For most college freshmen, the transition from high school to university is intimidating, and leaves many feeling overwhelmed, and not quite sure what to do with oneself. Others however, like Brother Andres Salas, use this massive opportunity to make a name for themselves, and to do more for their community. His impact both on and off campus have allowed him to leave a legacy here at FSU, which will remain long after he graduates this April. Deciding to commit to Florida State without ever having stepped foot on campus, is what he calls “the best decision he’s ever made.”
Rather than going for a traditional, laid back college experience like the average student, Andres decided to make the most out of his short 4 years, turning his resume into a masterpiece and committing to impact others.
Whether it’s Greek life, nightlife, or campus involvement, Andres has been a part of it, and been awarded for his endeavors.
Some of Andres’ proudest accomplishments have been the work he has put into our fraternity, Sigma Phi Epsilon. As a Freshman he was selected to be IFC Delegate, where he was a three time rush mentor in the midst of a complete overhaul of the Greek community after the unfortunate events of 2017. He then served an executive position as Vice President of Internal Programming where Andres was able to coordinate fraternal events, getting all brothers involved both academically and socially. Next he was elected the prestigious position of Chapter President. It was in this role where he networked between our Chapter, Headquarters, Alumni Boards, and the University. His multiple executive positions put him at the forefront of SigEp’s “Return to Campus” initiative, which resulted in a brand new $3 million dollar mansion opening as the new chapter house this past fall. In Andres’ 3 years of Chapter Leadership the chapter grew from 140 to 200 men.
Furthermore, being a college student, especially here at Florida State, there’s a greater chance than not you’ve stepped foot in Tallahassee’s most iconic bar, Potbelly’s. Working through the ranks as a VIP Service Coordinator, Bartender, and most recently Bar Manager, Andres has helped increase revenues by 48%, as well as overseeing more than $125,000 in bookings, and averaging around $4,000 in nightly sales. He has been able to balance a full-time job with his academic and extra-curricular commitments.
Throughout his time here on campus, Andres has been extremely passionate about student organizations and philanthropy groups, specifically Seminole Student Boosters and LineDance. Within Student Boosters, he served as Vice President of both Outreach and Finance, allowing him to work alongside the CFO to allocate a $40,000 budget, and increase membership through campus involvement. As for LineDance, Brother Salas served as Vice President of Programming, before subsequently being appointed Co-Executive Director. Within these prestigious roles he was able to spearhead programming by organizing 9 different events, and communicate with all corners of campus during the creation and execution stage of a 5-month master plan, to fundraise a whopping $130,000 goal where he served as the Host for the 2021 event.
As a result of his commitment to excellence Andres has received two highly coveted Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life awards: Interfraternity Council Chapter President of the Year, and admission into the highly selective Greek Hall of Fame. Winning just one of these awards is a great honor, but to walk away with two on the same night is almost unheard of. Sigma Phi Epsilon headquarters has also awarded Andres as a 2021 Outstanding Zollinger Senior, given to a few select men across the country who model excellence in the fraternity and in the greater community. Grand President recorded a video for him presenting him the award.
Andres was also crowned the 2021 Florida State University Homecoming Chief this past March. Not only is he the first ever Hispanic-American Chief, but he is also the first ever brother of Sigma Phi Epsilon to earn this elite honor. To break into the ranks of the most highly-viewed individuals at Florida State is an achievement that provides an immense level of pride for our chapter.
He has recently graduated with a Dual-Bachelor of Social Science in Political Science & International Affairs, with a minor in Economics & Communications. He has accepted a Regional Director role with SigEp Headquarters and afterwards will pursue a career in the technology industry. Florida Epsilon is forever indebted to Andres, and his dedication to our chapter, which has allowed us to reach unprecedented heights in recent years. As we continue to grow and excel in all facets, both on and off campus, the countless campus organizations, clubs, and philanthropy’s Andres has been a part of these past four years, along with his trophy room of awards to show for it, will be the reason his legacy will linger on the campus of Florida State for years to come.