Student Success Stories

Integrated Studies

“When I changed my degree from Criminal Justice to Interdisciplinary Studies, I thought I was just going to focus on three separate minors and develop a specific skill set in each. However, my first impression has gone far beyond that. One of the foundational courses has encouraged me to think critically about how my minors connect and how I can integrate them into my personal life, career goals, and everyday decision-making. As said before, this way of thinking as reshaped the way I think academically and how I approach problems and ideas. As I continue my journey to law school, I believe this new thought process will continue to serve both as a future lawyer and, hopefully, one day a judge.”

History

"The one thing I could recommend the most is doing internships," he said. "During my interview, a lot of the questions were about whether I had experience working in a museum or in public history. Having that experience under your belt right out of college can make or break the deal."

Political Science, Philosophy, and World Languages and Culture 

"The skills, mentorship, and values I gained at SHSU continue to guide me every day in my work and studies. To any student just starting out, I would say to stay open to where your curiosity leads, because you never know how your experiences may shape your passions and future path."

World Languages and Cultures

"Evelyn is set to graduate soon with her four-year degree, and wants to encourage others, 'Like me, who may think there is no more time to pursue their dreams or that it is too late. It’s never too late to strive for what you want'. Even though she has never set foot on the SHSU campus, Evelyn values her time as a Bearkat and feels like she is part of the Sam Houston State University family."

English

"As I come up on my graduation this Fall 2025 semester, I’m applying for as many jobs as I qualify for, as well as throwing my hat in the ring for a few PhD in English programs here in Texas. If I were to go back to my freshman self, someone who was eager to make a worthwhile experience here at Sam, I would encourage them to lean into what they love, keep chasing the drive that leads them to their studies, academics, and work inspired by passion, intrigue, or curiosity. I would encourage them to go to the event where you only know one person, go to the extra-credit programs and cheesy student events to help integrate into this community of service-hearted fellow students, professors and staff who help make this campus what its been for me for the last 7 years."

“I studied political science, because I love politics. I knew I was going to law school. Going through the political science department, the great debates we had in class,” Mr. Tritico said. “It was wonderful preparation for a career in law. I learned from Sam how to make an argument without losing my temper. A skill that is absolutely necessary in law.”

Communication Studies

"If I could do it all over again, I would tell myself, “Just lean in”. Sometimes the idea of work can be exhausting, sometimes pressure can be exhausting, sometimes life is just exhausting! But when I discovered if I just did it, I could succeed, nothing stood in my way. You can do anything you want in this life, no matter where you come from, what people say, or what your past is. Just lean in."

History and World Languages and Cultures

"My advice for students coming into college is focusing on your studies, but at the same time live a little because your closest friends will always support you no matter what. You will continue to grow no matter what, and your closest friends can change your life."

“My goal is to work in business development within the oil and gas industry and I believe my degree in integrated studies with disciplines in business, communications, and management has set me on the path to achieving this goal. My time spent in Integrated studies was one of the best experiences I could have asked for. I am very excited to see where life takes me.”

English

"Whether you’re a prospective student considering SHSU or a current Bearkat—undergraduate or graduate—know this: you are destined for more than you think. You may need more support, guidance, or put in more hard work than you expected, but all of that is within reach. You can build the community you need. You can ask for the help you deserve. Someone is always willing to help you. You can create the future you want; it just takes more of you."

Communication Studies

"Don't give up. You don't have to take a full course load to make progress. One class at a time is still moving forward. There is no single "right" path to earning a degree. Finishing is what matters, and every step brings you closer to your goal."