Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Xavier R. Segura. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Xavier R. , thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?
My work ethic is deeply rooted in the experiences and values I gained growing up in the South Tucson and Sunnyside communities. These places, rich in challenges and triumphs, have been fundamental in shaping my approach to work and life.
The core of my work ethic comes from my parents, Celina and Javier. They showed me the true meaning of hard work and sacrifice. Watching them navigate life’s difficulties with resilience and determination taught me that achieving one’s goals requires unwavering dedication and a relentless spirit.
My military service in the United States Army also played a crucial role. It instilled in me a discipline that goes beyond the ordinary. Serving my country taught me about commitment, not just to a task, but to a greater purpose, and this has been a guiding principle in my career.
As a first-generation college student, I faced a myriad of challenges. Yet, these experiences weren’t just hurdles; they were opportunities to grow and to lay a foundation for others who would follow in my footsteps. This sense of responsibility extends to my role as an educator. Every day, I am inspired by my students at the University of Arizona, Northern Arizona University, & Pima Community College. Their ambition and drive remind me of why I embarked on this journey: to empower, to guide, and to be a living testament to the fact that with hard work and perseverance, barriers can be broken.
In summary, my work ethic is a reflection of my life’s journey – a blend of the lessons learned from my parents, my time in the Army, and my experiences in academia. It’s not just about personal achievements but about inspiring and lifting others, staying true to my roots, and making a meaningful difference in whatever role I find myself in.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I appreciate this opportunity to share more about my professional journey and current focus. My career path has been diverse, evolving from a military background to a profound commitment to education and community empowerment.
Professionally, I am an Assistant Professor of Practice at the University of Arizona, where I specialize in criminology and criminal justice. This role allows me to blend my personal experiences with my academic interests, creating a unique educational environment for my students. My teaching philosophy revolves around not just imparting knowledge, but also inspiring and equipping students to pursue their goals, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds.
What makes my role particularly exciting is the direct impact I have on the lives of young individuals. As a first-generation college graduate myself, I understand the challenges and barriers these students face. My aim is to be more than just an educator – I strive to be a mentor, a guide, and an advocate for their success. This connection with students and the ability to contribute to their growth is what I find most rewarding and special about my job.
In addition to my teaching duties, I am actively involved in community service and outreach programs. These initiatives are close to my heart as they allow me to give back to the community that raised me and to support those who are now walking the path I once did.
Looking ahead, there are several exciting developments. I am currently working on expanding our department’s outreach initiatives, focusing on bringing more real-world experiences into the classroom. This includes guest lectures from industry professionals, field trips, and community projects that not only enhance learning but also foster a sense of social responsibility among students.
Moreover, I am in the early stages of authoring a book that delves into the intersection of criminal justice, community, and personal development. This project is particularly special to me as it encapsulates my journey and the insights I’ve gained along the way.
In essence, my professional focus is a blend of education, community involvement, and personal growth. It’s about making a difference, one student at a time, and continuously seeking ways to connect academic learning with real-world applications and community betterment. I believe that by empowering the next generation, we are not just shaping individual futures but are also contributing to the broader societal good.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey, I can confidently say that the qualities of Adaptability, Empathy, and Servingness have been fundamental to my growth and success, both professionally and personally.
Adaptability: My life’s path has required me to be as adaptable as one might be when moving to a new city or starting a new job. This ability to adjust and thrive in changing environments was crucial during my time in the military and continues to be in my academic career. It’s like learning to navigate a new neighborhood – initially challenging, but eventually, you find your way and even discover new paths you hadn’t noticed before. For those at the beginning of their journey, I recommend embracing change with an open mind. Adaptability is a skill that, once honed, becomes a powerful tool in navigating life’s uncertainties.
Empathy: The capacity to understand and share the feelings of others has been a cornerstone of my interactions with students and colleagues. It’s akin to those moments when you’re there for a friend in need, offering a listening ear and a shoulder to lean on. In my professional life, empathy has meant connecting with students from diverse backgrounds, understanding their struggles and aspirations. It’s about going beyond mere understanding to genuinely sharing in their experiences. This quality enriches relationships and creates a supportive and inclusive environment.
Servingness: Servingness, the quality of being dedicated to serving others, has been the backbone of my professional ethos. It’s comparable to the satisfaction one feels when volunteering for a cause, helping out in the community, or going out of one’s way to assist someone in need. This quality has its roots in my military service and has flourished in my academic career. It involves putting the needs of students, colleagues, and the community first. It’s about making a difference, not for personal gain, but for the collective good. For those starting their career, I advise cultivating a spirit of servingness. It’s about seeing your role not just as a job, but as a means to contribute positively to the lives of others and the community.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
Living up in Flagstaff is one of the best parts of my life. It’s like having my own little slice of paradise. I’ve got this cozy cabin on a couple of acres, right in the middle of the forest. It’s so peaceful here, especially with the elk wandering around – it’s almost like being in a different world.
When I’m up here, I spend a lot of time just soaking in the nature around me. It’s my go-to place for some serious reflection. Sometimes, I just sit on my porch, coffee in hand, looking out into the trees and thinking about life – where I’ve been, what I’ve done, and where I’m heading. It’s in these quiet, solitary moments that I really get back in touch with my ‘why’. You know, that deep reason that keeps you going every day.
There’s something about being surrounded by all this nature – the elk, the trees, the open sky – that puts things into perspective. It reminds me that life, like the forest, has its seasons and rhythms. And just like the forest, we all go through times of growth, change, and even rest.
For anyone trying to figure out their purpose or just needing to reconnect with themselves, I’d say find a spot where you can just be alone with your thoughts. It doesn’t have to be a cabin in the woods – it could be anywhere that’s quiet and gives you space to think. Use that time to mull over your life, your dreams, and what really matters to you. Remember, figuring out your ‘why’ isn’t a one-off thing; it’s a journey in itself, evolving as you do. Just like I find peace and a sense of direction in my Flagstaff retreat, there’s a place for everyone to connect with their inner selves.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shoutoutarizona.com/meet-dr-xavier-segura-professor-of-practice-professor-of-law/
- Instagram: @x.seguraa
Image Credits
(Xavier. R Segura)
