Goodbye, Javelina Nation; the only way from here is up 

As the semester continues to go by and graduation gets closer, it’s time to say goodbye to some of the best people I met during my time at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. 

Joining The South Texan as  a freshman was extremely scary and nerve-wracking, to be honest, but I was warmly welcomed to the family.  During my freshman orientation, I was the only communication major student, so I was able to talk one-on-one with the Art, Communication and Theatre Department Chair Todd Lucas. He told me about The South Texan and recommended I attend one of the weekly meetings once the semester began.  I don’t remember the very first story I wrote, but I do remember what I felt the first time I saw my writing published. That feeling led me to continue my journalism career with the Javelina Media Experience and even an internship with the Alice Echo-News Journal this past summer. 

For the first two years working with The South Texan, I was a volunte er reporter. It wasn’t until summer of 2021 that I applied for my first paid position. I was hesitant to apply, but after talking with our Student Media Adviser Nicole Morris, I submitted my application.  

Morris, thank you for believing in me and thank you for everything. Without your guidance, I would definitely not be where I am today, nor would I be a successful journalist. 

Of course, most of my gratitude comes from the people who have helped shape me academically, but most importantly, I would not be here without my mom. Literally.  Without her, I would not be able to attend college, as she so graciously brings me to campus and assists me in classes. Mom, thank you for being so selfless and allowing me to continue my education. Words cannot express how thankful I am. While my time at TAMUK and The South Texan is coming to an end, I am very lucky and grateful to have worked with such amazing journalists and people in general. Ronni Reyna, Erik Estrada, Dylan Sanchez and Melissa Mata: I hope you all continue to do great things in your future; I have faith in every single one of you. 

Thank you for a wonderful four years.