Stelos Scholars

Can you share a standout moment from the summer intensive workshop?

I have a few standout moments from the summer internship program but the main ones for me were visiting the Dunbar Garden and seeing an example of sustainable living already happening within our community, as well as the panel of speakers that came to share their knowledge with us about their experiences in the realm of food sustainability.

How did the summer intensive program challenge you, and what did you learn from this experience?

The summer intensive program challenged me to grow as a communicator, a team member, a leader, and a student. The support from Peter, Claudia, and all of the guest speakers over the course of the week pushed me and the rest of the cohort to think outside the box and apply our knowledge towards developing solutions in the world of food sustainability. When you provide students with this kind of support, they begin to believe in themselves and their ideas, which I feel is a perfect representation of the summer workshop. 

Can you tell us about a project or topic from the fall course that really resonated with you?

The Housley Leadership class has genuinely been my favorite and most applicable class I have taken at Texas State. The course was packed with topics that I have incorporated into my daily life such as the 90/10 principle. The 90/10 principle says that 10% of life is made up of what happens to you, but 90% is made of how you choose to react.

How has the fall course contributed to your personal and professional growth?

Prior to the fall course, I had a hard time knowing how to navigate the professional world. Communicating and carrying yourself in a professional atmosphere can seem extremely daunting when you haven’t stepped foot in that environment yet. However, the Housley course gave me a sense of direction, a roadmap to life if you will. This course taught me how to hold higher expectations for myself and ultimately how to be a better leader.

Can you share some highlights from your spring travel experience in New York?

Some highlights from our travel experience to New York were the Alumni networking event, Seeing the Brooklyn Grange rooftop garden, as well as being able to explore the city with my cohort.

How did meeting TXST alumni or professionals in your field of interest impact your perspective on your future career?

The biggest takeaway I got from talking to TXST alumni and professionals in my field of interest was simply the reassurance that my goals are possible. It can be difficult for a college student to grasp life after graduation. However, after speaking with TXST alumni I felt much more at ease in understanding that you are constantly learning and growing, you don’t have to be perfect to land a job.

How has the Stelos Scholars program influenced your approach to leadership?

The Stelos Scholars program has elevated my leadership approach tremendously. Throughout the program, there are many instances where you are trusted with various leadership roles which has made me more comfortable stepping up to the plate and taking a leadership role. I now understand the different forms of leadership.

Can you share a story where you felt your perspective widened or you felt inspired to think bigger because of the program?

I think a perfect example for me was when I had the idea of starting the Hays County Food Bank Garden project. Prior to this program, I truly would not have felt comfortable to take on this project in a leadership role. When we visited the Hays County Food Bank over the summer, my mind went to the idea of garden expansion but, it was never a thought to make that a reality. Once I progressed in the program, I realized that the probability of receiving the grant that funded this project was achievable because I believed in it.

As you look forward to your future, how do you see the experiences and lessons from the Stelos Scholars program playing a role?

I now have confidence in my leadership skills as well as the tools I need to better myself in my day-to-day life.

What message would you like to convey to potential donors who are considering supporting the Stelos Scholars program?

The Stelos Scholars program in my opinion is truly a life-changing experience. I could never have imagined I would have this opportunity to be involved in such a supportive environment. This program is packed with passionate mentors and teachers whose number one goal is to inspire students to believe in themselves and pursue their goals while giving them the tools to do that independently. I can’t imagine a college experience without Stelos. The friends I have made, the mentors I now have, and the lessons I have learned are priceless, I think every student could benefit from this program.