Victoria Ross is using perseverance to pave her own way to success 

By Lucy Alred

California native Victoria Ross wears many hats. As a full-time student, small business owner, president of the UAH Marketing Club, intern and College of Business ambassador, she balances a demanding schedule while leading with purpose and dedication.

Despite her success today, Ross said her path to college was not easy.

“This is my third attempt at college,” she said. “In the past, I struggled to maintain even a C average. I never got involved, never joined clubs and never felt like I belonged. This time, I came back with a completely different level of focus, discipline and purpose.”

After seven years away from school, Ross returned determined to succeed. She said her faith played a key role in that decision.

“When you hear God telling you to do something, you do it,” she said. “He will let you know that you’re doing the right thing.”

Her renewed mindset quickly translated into opportunity. Within her first month on campus, Ross secured an internship with the UAH Invention to Innovation Center (I2C), which helped build her confidence and led her to pursue and earn a second internship with Hexagon.

Ross said she felt a sense of belonging almost immediately upon arriving at UAH.

“I just felt so supported here,” she said. “I felt like I was at home.”

That sense of connection motivated her to get involved across campus. She was soon asked to serve as president of the UAH Marketing Club, where she has worked to rebuild the organization and expand its impact. Under her leadership, the club has hosted community leaders and organized service initiatives, including donating more than 100 items to the North Alabama Foster Closet.

“Victoria is extremely kind-hearted,” said marketing student Erin Collins. “You can tell she is hardworking and passionate just by being around her.”

Ross also serves as a College of Business ambassador and participates in Leadership Greater Huntsville programs, further strengthening her leadership and community engagement.

“UAH has made me into a leader that I never saw myself being,” she said. “I’ve grown more in this past year than I ever have.”

Beyond campus, Ross is a content creator and social media marketing manager through her business, Ross Media Management, which she has operated for five years. She works with clients to build their brands and expand their reach, combining creativity with strategy.

Inspired by small businesses, Ross said she hopes to help others turn their ideas into successful ventures.

“I want to help people who have an idea become entrepreneurs,” she said.

Ross said her journey has shaped her desire to encourage others who may be hesitant to pursue their goals.

“You only have one life,” she said. “You’ll never live it to the fullest if you’re too scared. You have to take leaps of faith. That’s what makes it life.”

Driven by her passion for service and growth, Ross continues to make an impact both on and off campus. She said her story is proof that success is always possible, no matter where you start, as long as you are willing to try again.