I’m originally from Laredo, Texas, and started at the local
four-year university, Texas A&M International University. As a Freshman, I
was an orientation leader and liberal arts tutor/ supplemental instructor, and
I had already found an immense sense of belonging in the Spring of 2013.
However, I officially decided that I wanted to pursue additional academic
endeavors and to challenge myself professionally. I wanted to obtain an additional
degree in either Philosophy or Mexican American Studies, so I began the transfer
application process that following spring and moved to Austin on July 27th.
It was then that I realized my life had almost entirely changed!
Austin and
Laredo are two completely different places. When I moved here, I found myself
having to adjust to a bigger city that has so much to offer. Compared to my first university, the
grand-scale of the University of Texas was overwhelming for me. The campus was
bigger, had a seemingly endless amount of organizations, events, and programs,
and there were times I felt utterly lost while trying to navigate my new
university lifestyle. I was, and still am, so fond of my hometown and became
incredibly homesick. I missed the simplicity of Laredo, how the mall, my
Catholic Church, and sister’s home were within walking distance of my house. I
missed the vibrantly gorgeous sunset and going out for a raspa, or an elote en vaso,
on Sundays or Saturday nights. I missed an innumerable amount of experiences
and memories that I had made with my relatives and best friends, and there were
times that I thought, “ay...quiero
regrasar…a mi casa y todo”.
Pero, this
is where the Ladybirds Spirit Organization stepped in and helped me adjust to
my strikingly new environment!
When I
heard about the Ladybirds, I was set on becoming a part of the organization. I
was never interested in joining a sorority, but I did want to be in a group of
girls who were dedicated to academics, service, and school spirit. When Taryn
said that the girls occasionally go out for brunch, study together, support
university events, and host a variety of nights out, I was sold! I’ve always
loved the University of Texas, especially since a few of my close family
members have attended UT, and I was eager to exemplify school spirit and
socialize with some
of the best girls I had ever met. I was also intrigued by
the idea that the organization was dedicated to the memory of Ladybird Johnson,
our former first lady, who attended The University of Texas. For me, the theme
and significance of the organization distinguished itself from the rest of the
organizations I had looked into. More importantly, I had finally found a
supportive, welcoming, and encouraging community where our members empower each
other. Whenever I am feeling homesick, or when I’m simply having an unpleasant
day, I know that I will always have a friend to cheer me up. Similarly, I know
that I will always be around for my girls when they need help or a listening ear.
We’ve made phenomenal memories together (the kinds that make the funniest
stories) and while I’m in the Ladybirds, I’m confident that we will continue to
grow together and create great experiences together.
This
spring, I will be acting as Sisterhood Chair, which I am incredibly
enthusiastic about! I am excited about being the Sisterhood Chair because I
want to ensure that I give newcomers, who may also feel a little lost or
homesick, the same warmth, friendship, and support that I received as a “Petal.”
I love the Ladybirds because of our commitment to spirit, social, service, and
academics. Last fall, we made several accomplishments, such as raising
awareness for/ donating to SafePlace. This year, I am passionate about the
causes we will be serving and the handful of excellent projects that we are working
on.
