Today@Sam Article

Salute To Service: Melissa Covarrubias

Nov. 20, 2024
SHSU Media Contact: Campbell Atkins

This November, as Sam Houston State University observes Veterans Day, meet the campus vets that have exemplified the motto, “The measure of a Life is its Service,” in our Salute To Service Series. 

Why did you choose to join the military?

MC: I chose to join the military because the benefits were very appealing, such as job security, health insurance, educational benefits and, above all, the personal challenge. I knew if I joined it would benefit me in the long run. I was also able to experience the military life prior to joining through my mom, also an Army Veteran, and a military boarding school I attended in Alabama.

What was your reason for continuing your education and choosing SHSU?

MC: I had intended on making the military a career, but unfortunately for health and family reasons I couldn’t continue. After completing my 10-year service in January 2024, I found the job search hard without the education title. Yes, I had the military experience, but I needed more. Fortunately, it was also a way to make income with the stipend, have a similar school schedule as my kids and be close to their elementary school.  

Are you involved in any other SHSU organizations or groups?

MC: I currently participate in a work study with the Veterans Resource Center (VRC) and am involved in an upcoming organization, Veterans Students of America. 

What do you want your civilian peers to know about your service?

MC: The impact the military has on someone is lasting. Over the 10 years I served, I grew as a person and a leader. The diverse opportunities and ability to travel gives you chances you may never have as a civilian. It was full of experiences and friendships that I will not find anywhere else.

How has your service history impacted your academic life?

MC: Being an older student with my experiences, I have a much greater appreciation for my classes and learning. I enjoy going to class, whereas when I was younger it was an unpleasant chore. My service history played a role in this because I was able to experience life and see what I really wanted to do prior to committing to a major.

How easy/difficult was your transition from the military into an academic setting?

MC: Transitioning into civilian life is a bit challenging; however, coming to SHSU to pursue my degree in sociology was the best thing I could have done. 

How has SHSU aided your transition?

MC: This is my first semester at SHSU and I was very surprised to see all of the programs available to students. Personally, the VRC played a vital role in aiding my transition. From making great connections to the academic life support they provide, Fernando Chavez, Roberto Rodriguez, Malik Oukil and the student workers do an exceptional job. They helped me integrate into the academic and student life through these connections and encouraged me to complete the FAFSA process, which helped me earn a grant that I didn’t think I would qualify for. Also, military or not, Sam Houston State is overall a school that truly cares to see their students succeed. The easy access through the VRC, Academic Success Center, EVOLVE organization for transfers, the thrift shop and food pantry are all essential. 

Do you have a hard time relating to your peers?

MC: Sometimes, I do feel out of place being a student mom in my thirties. However, I worked in human resources in the military, so I do enjoy being around people with different backgrounds and outlooks on life. 

What are your future goals or dreams?

MC: As a single mom with two kids who depend on me, being able to teach them to never settle and always seek improvement is a big goal of mine. My military benefits have not only helped me go back to school, but will also help my children. My goal is for them to be able to attend college using the Hazelwood Act. Through my education, I want to find a job that provides my family with financial security and, using my experiences, I want to continue to help veterans along the way. 

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