When first-generation student Brian Rubio moved to campus in 2020, it was his first time living away from home.
“I chose Cal State Fullerton because of the high level of student involvement, so when I got here, I hit the ground running and started looking for a community where I could grow and learn,” said Rubio.
He found that sense of comfort and community in CSUF’s Housing and Residential Engagement, where he was inspired to help other students find success in their new home away from home.
Serving as a resident adviser for four years, he hosted a unique lineup of events and found that his favorite programs focused on the Latinx community, spotlighting different cultures and exploring Latinx diversity. When CSUF announced the 2024 launch of Titans Unidos, a themed floor for residents in the Latinx community, Rubio knew that’s where he wanted to be.
“Brian exemplifies servant leadership by advocating for his peers and collaborating with staff to develop impactful programs,” said Kafele Khalfani, director of Housing and Residential Engagement. “His dedication is especially evident within the Latinx community, where he strives to create inclusive environments that foster connection and growth for all residents.”
The inaugural resident adviser for the floor, Rubio connects students with campus resources, hosts events focused on personal development, and provides them opportunities to make community connections and explore their cultures.
“I want to create a space where students can explore their identities and build community with others who understand their backgrounds and experiences as Latinx-identifying students,” said Rubio.
He knows firsthand how important accessible resources are to a students’ educational experience.
“Both of my parents barely finished middle school, so I had to figure a lot out on my own while navigating a language barrier,” said Rubio. “I overcame those challenges, and now, I want to make it easier for other students to find support and succeed while staying connected to their culture.”
Jennifer Ortiz, associate director of administration and conference services, added that Rubio’s work in housing has served as a launching pad, preparing him to succeed in other leadership roles on campus. Rubio also serves as vice chair for Associated Students Inc.’s board of directors and a student representative for the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.
“I have seen Brian continue to seek out new opportunities for growth and leadership across CSUF while also encouraging those around him to get involved,” said Ortiz.
Serving Others Through Science
When he’s not helping others in housing, Rubio can be found inside the Evolution and Genomics Research lab studying fruit flies, which share many common genes with humans.
He works alongside Parvin Shahrestani, associate professor of biological science and 2024 Carol Barnes Excellence in Teaching Award recipient, and a team of graduate students to uncover how changes in a fly’s microbiology impact their development.
“Working in the lab has not only provided me with important teamwork and communication skills, but it also gave me the experience I needed to make a difference at Children’s Hospital of Orange County,” said Rubio, a biological science student and Class of 2025 grad.
As a CHOC research intern, Rubio collaborates with professional researchers to help create an artificial intelligence model that will predict remission for pediatric patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
This work, combined with the experience he’s gained in Shahrestani’s lab, have set Rubio on the path toward becoming a physician assistant and continuing to help people in the medical field.
“Cal State Fullerton provides so many opportunities and resources to help students achieve their goals. I’m thankful for the pivotal role it has played in my professional and personal journey,” said Rubio.