How One Transfer Student Became a Campus Leader at TCU

At Texas Christian University, students are encouraged to explore their passions, build meaningful connections and develop the skills needed to lead. For Alex Piña ’26, a marketing and entrepreneurship transfer student and Fort Worth native, that promise delivered.

Between running multiple business ventures, leading campus organizations and mentoring fellow students, Piña has built a college experience defined by leadership, community and innovation. He shares what brought him to TCU, how it shaped his entrepreneurial mindset and what he'd tell students who are considering making the jump.

Q: What initially drew you to TCU, and what made you confident it was the right fit?

A: As a Fort Worth local, I was already familiar with TCU and the strong reputation it carries in the community. My older brother also graduated from TCU in 2019, so I had heard great things from someone close to me.

What confirmed it was the Neeley School of Business. The entrepreneurship program is highly ranked, and the opportunities available to students are incredible. When I visited campus, I was struck by how beautiful it was and how welcoming the environment felt. It became clear that TCU was a place where I could grow academically, professionally and personally.

Q: Can you tell us about your entrepreneurial ventures? 

A: Outside the classroom, I help manage and grow my family’s restaurant, Cancun Mexican Restaurant, where I focus on marketing initiatives, business development and improving operations. I also run a sneaker resale business called AP Sneakers and work as a barber on the side. All of these have allowed me to develop strong relationships within my community while continuing to build my entrepreneurial skills. 

At TCU, I also serve as president of Omega Delta Phi Fraternity and treasurer of the Multicultural Greek Council, where I work alongside other student leaders to strengthen the fraternity and sorority life community on campus. 

 Q: What initially drew you to TCU, and what ultimately made you confident it was the right place to pursue entrepreneurship and marketing? 

A: As a Fort Worth local, I was already familiar with the university and the strong reputation it carries in the c

ommunity. My older brother also graduated from TCU in 2019, so I had already heard great things about the experience from someone close to me. 

What ultimately confirmed it was the right place for me was the Neeley School of Business. The entrepreneurship program is highly ranked, and the opportunities available to students are incredible. When I visited campus, I was also struck by how beautiful it was 

and how welcoming the environment felt. It quickly became clear that TCU was a place where I could grow academically, professionally and personally.

Q: How has your coursework at TCU prepared you for those ventures?

A: My coursework has significantly changed the way I think about business and decision-making. Many classes challenge you to think critically, analyze problems from multiple perspectives and ask deeper questions about strategy and risk.

Group projects have played a big role in my development. Working with people who have different personalities and perspectives taught me how to collaborate effectively and communicate ideas clearly. I naturally approach ideas differently now — when someone proposes something new, I immediately start thinking about the opportunities, the challenges and the ways to improve it. That mindset has been extremely valuable for my entrepreneurship and marketing experience.

Q: How did relationships with professors and mentors shape your time here?

A: One of the things that makes TCU special is the relationships students can build with their professors. Many of them genuinely care about your success and create an environment where you feel comfortable asking questions and engaging in real conversations.

Something I especially appreciate is that many professors bring personality into the classroom — their humor and enthusiasm make learning more enjoyable and interactive. I often find myself looking forward to class just for the conversations we'll have. Those relationships make a big difference in helping students stay motivated and confident.

Q: What leadership roles have you taken on during your time at TCU?

A: Leadership has been a major part of my college

 experience. I serve as president of Omega Delta Phi Fraternity, where I work with my executive board to guide the chapter and promote accountability, professionalism and collaboration. I also serve as treasurer of the Multicultural Greek Council, supporting council operations and working alongside leaders from other councils to strengthen the broader community.

Beyond Greek life, I serve as a  Neeley Navigator and a Transfer Connector, mentoring incoming first-year and transfer students as they transition into TCU — helping them find resources, involvement opportunities and a sense of belonging. I'm also involved with the Entrepreneurship Club, which connects me with other students who share a passion for building businesses and exploring new ideas.

Q: What made TCU feel like home?

A: One of the moments that stands out is meeting my first group of friends during Frogs First. That experience helped ease my transition and made me feel welcomed from the very beginning.

As time went on, attending club events and campus activities helped me expand my network and meet even more people. Joining Greek life  introduced me to a larger community and created friendships that have been a huge part of my experience here. The sense of connection at TCU is something that truly makes it special.

Q: What advice would you give to a student considering TCU — especially one who's transferring in?

A: Get involved and try as many things as you can. College is one of the best opportunities to step outside your comfort zone, meet people from different backgrounds and discover what you're capable of. The more involved you are, the more you grow.

For students who are first-generation or transferring in, it may feel intimidating at first — but TCU is an incredibly welcoming place. You find your community faster than you expect. And the Neeley School of Business provides a strong network of resources, mentorship and professional connections that help you prepare for whatever comes next.