Texas Border Business
By Amanda Sotelo
Lizette Cervantes will be celebrating a feat that once felt impossible – becoming a college graduate thanks to South Texas College.
On Saturday, the first-generation college-going, 34-year-old student, will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership, only two years after earning an associate degree in History, also from STC.
“This is surreal. I get emotional just thinking about it,” said Cervantes, who also works as a secretary within STC’s department of Mathematics. “I’m excited to put on that cap and gown for a second time. I never actually thought it would happen once, much less twice. But here I am.”
The wife and mother of four began her journey at STC as a History major, right out of high school several years ago, but drowning in grief after her grandfather’s death, she withdrew, finding solace only in reading and writing – inspiring a new path.
“I’ve always wanted to become a teacher. I thought History could get me there, but reading and especially writing, I found, is my true passion. Now, I’m trying to blend both worlds,” she said.
She said this has only been possible thanks to her aunt, and surprisingly COVID-19.
“I was able to come back because of a loan from my aunt, to pay off old debts. Also, the funds STC were giving at the time of the pandemic, paid for my new classes…it all seemed to fall into place,” she said. “Now, even my husband has returned to school. He’s at STC too.”
Cervantes said STC has given her family opportunities and resources that are allowing them to get ahead, beginning with a job.
She began her service to the college as a work-study employee and worked her way up to secretary, holding on to the dream of someday becoming faculty.
“From a job to the college’s computer loan service, STC has afforded me the chance of becoming something for my family,” said Cervantes. “I want my daughters to see their father and I as role models and to realize that a dream is never too big and how important education is at realizing that dream.”
In addition to pursuing growth at STC, Cervantes is also living out a childhood dream of becoming a published author.
She is set to self-publish her first book, “Mathematical Equations,” a contemporary romance novel, in spring of next year. This is a goal she has also worked toward, while completing her bachelor’s degree.
“Writing is my passion, and I just have a feeling that this is what I’m supposed to be doing. I just feel it,” she said. “I’m manifesting that this book and the others I will write, will be a success for me and my family. So, for now, all my time and effort will be spent dedicating myself to solely this, now that I’m done with college.”
Cervantes hasn’t ruled out a master’s degree, a steppingstone toward teaching at STC one day.
Her supervisor and Mathematics Department Chair Mario Morin said he is sure she will do great things in the future.
“I want to extend a heartfelt congratulations to Lizette on this wonderful achievement. She is a remarkable person who proves every day that she can achieve anything that she sets her mind to,” he said. “Her resilience when faced with adversity is a testament to her commitment to do better for her and her family and to be a true role model for her children. She brings a unique dynamic to our team with her dedication, pleasant demeanor and thoughtfulness. We all wish her continued success. I hope the world is ready for her.”
Being a role model for her children is Cervantes’ top priority.
“I have children with autism, it’s been a struggle if I’m honest, but I want all of my children to know, that anything is possible,” she said. “I want them to realize that if their dad and their mom can do this, then so can they. Everything I do is for them, and I thank STC, my faculty, my department for all their encouragement, motivation and support I have needed to show my children that dreams can come true.”
Cervantes will share this celebration with her husband, eldest daughter and niece on Saturday, among the more than 2,800 graduates who will be receiving a certificate, associate degree or bachelor’s degree during STC’s Commencement Ceremonies at the Bert Ogden Arena.
For more information on STC’s Mathematics or Organizational Leadership programs, visit southtexascollege.edu.
Information source: STC
