Today@Sam Article
Commencement Spotlight: Jeannine Ramirez
Dec. 13, 2021
SHSU Media Contact: Emily Binetti
“Commencement Spotlight” highlights SHSU's upcoming graduates with stories from Bearkats that demonstrate a “can-do” spirit through challenges and service. Visit today@sam/commencementspotlight to read more.
Jeannine Ramirez
Houston, Texas
BBA in Accounting
Learning the ropes of college can be tricky for any student, but when Jeannine Ramirez’s life was suddenly interrupted by fears of presumed deportation, it took her stress to a new level.
“I faced concerns of the termination of Temporary Protected Status and DACA, which would've financially affected my family and academic career,” she said. “Consequently, this created extreme pressure to promptly complete my degree.”
Despite the challenges of uncertainty, she continued on her educational path in pursuing her dream of a career in accounting.
“I picked Sam Houston State University because of its beautiful campus and I felt truly welcomed during the campus tour,” she said.
During her college journey, she found many ways to connect with others through involvement with Beta Alpha Psi, the National Association of Black Accountants and Kats in Support of Shelters. She also made time for volunteer work with the Rita B. Huff Adoption Center, Habitat for Humanity and the Montgomery County Food Bank.
While managing the fear and insecurity of being a DACA student during uncertain times, Ramirez learned that many of the self-doubt emotions she was experiencing were similar to other first generation students.
“I was dealing with imposter syndrome and feeling undeserving of the opportunity I was given to succeed. As a first gen student, I don’t have many family members who can relate to my experience,” she said.
Ramirez learned to focus on the factors and accomplishments that led her to college and the opportunity she was given. This eventually helped her develop the confidence she needed.
Now, after earning her undergraduate degree, she is excited to continue her Bearkat journey by pursuing a MS in accounting.
“After completing my master's, I will begin work as an audit associate and prepare to take the CPA exam. I would like to become a certified fraud examiner and possibly a forensic accountant. My ultimate career goal is to become partner at an accounting firm.”
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