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Fatherhood inspires 51��Ƶstudent to pursue college and better son’s life

June 13, 2025

Fathers and father figures come in many different forms, and this Father’s Day, Sunday, June 15, 51��Ƶ recognizes all the special dads out there. To celebrate the day, we caught up with Julio Malpica-Muniz, a student in the Lakehead-51��ƵElectrical Engineering degree-diploma program and an assistant in the Peter B. Moore Changemaker’s Space with the Research and Innovation department. He shared how his experience has been being a full-time student and dad, and the special bond he has with his son, Gustavo.

How did you end up at Georgian? What did that journey look like?

My desire to attend Lakehead-51��Ƶbegan in 2019. Returning to school felt like scaling Everest; overwhelming, but intentional. One step at a time, the dominoes began to fall. I returned to high school to finish my eight missing credits, all while working to establish stability for my family. Engineering has always been my calling, but I let fear get in the way for over a decade. Life tends to have other plans — work, responsibility, fatherhood. Eventually, I realized I had to stop waiting for the “right time” and just go for it. Lakehead-51��Ƶoffered the perfect blend of theory, hands-on experience, and real innovation. It was a leap of faith into the unknown — and one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

What program are you in, and what inspired you to pursue it?

I’m in the Electrical Engineering degree-diploma program at Lakehead-Georgian. I’ve always enjoyed fixing things, solving puzzles, and diving into new challenges. Engineering is the one field where that mindset isn’t just useful — it’s essential. I’m here to build what hasn’t been built yet and to show that you can pursue your dreams with purpose, no matter the obstacles.

How has your experience been working in the Makerspace? How did you get involved in that area?

The Makerspace has been more than a job; it’s been a transformative experience. It’s where I get to connect with students, support early-stage projects, and help turn ideas into prototypes. Every week brings a new challenge, and I’m constantly learning alongside others. Being part of a space where napkin sketches evolve into real solutions has been incredibly fulfilling.

How do you manage your studies and work while also being a father? Any challenges that come with that?

It’s not easy — time management and task prioritization are everything. I’ve had to become selective with how I spend my time. My son always comes first. Every project, exam, and late night has meaning because I’m doing it for something greater than myself. I want him to grow up knowing that dreams are worth fighting for, even when the odds feel stacked against you. 

What’s the most rewarding part about being a dad? What does that part of your life mean to you?

The most rewarding part is seeing the joy in his eyes when he feels safe, loved, and curious about the world. Being a dad isn’t just part of my life — it is my life. It’s the heartbeat of everything I do. I’m not chasing success for me anymore. I’m building a better life for him.

What advice would you give to those who have children and want to go to college?

You can do it — but not by trying to do everything at once. You have to find your rhythm and build systems that work for your family. Some days will feel out of balance, but that’s okay. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s alignment. When your “why” is strong, the rest will follow.

Do you have any special memories or things you like to do with your kid(s)?

I have so many special memories with my son, Gustavo: early morning walks, trips to the park, and grabbing snacks after daycare. He reminds me to slow down and enjoy the moment. Even on the hardest days, we’ll lie on the grass and look up at the sky. He’s growing so fast, and every day he becomes more of his own person. I couldn’t be prouder of him. 

Anything else you’d like to share?

I want people to know that being a parent doesn’t limit your potential; it empowers it. Through struggle, you find your strength. Parenthood forces you to be intentional, efficient, and fearless. I’ve won money at the hackathon, made it through my first year, grown my business, and the future looks brighter every day. Once you stop making excuses and accept that growth hurts, everything becomes possible.