Giving Back, Leading Forward
Student of the Week: Kaylee Villarreal
I've always enjoyed volunteering and helping others, and that's what inspired me to get involved on campus.
South Texas College student Kaylee Villarreal, believes leadership is about giving back to others and finding ways to make a positive impact within her community.
A Business Administration major and an incoming sophomore, Villarreal has spent her first year at STC active in the Student Leadership Academy, where she developed new leadership skills, completed volunteer projects and even connected with other students who also share a passion for service.
Villarreal joined the Student Leadership Academy during her freshman year and recently completed the Advanced Student Leadership program, earning the Advanced Student Leadership Award for her commitment.
Through the academy, she has had the opportunity to volunteer in numerous ways, including assisting at local food pantries and helping with beach cleanups at South Padre Island.
“It was fun because we got to help clean the beach and spend time with everyone,” Villarreal said. “It was a different experience, and I really enjoyed being a part of it.”
Giving back has always been important to Villarreal. In addition to volunteering through the Student Leadership Academy, she also volunteers through her church and has always looked for opportunities to help others.
“I've always liked volunteering,” she said. “It's something that I have been doing for a long time.”
When it came time to choose a major, Villarreal found inspiration close to home. With her grandmother successfully running her own restaurant, it sparked her interest in business.
“My grandma owns a restaurant, and that's what inspired me to pursue a business degree,” Villarreal said.
That inspiration continues to motivate her as she works toward her long-term goal of also becoming a business owner.
“Hopefully one day I'll have my own business” she said. “My goal is to follow in my grandmother's footsteps.”
As she prepares for her second year at STC, Villarreal plans to continue building her leadership skills, serving her community and taking advantage of opportunities that help her grow both personally and professionally.
With her dedication to service, leadership and academic success, Villarreal represents the positive impact students can make both on campus and throughout their communities.