Ruben Aguirre: Beginning a Wildcat Journey
Ruben Aguirre is about to begin his journey as a Wildcat this August, joining the University of Arizona as a first-year student planning on studying industrial engineering. In this Q&A, Aguirre shares what he's looking forward to as he starts his college career, his recommendations for surviving the Arizona heat, how growing up in the Sonoran Desert has influenced his view of the environment.
"The environment is something that belongs to everyone. How one person treats the environment reflects on an entire community."
-Ruben Aguirre, incoming first-year student
What are the top three things you’re most excited about in terms of starting at the University of Arizona?
The top three things that I am excited for at the University of Arizona are the football and basketball games, attending U of A in general, and to make new experiences.
As someone who’s from Southern Arizona, what are your recommendations for other incoming students who are new to the area? Are there any places or general advice that you’d like to share?
To those who are new to the Southern Arizona region, I would advise to stay hydrated because the sun can be brutal the majority of the time. I would also say to give Pinnacle Peak a visit. It is an amazing location and a fun one for steak lovers and those who love the Western era.
How do you think growing up in the Sonoran Desert has shaped your relationship with the environment?
I think that growing up in the Sonoran Desert has shaped my relationship with the environment in a variety of ways. When you live out here you learn to appreciate green scenes such as the botanical gardens and a selection of parks scattered around town. You also learn the importance of water. Dry heat amplifies the desire for water.
Why should students care about the environment, even if it isn't their major or area of study?
People should care about the environment, regardless of their major, because the environment is something that belongs to everyone. How one person treats the environment, reflects on an entire community. Everyone should do their part and take care of what's scarce because there is no second chance when we've gone too far.