Beatriz Rincon shares her experiences with Lone Star College, LSC Honors College, LSC Global Scholars and using her Gilman International Scholarship to study abroad in Ireland.

Why is education important to you?

Education is important to me because it provides an opportunity for a better life.

I found learning fun growing up, but I didn’t know the term education until I started in school. My parents kept telling me to focus and do my best because education is the key to success, and without it, I would not have a good life.

Tell me about your experience with LSC Global Scholars and LSC Honors College.

When and why did you get involved?

I joined LSC Global Scholars and LSC Honors College during my first year at LSC-Tomball to see what I could learn and to become more culturally competent.  

These programs helped me to find confidence and develop the skills I didn’t have to accomplish my goals and be successful.

What type of projects did you work on?

I conducted many research projects on various topics like how women are portrayed in literature from the 1600s to the 21st Century and the different types of educational neglect and its impact on society.

Many of the research projects required me to get out of my comfort zone and speak publicly about my findings, which helped to develop my presentation skills.

Lastly, both programs have solidified that my ideas are valued and not insignificant. I’ve learned that just one answer is not the correct answer.

How has this program impacted your time at LSC and how will it affect your future goals?

LSC Global Scholars and LSC Honors College have inspired me to become more ambitious to try new things. Before, I was only interested in my beliefs, but now, with the information I learned, I can consider different ideals to form more evolved viewpoints.

Additionally, the guidance I received from my professors on networking, careers, etc., will greatly benefit me in the future. Before I joined LSC Global Scholars and LSC Honors College, I thought hard work would get me everywhere. However, my instructors taught me that good networking skills are essential to navigate through life successfully.

How did you initially benefit from the Gilman International Scholarship?

The Gilman International Scholarship provided the financial assistance I needed to cover my educational costs.

Why did you select Ireland, when did you visit, and what learning and cultural activities did you experience?

I initially picked Portugal but instead went to Ireland June 19-July 1. It was a great switch because while in Ireland, I discovered different sports the country has. I saw a Gaelic Football match and was so into it that I didn’t want the game to end. It was interesting to watch a sport that doesn’t take place in the United States.

I also went to several museums to learn about Blood Sunday, immigrant experiences of being Irish citizens and other challenges Ireland faced to become the country they are today. The museums are beautiful, and the pictures make you feel like you were a part of the experience, which is something I will never forget.  

How will your experience in the Gilman Program prepare you for your future educational and career paths?

The Gilman program allowed me to study abroad and experience a different culture and environment. In Ireland, I saw the beauty of diversity through new features and languages. Everyone accepts others without weird looks. I found it comforting to be in a country that openly respects people’s differences.

I am the first person in my family to study abroad, thanks to the Gilman International Scholarship. It was a magical and unreal experience that has taught me to be more open-minded to see things differently than what I’m used to.

What is your program of study, and when will you graduate from LSC?

I will graduate from LSC-Tomball in May 2024 with an Associate of Science degree.

What is your future career field, why did you choose it, and what do you hope to accomplish?

I want to become a psychologist because I am interested in knowing the reasons for sudden behaviors that occur in daily life. Also, I am empathetic and a good listener and how to provide comfort and support to people in vulnerable situations.

What are your academic or career plans after Lone Star College?

I plan to transfer to Texas A&M University to earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree.