My Story
Growing Up
Ranch Life
Growing up on a ranch near Encinal, Texas, I was well accustomed to a life that was far from the reach of technology. Laredo, Texas was the closest town to us, and we only ventured into civilization once a month. Our daily routine revolved around the land and the animals that we lived off each day. I have fond memories of riding horses and helping my dad farm, growing all types of vegetables mainly corn. We lived a life of relative simplicity, and it was this experience that made me an environmental activist. Although I did very well in school, there was always a yearning in me to learn something new. Yet, with technology being so far beyond our reach, it seemed like nothing but a distant fantasy. Nonetheless, my upbringing instilled in me a deep appreciation for the land and the environment, and that has been a constant driving force in my life’s journey.
Leaving the ranch after graduation was a pivotal moment in my life. As much as I loved the wide open spaces and the animals, I knew there was more out there waiting for me. The idea of being stuck in the same place day in and day out for the rest of my life made me restless. I craved challenge and growth, and I knew that college was the gateway to the future I wanted. It wasn’t going to be easy, though. My father’s expectations were firmly rooted in ranch life, and he didn’t see the value in higher education. To secure his approval, I went to the superintendent of the school district and asked for a scholarship. I was thrilled to be awarded $100.00, which was enough to cover my first semester at Laredo Junior College. It wasn’t a lot, but it was enough to convince my father to let me go. Living with my aunt and uncle in Laredo helped me ease into the college experience, and I eventually moved to my own rental. The road ahead was uncertain, but I was determined to make the most of it.