Pushing forward with purpose

For Lizette Cervantes, pursuing a bachelor’s degree at South Texas College has never just been about a diploma, it’s also about showing her children that perseverance and purpose go hand in hand.

The 33-year-old student is currently working toward her bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership and is on track to graduate in December.

She also works full-time as a secretary at STC’s Math department and is an author of two fantasy novels, all while raising four children, two of whom have disabilities.

Cervantes describes the balancing act as difficult, but deeply meaningful.

“Writing has been my escape,” she said. “It’s how I reset. It helps me process everything, and it’s where I find peace.”

Cervantes began writing her first novel in July of last year and finished it by December. Since then, she’s completed a second and is actively working on a third. She plans to host her first book release later this year.

Her dream is to become a published author and help other moms like her, find comfort and inspiration in her words.

“I want to write stories that help people feel understood,” she said. “I’ve read books that helped me get through hard times. Now, I want to be that person for someone else.”

While her creative path has taken shape in new ways, her academic path has been guided by her workplace, especially the support of Ghanbar A. Esmaeili, Ph.D., dean of Math, Science, Information Technology and Bachelor Programs.

“He’s always encouraged us to continue our education,” Cervantes said. “He explained how the program works, how I could reach my goals, and that made a difference. I think a lot of us here have been pushed to go further because of that kind of leadership.”

Even with a full schedule, working, parenting and studying, Cervantes stays focused on the long-term goal. She says her biggest motivator is her children.

“There are times when it gets really hard, especially during October when you’re deep into classes and life gets hectic,” she said. “But then I think about how close I am. I want to be able to say I did it. I want to show my kids I didn’t give up.”

She also finds joy in connecting with students during campus events. One of her favorite memories was participating in a Pi Day event hosted by the Math department.

“It was fun showing students that math can be exciting,” she said. “It was a good reminder that school can be full of community and encouragement.”

Her advice to other parents and students navigating the ups and downs of school -

“Keep going. Even if your path changes, finish what you started,” she said. “You never know who you’re inspiring just by not giving up.”

For more information on STC’s bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership or the other four bachelor’s programs offered at the college, visit https://www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/bachelors/.