Commencement Spotlight: Brandon Botro
Commencement Spotlight: Brandon Botro, Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Future Plans: United Airlines, San Francisco International Airport
Brandon Botro, a 24-year-old native of San Francisco, California and ASU alumnus (’24),
will graduate on May 9 with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from the Albany
State University College of Business, Education, and Professional Studies. 
Botro’s journey to graduation is one defined by resilience, determination, and purpose. Born prematurely at just 24 weeks and classified as a micro preemie, he faced significant medical challenges from birth, including a limited chance of survival and early vision impairment. Through advanced medical care and unwavering perseverance, he overcame those early obstacles—proving that circumstances do not define outcomes.
Carrying that same determination into his academic career, Botro was admitted to ASU, his first-choice school (the only school he applied too) through the Pathways to Success program and earned his Associate Degree in Criminal Justice in December 2024. He maximized every available resource to support his learning, demonstrating a commitment to growth and excellence.
While pursuing his education, Botro worked full time for four years with Delta Air Lines, balancing a demanding schedule that included long commutes, work responsibilities, and academic deadlines. His discipline and work ethic allowed him to successfully fund his education out of pocket, graduating debt free.
In addition to his academic and professional commitments, Botro remained dedicated to service. He volunteered with the Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano and served as a Youth Advisor, mentoring underserved students and guiding them through the college preparation process, including applications, coursework planning, and scholarship support.
Botro earned Dean’s List honors in Spring 2026, reflecting his academic achievement despite the demands of work and service.
Following graduation, he will begin a position with United Airlines at San Francisco International Airport. While he plans to take time to travel and explore new cultures, Botro remains committed to his long-term goal of pursuing a career as a Customs and Border Protection Officer with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
What motivated you to learn more about your field?
Seeing how many young Black and Brown boys are quietly pushed through the school‑to‑prison
pipeline, often beginning as early as grade school. Disciplinary practices, lack of
support, and systemic inequities too often redirect students away from opportunity
and toward incarceration. I am deeply motivated to make a difference in my community
by raising awareness, advocating for early intervention, and helping put safeguards
in place that interrupt this cycle before it starts. My goal is to ensure young people
are supported, protected, and given real pathways to succeed rather than being funneled
into systems that limit their potential.
Why did you choose ASU?
I always knew I wanted to attend an HBCU. I didn’t want to be in a big city, but
I have cousins who attended HBCU’s in Atlanta. Since I was going to college cross
country, I wanted to be close enough to family in an emergency. I visited a few HBCUs
and I choose ASU because of its strong criminal justice program and the support provided
to students.
Who has made the biggest impact on you, and who do you consider to be a role model
at ASU?
Dr. Robert Ausby has been one of my professors, and mentors during my time here at
ASU. I greatly respect him for all of his guidance.
What are you passionate about outside of your education?
Outside of my education, I’m passionate about traveling and exploring new cultures—especially
through food. Thanks to flight benefits from working at Delta Air Lines over the past
four years while studying at ASU, I’ve been fortunate to travel to many U.S. cities
and over 45 countries. Some of my favorite adventures include Panama, Cabo, Jamaica,
Costa Rica, the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, along with
iconic food stops like New Orleans for smoked oysters, Houston for BBQ, Philly for
cheesesteaks, and New York City just to shop and explore. Traveling with my girlfriend,
I love discovering new places, meeting new people, and turning every trip into an
experience worth remembering.
What advice would you give to other ASU students?
Stay focused and pick your major early so you don’t waste time or credits. Get involved
on campus—it’s the best way to make friends and feel part of the ASU Ramily. Stay
organized and meet your deadlines (ASU professors do not play about deadlines—no excuses!). Use resources like Tutor.com, the Writing Center,
Study Tables, and Quizlet. Balance your class load, manage your time & assignments
in your google calendar, use an app to help you capture and organize your notes, lean
on your support system—and remember you got this!!
What would you say to a high school student about choosing ASU to further their education? If you’re thinking about ASU, I’d say it’s a great choice if you want opportunities, support, and room to grow. ASU is big, which means there are tons of majors, clubs, internships, and resources to help you find what fits you best. It challenges you to work hard but also gives you the tools and community to succeed if you take advantage of them. If you want a school that prepares you for life after college, ASU is worth it.