Many people hesitate to return to school later in life, wondering if it is too risky or simply too late. But for Roel Santos, a student in the B.S. in Exercise Science program at ACU, the decision has sparked a life-changing journey. Blending courage, faith and determination, Santos is not just earning a degree, he is reshaping his future, inspiring his family and paving the way for the athletes he hopes to one day coach.
Discovering ACU Online
In the summer of 2023, Roel and his wife, Valerie, found themselves at a crossroads, eager to take the next step in their professional journeys. Valerie had already earned her associate degree in San Antonio and was exploring four-year universities when a family friend mentioned ACU Online. After learning about the flexibility, faith-centered environment and strong reputation, both he and his wife enrolled.
“Honestly, I had walked away from college years ago,” Roel said. “I didn’t have great study habits, and it was intimidating to think about starting again after so long. But my wife encouraged me, and when I realized ACU had a path that fit my career goals, I knew it was time.”
A Call to Coaching
Roel has always been passionate about exercise, fitness, and most of all, coaching. With dreams of becoming a basketball coach dating back to high school, he found the exercise science program to be the perfect fit. Originally interested in kinesiology, he was connected with ACU’s faculty who guided him toward a similar track that aligned closer with his career goals.
“It felt like a God moment,” Roel explained. “I was working at a gym here in Alice, Texas, and at the same time, I was taking classes on biomechanics and exercise physiology. What I was learning in the classroom, I could immediately apply in real life, whether it was answering questions from members or coaching kids.”
Balancing Work, Family and School
Beyond being an ACU student, Roel wears many hats: husband, father of three girls, manager of a local gym and youth coach. Returning to school added another layer of responsibility, but for him, it was about more than earning a degree, it was about showing his daughters what perseverance looks like. By watching their mom pursue a degree in psychology and their dad also pursue higher education, his daughters see firsthand the importance of setting goals and finishing what you start. He hopes this example will inspire them to understand that while sports and other passions are meaningful, education is a foundation that opens doors and proves that no dream is out of reach with hard work and determination.
Finding Community at ACU
Despite studying online, Roel has built meaningful relationships with professors and classmates. From connecting with faculty like Dr. Long and Dr. Hart (who share his love for basketball), to reaching out to ACU’s men’s basketball coach to talk shop, these connections have strengthened his academic and professional journey.
“I’ve loved getting to know people, even at a distance,” he said. “Some professors really open up and invest in you, and that makes a big difference. And I’ve even been able to connect with coaches to pick their brains about the game.”
Faith has also been a central part of Roel’s ACU experience. He values the way his courses intentionally weave spiritual growth into academics — something that has strengthened his own walk with God. “ACU has helped me reconnect with my faith in a powerful way,” he shared. “The way classes bring God into the conversation opens your eyes and reminds you why you’re doing this in the first place. For me, faith, family and education all go hand in hand.”
Looking Ahead
Roel dreams of one day coaching basketball in his hometown of Alice, Texas. For him, coaching is about more than the game; it’s about creating a culture where all sports are valued and student-athletes are supported in reaching their full potential both on and off the court. Since the age of 16, he has carried a deep passion for coaching, inspired by the way strong athletic programs can positively shape entire communities. Now, with the help of his degree program, he is turning that passion into a clear path toward making his dream a reality.
Encouragement for Others
As Roel and his wife, Valerie, prepare to graduate together in May of 2026, their children will see firsthand what persistence, faith and hard work can accomplish. For Roel, this season isn’t just about earning a degree; it is about building a legacy. Thanks to ACU Online, he’s well on his way.
Now, he encourages others to take that same leap. “Go for it. Don’t wait, don’t hesitate, don’t second-guess yourself,” he said. “The biggest regret is the ‘what if.’”
If you have been thinking about finishing your degree or starting one for the first time, Roel’s story is proof that it’s never too late. And with ACU Online’s flexible, faith-centered programs like exercise science, you can follow your passion, advance your career and turn your goals into reality. Visit our website or call us at 855-219-7300 to learn more and take the first step toward your future today.
