Melanie Ruiz Lopez

This episode celebrates the powerful transition from college to the next big step in our lives. We explore the excitement that comes with saying goodbye to AWC while reflecting on the lessons we’ve learned. We discuss how “being the first” means creating a path for those who follow. This is a tribute to all the students graduating in Spring 2026.Voices in this episode: Nick Foley, Ivan Zepeda, Emely Hernandez, Abril Garcia, Ila Peterson, Angela Amezaga

This episode dives deep into the "internal critic" known as imposter syndrome, a feeling that many students face but few talk about. We explore how perfectionism and the pressure of being the first in our families can make us doubt our own success, even when the evidence of our talent is right in front of us. By sharing personal reflections and expert advice, we highlight the importance of finding our "why" and discovering our unique skills.Voices in this episode: Ingrid Gomez, Isaias Navarro, Nathalia Flores, Laura Juarez.

Siendo Primero's Saghey Barcenas and Melanie Ruiz Lopez interviewed the mother-daughter duo who own Revival Fix, a thrift store in Downtown Yuma.

In this week's Arizona Edition, Somerton changes Cesar Chavez Avenue to honor farmworkers, Yuma residents discuss data centers and Yuma student entrepreneurs.

This episode explores what it takes to turn a simple idea into a real business within our community. We share stories about balancing school with a new venture and finding the courage to take that first step. At its core, it’s about more than just selling a product, it’s about having the drive and support to build your own future.Voices in this episode: Estela Duron, Jose, Abril Garcia, Brad Pease, Raquel Galindo, Marizza Galindo

On this week's Arizona Edition, hear from Sen. Mark Kelly and the owner of Yepez Automotive in Somerton on how tariffs are affecting small business owners. Also, Arizona leads the nation in school choice. What does that mean? Finally, our Siendo Primero hosts talk about the job market for local students.

This week on Arizona Edition, Yuma’s agricultural leaders gather for the Southwest Ag Summit to discuss the future of farming as water uncertainty looms over the region. We also hear from a San Luis high school student advocating for stronger Colorado River water policies and cover Senator Ruben Gallego’s town hall in Yuma County.We end the episode with a feature from our student run podcast Siendo Primero.