Today@Sam Article

Commencement Spotlight: Sara Cox

May 7, 2024
SHSU Media Contact: Mikah Boyd

By Enrique Paz

Sara Cox
Huntsville, Texas
Bachelor of Arts in Film & TV Production

Born and raised in Huntsville, Texas, it seemed like destiny for this multimedia creator to propel herself into a formidable journey at Sam Houston State University. With an ongoing passion, Sara Cox not only pivoted herself towards an early communications career but became a well-known face within the campus and community.

Furthermore, she appreciates the privilege of having remained in her native city while still pursuing an education tailored to her needs. Now, she’s approaching graduation, where the accumulation of her endeavors will prove itself on May 9.

“I chose to attend SHSU because they have an amazing mass communication department,” Cox said. “Plus, I wasn't going to be far away from home.”

The mass communication department will award her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film & TV Production, which she’s accompanying with a photography minor. This is a field she grew an interest in during her time as head photographer for Huntsville High School’s yearbook staff. The ignited passion in media growing within Cox was transitioned into her university program.

“I selected my degree because I wanted to be creative, but didn't want to limit myself to one subject,” Cox said. “My major allows me to build my portfolio and accumulate other skills. This is beneficial in case I obtain a position requiring me to possess numerous abilities.”

Cox aspires to work in Huntsville or Houston after departing from her journey as a full-time student. With the broad opportunities in the communications industry, there are diverse pathways to pursue.

“I’m hoping to land a job in marketing, social media content production or multi-media journalism,” Cox said.

Although the classroom environment was an essential aspect of her growth, campus organizations provided chances to serve in leadership, manage projects and volunteer for the student body.

“I am a part of Delta Xi Nu Multicultural Sorority Inc., where I serve as vice president and membership educator,” Cox said. “As vice president, I oriented the SAAFE House drive, where we donated items for Sexual Assault Awareness Month. As a membership educator, I do tabling events to gain new candidates.”

Cox also desired to help those who were in the shoes she was once in as a transfer student. Realizing there was a possibility to improve the system, she took action.

“I am also part of Evolve, an organization serving as a student support program housed in Academic Affairs,” Cox said. “It provides retention-based support services for transfer students.”

Her contributions to students in need don’t end there. Cox devoted much of her time as a mentor for Bearkat Kickoff and Welcome Week. She aided incoming freshmen with having a seamless transition into the university environment.

“For my student worker position, I’m employed with the Integrated Marketing Communications department,” Cox said. “It benefitted me by permitting me to take pictures for people in high positions and making extraordinary connections.”

This position did not limit her to a cubicle. Instead, she was tasked with completing coverage of dynamic events.

“A cool memory of work is when I got to attend a Houston Rockets game for the first time in my life with my former boss Brian Blalock and co-worker Alyssa,” Cox said. “I had never been to one, and I thought that was the coolest thing that I could've ever gone to.”

Cox’s accomplishments have not come without recognition. She was recently awarded the Outstanding New Member 2024 award by SHSU Greek Life. Her sorority president, Linda Nguyen, personally nominated her.

“Even though we are a small sorority, she has played a big part in continuing our legacy at Sam Houston State University,” Nguyen said. “Sara lives, breathes and exudes Delta Xi Nu and deserves this recognition.”

These achievements were not met easily. As many transfer students realize, social life can be hindered by changing institutions. For Cox, this was no exception.

“A challenge for me was making friends because I transferred from Blinn College,” Cox said. “I realized I had to wait for God to lead me to my people. Thanks to Him I am blessed to have met Enrique Paz, Nhi Nguyen, Julia McGuire and Linda Trang Nguyen. They’ve made my college experience memorable.”

Even with the obstacles, Cox had two people who served as her largest incentives.

“What motivated me to keep going are my grandparents, Vivian L. Cox and Wilburn V. Cox,” Cox said. “They’ve been my biggest support system since day one. I wouldn’t have made it this far if it wasn't for them.”

Despite the completed milestones, her aspirations in higher education are not over, with Cox believing her potential can be taken further.

“After I graduate, I plan to attend graduate school here at SHSU,” Cox said. “Hopefully next year, and I’d also like to find a job in my field.”

With the next stage of her life approaching, Cox reminisces on the memories made. Nevertheless, she keeps a positive outlook on what lies ahead.

“What I will miss the most is my friends and being on campus,” Cox said. “I’ll also miss the events that would happen in the plaza, but I know the upcoming chapter of my life holds amazing things. Sam Houston State has prepared me well, and I’ll make everyone proud.”

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