Ready for the next step

Kelsey Cavazos aspires to have a career that will also make a difference in her community, and to make this possible she has chosen South Texas College as her starting point.

The Mercedes High School senior began her journey at STC when she was only 14 years old as a dual credit student and now finds herself only a few months shy of becoming a high school and college graduate at the same time.

“I knew this was the best opportunity for me when my counselors introduced me to the program,” said Cavazos. “Not only has it saved my family money, but I’ll be able to start applying for law school sooner rather than later.”

Cavazos graduates in May 2023 with an associate degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, and she plans on enroll at a four-year university to study criminal justice and law. 

“Because of dual credit I’ve been able to experience college earlier than most,” she said. “I’ve been able to grow as a person and student and meet and work with new people. I’m more confident and prepared for what’s to come and that’s all thanks to STC .”

With a passion for law since an earl age, Cavazos wants to one day make her legal services affordable and fight for those who need a voice.

“Helping others is a big motivator for me, and so are my parents,” Cavazos said. “My mom didn’t have the chance to attend college, so she always pushes me to take advantage of opportunities that come my way, same with my dad. They keep me focused.”

Cavazos also hopes her experiences set a good example for her siblings and other students.

“Anything new is scary at first, but honestly, it’s a great experience,” she said. “All I advise is that you push yourself to do it and not procrastinate. If I could do it, others can too.”

Throughout her high school and dual credit career, Cavazos has also been able to juggle extracurricular activities such as cheerleading, speech team, University Scholastic League (UIL) and RGV LEAD, where she serves as an ambassador developing her leadership skills, learning more about labor market information and taking knowledge and skills back to her high school peers to encourage college and career readiness.

“It has all been challenging, but I’ve learned lessons in organization, prioritizing and time management,” she said. “I found my balance and I’ve gotten it done.”

She added that it was all possible due to the flexibility of her class schedules, which included in-person, online and hybrid learning.

“I like that STC offers online classes because it was easier to arrange my schedule and balance my high school activities,” said Cavazos.

Overall, Cavazos said she is looking forward to her graduation in May and said she still can’t believe she’ll be a college graduate before becoming a high school graduate.

“I’m really excited to get my associate degree,” she said. “I still can’t believe that this is going to happen. It is one of my greatest accomplishments.”