Fall graduation speaker discovered academic and leadership opportunities at Blinn College

Jessica Espino will transfer to Texas A&M with an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts

November 21, 2024

When Jessica Espino addresses her fellow graduates at the Blinn College District’s fall graduation ceremony this December, she will speak from experience about the sense of community and belonging she discovered at Blinn.

A graduate of Waller High School’s Class of 2020, Espino faced an unconventional and challenging senior year amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many of her classmates, she missed out on traditional graduation rites, including prom and a large family celebration. Instead, she and her classmates experienced a modified graduation ceremony, limited to just eight students per session and three family members per graduate.

“It was a very small graduation, and some of my sisters couldn’t be there,” Espino said, “but now, being able to have my entire family with me for this milestone means so much. They’ve been my biggest support system, and it’s an honor to share this moment with them.”

After taking a gap year following high school, Espino turned to Blinn College to discover her career path, find new passions, and strengthen her leadership skills. Although initially uncertain about her future direction, Espino chose Blinn for its supportive community, affordability, and proximity to her hometown. What she found was a welcoming environment that allowed her to thrive and make meaningful connections.

“I thought to myself, maybe this is the right choice,” Espino said. “I’d heard great things from friends, and it ended up being one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Blinn gave me the space to figure out what I wanted, and I truly mean that from the bottom of my heart.”

Espino began her studies at the Blinn College-Brenham Campus, where she embraced college life by living on campus and becoming an active member of the community. Her involvement extended beyond the classroom, as she took on leadership roles within the Student Government Association (SGA). Serving as vice president and treasurer, and later as SGA’s Region 4 secretary, Espino was able to build connections, learn public speaking, and develop her leadership skills.

“Being part of SGA was a turning point,” Espino recalled. “It gave me the opportunity to meet amazing people, work with advisors and deans, and see all the effort that goes into serving students. Blinn’s smaller campus allowed me to make a real impact. I don’t think I could have had these opportunities at a larger university where it’s harder to stand out.”

In addition to SGA, Espino joined Blinn’s Connect Club, a theater-focused organization where she found a sense of family and support among her peers. “The Connect Club was a place where we could all come together, relieve some of the stress from our classes, and just be ourselves,” she explained. “We would play games, dance, and even celebrate Halloween at our advisor’s house. It gave me a sense of belonging.”

Espino credits Blinn with not only preparing her academically, but also helping her shape her future career goals. Initially uncertain about her path, she explored different fields as a liberal arts major before deciding to pursue a career in psychology with a long-term goal of entering the dental field.

“Blinn’s Liberal Arts Program helped me explore a little bit of everything—math, government, psychology—and that’s how I discovered my passion for psychology,” Espino shared. “I plan to transfer to Texas A&M University and pursue a degree in psychology with a minor in biology. I feel prepared and confident in this next step because of the experiences I’ve had at Blinn.”

Looking ahead to graduation, Espino is excited not only to celebrate with her family but also to inspire others with the lessons she has learned along the way. In her graduation speech, she plans to share one of her most significant insights: “It’s never too late to pursue your dreams.”

During her time at Blinn, Espino encountered students from all walks of life, including non-traditional students who were returning to education later in life. She recalls one student in particular who inspired her with her determination. “I met a woman who was in her late 40s, working toward her nursing degree,” Espino said. “She told me she spent years working a job she didn’t love, and now she was finally following her passion. It made me realize that everyone has their own journey, and it’s okay to take your time.”

As she prepares to cross the graduation stage, Espino expressed gratitude for Blinn’s role in helping her find her purpose and encouraging her to become an active member of her community.

Reflecting on her time at Blinn, Espino shared advice she often gives to friends and family: “I tell everyone, especially my family members, to consider Blinn before jumping into a four-year university. Not only is it affordable and close to home, but it also offers so many opportunities to get involved and grow. The professors here have been wonderful, and I’m so grateful for the experience.”

Blinn’s fall graduation ceremony will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11, at the Brazos County Expo Center.

To learn more about Blinn’s Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts, please visit www.blinn.edu/liberal-arts. To learn more about Blinn’s Student Government Association and other student activities, visit www.blinn.edu/student-leadership-activities.