Kaleb Diaz: A First-Generation Student on the Path to Legal Advocacy

By Francis Von Mann

LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 15, 2025) – For Kaleb Diaz, college was never a given. But with hard work, financial support, and ambition, he’s charting a path toward a bright future.

Kaleb Diaz, a University of Kentucky student, stands confidently with arms crossed in a brightly lit campus hallway. He wears a navy polo shirt and looks directly at the camera, embodying determination and leadership.

Kaleb Diaz, a first-generation political science student. Through scholarships and hands-on experiences, Diaz is preparing for his career in law.

Diaz, political science major on a pre-law track, grew up just outside of the state’s capital in Lawrenceburg. He’s the son of an immigrant father who came to the United States chasing the promise of the American dream. 

Diaz learned early from his father that hard work and education were keys to unlocking opportunities.

“My dad made sure I kept all A’s,” Diaz said. “He made it clear that scholarships were my ticket to college.”

Thanks to scholarships and a supportive community, Diaz overcame financial barriers to pursue higher education.

From Campus to the Capitol

During his first year at UK, Diaz dove into opportunities that expanded his skills and leadership abilities. He participated in the Leadership Development Program, joined Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity and served as an undergraduate-at-large senator for the UK Student Government Association. Each experience reinforced his passion for advocacy and public service.

A pivotal moment point came when Diaz was accepted into the Kentucky Legislative Internship Program. This competitive program offers undergraduates hands-on experience working alongside lawmakers during the Kentucky General Assembly’s legislative sessions.

Through the program, Diaz partnered with a prominent lobbying firm, gaining firsthand exposure to Kentucky’s political processes. He collaborated with elected officials and lobbyists, witnessing how advocacy organizations campaign for their causes. 

“The experience and knowledge I gained was invaluable,” Diaz said. “Watching how organizations campaign for their causes was especially fascinating.”

A Vision for Immigration and Constitutional Law

Diaz’s career ambitions are deeply personal. He wants to specialize in immigration and constitutional law. He’s driven by a desire to help others navigate complex legal systems.

“I want to help those who don’t have the full knowledge of their rights or channels of relief. I want to be an expert so that I can be that support for others,” Diaz said.

Looking ahead, Diaz remains committed to student leadership roles, mentoring peers and preparing for law school. He credits his success to the encouragement and resources provided by others along his journey.

Investing in Future Leaders like Kaleb Diaz

Scholarships and hands-on experiences have been vital to Kaleb Diaz’s success. As One Day for UK on April 24 approaches, he encourages investing in future leaders. 

“Every opportunity I had was because someone believed in students like me,” he said.

The First-Generation Trailblazers Fund provides scholarships and academic support for first-generation students like Kaleb, ensuring they have the resources to succeed.

Through One Day for UK, donors can help fund scholarships, research opportunities, and mentorship programs for students who will go on to transform healthcare and strengthen communities across Kentucky.

Make a difference. Support First-Gen Trailblazers on One Day for UK and help students like Kaleb shape the future of public policy.