LU Senior Reflection: Ashley Hernandez

My parents left behind their homes, friends, and family so that their children could have unlimited opportunities. They’ve worked their whole life, countless hours working jobs nobody else wanted so that they could provide for their children. Being a child of immigrants, I know that the best way I can ever repay their struggles and sacrifices is by never taking that for granted. 

Looking back, it feels almost unreal that I will be leaving Lamar University. I’ve been a student at Lamar for six years now, and each one of those years has been an important chapter of my life, all of the good and the less than good. I’m so very grateful for all of the knowledge I’ve gained, the friends I’ve made, the fun I’ve had, and so much more. I’m fortunate to have gone to LU and I will cherish all of the memories. 

Apart from being President of my sorority, one of my most fulfilling experiences is working at the Setzer Center as a Student Assistant for Student Organization Services. During my time there of two years, I’ve watched so many new organizations start and expand. In that position, I had the opportunity to lead workshops and trainings, advise officers, and help plan events. Working for Morgan Pulliam, the Coordinator for Student Engagement, as an Assistant has given me immeasurable experience! 

As I close out my senior year, here are five things that are on my mind:

1. Finishing the semester strong
   I’m so close to the finish line, and it’s easy to let burnout get out of hand, so I have to always remember to push myself even harder to get through my last few courses without any regrets. It’s important to give it my all.
   
   
2. What happens after college
   I think about what my days might look like after college. I’ve been a student practically my whole life, so realizing I won’t have midterms, finals or coursework again will be something to get used to.
   
   
3. Leaving friends behind
   As graduation gets nearer, I realize that I will be leaving my sorority sisters behind. These girls have done so much for me and I will undoubtedly miss them as they either still stay at Lamar or graduate themselves.
   
   
4. Getting a job
   The COVID-19 pandemic was something no one could have predicted, and it has unfortunately made its mark on the job market. On my mind is a constant worry that there may or may not be job openings in my degree, especially since I have to stay local for now.
   
   
5. Making family proud
   As a first-generation student, I wouldn’t have gotten this far without the support of my family. As this semester goes on, thinking about all the sacrifices my parents made for me and my siblings to have the opportunities we had makes all of the stress worthwhile.