Brain Cervantes

Associate Degrees in Business Administration and Liberal Arts 

Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, Brian Cervantes moved to Farmington, New Mexico, at a young age and became the first in his family to pursue higher education. After graduating from Farmington High School, he enrolled at San Juan College (SJC), where he earned associate degrees in Business Administration and Liberal Arts.

While at SJC, Cervantes quickly discovered that success extended beyond the classroom. Encouraged by mentors and peers, he became deeply involved in campus life, serving as a student senator, Chief Financial Officer in student government, and chapter president of the National Society of Leadership and Success. He also participated in the Honors Program, which he credits with challenging him to grow both academically and personally.

After transferring to the University of New Mexico, he earned a bachelor’s degree in Global Management. He continued his education at Arizona State University’s Thunderbird School of Global Management, completing a master’s degree with a focus on legal studies.

Today, Cervantes works for PepsiCo, where he has advanced from an intern to an Associate Zone Business Manager, leading teams and driving business operations. He credits SJC with instilling the habits that fueled his success.

“The involvement opportunities at San Juan College pushed me to stay curious, take initiative, and never settle for doing the minimum. That mindset has stayed with me every step of the way.”

As a first-generation college graduate, Cervantes emphasizes the importance of persistence, mentorship, and being open to feedback. He encourages current students to take full advantage of SJC’s resources, affordability, and transfer pathways.

Looking ahead, he plans to continue growing within PepsiCo, pursue global leadership opportunities, and one day step into an executive role.