KILLEEN, Texas — On Saturday, Dec 2, Francis Villanueva will wear his golden ring and join generations of warriors in the pursuit of reaching their dreams.
The golden ring dates back to when the university first formed in 2009. It was made with the goat to embody the spirit of every warrior, according to the University.
Villanueva is a fist generation college student, and is one of thousand of students who wears the ring. While many students love wearing it, one does not have to wear the ring to be considered a warrior.
Another example of a hard working first generation college student, is Cruz Gonzalez.
Gonzalez will soon graduate from the university with a 3.7 GPA but without his golden ring. He mentions how he never had time or money to purchase the ring.
"But there's always the Master program," Gonzalez said .
Whether students wear the ring this Saturday or in years to come, they carry the spirit of a warrior for the rest of their lives.
Villanueva came from the Philippines over two decades ago. He came with a dream and a goal to make his family proud.
"I was so excited when I started this four year degree," Villanueva said.
He wasn't able to finish his degree in the Philippines, due to bullying. Now he will officially be a warrior.
"For the first time in my life I will be graduating university here in States," Villanueva said.
The ring has taken graduates to D.C. overseas and right here in their backyard.
This weekend it will bring them together with family, friends and educators to celebrate their accomplishments.