Mario “Cacique” Flores

The reason I decided to become a ROUGH TOUGH BETA MAN is because I originally hated living in Colorado. I moved to Colorado in October of 2001, half way through my Junior year of high school, from sunny South Florida. It was a huge culture shock. Compared to South Florida, there was no diversity or culture. I knew I was out of my element when, on my first day of school, I saw some students riding to school on their John Deer tractors. I hated it! I desperately wanted to return to Florida.

During the summer of 2002, I participated in an academic residential program at the University of Colorado-Boulder. It was through the Pre-Collegiate Development Program that I was first introduced to the Purple and White. The first brothers I met were Carlos Chavez and Joe Gutierrez. Through the rest of the summer and during my senior year of high school, I had the opportunity to interact with more of the brothers. Those times with the brothers were some of the few times that I felt like Colorado was really home. I was, in a way, jealous of the connections that they shared because it reminded me of some of the connections I used to have with friends back in Florida. A support system like the brotherhood would help me be successful, not just in college, but throughout my life. That is why I decided to start the process and become a member of Sigma Lambda Beta. To be completely honest, the main reason I decided to come to CU was to join the Lambda chapter. The academics were definitely important. But, I knew that the personal relationships would make my college experience great.

Becoming a part of the Purple and White has been one of the best decisions I made in college. The bond that is forged between you and your brothers is one that can't be explained, it must be experienced. Through this organization I have been exposed to other organizations, community service opportunities, cultural awareness projects, and many other experiences. You learn humility, responsibility and leadership. But, the most important aspect about this organization is the brotherhood.

For those interested, do it! Becoming a brother gives you a sense of accomplishment, strength and support. Be prepared to learn and to use your abilities to the fullest.

"He who sheds his blood, sweat, and tears with me shall forever be my brother."

Mario “Cacique” Flores – Anchor

Sine Unum Nullus

Born into the Purple and White on December 18, 2003 at 12:03:07

7 of 7 Strong

By Huitzilopochtli