2 • BROWNSVILLE HERALD GRADUATION EDITION · Arianna Cristina Quezada GPA: 3.96 University of...

2 • BROWNSVILLE HERALD GRADUATION EDITION MAY 2020

Congratulations class of 2020

Photography by Anastasia Waltschew

Arianna Cristina QuezadaGPA: 3.96

University of Texas Rio Grande ValleyJuan Rainier Quezada and Norma

Alicia Quezada“A dream and goal of mine for the future

is to pursue a career in Psychology or Journalism, and use the resources I have

acquired throughout my collegiate career to help and benefit others. I also hope to one

day start a non-profit organization to aid the citizens of my community that are in need.

Valedictorian Saludatorian

Daniela Geraldin Martinez Salazar GPA: 3.95

Universidad de las Américas PueblaGerardo Martinez Garcia & Aracely

Salazar Vazquez“One dream of mine is to one day

have my own company as an interior architect, design my brand, and make a difference. Also, I would like to help others by sharing His Word and giving

to the ones in need.”

Back row left to right: Kevin Arreola, Michael Castillo, William Mathers, Gilbert Lopez, Luis Alfredo Venegas, Andrew Gardner-Vidal

Bottom row left to right: Maria Fernanda Lozano, Arianna Quezada, Maria Fernanda Lerma, Julissa Ayala, Natasha Sotres, Daniela Martinez.

A Note from Our PrincipalOur warmest congratulations to the graduating class of 2020! You did it! You survived, not only high school, with its final exams and peer pressure, but you also survived a

global pandemic, together with social isolation, uncertainty and distance learning. You are the most resilient graduating class in the history of Valley Christian High School. I do not know what the world will look like tomorrow, but I find deep hope, and gratitude, in knowing that you are our leaders of tomorrow. Your unique and diverse class is eternally dear to my heart. I have been honored to be your teacher, Vice Principal and Principal. The fondest memories are of us, together in the classroom, of course, getting

creative with our lessons. The last lesson I leave you with is a simple one: Find out what you really care about, and live a life that shows it. I really care about each and every one of you; I hope that my life shows that. From all of the staff and students of VCHS, we wish you the best on this next grand adventure of your life! Always remember God loves

you and so does VCHS. -E. Rivera

MAY 2020 BROWNSVILLE HERALD GRADUATION EDITION • 3

Your high school years are so important. Not only arethey the formative years before graduation, but they are

the time to make your best memories! At VCHS, webelieve school should be fun and memorable. Our

graduates repeatedly report feeling seen and supportedby both peers and staff. VCHS is a safe environment that

has been producing graduates who will impact theworld for the cause of Christ since 1973.

1190 Mackintosh Dr. Brownsville,TX 78521 (956) 542-5222 [email protected] www.valleychristianhigh.org

Nowenrolling for2020-2021

Call today to schedule yourentrance exam!

Photography by Anastasia Waltschew


College students have a few different living options at their disposal, but

many opt for

dormitory living, as it is one of the more convenient and popular boarding options, particularly

for out-of-town students. Thousands of post-

secondary students pack up their belongings and move away from home in the pursuit of an education, and parents want to do what they can to ensure their college-aged kids are safe.

For many students, college represents the first time they will live anywhere other than the homes they grew up in. Dorm life

can be an exciting adventure, but it can also be one that may open new college students up to inherently risky situations.

While students should look forward to fun and excitement at school, it’s also important for them to be prepared for what lies ahead at college and in dorm life Ñ and to take the proper safety precautions.

• Fall in with a trustworthy group of dorm friends. Friends can be informed of your schedule for both classes and work, so they are aware of where you are supposed to be at certain times of the day. If something is amiss, these friends can alert authorities or investigate your whereabouts further.

• Lock your dorm room door. Always keep the dorm room door locked, and make sure your roommate is on the same page. Locking the door can deter people from entering without your

permission and prevent theft.• Keep belongings out

of sight. When preparing to move into a dorm, leave heirlooms or expensive jewelry at home. Once you move

in, store your more valuable belongings out of sight or in a locked box or safe. Consider getting insurance for dorm belongings, which will protect you in the event of theft.

• Travel in groups. When attending parties or other functions, always arrive and leave in a group. This offers extra protection, as assaults and other crimes are less likely to occur when criminals are outnumbered.

• Know the evacuation routes. Learn your dorm’s evacuation policies. Know where all exits are and how to get out of the building if exits may be blocked. Find out if fire drills or other safety procedures are practiced, and participate in them.

• Use the elevator. If there’s an elevator, use it. Stairwells are secluded and dark and often provide the perfect opportunity for would-be criminals to take advantage of unsuspecting students.

Use common sense and trust your instincts with regard to dorm safety. Make college memories good ones by emphasizing caution.

TAKE A COURSE IN DORM SAFETY

Dorm room and campus safety

should be a top priority for

students.


College is often met with excitement and interest by students pursuing their passions

and what they hope will be fulfilling, lucrative careers. And the rising costs of college, coupled with the growing number of students taking on substantial debt to finance their educations, make it necessary that prospective students consider their earning potential when deciding on a major.

According to the College Board, the average cost of college tuition and fees for the 2017-2018 school year was $34,740 at private colleges, $9,970 for state residents at public colleges, and

$25,620 for out-of-state residents attending public universities. Canadian citizens studying in

Canada can expect to pay $6,571 per year, according to Statistics Canada.

The cost of tuition and room

and board may catch parentsÕ eyes, but there are some lesser known expenses associated with college that can make attending school even more expensive. According to Cappex.com, a website offering ideas on how to pay for college, the extra costs of college can cost between $250 and $500 per month.

The following are some lesser known expenses that college students and their families may need to budget for this school year.

• Transportation: Commuter students will need to drive to and from campus, which involves budgeting for gas, repairs and auto insurance. Students who live on campus may be subjected to a high fee for a resident student parking pass. Colleges in the

United States earn an average of $4 million to $5 million

in parking revenues each year, according to the most recent rate study from the National

Parking Association. A typical four-year college or university in the United States charges about $635 per space for the school year. Other students use public transportation or ridesharing services to get around. Those fees can quickly add up, too. Students attending school far away from home also need to budget for plane tickets home during the holidays and other breaks.

• Fraternities and sororities: Many students join Greek organizations to fully immerse themselves in the college experience and make new friends. Many of these groups charge fees to prospective pledges and then semester dues once students are accepted. Parties, trips, living expenses, and other expenses may come up as well.

• Added fees: Many colleges and universities charge technology fees, sports center fees and activity fees. Exploring these fees in advance of the school year can help families create accurate budgets.

• Dining out: Families spend hundreds of dollars on campus meal plans per semester, but students also like to visit local eateries during the school year. Snacks, lunches and dinners purchased from such establishments can cost hundreds of dollars per year. Farmer’s Financial Solutions, a division of Farmer’s Insurance, says off-campus dining

expenses cost an average of $770 a year.

• School supplies: A new laptop or tablet, textbooks

and other supplies a professor requires can cost thousands of dollars. The College Board estimates students spend $1,300 on books and supplies in a typical school year.

The cost to attend college extends beyond tuition and room and board. Many additional expenses can stretch families’ budgets.

BE AWARE OF ALL THE COSTS FOR COLLEGE

The cost of tuition and room and board may catch parents’ eyes, but there are some lesser known expenses associated with college that can make attending school even more expensive.


Graduation is an exciting time in the lives of students. After years in the classroom preparing for life after

school, graduation marks a time when students are finally ready to enter the ‘real world’ and land their first professional job.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics advises that earning a college degree can greatly improve a person’s chance of landing a job. The more education a person receives, the lower his or her prospects of being unemployed become. The BLS said that, as of 2014, individuals with a bachelor’s degree could earn on average $1,101 per week, compared to $668 for persons with high school diplomas. Those with bachelor’s degrees had a 3.5 percent unemployment rate compared to 6 percent for those with only high school diplomas.

The National Center for Education Statistics estimates that roughly two million students earn bachelor’s degrees each year. Many others will go on to earn master’s or doctorates before entering the workforce.

As the economy continues to improve, job prospects follow suit. According to a job outlook from the National Association of Colleges and Employers, employers had plans to hire 8.3 percent more new college graduates in 2015 than in 2014. The growth of businesses and the rising rate of retiring Baby Boomers has spurred employment prospects.

Landing a job post-graduation requires diligence on the part of new grads,

and the following are a handful of ways to make those pursuits more successful.

• Hit the ground running. It’s tempting for recent grads to take the summer off and have a lax approach to job hunting after all of the hard work they put into their education. But recent grads can get a head start on their competition by beginning their searches immediately after earning their degrees. Create a list of a few target companies you have your eye on, and then tap into your network to find a contact at each company and reach out to that contact directly.

• Focus on a career path. Prospective employers prefer that applicants have some certainty regarding the types of jobs they are looking for. Take a career assessment test or work with a career counselor to narrow down the fields and positions that speak to you. Avoid the “I’m willing to do or learn anything” approach to job applications. Employers may see that as desperation.

• Don’t rely entirely on the Internet. Oftentimes, landing a

good job requires reaching out to people in person.

In a MonsterCollege survey, 78 percent of job-seekers said networking

was a factor in their job searches. Standing out from the crowd may involve physically standing out. Attend conferences or speeches from people who work at the companies you’re investigating. DonÕt be afraid to shake some hands and introduce yourself to others.

• Think about what you can offer to prospective employers. Narrow down your specific skills and customize your résumé’s or cover letters to the specific talents you can offer each potential employer. Use examples that illustrate these skills from past school courses, volunteerism or part-time jobs. Your ‘quirks,’ like being the most punctual person in your group of friends, may turn out to be the skill an employer admires the most. Consider developing a career portfolio that highlights your past achievements.

• Do your homework before an interview or networking opportunity. Always be prepared before an interview or when meeting with someone you are soliciting for job help. Research the company and know its background so you have an idea of how the company runs. Keep a list of questions at the ready. A knowledge of the company can help you stand out from other applicants.

The next step for many after graduation is to find a job that fits with graduates’ career goals.

EMPLOYMENT: THE NEXT STEP AFTER GRADUATION


EMPLOYMENT: THE NEXT STEP AFTER GRADUATION

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It is with great pride that BPUB announces these high school and college graduates from the BPUB family.

Congratulations to all 2020 high school and college graduates.

BPUB stands for education

Eli Manuel Gonzalez

Veterans Memorial Early CollegeHigh School

Viviana LucioJames PaceEarly CollegeHigh School

Denisse LopezHomer HannaEarly CollegeHigh School

Beatriz MonitaWayland UniversityBachelor’s of Applied Science in Accounting

Felix Adrian Hernandez

South Texas ISD Health Professions

Gabriel Ramon Marez

Harlingen High School South

Julissa Rae Lopez

Texas A&M University- Kingsville

Jessica Ortiz The University of

Texas RioGrande Valley

Master’s of Business Administration

Danielle GalanLos FresnosHigh School

Andrea A. PerezTexas A&M University- Kingsville

Lizbeth PortilloHomer HannaEarly CollegeHigh School

Arlette M. RochaLos FresnosHigh School

Victoria M. Reyna

Midland Senior High School

Alexandria Nicolette Saldivar

Simon RiveraEarly CollegeHigh School

Christian QuinteroSimon RiveraEarly CollegeHigh School

Guillermo Rodriguez, Jr.Simon RiveraEarly CollegeHigh School

Evelyn RamirezUniversity ofNorth Texas

Master’s of Science in Information Science

Alexis VasquezIdea Frontier

Academy

Daisy Marie VazquezUTRGV

Mathematics and Science Academy

Kelly AlvaradoLos FresnosHigh School

Netanya Naomi Cortez

The University of Texas Rio

Grande Valley

Nathaniel CantuLos FresnosHigh School

Ashley Nicole Espinoza

The University of Texas Rio

Grande Valley

Misael Alexader Andrade

Homer HannaEarly CollegeHigh School

Erika DelgadilloSouth Texas ISD

Health Professions

Lauren Paola Capistran

Veterans Memorial Early CollegeHigh School

Katelyn Marie EspinozaBrownsville

Early CollegeHigh School

Destiny Alexus Aguirre

Los FresnosHigh School

1425 Robinhood Drive / P.O. Box 3270 • Brownsville, Texas 78523-3270 • www.brownsville-pub.com

BPUB Employees

8 • MVTC GRADUATION EDITION MAY 2020

SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS OF TEEN TRAVELERS

Graduating from high school is a significant milestone in the lives of young people. The next step for

many teenagers after graduating from high school is to go off to college. But before teens make their way to college campuses, some may celebrate their graduations by traveling overseas without parental supervision for

the first time.Whether it’s through a school-

sponsored program or a graduation gift, overseas trips can be life-changing experiences for young people. Doing so without mom and dad in tow allows them to experience the sense of independence they will soon enjoy as college students.

While teenagers may look forward to traveling abroad, the parents theyÕll leave behind will no doubt experience some anxiety as their children travel thousands of miles away. But parents can take certain steps to reduce that anxiety without making trips less enjoyable for their sons and daughters.

• Stay in (digital) touch. Thanks to social media, parents no

longer need to sit at home imagining what their

wandering youngsters are doing in foreign

countries. When sending children on overseas

trips,

parents can purchase international service for their childrenÕs phones so kids have access to social media websites and apps via their phones. Parents can then communicate with their children through such apps, asking kids to check in at the end of each day through direct messaging.

• Enroll youngsters in STEP. STEP, or the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, is free to U.S. citizens and nationals. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, the service is invaluable to overseas travelers who, once enrolled, will receive important information about safety conditions from the embassy in their destination countries. It also makes it easier for embassies to contact travelers in case of emergencies like natural disasters, civil unrest or family emergencies.

• Make copies of travel documents. Before teens

head

overseas, parents should make multiple copies of important travel documents, including passports, travel itineraries, travel reservations (i.e., flight, hotel, etc.), and any bank and/or credit cards teens will be using while overseas. This can help local authorities track travelers who have gone missing or help those travelers who have been victimized by thieves or criminals. Keep a copy of these documents at home and give teens a copy of each document to take with them as well.

• Document your teenager’s medical history, including medications. Parents no doubt know their children’s medical histories backwards and forwards, but teenagers may not be so familiar, and, even if they are, that familiarity won’t be too useful if kids are unconscious. Create a file that documents your child’s medical history, including all medications the child takes and any allergies he or she has, and make sure kids travel with it at all times. Medical practitioners overseas will find this invaluable if they need to treat teens.

• Discuss safety and overseas laws. Before kids head off, parents should have a lengthy discussion about safe travel and the importance of obeying laws in their destination countries. Make sure youngsters know to avoid walking alone at night and to resist strangers’ offers of food or drinks. In addition, teenagers should abstain from consuming alcohol even if it’s legal for them to do so in their destination countries, as their low tolerance for alcohol can put them in precarious positions.

Overseas travel can change the lives of young people for the better. But parents of teens traveling abroad without parental supervision for the first time should

work with their children to ensure they’re safe for the duration of their trips.

While teenagers may look forward to traveling abroad, the parents they’ll leave behind will no doubt experience some anxiety as their children travel thousands of miles away. But parents can take certain steps to reduce that anxiety without making trips less enjoyable for their sons and daughters.


The field of nursing is complex. Much like physicians specialize in particular areas of medicine, nurses often narrow their focus to certain disciplines within the profession.

Education is vital for anyone aspiring to become a nurse. The American Nurses Association notes that there are various requirements for licensure within the field of nursing. Such requirements typically begin in the classroom. When considering a career in nursing, aspiring nurses should recognize that there are various degrees they can pursue, and that each of these degrees can pave the way to a rewarding career.

Associate’s degreeThe online nursing resource Nurse.org

notes that nurses who have earned their associate’s degree in nursing, or ADN,

are the professionals most people first consider

when thinking of nurses.

ADNs speak directly with

patients about their symptoms and

conditions and monitor and record vital signs. An ADN also is qualified to administer medication and can offer advice on self-care

after surgery and how to confront illness or injury.ADNs work in a wide range of

health care settings, helping to provide services for everyone from infants to the elderly. The American Nurses

Association notes that the ADN is a two-year degree offered by community colleges and hospital-based schools of nursing.

Bachelor’s degree The ANA notes that a bachelor’s of

science in nursing (BS/BSN) is a four-year degree offered at colleges and universities that prepares graduates to engage in the full scope of professional nursing practice across all health care settings. En route to earning a BSN, students will concentrate on an assortment of disciplines that will benefit them throughout their careers. Psychology, human growth and development, biology, microbiology, organic chemistry, nutrition, and anatomy and physiology are typically the focus of the first two years of study. As students advance toward earning their BSN, they also will learn about adult acute and chronic disease, maternal/child health, pediatrics, psychiatric/mental health nursing, and community health nursing.

Nursing students pursuing a BSN will also study nursing theory, physical and behavioral sciences, and humanities. Health care economics and policy also may be studied as schools hope to educate aspiring nurses about the cultural, political, economic, and social issues that affect patients and influence how health care is delivered.

Advanced degreesAspiring nurses also may want to

pursue advanced degrees. Master’s degree programs prepare students to become advanced practice nurses, nurse administrators and nurse educators.

Aspiring nurses interested in research may want to pursue a doctor of philosophy, or Ph.D., while those interested in clinical practice or leadership roles may pursue a doctorate of nursing practice, or DNP.

Education is vital for modern nurses. The educational path aspiring nurses take can determine where their careers ultimately take them.

HOW CERTAIN DEGREES IN NURSING CAN HELP ASPIRING NURSES

When considering a career in nursing, aspiring nurses should recognize that there are various degrees they can pursue, and that each of these degrees can pave the way to a rewarding career.


A pplying to colleges is exciting for many high school students. But that excitement

is sometimes tempered by anxiety. The college application process can affect students’ lives for years to come, so it’s understandable why some teenagers might feel stressed as they apply to college.

The National Center for Educational Statistics says 69 percent of high school graduates in the United States enroll in college the fall after graduating from high school. Many students begin applying to college before entering their senior year of high school. Students can employ various strategies to make applying to college less stressful.

Create an inventory of student experiences and awardsWhen completing their college

applications, students submit a variety of materials. In addition to students’ track records in the classroom, schools will be interested in kids’ extracurricular activities, hobbies, volunteer work, and even things they do during their free time.

Parents and students can work together to develop a master list that includes information about what students have accomplished during high school. These may include involvement in certain clubs, participation in sports teams, advanced ranking in scouting programs, or even a list of books read. Having this document handy will make it that much simpler to fill out college applications.

Investigate the Common Application

The Common Application began as a niche program for select private liberal arts colleges, but now has grown into an organization that services more than 750

schools. The organization enables students to create an account and complete one basic form that will be accepted by all institutions who are members. The CA helps students streamline the college application process and reduce redundancy. An alert system also helps applicants manage application deadlines.

Avoid applying everywhere

Some students think that applying to dozens of schools will improve their chances of being admitted. However, applicants may be wasting their time applying to schools they have no intention of attending, and that only adds to the stress of meeting deadlines. Narrow down the possibilities to a handful of favorite schools and go from there.

Use the resources at your disposal

Students who have access to guidance counselors, mentors, college centers, or even teachers who are willing to help with the application process should use these resources wisely. In addition, iPhone and Android apps can help streamline the college application process.

Consider scholarships concurrently

Some schools automatically consider applicants for scholarships, grants and work-study programs. But that’s not so with every school, so students may have to apply on their own or rely on third parties for scholarships. Fastweb is a leading online resource to find

scholarships to pay for school.Advance preparation can make

the college application process a lot less stressful for students and their parents.

HOW TO MAKE APPLYING TO COLLEGE LESS STRESSFUL

The college application process can affect students’ lives for years to come, so it’s understandable why some teenagers might feel stressed as they apply to college.


Los Fresnos High SchoolClass of 2020

Top 10 Graduates

ConnorSponsler

Alexandra JoMontes

JavierAlvarez

WilfredoLuiton

NicholasValencia

AntonioMartinez

SabrinaHinojosa

KobeArismendi

BrendanPerez

AylinAnzaldua

Top 5 Percent Graduates

AnnaBarrera

SamanthaBarrera

TabithaGarcia

AndresThomas

EmeraldMaciel

Manuel Rocha

DiegoGarza

ChloeTraskauskas

Mark A. Gracia

JanessaLeija

Ma. LorenCantu

SelenaVilla

LizbethSosa

AlyssaBujanos

KarenWaters

YareliCordova

KyleOgao

NataliaCalvillo

GiovannaGodoy

VictoriaMaldonado

KellyAlvarado

AnaiMartinez

MayaPerez

MelissaSauceda

JeneliGalvan

VioletMilton

GracielaOliva

NathanSamano

ErinVidales

Not PicturedAmy M. Castellanos

Jacqueline Lucio

Daniela Salazar

Emily N. Rodriguez

Abigail Tovar

“What We Do Here Shapes the World”

Congratulations!All 880 Seniors!

Commencement7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 30

Leo Aguilar Memorial StadiumSeating Limited to 2 Tickets Per Graduate

12 • BROWNSVILLE HERALD GRADUATION EDITION MAY 2020BR

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These outstanding students have been acceptedto an impressive list of colleges and universities

Saint Joseph Academy Class of 2020Diego Felipe AdobbatiRicardo AlanisJosé Antonio AlfaroMark Anthony AnayaDiana Marcela Arriaga AlvarezSantiago BalderasCarlos A. BarbaMaria Fernanda Botello-SanchezTaryn Michelle CarrollMariaelena ChapaJackie ClynesJosealonso Cortez VillarrealSebastian CuellarNicole Lizeth DanachePaola Estefania De La Garza RodriguezBajram Senad DervisevicMaricielo DiazAnna Luisa DiezNicole Azeneth Escamilla BadiolaSergio EspinozaAndres Jose FigueroaElizabeth Magali FletesMarlet Alejandra GarciaPaulina GarciaEduardo Garza DiazElvira A. Garza DiazAlejandro Garza-TreviñoAntonio Claudio GarzaDaniel Tomas GarzaErnesto Gabriel Garza-GarzaSamantha GarzaVictor Manuel GonzalezVictoria Cristina GonzalezSummer Lee-Rhoby GreerRamiro Alejandro GuajardoGigi GutierrezKarla Alejandra GutierrezVictoria Hinojos LarrazoloSteffani Megan HunterSusana IbarraAlejandro LeeRoberta Lynn LeMasterSeneca Cruz MagallanesSara MargrottoAlyssa Nicole Martinez

Andrea Sofía Martínez PradoCamila Martinez de la TorreJohn Matthew MartinezJoshua Andrew MartinezMarcelo Maza RodriguezDaniel Eduardo MercadoWestin Noah MillerRebeca MoralesRita Catarina OlveraMariajosé Ortega StivaletJose Alejandro PadillaRachel Marie ParraRafael ParraJose Alberto PeralesAlexa Maria Pineda-GarzaFernando Jose RamirezLuis Manuel RamirezSandra Marcela Reina AstudilloAndrea Reneé RivasAmerica RodriguezBernardo RodriguezDaniella Alejandra RodriguezJimena Ruiz LealCarlos SaenzMauricio Ivan SáenzLuis Eduardo SaldanaVictor Manuel Salinas RodriguezAlejandro Manuel SanchezCarlos Gabriel SarmientoAllison Carré StachowiakAlejandro Torres MyersRebecca TorteyaLuis Emilio TreviñoRuben Carlos TreviñoLuis Fernando VazquezMontserrat VazquezMarianicolle VelardeAna Paula VillalobosXimena VillanuevaJosealejandro VillarrealJose Pablo VivancoDaniel Tomas WolfeAlexa Adriana YañezIsabella Skye Ybarra

Alfred UniversityArizona State UniversityAshford UniversityAustin CollegeBaylor UniversityBoston CollegeColorado State UniversityColumbia CollegeFlorida Southern CollegeFlorida International UniversityFordham UniversityGrand Canyon UniversityHouston Baptist UniversityIona CollegeJohns Hopkins UniversityMacalester CollegeThe New SchoolNew York UniversityNortheastern UniversityNova Southeastern UniversityOur Lady of the Lake UniversityPacific Northwest College of ArtsPennsylvania State UniversityPratt InstitutePrinceton UniversityRice UniversityRochester Institute of TechnologySt. Edward’s UniversitySt. John’s CollegeSt. Mary’s University San AntonioSavannah College of Art and DesignSeattle UniversitySouthern Methodist UniversitySouthwestern UniversitySUNY College of TechnologyStephen F. Austin State UniversityTec de Monterrey, MonterreyTec de Monterrey, Santa FeTexas A&M UniversityTexas A&M University Corpus Christi

Texas A&M University KingsvilleTexas A&M University McAllenTexas A&M University San AntonioTexas Christian UniversityTexas State UniversityTexas Tech UniversityTrinity UniversityUniversidad Autonoma de Nuevo LeonUniversidad de MonterreyUniversity of California Los AngelesUniversity of California Santa BarbaraUniversity of California San DiegoUniversity of ChicagoUniversity of DallasUniversity of GlasgowUniversity of Hawaii ManoaUniversity of HoustonUniversity of the Incarnate WordUniversity of Mary Hardin-BaylorUniversity of Massachusetts BostonUniversity of MiamiUniversity of RochesterUniversity of St. ThomasUniversity of San DiegoUniversity of Southern CaliforniaUniversity of San FranciscoUniversity of SydneyUniversity of TampaThe University of Texas at AustinThe University of Texas at DallasThe University of Texas Rio Grande ValleyThe University of Texas at San AntonioWashington University in St. LouisWellesley College

Schools in bold areranked in the Top 100by U.S. News & WorldReport


A dvanced degrees have long been associated with better career prospects and higher

earnings. Women seem to be especially aware of that, as the Council of Graduate Schools/GRE Survey of Graduate Enrollment and Degrees noted that, in the fall of 2017, the majority of first-time graduate students at all levels were women. Among master’s degree candidates that fall, 59 percent were female while 53.5 percent of doctoral candidates were women.

The decision to pursue an advanced degree requires careful consideration. Such a pursuit requires a considerable investment of time and money, and while those are two important factors to consider before making a decision (more on that below), they’re not the only things women must think of as they try to make the best decision.

TimingTiming and time are two different

things. While many people considering graduate degrees think about how much time they’ll need to complete their degrees, timing also merits consideration. Newly minted graduates may want to take a break after expending so much effort to earn their undergraduate degrees. Taking time between degrees can provide the opportunity to recharge, and it also can give young graduates a chance to get some professional experience. That experience can inform their future grad school decision, perhaps reassuring them they’re on the right career path or compelling them to pursue other avenues. But enrolling right after completing your undergraduate studies can be beneficial as well. That’s especially so for recent grads who hope to start a family soon after graduation. The longer you delay enrolling in a graduate program,

the longer you may delay starting a family, which can have a lasting impact.

Career prospectsWhile it’s easy to assume an

advanced degree will greatly enhance your career prospects and increase your earning potential, it’s not necessarily that simple. When considering the pursuit of an advanced degree, try to determine if you’ll be in the workforce long enough to benefit from the increased earnings. Women who are mid- to late-career might not benefit considerably or at all from the extra earnings if they’re paying for their advanced degrees themselves, as the cost of tuition and other fees might be higher than the extra earnings. In addition, some advanced degrees won’t necessarily lead to considerably higher salaries than you’re likely to earn with a bachelor’s degree. That will depend on your profession.

TimeThe time required to

pursue an advanced degree merits strong consideration. Many students pursuing a master’s degree full-time can earn their degrees in two years, while those who attend part-time will need more time to complete their degree programs. Doctoral programs take considerably longer.

CostThe cost of an advanced degree

varies widely depending on the program. Some programs may cost $20,000 or less, while others will cost more than $100,000. Many doctoral

candidates receive financial aid from their schools or lenders, but the cost of a Ph.D. is still considerable, especially when considering the potential lost earnings during the years while the degree is being pursued.

Women receive the majority of advanced degrees earned at colleges and universities across the country. Choosing whether or not to pursue such a degree requires

careful consideration of a host of factors.

The decision to pursue an advanced degree requires careful consideration.

FACTORS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURSUING AND ADVANCED DEGREE


Many students must take on loans to finance their college educations. While such loans make it possible for

students to further their educations, many of those students ultimately graduate with substantial amounts of debt.

According to a study by the Institute for College Access & Success, an independent nonprofit organization working to make

higher education more available and affordable for people of all

backgrounds, 70 percent of students in the class

of 2012 graduated with student

loan debt. The average

amount of debt those students carried was $29,400, and many financial analysts

say there is no relief in sight. In fact,

the Federal Reserve of

New York indicated that,

by the end of 2013, American

student loan debt had ballooned to $1.08 trillion, an

increase of over 300 percent from 2003.Substantial student

loan debt can make life difficult for recent

graduates, especially when the job market for recent grads is far from robust. Many student loans come with a six-month grace period that gives grades time to work out a repayment plan, and there are ways for new grads to maximize this grace period to their advantage.

• Know your loan(s). Grace periods vary depending on the loan. While a six-month period is common, some loans have

grace periods as long as nine months. There also may be an eligible deferment built in. In addition, while grace periods typically kick in after a student graduates, grace periods actually begin whenever a student withdraws from school or drops below half-time status. That’s an important consideration for students thinking of taking a semester off or leaving school altogether. If you plan to continue your education, or re-enroll in school, you may once again be eligible for a repayment grace period. Log in to www.nslds.ed.gov using your Federal Student Aid PIN to view your loan balances, information about who is servicing your loans and more.

• Pay the interest. For some loans, including some federal Perkins loans and subsidized Stafford loans, interest will not accrue during your grace period. However, interest may begin to accrue immediately upon graduation. You can avoid higher bills by making payments before your grace period expires. The longer you defer your payments, the more interest you may have to pay.

• Change your repayment plan. Your lender may provide a set repayment plan, but typically you do not have to keep it, but the U.S. Department of Education notes that these lender-established plans are not necessarily set in stone. Contact your loan servicer to come up with a repayment plan that works best for you. You may be able to lower your payments, consolidate various loans, tie monthly payments to your income level, or even have loans forgiven if you work as a teacher or in other areas of public service.

• Establish an emergency fund. If you are employed, start saving some extra money now so you can build up your bank account, which may be more difficult when you begin paying back loans. Use the time to your advantage by clearing other debt as well.

Student loans make it possible for many students to finance their educations. To help reduce debt, make use of your loans’ grace periods and get your financial ducks in a row.

MAXIMIZE YOUR STUDENT LOAN GRACE PERIOD

Student loan grace periods give recent graduates time to develop a repayment plan that works to their advantage.


CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES OF 2020!

The faculty and staff at Texas A&M-Kingsville applaud your accomplishments and the dedication it took to achieve this goal. During these unprecedented times, Texas A&M-Kingsville remains committed to helping you achieve your dream of obtaining a college degree. From face-to-face classes that follow social distancing measures to virtual courses you can take from home, you can choose how to start your journey to success.

However you choose to take classes, we look forward to providing you the same intellectually challenging university experience that we have been providing for the past 95 years. With small class sizes, innovative research, one-on-one faculty mentorship, athletics, and a robust student life, Texas A&M–Kingsville is South Texas’ premier comprehensive university experience.

JOIN THE JAVELINA NATION TODAY!


TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-KINGSVILLE offers students robust academic programs that prepare them to impact the world around them. Degrees include well-known programs in engineering, animal and wildlife sciences, kinesiology, social work, and music, along with fast-growing bachelor’s degree programs in veterinary technology and criminal justice.

With a focus on excellence, Texas A&M-Kingsville’s reputation as a top-tier institution extends beyond South Texas. The university is ranked among the nation’s top institutions for awarding engineering, agriculture and communication sciences and disorders degrees to Hispanics, according to Diverse: Issues in Higher Education.

A Carnegie Classifi ed Doctoral University with High Research Activity, Texas A&M-Kingsville provides students with opportunities to conduct research and work alongside faculty who are leaders in their fi elds. Small class sizes and a

network of support prepare students for success.

Starting salaries for Texas A&M-Kingsville graduates are among the highest regionally and statewide, according to the national college salary report released annually by PayScale, Inc.Texas A&M-Kingsville offers students a comprehensive university experience with housing choices including modern suite-style living, traditional residence halls, and living-learning communities. As the fi rst institution of higher learning in South Texas, Texas A&M-Kingsville has been changing lives and impacting the region for 95 years.

POINTS OF DISTINCTION

The Dick and Mary Lewis Kleberg College of Agriculture and Natural Resources houses three institutes that are among the best in the world. The Caesar Kleberg Wildlife

Research Institute is home to top-notch researchers who lead their fi eld working with wild cats, white-tailed deer, quail and even the Texas horned lizard. The King Ranch Institute for Ranch Management offers the only master’s degree in ranch management in the world and has graduates working at some of the most prestigious ranches in the country. The Citrus Center, located in the Rio Grande Valley, developed the Rio Red variety of grapefruit and works to provide citrus growers with virus-free budwood.

The Frank H. Dotterweich College of Engineering is home to the fi rst natural gas engineering degree in the world in addition to accredited bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programs in architectural, chemical, civil, electrical, environmental, industrial, mechanical engineering and computer science.

The College of Education recently earned an A in the 2020 National Council on Teacher Quality’s Teacher

Prep Review and the department of kinesiology can boast having six Undergraduate Scholar Awards in 11 years when Alyssa Fick, won this year. The award is given by the Texas Regional Chapter of the American College of Sports Medicine. The College of Education also is home to the fi rst doctoral degree in bilingual education.

The online Master’s in Business degree in the College of Business Administration is nationally recognized as one of the top, most affordable online MBA programs in the country.

The newly-designated School of Music is housed in the new, state-of-the-art Music Education Complex which opened in spring 2020. The National Natural Toxins Research Center is the only federally-funded viper research center in the U.S. and is one of the leading research centers in the world for discovering toxins for use in biomedical research.









Texas A&M University-Kingsville

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College is the first taste of true independence many young students experience.

Whereas mom and dad were always around to make sure

kids were out the door on time and homework was done, that safety blanket is no longer there once kids move into their dorm rooms.

The transition to college life can be exciting. But while students typically welcome that transition with open arms, parents often worry about how their children will handle their suddenly more

independent life. Parents who want to help

their kids make as smooth a

transition to college life as possible can take steps during their children’s senior year of high school to help them adjust to their new surroundings and responsibilities more easily.

• Let kids fly solo on school day mornings. New college students have to make many adjustments upon moving into their dorms, and getting themselves out of bed each morning and off to class on time is one such change. Parents worried that their students will sleep in when mom and dad isn’t around to remind them to wake up can start letting kids fly solo on school day mornings during their final year of high school. Let kids set their alarms, prepare their own breakfasts and get out the door on time all on their own. By the time their freshman year of college arrives, kids will know how to handle their mornings by themselves.

• Teach kids how to develop budgets. Another problem many first-year college students encounter is an inability to effectively manage their money. Whether you plan to give kids an allowance while they are in school or intend for them to work part-time for their spending money, use senior year of high school as an opportunity to show kids how to budget their money. If they don’t have accounts already, open bank accounts in your youngster’s name, and insist that he or she start paying for his or her expenses via these accounts. Resist the urge to give high school kids gas money or money for shopping trips if they have already spent their

allowances so they can learn how to effectively manage money between paydays. In addition, teach kids about the right and wrong ways to use credit cards, including the importance of paying balances in full and on time.

• Let kids handle more standard responsibilities. Adults tend to take more mundane responsibilities like making doctor’s appointments or grocery shopping for granted. But kids likely have no idea how to handle such tasks. Parents can encourage their high school seniors to make their own medical appointments. In addition, take kids along on grocery shopping trips, explaining how to find sale items and which foods to buy and which to avoid. Nutrition is not always foremost on the minds of college freshmen, but those who understand the importance of healthy diets are more likely to buy nutritious meals than junk food.

• Emphasize time management. Today’s high schoolers are busier than ever before, so many may already be prepared for the juggling act that is college life. But college students have more free time than their high school counterparts, so parents can emphasize the importance of managing that free time wisely as opposed to spending it lounging on the couch or napping.

The transition from high school to college can be both exciting and difficult. But parents can get a head start on that transition by encouraging their youngsters to be more independent during their final year of high school.

HOW PARENTS CAN SIMPLIFY STUDENTS’ TRANSITION TO COLLEGE LIFE

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