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People told Jose A. Robledo III (BS 15) hed never leave San Antonio, Texas.
Because of his difficult background, they said hed never be accepted into BYU, and hed
never graduate.
Robledo and his family had lost their home, vehicles, and financial stability when
his father lost his job as a Federal Air Marshal. Robledo recalls moving often and
sleeping on an air mattress that would deflate during the night. And at age 16, he and his
brothers mowed lawns in 110-degree weather, just to help provide money for food.
Despite such challenges and pessimism from others, Robledo never allowed his
ambitions to fade.
Thanks to a needs-based scholarship, which he calls the biggest blessing in the
world, he earned a degree this year in sociology. It makes such a big difference when
you have a scholarship coming in, he says.
Robledo acknowledges how his BYU family has been there for him. Fellow
students, professors, staff, and faculty members have been angels assisting him in his
journey.
Friends and ward members were so generous to us when we were struggling, but
people arent just going to save you every time; its just not that way, Robledo said.
Youve got to work.

He has seen firsthand that there are no free handouts in life and knows he must
work hard to succeed.

Sixteen credit hours of sociology classes fill his time until mid-afternoon. Then he
heads to practice for BYUs Living Legends. Add serving in the LDS temple, a part-time
research assistant job, and an internship to the mix, and you have a glimpse of Robledos
daily routine.
Robledo has interned at several companies, including American Express, and he
has held positions in e-commerce and research on campus. He doesnt plan on stopping
his busy routine any time soon: hes currently looking for a job in data analytics.
Not only is Robledo motivated to pay his way through school, he also works to
help his family back home in Texas. Life hasnt been easy for the Robledos. But the
family refuses to give up on the future they see for themselves. Today, they are closer
than ever to financial stability.
You cant expect things if you havent done your part to make them a reality,
Robledo said. If you give it all youve got and if you trust in the Lord and remember that
he always has your back, then itll all work out.

Jenna Neeley Randle (BA15)