Posted on Wednesday, May 29, 2024
As Lupus Awareness Month comes to a close, we shine a spotlight on one of our recent graduates, Amaya St. Romain, whose journey through Texas Southern University (TSU) exemplifies resilience, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of her dreams.
Choosing TSU: A Homecoming and A Quest for Excellence
Hailing from Illinois, Amaya's decision to attend TSU was deeply rooted in her desire to study public affairs while being close to her family in Houston. Despite facing challenges such as living with lupus, Amaya found solace in the warm embrace of TSU's community and the opportunity to immerse herself in the HBCU experience.
Her journey to TSU was not without its hurdles. Growing up in an environment tainted by racism, Amaya sought refuge in the vibrant culture and supportive community of TSU, where she could fully embrace her identity and pursue her academic aspirations.
Navigating Challenges: Balancing Health and Academics
Throughout her time at TSU, Amaya faced the daunting task of balancing her health, academics, and extracurricular activities while living with lupus. Despite the setbacks caused by her illness, she remained steadfast in her commitment to her education and personal growth.
Amaya's journey was marked by moments of uncertainty and self-discovery. From struggling with confidence issues to overcoming the physical and emotional toll of lupus, she emerged stronger and more resilient with each challenge she faced.
Proud Achievements: Overcoming Adversity
As the first college graduate in her family, Amaya's journey at TSU was a testament to her determination. Despite taking gap years and facing doubts from others, she never wavered in her belief that she would finish her degree on her own timeline.
Her proudest accomplishment at TSU was not just earning her degree, but the confidence she gained and the self-assurance she developed along the way. Despite the challenges she faced, Amaya remained true to herself and followed her own path to success.
A Bond That Transcends Time: Amaya's Cherished Mentorship Experience
In reflecting on her favorite memories at Texas Southern University, Amaya shares a heartfelt story that resonates deeply with her journey and her recent achievements. She recounts her profound connection with Dr. Margaret Sherrod, a former history professor at TSU, who served as her mentor and guide during her time on campus. Despite Dr. Sherrod's departure from TSU, their bond remained steadfast, a testament to the enduring impact of mentorship. Amaya fondly recalls the invaluable lessons she learned from Dr. Sherrod, not only academically but also personally, as she navigated the complexities of being a woman, a black woman, in a professional setting. Dr. Sherrod's unwavering support and encouragement inspired Amaya to embrace her full potential and become deeply involved in campus activities, including participation in the Texas Democrats and witnessing historic events such as the visit of President Biden and Vice President Harris to TSU. Through her mentorship, Dr. Sherrod instilled in Amaya a sense of confidence, resilience, and the importance of seizing every opportunity for growth and exposure. Their bond serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of mentorship and the enduring impact of those who believe in us unconditionally.
Inspiring Others: Advocacy and Awareness
As a lupus survivor, Amaya is passionate about raising awareness and dispelling misconceptions about the disease. She hopes to inspire others to overcome adversity and pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they may face.
In honor of Lupus Awareness Month, Amaya shares her message of perseverance and hope, urging others to understand that lupus affects each person differently and that with determination and support, individuals can live fulfilling lives despite the challenges they may encounter.
Future Endeavors: Making a Difference
Looking ahead, Amaya plans to pursue a career in the nonprofit sector, leveraging her experiences and passion for community service to make a difference in the lives of others. She hopes to continue advocating for those affected by lupus and inspiring future generations to persevere in the face of adversity.
As we celebrate the accomplishments of our graduates, Amaya's journey serves as a reminder of the power of determination, and the unwavering pursuit of one's dreams. We congratulate Amaya on her remarkable achievements and wish her continued success in all her future endeavors.
Amaya St. Romain, you are an inspiration to us all. Congratulations on your graduation, and may your journey continue to inspire others to reach for the stars. 🎓🌟 #TSUAlumniSpotlight
Category: Students, Alumni, Faculty & Staff, News Media