Melanie Ruiz Lopez

In this week's Arizona Edition, Yuma proclaims May awareness month for MMIW, Yuma's parks and rec director on an aquatics feasibility study, local students at a state science fair and hear from an AWC professor.

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

In this episode, we take you inside the recent event at Arizona Western College, "The AIElephant in the Classroom." We explore the many faces of AI: from the funny stories happening on campus to its role as a tool that helps us navigate everyday student life.

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.

In this episode, we talk about the fear every student feels when looking for their first job without experience. We share stories about how our class projects, volunteering, and even the support we provide at home count as valuable tools for the future.