Texas Border Business
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Only three weeks in, Bryanna Woodman has hit the ground running as the newest Student Services Specialist at Texas Southmost College.
Originally a nutrition major and graduate from a four-year Texas university, the 23-year-old said she realized nutrition wasn’t her calling. Instead, she felt it in her heart to help other first-generation college students like herself and there was no better place to do that than where she grew up – the Rio Grande Valley.
“I believe I was always meant to come back home and help others like me find their way in higher education,” said the Santa Rosa native. “I’m thankful to TSC for giving me that opportunity.”
Now at TSC, Woodman works closely with students overseeing the Campus Activity Board, Student Leadership Academy and organizing student leadership conferences and events such as the Bougainvillea Ball.
“I’m finally able to help others the way I’ve always hoped I could,” she said. “In the little time that I have been here, I have learned so much and I’m excited to continue growing, serving our students, campus community and seeing our students finish strong and become college graduates. That’s a beautiful thing.”
Woodman said her goal is to advise students, give students hope and provide them the college experience she wished she had when she went to college.
“When you have people that understand you and are in your corner, cheering you on, it makes the difference between finishing or giving up,” said Woodman. “My overall goal is to help students reach their full potential.”
She added that some have the misconceived notion that people from the Rio Grande Valley can’t be successful, but she wants to show students that it doesn’t matter where you come from, what matters is the work you put into reaching your goals.
“I want students to know that a college education is possible and it’s never too late,” said Woodman. “I’m here to help them find their interests and passions and to move forward with them. I advise them to not waste any opportunities.”
As for Woodman, she feels right at home at TSC.
“Everyone has been so warm and welcoming, and our students are lucky to have this kind of welcoming environment that fosters learning, growth and family,” she said. “TSC has given me the opportunity to do what I love. This is exactly what I have been looking for.”
