Often soft-spoken, Camelia Pop rises to the challenge when anyone suggests the American dream is no longer real. The non-traditional student who was born in poverty in Romania is living the American dream and will be the featured student speaker at UST-Houston’s 2024 Commencement on May 11. Hers is an inspiring story.

Higher Education Was Out of Reach

Remarkably, the 32-year-old graduating senior who has now earned a B.A. in Criminology, Law & Society with a minor in Regional Studies of East Asia never even considered attending college when she was growing up.

“My parents were poor farmers,” she said. “So poor that while other families drove Mercedes automobiles, my family drove a horse and buggy. From a young age, I witnessed how poverty and lack of opportunity could entrap people in desperate situations.”

Leaving Romania Led to Once-in-a-lifetime Encounter

At the age of 15, Pop fled her circumstances to live and work in Portugal for several years. There, she had a chance encounter with an American couple that would literally change her life.

She recalls, “They convinced me to move to the U.S. and pursue higher education. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. They sponsored me to come to Houston.”

Drawn to Study Criminology

After Houston Community College, Pop entered UST where she was powerfully drawn to study Criminology, Law & Society under Dr. Michael Kane.

Pop said, “I’ve always been fascinated to understand why people break the law and the root causes of crime. I am also fueled by a deep compassion for those suffering from injustice and limited opportunities, and I’m fascinated by the intricacies of the American criminal justice system and politics.”

Aware of the international student’s keen interests, Dr. Kane led her to internship opportunities which solidified her passion for the field.

Driven to Make a Difference

Pop is determined to make a difference and produced a human trafficking documentary called “Breaking Chains, A Journey of Hope.” The film gives a voice to survivors, and she plans to release it on YouTube and elsewhere to raise awareness.

Faith is Core to Pop

Her faith is a guiding force for who she is and what motivates her.

“My faith instilled values of kindness, hope, and the importance of realizing one's full potential despite adversity. Using my voice to raise awareness, promote justice, and empower others to overcome complex challenges is what truly inspires me.”

As she prepares to graduate, Pop is training her German Shepherd puppy while evaluating different job opportunities and is grateful that her education has opened new possibilities.

“I'm motivated to pay that forward by making a meaningful impact.” 

And Pop would remind all who read this story that the American dream is alive and well.

“You have to persevere, work hard, and believe in yourself,” she concluded.

Commencement 2024 When and Where

UST-Houston Commencement 2024 takes place Saturday, May 11, at 11 a.m., at NRG Stadium, 8400 Kirby Drive. UST commencement celebrates the achievements of 684 undergraduates and 302 graduate students. The Baccalaureate Mass held on Friday, May 10, at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart and the Commencement the following day will be livestreamed. View the livestream link here.