At SUNY Oswego’s May Commencement, Alex and Jacob Campo stood side by side in cap and gown, ready to receive their degrees. The moment was more than symbolic. It was the culmination of two journeys that took different routes but were grounded in the same passion for storytelling and the same unshakable bond of brotherhood.

Alex Campo, who walked on May 17 to receive his bachelor of arts in broadcasting and mass communication, is no stranger to success. A seasoned video producer with industry accolades and a thriving career, he first earned his associate degree in 2015 but paused his formal education when professional opportunities came calling. He built a name for himself in the field, leading productions, earning awards and mentoring others.

But something was missing.

“Returning to school was always on my mind,” Alex said. “I just could not make it work with my schedule until I found SUNY Oswego’s online program. Jacob enrolling here was the spark. He believed in the program, and that gave me the push I needed.”

Completing his degree was not just about a credential. It was about growth, commitment and setting a full example for the next generation of creators, including the brother who had looked up to him for years.

Jacob Campo, who earned his degree with a double major in broadcasting and mass communication and in political science, said his older brother shaped both his personal and academic path. 

“Alex is the reason I chose broadcasting,” Jacob said. “He got me into photography when I was 13, and since then we have shared everything. Even when we were not at the same school, we would call, trade projects, give each other feedback and push each other to get better.”

While Jacob thrived on campus, diving into video production classes and taking on creative roles such as contributing to Campus Recreation’s media assets, Alex navigated a different rhythm. He completed assignments between client work, balanced life and deadlines, and stayed connected through late-night conversations about school and storytelling.

“Graduating together is surreal,” Jacob said. “To have Alex here in the same cap and gown, after everything he has achieved, just makes it all feel complete.”

Alex echoed the sentiment, calling the moment emotional and affirming: “I am so proud of Jacob. He is already producing work that’s better than mine when I was his age. And to walk the stage with him, knowing how far we have both come, is something I will never forget.”

And in a final twist that brothers could especially appreciate, Jacob got to walk the stage first.