A Week to Remember
Roberto Lopez Pirir '26 graduates and becomes a U.S. Citizen
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BOSTON, Mass. – Roberto Lopez Pirir ‘26 had a big week last week. He graduated from UMass Amherst with his degree in Sociology, and he received his Certificate of Naturalization as a U.S. citizen.
When Pirir began the long path to U.S. citizenship, he never thought a former U.S. Ambassador would be his special guest at the naturalization ceremony, but joining him at Boston’s Faneuil Hall on May 14 was Claire Cronin, former U.S. Ambassador to Ireland and current Scholar in Residence for Public Policy and Global Affairs at UMass Amherst.
Pirir, who immigrated from Guatemala when he was 16, was a student this spring in Cronin’s course at the Charles River Campus. The speaker-series seminar, “University 198C: Distinguished Voices in Law, Policy, and Public Service,” introduces students to careers and current issues in law, public policy, and civic engagement through guest speakers, reflective assignments, and discussions connecting legal and community institutions to broader social and ethical challenges.
Pirir was eligible to take the course as a participant in the Sociology and Law and Policy Justice Linking Employment to Academic Development (LEAD) programs at the Charles River Campus, through which he also interned for the Massachusetts Probation Service.
With rigorous courses and supportive professors, Pirir emphasized his gratitude for the campus community, including Cronin. Because of the guidance and encouragement she provided him throughout the semester, Pirir asked Cronin if she would be there when he became a U.S. citizen.
“When I took her course, I learned a lot from the speakers she brought to the classroom,” Pirir said. “It gave me different perspectives that I can pursue for my future and it wouldn’t have happened without her class.”
Cronin commended Pirir for his perseverance and academic accomplishments as a second language speaker, and said it was a privilege to be a part of his ceremony.
“I had some wonderful teachers and professors in my life who took the time to learn about me and my family, and I always think it’s a positive to support your students both inside and outside of the classroom,” she said. “When Roberto told me he was getting his citizenship, I wanted to be a part of the celebration. This is what America should be about.”
When asked what advice he has for students navigating obstacles during their studies, Pirir said, “Discipline is something that [you] need to have. Just be yourself, ask questions, and don’t let something stop you.”