My Golden Memories: Pete Gomez

Editor’s note: This story is one of a series of reflections — in their own words — from members of ASU’s Class of 1967, who will return to the university on May 8–9 for their Golden Reunion, a two-day event hosted by the ASU Alumni Association. Learn more about what’s happening at Golden Reunion here. Read more stories here.

When I went to ASU, everyone called me “Pepe.” I came from a farmer’s family in Peru. I got a scholarship to attend Arizona State, which was a miracle that changed my life. While I was at the university, I belonged to the Foreign Students Club, which had members from all over the world. I also played soccer for ASU, and worked in the student cafeteria too.

I met my wife, Valerie Roberts Gomez, while I was an undergraduate. She finished her master’s degree in nursing at ASU in 1994, and she continues to work as a nurse practitioner. My daughter Jackie graduated from ASU with her bachelor’s degree in 1991 and her master’s degree in 1995. Both of her degrees are in agribusiness.

After I graduated in 1967, I worked as an agronomist in Yuma. I provided pest control services and formed my own consulting company to help numerous farmers in the area. I enjoyed owning my own company and I had a wonderful career.

I’ve had a good time helping to plan the Golden Reunion with my friends Jemil Gunyuz and Eldon Smith, who were also in the Foreign Students Club when we were at ASU together. The experiences I had with  other foreign students is precious to me. I had the opportunity to meet people from all over the world, and I will forever treasure it.

At the Golden Reunion, I am hoping to see some of the friends from my graduating class whom I haven’t been connected with in many years. It’s another memory I’m going to treasure, and I’m excited about it.