas informed students with North High’s Future Ready Success Coach, Rachel Schmeidler and South High’s Future Ready Success Coach, Courtney Bell. At these schools, Rivas encouraged students to explore their possibilities regardless of their barriers. Students were encouraged to explore all possible post-secondary options with support and resources.
Rivas’ honesty and sincerity resonated with students.
“I looked forward to working with students and helping them decide what they were interested in,” Rivas said. “I didn’t appreciate the guest speakers when I was in high school. Now, I’m one of them. It was riveting to see how things can turn around.”
Rivas understood firsthand the challenges of seeking higher education. High school was challenging and his family encouraged him to continue his education. After high school, he attended Hutchinson Community College, where he faced academic challenges. After a year there, he would take three years off and return with a better sense of purpose and support.
“My educational journey hasn’t been the most lucrative, or to say the least, scholarly,” Rivas said. “I wasn’t the best student by any means, but I knew I had a great support system with my parents and my older sister, Sindy.”
Returning to college, Rivas earned his highest grades ever – receiving his associate degree in criminal justice administration and transferred to Wichita State. At Shocker Nation, he became involved immediately by joining many student organizations like Alpha Alpha Alpha, the Pre-Law Organization, Latinos Lead and the Criminal Justice Organization.
By sharing his story, he empowered students to reflect on their future.
Rivas guided a new generation of students on their postsecondary journey with sincerity and support. He assisted students with technical tasks like FAFSA and other financial aid forms, tasks that would remerge in his current position.
“This experience taught me that anything is possible, and my story could positively impact others,” Rivas said.
This Applied Learning Experience was made possible by Wichita State’s Applied Learning Fund, which enables students to get paid career-relevant work experience.
Rivas continues serving individuals through his work at Valdez Law LLC. Initially starting as a legal intern in November 2024, he’s now a paralegal assistant post-grad. At the law firm, Rivas works directly with immigration and civil law attorney, Beatriz Valdez. An opportunity he found through Shocker Central as a senior.
In his current position, Rivas practices discretion and empathy while handling sensitive information tasks. At Valdez Law, he completes legal research and government forms like motions and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services forms.
“It gave me the passion and drive to pursue law school, if not at least obtain my master’s,” Rivas said. “I want to become an attorney and represent the hard-working individuals that bolster our community.”
Despite facing obstacles in his educational journey, Rivas’ zeal and optimism led him to graduate cum laude and to new aspirations. In his time as a career access coach and mentor, his adversities turned into inspiration. Now on a new journey, he inspires himself.
Wichita State's applied learning program gives students hands-on, paid experience with industry partners, helping them build careers before graduation.
For more information, contact the Shocker Career Accelerator at (316) 978-3688, SCA@wichita.edu, or visit wichita.edu/Career. You can also stop by in person at the Marcus Welcome Center, Suite 139, on the Wichita State campus.
Courtesy photo