Wednesday, September 2, 2026
What if the challenges that once made you feel like an outsider became the very tools you use to help others succeed? In this inspiring conversation, Navy veteran, first-generation college graduate, and student success advocate Taylor Mireles shares how courage, resilience and service shaped her journey, and why every student deserves someone in their corner.

From navigating military life as a U.S. Navy veteran to becoming the first in her family to earn a college degree, Taylor Mireles knows what it feels like to step into unfamiliar territory and figure things out one day at a time. In this episode of Inside Swoop, Taylor reflects on the determination, discipline and resilience she gained through military service, and how those lessons helped her overcome the uncertainty of college as a first-generation student.

Filled with practical advice, heartfelt stories, and powerful insights on perseverance, mentorship, and belonging, this episode is a reminder that you do not have to have all the answers to move forward. Sometimes, success begins with simply showing up, asking for help, and taking the next step.

Taylor candidly shares what it was like entering higher education without a roadmap, learning everything from financial aid and credit hours to networking and self-advocacy on her own. She discusses the mentors who believed in her, the challenges that shaped her confidence, and the experiences that ultimately led her to a career dedicated to helping students thrive.

Today, she channels her passion for service into supporting students through every stage of their college journey. Whether helping a struggling student discover a new path, encouraging first-generation students to embrace the unknown, or serving as the “battle buddy” students may not even realize they have, her mission is simple: meet students where they are, help them believe in themselves, and remind them that success is possible.