Javelinas prepare for the next chapter
As the light reflects off the bedazzled graduation caps, the graduating class of fall 2023 prepares to embark on their new journey.
At 10 a.m. on Dec. 8 the College of Arts and Sciences along with the College of Education and Human Performance celebrated the 2023 graduates at the Texas A&M University Kingsville (TAMUK) Fall Commencement Ceremony.
The morning ceremony was followed by the 2 p.m. commencement for the graduates of the Dick and Mary Lewis Kleberg College of Agriculture and Natural resources, the College of Business Administration and the Frank H. Dotterweich College of Engineering.
Students traded in their hard work and perseverance for the opportunity to pursue their passions and become Javelina Alumni.
Many students had to overcome difficult obstacles, such as juggling parenthood.
Troy Sanchez found it challenging to balance being a father and student throughout his degree, but pushed through and graduated with his Master’s Degree in Business Administration.
“It feels surreal, I didn’t know I was going to come pursue my MBA. I’m very glad that I did and I’m excited for any opportunities that are coming my way,” Sanchez said.
After receiving his degree and exiting the Steinke Center gymnasium, as he was surrounded by his friends and family Sanchez kneeled down on one knee and proposed to his supportive girlfriend of eight years.
“I’m very excited for my future with [my fiancé] and my future career wise, with all the doors that will be opening up. I am currently working as an academic success coach with [Student Success Services], and I hope to further my career with them here at the university,” Sanchez said.
The gymnasium was full of supportive friends, peers, families, faculty and staff members such as Christian Gonzalez.
Gonzalez is the President of TAMUK’s Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers.
“There was a lot of ups and downs, we’ve actually been through them all together. As we grew together and as we grew as a student organization. It strengthened our bond and relationships, and we’re happy to share this moment with them. We will miss the graduates, but we are proud and excited to see what the world has in store for them,” Gonzalez said.
Master’s of Business Administration Graduate student Lue Gonzales shared words of encouragement for any student wishing to further their education.
“You’re on your own race, so there’s no need to race anybody except for yourself. Trust your own journey and put your faith over your fears,” Gonzales said.
On behalf of The South Texan we congratulate the graduating class of fall 2023 and wish them all the best.
