Alexa Benitez’s journey is both inspiring and relatable. She grew up in Blackfoot, Idaho, watching her grandfather navigate the naturalization process after moving from across the southern border. This experience deeply impacted her. “Seeing his pride made me want to help others, just like the attorney helped him,” she reflects.
Her dream of becoming a lawyer began at a young age. As a kindergartener, she confidently shared her future plans with her classmates. Now, she’s on the verge of achieving that dream, graduating in May 2026 with a double major in political science and psychology and a minor in philosophy.
Alexa’s dedication earned her the prestigious Lindley Award, recognizing her as the top student in her college for her academic excellence and character. “She’s incredibly driven,” says Florian Justwan, an associate professor of political science. Her academic success is impressive—she boasts a 4.0 GPA while being an active participant in numerous extracurricular activities.
She has served as a senator for the Associated Students of the University of Idaho (ASUI) and has led the PoliSci Society, showcasing her leadership skills. “Being involved really built my confidence,” she notes. Her research on U.S. attitudes toward immigration not only made waves at the Undergraduate Research Symposium but also got published in the Cook Undergraduate Research Journal.
Alexa’s commitment to her studies and her community reflects a broader trend among college students today. Recent surveys indicate that 79% of students are seeking meaningful experiences outside the classroom, balancing academics with extracurricular activities to enhance their college experience.
As she sets her sights on law school—having recently applied to the University of Idaho College of Law—she carries the legacy of her grandfather with her. His support was unwavering, and even though he passed away during her first semester, his dreams remain alive in her heart. Alexa is proof of how resilience and ambition can drive change, not just for oneself but for others as well.
For further insights into the impact of higher education on immigrant students, check out this report by the Pew Research Center.
