(HARLINGEN) – Maria Araujo is studying Digital Media Design at Texas State Technical College and expected to earn her associate degree in Fall 2017.

The Harlingen native also recently received the Most Active Club Member award at TSTC’s Student Leadership Banquet for her service as president of the Gay-Straight Alliance Club.

The 22-year-old said that as a shy person she has only recently come to enjoy being active on campus and throughout her community. She also serves as a community assistant for the TSTC dorms and its student residents.

What are your plans after graduation?

After I graduate, I want to come back to TSTC to get a second associate degree in automotive, welding or culinary arts. I believe combining one of these with my passion for photography and design will make me a well-rounded artist.

What’s your dream job?

I ultimately want to be a photographer. Right now I photograph everything from people to landscapes. I also hope someday to serve our country as a military photographer.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC?

My greatest accomplishment while at TSTC has been breaking out of my shell. I have always been a shy person and now, because of my job as a community assistant and as president of my club, I can carry conversations with people and express myself more.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

The greatest lesson I have learned about life is not to be afraid to fail. We are all going to fail at some point in our lives; I know I have. But the important thing is to learn from our mistakes and move on.

Who at TSTC has influenced your success the most?

The person who has influenced my success the most at TSTC is another student and my best friend, Jose Zepeda. He is a business management technology student and is my biggest inspiration. He is my encourager and keeps me going. We have been friends since high school.

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

My advice for future TSTC students is never put yourself down or compare yourself to others. We are all our own people on our own paths, and sometimes we are so busy comparing ourselves that we lose sight of our own accomplishments and our goals.