From Service to Social Work

Nathan Ruelas grew up less than a mile from Hardin-Simmons University, but it would take a journey halfway around the world before he’d walk through its doors as a student.

“I was a young man with really no direction in life, so I went to see the Army recruiter,” Ruelas said.

Enlisting initially for power generation, Ruelas quickly found his calling after arriving at Fort Hood, where he reclassed to combat engineer. As a corporal, he deployed to Iraq in 2003, an experience that fundamentally changed his perspective.

This Veterans Day, Hardin-Simmons University honors veterans like Nathan Ruelas (left), who served in Iraq and now pursues a social work degree to continue serving others beyond the battlefield.

“Iraq in 2003 was a shock to the system,” Ruelas explained. “I learned what struggle looked and felt like. And I realized how much we take for granted. The smallest luxuries stateside — like food, water, and even toilet paper — were huge luxuries.”

The military didn’t just teach Ruelas technical skills; it instilled values that continue to guide him today.

“I truly believe the Army shaped every aspect of who I am today,” he said. “The process of becoming a soldier is life-changing, to say the least. It taught me how to be responsible, and it gave me the ‘always forward’ mentality, which means that regardless of the situation, you have to advance and keep moving forward.”

That forward momentum became essential both on the battlefield and in civilian life.

“I found that in military and civilian life it’s important to stay focused and proceed with the mission, even when it’s hard or it hurts,” Ruelas said.

He also learned the power of teamwork.

“The Army showed me that teamwork truly does make the dream work because on the battlefield, it takes every single one of your brothers to accomplish the mission,” Ruelas said. “I still feel like I owe my leadership qualities to Uncle Sam.”

In Iraq, Ruelas and his unit worked on projects that went beyond combat operations. When a community leader explained that residents needed running water and trash collection — trash was piled on sidewalks and in roadways, and water was dirty and only available for short periods — Ruelas’s unit developed a plan to secure the trash facility so mechanics could work safely.

“Things like that, I can now tie to social work,” Ruelas said. “Back then, we just looked at it as doing the right thing.”

Those experiences planted seeds that would eventually grow into a calling. One of the Army values, selfless service, resonated deeply with Ruelas. It reads: “Putting the welfare of the nation, the Army, and your subordinates above your own personal interests.”

“I think I took that to heart,” he said. “I want to help people. I’ve been through quite a few struggles myself, so I know what it’s like to feel forgotten or left behind. I want to bridge that gap for people.”

After more than two decades away from the classroom, Ruelas decided to return to school at Hardin-Simmons University, a faith-based institution known for its veteran-friendly support and degree programs.

“I felt like Hardin-Simmons was a staple of the community. I grew up most of my life less than a mile from here,” he said. “I also have quite a few friends who attended HSU, so it was a no-brainer for me.”

Still, Ruelas said the transition came with challenges. But at HSU, he found the support he needed. Disability Services welcomed him with open arms, making his adjustment smoother. His academic advisor, Nuria Hall, proved instrumental in helping him navigate college life.

“I was clueless about what I needed to do, and she walked me right through everything,” Ruelas said. “Every staff member I’ve come across — from the cafeteria to my professors — has been great. No complaints at all.”

Now majoring in social work through Hardin-Simmons University’s Cynthia Ann Parker College of Liberal Arts, Ruelas feels he’s combining two passions: veterans and children—using his military background and HSU’s academic tools to build a career in service.

He’s already begun working with a local group that searches for missing and exploited children, and his long-term goal is clear.

“My end goal is to help veterans navigate life and the veterans’ health care system,” he said. “Being a veteran has shown me that it’s a very tough situation to walk into blindly. My experience walking the same path will be beneficial not only to the veterans but also to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care system.”

His military background gives him unique insight into the challenges veterans face, and with the knowledge he’s gaining at Hardin-Simmons, Ruelas said he feels prepared to serve both his community and the social work field.

Throughout his journey, one person has remained constant: his wife, Crystal.

“My wife, Crystal, has stood beside me through my darkest times and never once wavered. I owe her everything,” Ruelas said. “I’ll never be able to repay her for the sacrifices she’s made for me and our family. I’m just a guy who joined the Army to stay out of trouble and give my kids a shot at a better future. She’s the real hero, and she never asks for praise or the spotlight. She just keeps on being Mom and wife.”

For Ruelas, the mission has changed, but the mindset remains. The Army gave him purpose; Hardin-Simmons is helping him strengthen it — equipping him with the tools to serve others with the same courage and commitment that once guided him in uniform.

Learn more about veteran support services at Hardin-Simmons University and the social work program.