Embracing his college journey
Student of the Week: Zander Ramirez
I get motivated by many people here at STC especially from my flag football team. They all motivate me to keep pushing forward, to keep my grades up and to be the best version of myself.
Zander Ramirez, a 20-year-old, first-generation student at South Texas College, is charting his path towards a Kinesiology degree.
Inspired by his friend and colleague Cesar Javier “CJ” Castillo, Ramirez found motivation to pursue this degree.
"I learned about this program from multiple people in the field, but it was my best friend CJ who highly recommended this program, which encouraged me to enroll," Ramirez shared.
Embracing his first year at STC, Ramirez anticipates another two years to complete his studies, but already cherishes the friendships he has formed through his participation in activities such as flag football, basketball and softball, and connections made with mentors like Randy Ginez.
"My special memories are making new friends, joining flag football and getting to meet Coach Randy this semester. I’m having so much fun," Ramirez expressed.
Acknowledging the supportive environment at STC, Ramirez also finds motivation from his peers and plans to maintain exemplary grades while staying active in sports.
"I get motivated by many people here at STC especially from my flag football team,” he said. “They all motivate me to keep pushing forward, to keep my grades up and to be the best version of myself," Ramirez stated.
Looking ahead, Ramirez said he’ll continue to focus on learning, studying and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. STC's impact on him resonates deeply, empowering him to strive for excellence.
“Choosing STC was an easy decision for me,” he said. “I always envisioned an environment of support that aligned with my aspirations and values. STC wasn’t only close to home and affordable, but it was the perfect environment I needed and wanted.”
As a first-generation college student, Ramirez said he is determined to graduate before his siblings, to inspire their paths and make his dream job as a baseball or football coach a reality.
"STC has been the most fun I’ve had in years, and I wouldn’t want to change anything about it," Ramirez emphasized. "For incoming students, I want to tell them that everything is possible, you just need to put your mind to it and it will all be ‘A OK.’"