Anselmo Sandoval is a graduate of Nativity’s Class of 2007. He comes from a family that is deeply committed to education, and both he and his brother attended Nativity, went on to Bellarmine, and enrolled in Jesuit universities. Anselmo is set to graduate from St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia in the coming months, and his brother Jose just returned from a semester abroad through Santa Clara University and studied in England. Anselmo’s mother, Josefina Madrigal, has been a huge supporter of Nativity in the years since her sons graduated, and she is a fixture at our annual Fiesta. She leads the piñata-making charge for our raffle every year, and we have her and her team of dedicated mamas to thank for
their efforts to ensure a Nativity education is available for generations to come.
Below, a conversation with Anselmo about his journey to university and the advice he offers to our current Nativity students.
As a first generation college bound student, when was the moment you realized college/university was in your future?
For me college was always emphasized since I was in 4th grade. Both my mother and father always encouraged me to continue my education so that I would not have to struggle in life as they have. My father once told me that his dream/goal as a parent was to watch me walk the stage receiving a college degree.
In what ways did SHN prepare you for high school and college?
SHNS helped me prepare for high school and college by developing healthy life habits. For example, writing in my planner every day, splitting heavy homework assignments over several days, reviewing course work every day for about 30 minutes to better prepare for exams and more importantly that education is the only way to break the cycle of poverty.
What was your educational path after graduating from Sacred Heart Nativity School for Boys?
After Sacred Heart Nativity School I attended Bellarmine College Preparatory. Keeping the Jesuit tradition alive, I attended Saint Joseph’s University [in Philadelphia, PA].
Why did you choose St. Joseph’s for college?
As a Junior at Bellarmine, I was able to go on an east coast college tour funded by the Bellarmine Alumni New York Chapter. On the college tour I visited; Drexel, Fordham, Hofstra, Saint John’s and Saint Joseph’s University. When I toured Saint Joseph’s, I fell in love with the campus, I enjoyed the small school size (4600), majors being offered in the school of business and the strong Jesuit sense of brotherhood that I felt at Bellarmine.
How did your family react to your decision to study on the East Coast? Was it difficult to be far away?
My decision to study on the East Coast was a tough decision, but ultimately with the support of my parents I felt ready. I wanted my college experience to challenge me not only academically but spiritually as well, and I felt that stepping out of my comfort zone would be the best way to
achieve that.
What kept you on track in college?
In college my biggest problem was time management and in order to keep from being home sick or bored I joined various clubs and activities on campus. I enjoyed clubs that I did at Bellarmine; English Premiere League Club, Intermural Soccer, Sustainability Club, Spanish Club, Running Club and Latino Club.
What is your current area of study in college, and what are your career plans?
I am currently finishing up my undergraduate degree in International Business. I have done internships over the past years in Data Acquisition/Data Mining. As I look forward in my career path I hope to work in Human Resources.
What advice would you give to Nativity graduates?
My advice to Nativity graduates is to not be afraid of failure. One of the slogans at St Joe’s is “Not for Spectators” which I believe is highly applicable in everyday life. Don’t be afraid to try out for a sport, audition for a play, attend a club, make new friends or renew old friendships. Most importantly step out of your comfort zone and don’t be afraid to be vulnerable.