Texas Border Project
Fernanda Espinosa Ortiz is working towards an associate degree in criminal justice at South Texas College, and plans to continue his education by completing a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership, with only two semesters remaining before graduation. Not so Ortiz has discovered that he already has aided and inspiring new passions. Others through leadership.
Her interest in criminal justice began early. Inspired by crime investigation shows like NCIS, she was drawn to the idea of ​​working in forensic medicine. In high school, she participated in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program for Forensic Technology and graduated with STC accreditation.
“I always thought criminal justice was attractive,” Ortiz said. “My mother encouraged me to go because there aren’t many women in this field, but when I arrived at STC I discovered a new passion. I discovered leadership.”
The change came when Ortiz was involved in student leadership. She began by supporting the Communications and Creative Services department as a student model and then joined the Student Ambassador Program. At first, she was shy and hesitant to join.
“I was very quiet,” Ortiz said. “I couldn’t even walk into the office and talk to Cristobal, the program coordinator. But over time, he and the other student ambassadors saw my potential and were able to get out of my shell. It helped me.”
Ortiz mentions Cristobal Benavidez, STC Coordinator for University Connections and direct supervisor of the Student Ambassador.
Currently Ortiz is the vice president of student ambassadors. This is the role of leading the campus tour, supporting events and allowing you to speak in front of a large crowd.
“I fell in love with it,” she said. “So I decided to study organizational leadership and want to keep both career paths open.”
Ortiz first learned about STC’s program while attending high school, where she was introduced to double credit opportunities. Her sister, who earned EMT certification through STC, also played a role in her academic choices.
“My sister took an EMT program in high school and I wasn’t interested in medicine,” Ortiz said. “Then I saw forensic technology become a new option for my third graders, and I wanted to get involved right away.”
Currently, Ortiz uses four online classes to allow for more flexibility in leadership responsibilities.
“Spring is our busiest season for all high school tours and events,” she said. “Being online gives me the free time I need to be involved.”
Ortiz said her biggest motivation was her mother.
“She’s everything I do,” Ortiz said. “She was my mother and father for most of my life. She has always been my biggest supporter. She brought us here for a better future, and I is proud of her.”
Although she doesn’t have a career plan set up yet, Ortiz wants to work in fields that include travel and public speaking.
“I’ve learned that I love interacting with people,” she said. “I still don’t know exactly what I’m going to do, but I want to keep the options open.”
Ortiz encourages other students to join campus, particularly through the Student Ambassador Program.
“We were the first impressions of the students when they came in,” she said. “It’s a great way to meet people, gain confidence and represent STC in our community.”
With a growing passion for leadership and a commitment to personal growth, Ortiz is ready to take on any opportunity that comes to his own way. For more information about the various clubs and organizations offered at STC, please visit://life.southtexascollege.edu/list-of-pative-student-organizations/.
