Posted on April 7, 2026 by Klesse College Staff
Spring 2026 Graduate, Braden Bailliet, made the most of his time at UT San Antonio by filling his schedule with student organizations, fast-paced courses, and a double major in computer and electrical engineering. Throughout his experience at Klesse College, Braden was drawn to many different paths and didn't hesitate to follow his gut and try something new. Now, as he gets ready to graduate, Braden is able to reflect on his journey and how his incredible hard work was able to pave the road towards his next big opportunities.
Read the full Q&A to learn more about Braden and where his journey will take him next!
What made you decide to attend UT San Antonio?
I honestly didn’t have a dream college or a plan of where I wanted to go when I was in high school. I wanted to be somewhere that was far enough from home to feel like I was away, but close enough to be able to go back when I wanted to. There were some UT San Antonio recruiters at my high school that caught my attention, and when I toured the school in person I fell in love.
Did you have any experience with your field before starting at Klesse College? If not, what inspired you to pursue a career in your field?
I didn’t necessarily have any experience in my field. I took an engineering class in high school that was mostly focused on programming, and when I initially applied to UT San Antonio I was accepted for cybersecurity. After I found out cybersecurity was in the college of business I decided I wanted to be an engineer and switched to computer engineering. After two years of computer engineering, the electrical engineering classes interested me more and I decided to pick up the double major.
What did you enjoy most about your experience at UT San Antonio?
The thing I most enjoyed about my experience at UT San Antonio was the sense of community here. It always felt like we were all on this journey together and I met so many people from so many different backgrounds. I was able to make friends across all different majors and all different walks of life. I also enjoyed the organization I was president of – Engineers Without Borders. It felt rewarding to be a part of an organization that was making a real difference in the world by working with communities in third world countries to provide them with the basic needs of life.
What have you learned, in your time at UT San Antonio, that surprised you the most?
I learned that being naturally smart or talented isn’t what gets you to success, it’s hard work and dedication. The people around me that I saw succeed the most were the ones who worked the hardest and took the most pride in their work.
What are your goals or plans after graduation?
After I graduate, I will be moving to Fort Worth to begin my career at Oncor. I plan on taking my Fundamentals of Engineering Exam and working towards getting my Professional Engineering license.
What advice do you have for people considering the programs at UT San Antonio?
My advice for those considering the programs here at UT San Antonio would be to trust your gut. I truly loved my time here and I have seen all of my friends achieve their goals while attending UT San Antonio as well.
What is your life motto/slogan?
Everything happens for a reason. I’ve experienced a lot in my life, and it is easy to get caught up in hard times. However, when I put my faith in God and understand that everything happens for a reason, and although I may not know the why, I know there is nothing I can do about it and there’s no reason to sit on it and let it affect me. The best thing I can do is to continue working hard and doing the best I can do with what I’ve been given.
Who helped you get to today?
So many people have helped me get to where I am at, and I wouldn’t be here without any of them. My family has supported me endlessly. Me and my siblings have been through so much and they have always had my back and given me a great example to follow. Most importantly though, my mom has been my biggest support. Although she passed in 2020, she set such a great example of hard work, determination, and care. Without her I wouldn’t be a fraction of who I am today, and I am forever grateful I got to experience her love and compassion for the time that I did.
— Klesse College Staff
