Angelyna Gonzales is driven by a resolute determination to reshape her family's path through the pursuit of education. A senior Creative Media Industries (CMI) major, Media Strategies and Transmedia minor, and first-generation student from Thrall, Texas, who Grew up in a household where post-secondary schooling was not the norm— Gonzales understands the life-changing potential education holds. Armed with this conviction, she pilots the challenges of academia with unwavering purpose, fueled by a desire to break the cycle of limited opportunities that have hindered her family for generations.
With a steady determination and a desire to pursue her dreams, Gonzales embarked on a journey of self-discovery, exploring different academic disciplines until she found her calling. Despite the uncertainty and challenges that accompanied this decision, Gonzales's intentions remained steadfast. Through diligent research and guidance from mentors, she chartered a new course that aligned with her passions and aspirations in the College of Media & Communication.
I enrolled in a Visual Storytelling course in CoMC and that's what helped me to decide I wanted to change my major to what it is now..."
“I started out as a geosciences major and realized that was not what I was passionate about,” said Gonzales. “My advisor in that department told me I could become an Explore major where I took courses that I thought I would be interested in to see where it would take me. I enrolled in a Visual Storytelling course in CoMC and that's what helped me to decide I wanted to change my major to what it is now— once I got immersed in more classes for this area of study, I knew I grew more in my passion for video work.”
After switching her major, Gonzales wasted no time getting herself involved in the vibrant community of the College of Media & Communication. Recognizing the importance of seizing every opportunity to explore her newfound academic interests, she dove headfirst into extracurricular activities and field courses related to her new field of study. Gonzales knew nothing of the different world she was entering but she eagerly embraced the chance to expand her horizons and deepen her knowledge.
The experience was a challenge, but we learned so much through this process..."
“I was able to join the Adventure Media course and this spring, we went to Big Bend State Park— I was very nervous and thinking what would happen if I quit mid-way, but I knew I wouldn't,” said Gonzales. “Once we arrived, I struggled more than I thought with getting used to everything, especially since we were bike packing. The experience was a challenge, but we learned so much through this process— our challenges were very rewarding as we have gained lifelong skills that we will always take with us.”
As a key role model in her family, Gonzales holds a profound appreciation for the value of education. Growing up in a family where access to higher learning was limited, she recognizes education as the key to unlocking a world of opportunities. For Gonzales, education is not merely a means to an end but a lifelong journey of growth and empowerment— she recognizes it as a pathway to personal growth and professional success.
I have four older sisters who look up to me academically,”
“Education is very important for me because along with me enjoying it even while in high school, I have four older sisters who look up to me academically,” said Gonzales. “Despite not knowing exactly what I wanted to do for a long time with a career after school, I knew studying in higher education was something I have always wanted to do. My mom started taking college courses while I was still in high school and did not finish— it's what pushed me to pursue a degree, especially since she was older.”
Through her active level of involvement in CoMC, she has blossomed into an empowered individual. As she reflects on her journey, she acknowledges the profound impact that her involvement has had on her personal growth and self-assurance. With newfound esteem, she approaches challenges with resilience and embraces opportunities with enthusiasm, poised to excel both academically and beyond.
“My time here has given me a lot more confidence in myself..."
“Being as involved as I have been in the College of Media & Communication and on campus, I have been able to advance more quickly as a student to where I can thrive more in projects and schoolwork,” said Gonzales. “My time here has given me a lot more confidence in myself because growing up, I've had examples of people who attended college but being able to push myself to do more things than just show up to class has given me the key to my future.”