May 28, 2026
My journey to PATHS began in my senior year of high school when a friend of mine told me about their daughter attending the program. I approached my TWC counselor about funding to participate in the program myself. Later, my family and I attended a PATHS open house, where we learned more about the details. After leaving, I went home and thought over my choices and decided that I wanted to attend PATHS.
While attending PATHS, I have learned many skills. One of the first skills I learned was how to navigate the A&M campus, College Station, and Bryan. In my classes, I began developing professional presentation skills when Mrs. Day taught me effective strategies and tools to use. In Person Centered Practices, I learned many applicable skills to carry with me to my practicum and any future job I have. While at my practicum, I learned how to work with various age groups and abilities. This has prepared me for a career path that I would love to pursue.
I am involved in Breakaway, a non-denominational Bible study at Texas A&M, where students gather for worship, teaching, and community. It is open to everyone and provides a welcoming space to explore faith, ask questions, and encounter Jesus. Being part of this organization has helped me grow in my faith while building meaningful relationships with others.
In addition, I am completing an internship with the Texas A&M women’s tennis team. The program, coached by Mark Weaver, is an elite NCAA Division I team competing in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The team is based in College Station at the Mitchell Tennis Center. Recently, the Aggies have achieved remarkable success, winning four consecutive SEC titles from 2022 to 2025, along with their first NCAA Championship in 2024 and a runner-up finish in 2025. I have been in this internship for a year, and it has taught me a great deal about how college athletics differ from high school sports, where I previously served as a manager. Through this experience, I have developed a deeper understanding of teamwork, discipline, and the commitment required at the collegiate level. Currently, the team is ranked #2 in the country, which makes being part of the program even more rewarding.
Furthermore, I have also volunteered at several events, one of which has been the Special Olympics, where I worked with children with disabilities with a variety of needs. This experience allowed me to support and encourage participants while helping create an inclusive and positive environment. Additionally, I have volunteered with Purposeful Life, assisting with events that support individuals with disabilities and their families. These experiences have strengthened my compassion, patience, and my commitment to serving and supporting others in meaningful ways.
After I graduate from the Paths Program, I plan to move back to Boerne, where I will work as a paraprofessional in the Boerne Independent School District.