LENDING A HELPING HAND

Cesar Da Silva ’21 remembers arriving on campus as a freshman for move-in day feeling anxious and unsure of what to expect. That feeling quickly faded as he was welcomed by so many members of the Regis community who were eager to help—from carrying his belongings into Angela Hall to answering his many questions.

“Seeing so many staff and faculty volunteering their time immediately confirmed that I had chosen the right place to call home for the next four years,” Cesar recalls. “It did not take long to see that the Regis community is built on helping others, and this has become a core value that has helped prepare me for life after graduation.”

Cesar is an exercise science major with dreams of opening his own physical therapy practice one day. “I always wanted to pursue a career that could improve the lives of others,” explains Cesar. “I chose physical therapy after I broke my foot and went through physical therapy myself. That was the moment I knew I wanted to provide assistance and comfort to patients as they recover after an injury.”

Cesar is the recipient of the Sharing Opportunity Scholarship and does not take his experience at Regis for granted and plans to make his donors proud. “I am thankful for all the opportunities that Regis provides—including small class sizes and being able to build relationships with professors,” explains Cesar. “I also recognize it is up to the student to be willing to put in the extra effort to achieve success.” Cesar focuses on his time-management as he works two jobs, plays on the men’s soccer team, and works hard to maintain his grades to ensure his scholarship eligibility. “This scholarship drives me even more to become a better student, person, and friend,” says Cesar. “My donors have inspired me, and I hope one day I will be able to help others fulfill their academic goals.”

Although Cesar knows life after graduation will be an adjustment, he is confident that Regis is giving him the tools he needs to succeed. “The Regis community has helped me evolve as a person by being part of a community that teaches me to put others’ needs ahead of my own. This is a crucial part of life and having this mindset is a trait that can go a long way in the real world, especially in physical therapy.”