For Megan Rubio, being named a Boise State University Top Ten Scholar is more than an academic achievement. It is a moment to recognize the resilience, growth and commitment that have shaped her journey in social work.
Rubio, a senior in the School of Social Work, said her path into the field has always been clear.
“For me, social work was always where I was going to end up,” Rubio said. “I have always been driven to help others.”
That passion was solidified early in her career while working at a daycare that served foster youth. There, she witnessed firsthand the challenges within an overburdened system and knew she wanted to be part of the solution.
Her time at Boise State has been defined by both challenges and transformation.
“I would describe my overall experience at Boise State as a journey,” Rubio said. “It was definitely challenging, but I also learned that I am resilient and can do hard things.”
That resilience was tested early in her college experience. Following back surgery during her freshman year, Rubio faced a difficult recovery while continuing her coursework and staying engaged in her program. When the surgery did not fully resolve her condition, she was forced to adapt and find new ways to succeed.
“I had to accept that there were things I could no longer do,” Rubio said. “The only way is through.”
Through those experiences, Rubio developed a deep sense of perseverance that continues to guide her both academically and personally.
Throughout her time at Boise State, Rubio has made a lasting impact through leadership, service and advocacy. She founded Generation Action, a student organization focused on advocacy and community engagement, while also balancing coursework, an intensive internship and her own health.
“I am most proud of the connections I’ve made,” Rubio said. “I’ve been able to utilize these resources to help those in need and connect organizations and groups to one another so they can collaborate and do good.”
Her internship with the Living Independence Network Corporation provided hands-on experience working directly with individuals who have disabilities and connecting them to essential resources. Rubio said the experience helped prepare her for the realities of social work and strengthened her professional skills.
She also credits several mentors for shaping her journey, including internship supervisor Ferne Brandt and social work faculty members Heather Witt and Diane Hakes.
“They have supported and encouraged me every step of the way,” Rubio said.
Being named a Top Ten Scholar has given Rubio the opportunity to reflect on her accomplishments in a new way.
“I didn’t think that this was possible,” Rubio said. “Being named a Top Ten Scholar has made me pause and actually give myself time and space to be proud.”
As a first-generation college student, the recognition holds even deeper meaning. It represents not only her academic success, but the determination and persistence it took to get there.
After graduation, Rubio plans to continue her education through Boise State’s Master of Social Work Advanced Standing program, with the goal of becoming a licensed clinical social worker. She hopes to continue her work in policy and advocacy while supporting individuals and communities at multiple levels.
“I want to continue working with vulnerable populations and support them at the individual, community and larger levels,” Rubio said.
Her advice to other students is simple.
“You can do hard things,” Rubio said. “Even if it’s scary, you’ll find a way.”
Through resilience, leadership and a deep commitment to advocacy, Rubio is already making a lasting impact, and her work is just getting started.