Sometimes the smallest gestures unlock the biggest transformations.
**📝 Updated August 24, 2025:** This post has been significantly expanded to include the pivotal details of my first encounter with Professor David W. Wright and the profound impact of “the nod that changed everything.” The updated version includes enhanced details to better capture this transformative moment in my leadership journey.
*Originally published: October 5, 2023*
Walking through the grand hallways of the Ross School of Business, I was immediately struck by its prestigious and serious atmosphere. As a Mexican kid from a small farming community with big dreams, I couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed by the impressive surroundings and the brilliant minds surrounding me.
The Weight of Being Different
As I stepped into the bustling classroom on my first day as part of the inaugural executive MBA cohort from Los Angeles in August of 2012, I was enveloped by a sea of accomplished peers—each exuding a sense of belonging that I doubted I possessed.
The air was thick with the prestige of the institution, and I questioned whether I measured up.
These weren’t just classmates—they were titans in their fields. Published authors casually discussed their latest manuscripts. PhDs and MDs exchanged complex theories like trading cards. Representatives from Intel, the Air Force, the Navy, and Morgan Stanley networked effortlessly, their confidence filling the room like expensive cologne.
And there I was, clutching my new Michigan backpack like a lifeline, wondering: Will I survive in this competitive environment? Do I even deserve to be here?
The Moment Everything Shifted
Enter Professor David W. Wright—known to all as “Dr. Dave.”
What happened next lasted maybe three seconds, but changed my entire trajectory.
With a simple nod, his gaze met mine, transcending mere acknowledgment. At first, I wasn’t sure he was looking at me—I might have checked over my shoulder to see if he was nodding at someone else.
But no. That nod was for me.
It was a profound gesture—a silent declaration that I belonged in this esteemed space. In that single moment, my inner turmoil began to dissipate. Instead of disdain or dismissal, I was met with approval and a faint smile that said, “You’re exactly where you need to be.”
When Excellence Becomes Contagious
As Dr. Dave’s lecture began, something magical happened. I became completely engrossed in his commanding and captivating speaking style. His passion for Accounting—yes, Accounting—was so infectious that I forgot about everything else.
The outside world melted away. My insecurities quieted. Knowledge became my new currency.
When the lecture ended, I felt a newfound sense of belonging at Ross, despite my humble beginnings. Learning from the best gave me hope that I could reach great heights in the business world.
That nod became a symbol of acceptance, sparking a newfound confidence that would guide me throughout my journey.
The Transformation Was Real
Walking among my peers afterward, greeted by nods from faculty, I held my head high. I now understood the power of knowledge as the ultimate equalizer.
If I studied hard and made the most of this opportunity, the future held endless possibilities. I could achieve my goal of becoming a CEO.
Self-doubt had transformed into self-assurance. Imposter syndrome had been replaced by ambition.
In this arena of excellence, I had found my rightful place. ¡Vamos Azul!
The Leadership Lessons That Shaped a CEO
Reflecting on that pivotal moment in the grand hallways of Ross, I’ve distilled several game-changing leadership insights:
🌱 Your Background Is Your Superpower
Being different isn’t a disadvantage—it’s your competitive edge. My farming community roots brought perspectives that boardrooms desperately needed.
💪 Confidence Is Contagious (And So Is Doubt)
One person’s belief in you can ignite unstoppable momentum. As leaders, we must be Dr. Daves for others—offering that transformative nod of belonging.
🧠 Knowledge Levels Every Playing Field
No matter where you start, continuous learning can take you anywhere. In business, intellectual curiosity beats pedigree every time.
🔥 Transform Fear Into Fuel
Those butterflies in your stomach? Channel them into ambition. Imposter syndrome is just unrecognized potential waiting to explode.
🎯 Vision Becomes Reality
I had a clear goal: CEO. That North Star guided every decision, every late-night study session, every networking conversation.
🤝 Inclusion Unlocks Innovation
Creating environments where everyone feels valued isn’t just nice—it’s strategic. Diverse perspectives drive breakthrough results.
The truth is simple: Sometimes the smallest gestures—a nod, a smile, a moment of recognition—can unlock someone’s entire potential.
Today, as President & CEO of the Los Angeles City Employees Association and Employees Club of California, I carry Dr. Dave’s lesson forward. I look for opportunities to give others that same transformative nod, to help them see that they belong, that they have something unique to contribute.
Because we all deserve to walk through those hallways with our heads held high.
What “nod” do you need to give someone today?
From the avocado farms of San Diego County to the boardrooms of Los Angeles—this is what happens when someone believes in you before you believe in yourself.
Robert Larios 