By Ashley V. Velazquez

Uncertainty is difficult to handle. Once again it is graduation season, and for the students that have yet to reach that milestone, it may seem like it is still far out of reach. Some need an extra push to get them through that last semester, others may be thinking of whether their major is something they want to pursue. Many are struggling financially, and others academically. Many students experience burnout and struggle with anxiety…

At least I know I do, and I know I am not alone. There have been countless times when I have stayed up late studying, completing reports, and juggling a seemingly impossible work and study situation. Whatever the reason you may be stressing about, remember that everyone’s path is different, such as mine.

I studied industrial engineering in Mexico and graduated weeks before the COVID-19 lockdown went into effect. I never thought the pandemic would set off a string of events that would lead me to graduate with my second bachelor's degree in strategic communication and a minor in supply chain and logistics. My path was permanently altered by a situation out of my control. I panicked and then plotted a new course for myself.

Although my time at UH was short, I can wholeheartedly say that it has been filled with opportunities and support from amazing people every step of the way. These past two years have changed my life and given me goals to work towards.

The University of Houston has opened doors for me that I could not have imagined, such as interning at Aramco Americas, a place I appreciate because of how I was embraced and encouraged to maximize my potential.

I studied abroad! I am so proud to say that I studied in the Netherlands because there were multiple times when I questioned whether it was going to happen. I am glad I did not give up, as it was such a rewarding experience.

I participated in the Breakbulk Americas Student Research Poster Competition, where the poster I worked on received an honorable mention.

I became a student columnist for the Cullen College of Engineering. I was elated when I realized that writing for Parameters created a special niche where engineering and communications co-exist.

I joined the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), and I had so much fun participating in events they made me feel like I belonged.

And of course, most recently I got accepted into a supply chain master’s program at Vrije University in the Netherlands.

So, my advice to any student who may be doubting their choice, abilities or resolve is to stick with what you are certain of. What you know you are good at and what makes you feel happy.

I wrote this article before the start of the spring semester. I don’t know what my future self is going through now, but I do know that I am excited about what this semester will bring and the opportunities available for me to take part.

Did I intern? Did I participate in another student research project? Did I graduate?! Did I pursue my master's or start working instead?

Who knows. All I know right now is that I am putting effort into things that I am certain I enjoy, and for the future, well, it remains to be seen.