Congratulations Spring 2026 Graduates!

Beyond the Degree

Staff • May 7, 2026 • 443 Views

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Congratulations to the Spring 2026 graduates of San Jacinto College. Commencement is held on May 8, 2026 at Grace Church, 14505 Gulf Freeway, Houston, TX 77034. There will be three separate ceremonies at 9:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 5:30 p.m. to accommodate graduates and their families. Those who want to celebrate the graduates but are unable to make it, can also join the live stream that starts at 9:15 am, and accessed at San Jac College’s Commencement website.

The morning ceremony is for graduates earning a Bachelors degree, Associate of Applied Science degree,
Associate of Applied Technology degree, Certificates, and dual-credit students from Crosby ISD. The afternoon ceremony is for graduates earning a Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree and dual-credit students from La Porte ISD, Clear Creek ISD, Deer Park ISD, Houston ISD, and private or home school graduates. The evening ceremony is for graduates from Aldine ISD, Channelview ISD, Friendswood ISD, Galena Park ISD, Goose Creek ISD, Humble ISD, Pasadena ISD, Pearland ISD and
Sheldon ISD. All 2-hour ceremonies will open to attendees one hour before its scheduled start.

To celebrate the Spring 2026 graduating students, the San Jacinto Times staff interviewed a few of this semester graduates to discuss their motivation, favorite course, and advice for others.

Spring 2026 Graduates: Beyond the Degree

Karina Martinez

Karina Martinez, Communications

Karina Martinez, a Communications major at San Jac's Central campus, is preparing to take the next step in her academic journey as she works toward graduation.

During her time at San Jacinto, Martinez found inspiration in her Film Appreciation course. The class allowed her to explore movies in depth, analyzing scenes, details and atmosphere in ways that deepened her understanding of film. The experience helped shape her passion for the field she plans to pursue.

One of the most meaningful lessons Martinez will carry beyond graduation came from her very first class, Learning Framework. She recalled sharing a classroom with a mother, father and daughter. The moment reinforced her belief that it is never too late to pursue an education.

“There is no age to start working on your education,” says Martinez, “If you want to improve, your tools are always there.”

Martinez plans to continue her education by transferring to the University of Houston-Clear Lake, where she hopes to earn a Bachelor’s degree in film.

She credits much of her success to the support system in her life, especially her son and her husband, who encouraged her to keep going and made it possible for her to stay focused on her education.

Martinez encourages future graduates to stay determined and confident in their journey. She emphasize the importance of not feeling intimidated, speaking up when help is needed, and using the resources available.

“This is your future; this is your path,” says Martinez, “as long as persist, your degree will be here eventually.”

Kalin Dixon

Kalin Dixon, Fine Arts

Kalin Dixon, a Fine Arts major from San Jac's North campus, says she will forever cherish the lesson of perseverance and excellence that she learned from her time at San Jac. Balancing work, school, and personal life can be demanding, but to maintain a positive attitude is key.

After graduation, Dixon plans to attend University of Houston and pursue degrees in Environmental Design and Business Management. She gives thanks to her family and friends for their unwavering support through her journey so far. A huge part of her academic success also stems from her determination.

“I advise against the pressure to select a major immediately upon entering college. Many individuals, including myself, may not have a clear career path upon graduation. Trust in your abilities and allow opportunities to arise naturally,” says Dixon.

Gizelle Rodriguez

Gizelle Rodriguez, Criminal Justice

Gizelle Rodriguez is graduating from San Jac with an Associates in Criminal Justice. Her future plans include joining the Houston Police Department as a patrol officer and then transferring and obtaining her master’s degree at University of Houston-Downtown after 3 years of service.

Rodriguez wants to give her thanks to her parents and HPD advisor for keeping her motivated and disciplined through her journey so far. During her time at San Jac, Rodriguez learned to not procrastinate and to utilize the resources that were available to her.

“Never give up, no matter how hard the work gets, study hard, and surround yourself with the right people who want to see you grow,” says Rodriguez.

Emily Rubio

Emily Rubio, Fine Arts

Emily Rubio, a Fine Arts major from San Jac's North campus, says a lesson she will always remember, even after San Jac, is to never compare your success to others.

"I create my own reality and success so why should I compare it, says Rubio?

After graduation, she plans to get her Master of Fine Arts degree at University of Houston to later become an art therapist or teach art as a professor. What helped her earn her degree was embracing her unique ways of learning, studying, and even creating her artwork. It’s not clean nor organized, but that’s perfectly okay in her eyes

“Connect with your classmates and professors. You’d be surprised how willing most people are to help you. I was never the best at math or science, but my community at San Jac helped me, and now it’s my turn to graduate thanks to all of them,” says Rubio.

Jayla Cavazos

Jayla Cavazos, Mathematics

Jayla Cavazos is graduating from San Jac with an Associates of Arts, which she plans to transfer to Sam Houston University with and double major in Education and Mathematics to teach 4th grade.

With her plans of being a mathematics major, her favorite course at San Jac was College Algebra. A lesson she learned with her time at San Jac was to take advantage of campus resources and to attend on-campus events, and avoid 7 a.m. classes, if possible.

She gives thanks to her San Jac professors for caring about their students’ success and making their classes fun and engaging.

“Don’t be afraid to talk to new people! I didn’t think I would make any new friends but luckily, I did. You never know who you will meet and make connections with,” says Cavazos.

Angel Hernandez

Angel Hernandez, Construction Management

Angel Hernandez's favorite course at San Jac was Construction Management I, because it gave him a strong foundation in how real‑world projects are planned, organized, and executed.

A lesson he will remember long after graduation is the importance of clear communication and staying organized—two skills that can make or break a project in the construction industry.

Hernandez plans to become a residential project manager at the company where he is currently interning, continuing to gain experience and grow within the organization. He credits his success to staying disciplined, managing his time well, pushing through challenges, and benefiting from hands‑on experience and supportive instructors.

His advice to future graduates is to stay focused, ask questions, and take advantage of every opportunity to learn, because truly understanding your work will matter in your career.

Sarai Hernandez

Sarai Hernandez, Education

Sarai Hernandez shares that her favorite course at San Jac was CDEC 2326 or Administration of Programs for Children I, which helped her understand the administration of early childhood programs and taught her essential skills for becoming a successful teacher.

A lesson she will remember long after graduation is the importance of perseverance and staying committed to her goals, even when challenges arise.

Hernandez plans to pursue a career in education where she hopes to make a positive impact on students’ lives, and she intends to continue her studies to further strengthen her skills and knowledge.

She credits her determination, the support of her family and professors, and her ability to stay focused as the key factors that helped her earn her degree. Her advice to future graduates is to stay organized, manage their time wisely, and never hesitate to ask for help—because believing in yourself and pushing forward will always pay off.

Samuel Yanez

Samuel Yanez, Information Technology Cybersecurity BAT

Samuel Yanez favorite course at San Jac was World Civilizations I, a class that broadened his understanding of global history and encouraged him to think critically about the world.

A lesson he will remember long after graduation is that consistency and adaptation are key to overcoming challenges.

Yanez Samuel plans to continue working toward his Bachelor’s degree while doing remodeling work until he secures a position in the IT field.

He credits his success to dedicated studying, his job on campus, and the strong support of his family. His advice to future graduates is to never give up—no matter the situation, everything is temporary, and perseverance will carry you through.

Lucas Coronado

Lucas Coronado's favorite courses at San Jac were his accounting classes with Professor John Large, whose passion and clear teaching style made the material easy to understand.

A lesson he will carry with him long after graduation is the value of connecting with people—whether fellow students, staff, the provost, or even campus police officers—because meaningful conversations can open unexpected doors.

Coronado plans to transfer to the University of Houston -Main Campus to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in construction management while working to build his professional experience.

The biggest factor in earning his degree was recognizing when he needed help and seeking support from his professors, especially through office hours and asking questions. His advice to future graduates is not to feel intimidated, to make friends who support each other, and to study something they truly enjoy—even if it means changing majors along the way.

Angela Vargas

Angela Vargas, Cosmetology

Angela Vargas wants to pursue a career as a nail technician in the beauty industry and start her own business

“As a future Manicurist, my favorite course was learning builder gel, that is great for nail enhancements and doesn’t do damage to the natural nail, says Vargas.

"A valuable lesson I learned at San Jac was not being afraid to ask. There’s a lot of help offered in the school, as well as the teachers. They are all so helpful and for me I felt they really cared for us and assured us we would pass," says Vargas.
"For my career choice I have chosen to be in the beauty industry. I'm earning my manicurist license this May and, will be returning to further my career next year in esthetics," says Vargas.
Vargas says studying is the key.

"The teachers assigned us Kahoots, which helped with our test. Overall studying is one thing you cannot slack on," says Vargas.

"Go for it. I didn’t start college until my 30s, and I’m glad I did. A bit late in life, but definitely not impossible. I never really thought I had the opportunity to go," says Vargas.

Iris Premanand

Iris Premanand, Cosmetology

"One of my favorite courses was Nail Enhancement, and I think a valuable lesson I learned at San Jac is that pulling all-nighters is a girl's best friend," says Premanand.

Premanand's dream is to become a licensed Nail Technician/Manicurist.

"What essentially helped me earn my degree were the lectures my professor provided, along with my top favorite—Quizlet," says Premanand.

"Anytime you feel like giving up, remember why you're getting this degree in the first place. You're working so hard to become the best person you can be," says Premanand.

Ruby Vences

Ruby Vences, Cosmetology - Nail Technician

Ruby Vences wants to pursue a career in Cosmetology and obtain her license as a nail technician. She loves learning about various different nails and wants to master her skill for her customers and herself!

"Honestly it’s my favorite course, learning a lot about nails, and mastering more of my skills," says Vences.

Friends and family helped carry Vences to the finish line.

"The amount of support I got from my friends and family, even with so much studying and learning everything I needed to pass my written was amazing," says Vences.

"Keep pushing forward, you’ll get stacks of work but it is definitely worth it. Don’t give up on your dreams, and follow your passion with all your heart, play smart and always surround yourself with the ones who are willing to support you,” says Vences.

Kenia Pena

Kathia Pena, Business

“My major is in Business. The degree I'm graduating with is Associates of Art in Business," says Pena.

Pena says that she accredits her degree to herself.

"Honestly, it was me -always staying on top of my courses and not falling back, of course the professors as well though," says Pena.

Pena believes that networking and socializing is important.

"A valuable lesson I learned at San Jac is to honestly try and meet people, be open and social. My career choice is marketing as I’m planning on transferring. I want to help market brands/content so the brand grows, says Pena.

"Advice I’d give to future graduates is to not give up. You’re almost at the finish line and it's important to finish strong,” says Pena.

Briana Bustamante

Briana Bustamante, Natural Sciences

For Briana Bustamante, College Algebra stood out as her favorite course at San Jac.

“The material was easy to understand and my professor was very supportive,” says Bustamante.

One lesson she will carry with her after graduation is the importance of asking for help from professors and classmates when needed.

Bustamante plans to attend the University of Houston in the fall and major in Anthropology, with an interest in becoming a historical or classical Archaeologist.

Support from her family helped her stay motivated during stressful times and Bustamante's advice to future students is to take their time, explore different paths and not feel rushed to figure everything out.

Renata Sanchez

Renata Sanchez, Art and General Studies

Understanding people and society is what made Sociology Renata Sanchez’s favorite course at San Jac.

“It helped me better understand people and how society works,” says Sanchez.

One experience she will remember is balancing both high school and college at the same time, which taught her time management and resilience.

Sanchez plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin to study Biomedical Sciences and continue her education.

Staying disciplined and focused on her goals helped her succeed. Her advice to future students is to stay organized, use available resources and ask for help when needed.

Kayla Lynch

Kayla Lynch, General Studies

A challenging start in College Algebra turned into one of Kayla Lynch’s biggest accomplishments at San Jac.

“It pushed me to work harder and improve,” says Lynch.

Lynch struggled at the beginning of the semester but improved through studying and attending tutorials, finishing the course with an A.

Lynch will remember spending time in campus lounges with friends, both studying and socializing.

Lynch plans to attend Houston Christian University in the Fall and major in Business Management with a minor in Christian Ministries.

Lynch said her motivation came from wanting to stay on track toward her degree. Her advice to future students is to stay committed and put in the effort so they can feel proud of their accomplishments.

Jaela Payne

Jaela Payne, Pre-Health Occupations

Building discipline and consistency made Introduction to Fitness and Wellness Jaela Payne’s favorite course at San Jac.

“It pushed me to stay disciplined and consistent,” says Payne.

One lesson she will remember is the importance of time management and preparation, including completing assignments early and staying organized.

Payne plans to attend Texas State University and pursue her career as a traveling nurse. Her determination and the support of her parents helped her succeed, and Payne's advice to future students is to stay focused, prioritize their education and remain disciplined to reach their goals.

Lilyana Martinez

Lillyana Martinez, General Studies

"My favorite courses were Anatomy and Physiology. Professor Murray and Professor Russ were amazing professors, says Martinez.

The career I chose is sports medicine, the reason I chose this career is because I have always had a heart for helping people ever since I was little. I was a student athlete trainer in high school and I loved it," says Martinez.

Martinez plans on earning her bachelors degree after graduation. Her support system is what has helped her stay strong.

"I am planning to continue my education here in Houston or move to Oklahoma and finish out there. Some resources that helped me earn my degree were my family's support and motivation," says Martinez.

Martinez expresses the importance of believing in yourself despite every obstacle, and staying on top of deadlines.

"The lesson I will always remember from SJC is to never give up because there is always help on the campuses. Your light is at the end of the tunnel. Never wait till the last minute to turn things in. And if you want to give up just remember that the Man above will always be there to help you. He knows what you can handle with his help," says Martinez.

Sayuri Guadarrama

Sayuri Guadarrama, Communications

"My favorite Course would be Forms of Literature: Literature and Film. It was interesting to learn and to analyze movies with other people. A lesson I will remember is to turn in your work early and to set a good schedule," says Sayuri Guadarrama.

"I am planning to transfer to University of Houston to complete my Bachelors degree in Communications.

Some resources Guadarrama used to help earn her degree is talking to her professors when she had questions, set up appointments with advisors to set schedules, and using the resources the campus provided like the library to help stay focus and study to pass her classes.

"Some advice I would give to future graduates is to balance your schedule and complete your work early to not be so stressed on upcoming deadlines," says Guadarrama.

Helen Tran

Helen Tran, Business Administration

Helen Tran's favorite course taken at San Jac would be Film Appreciation.

The one lesson from San Jac that Tran will remember long after graduation would be a quote from her speech professor.

"He always reminded us that 'Practice does not mean, nor does it make it perfect. What practice does do is make things progress. So instead of saying practice makes perfect, always say practice makes progress," says Tran.

Tran will her education by earning a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing.

Tran explains that her career path is a reflection of her passion and ambition.

"The reason as to why I’ve chosen marketing as my career is because I’ve always loved the creative aspect of life and want to continue that while also being involved with business. One of the resources that I’ve used to help earn my degree was the campus library’s study rooms with accessible white boards and markers," says Tran.

Like most things in life, college has its ups and downs, but according to Tran, perseverance is key.

"Some advice I’d give to future graduates is that although there will be times where everything around you seems to not go your way, always remember that you’ll forever have yourself to love, to care, and to respect. Always believe in who you are! There will be plenty of times that you’ll get lost or end up at a dead end but remember: never fear your own capabilities. And never steer away from the people that deeply care about you," says Tran.

Colin Paul, Communications

Colin Paul is planning to transfer to the University of Las Vegas to complete his Bachelor’s degree in Communications. Over his time at San Jac College, his favorite course was British Literature.

“The class was small, so we all became close. I have made multiple friends in that class I enjoyed nearly every minute,” says Paul.

Colin says failure is was what led him to become a better student and highly recommends garnering time management skills for his advice to students.

“Time management is key. Do not put off any assignments. Once you get behind it takes a lot to get it back to where you were,” says Paul.

At the end of his final semester, Colin praised San Jac for giving him the opportunity to improve his work ethic, time management skills, and gaining a higher education without going into debt.

“My work ethic has dramatically improved over the time I have been at San Jac. My freshman year I hit rock bottom academically and was stuck on academic probation. I now have just about all A’s and have turned my academic life around,” says Paul.

Eric Baez, Criminal Justice

Eric Baez has had an eventful few years during his time at San Jac.

“These past few years have really set me down a path I am happy with," says Baez.

Baez spent his time between online courses and attending in person at San Jac's South campus, giving him a nice split of interacting with other classmates and professors while also having the ease of working from home.

Baez hopes to complete his Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice and eventually work as a Houston police officer.

“Stay on top of your work and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Talk with others including classmates and professors as they can be there for you when you need it," says Baez.

Julia Weber, Communications

Julia Weber was once majoring in English before making the decision to switch to Communications after her first semester.

“Communications offered more of what I was looking for in my future,” says Weber.

Julia’s favorite course is Technical Writing. This was mostly due to the fact that technical writing is what she wants to do with her future career. Allowing Weber “to be able to get a glimpse into that world made me even more sure of my future!”

Weber will be attending University of Houston-Clear-Lake to earn her Bachelor's degree in Communications while also obtaining a Certification in Technical Writing.

Never being afraid to ask questions helped her the most. Also, to always show up and show your willingness to learn.

“Being a little embarrassed is so much better than failing the course. It truly does make an impact on how your professors and classmates view you,” says Weber.

Hayden West, Aviation

Hayden West has a dream of becoming a future commercial Airline Pilot.

His determination happened at an early age due to his love of flying along with being able travel to many places across the United States with the hope of maybe being able to fly internationally.

West says determination has and will continue to push him forward towards his final goal. Without it, he wouldn’t be able to overcome the challenges that come with being a pilot.

West says asking for help even when you don’t want to is important and “you have to find the drive to keep you flying forward and upward”

Damien Mungia, Fine Arts

Damien Mungia is a Fine Arts major. He wants to pursue a career in Mechanical Engineering.

Mungia says a big part in helping him earn his degree was financial aid support.

Mungia advice for future students would be to find out early what career you want to pursue.

Gerardo Barrera, Chemical Engineer

Gerardo Barrera is a Chemical Engineering major.

Barrera plans to eventually go to Lamar University and credits his mom for giving him motivation for college by going back to college to pursue her Bachelor’s in Education to become a teacher.

Barrera says students should not procrastinate and if an assignment is easy, do it, and if it’s a harder assignment, give yourself time to tackle it little-by-little.

Jordan Berrones

Jordan Berrones, Communications

Jordan Berrones favorite course was Sociology because it challenged his thinking and gave him a deeper understanding of human behavior.

"The class not only challenged my perspective on how people work, but it also helped answer questions I had about human beings and how they interact with one another,” says Berrones.

He shared that one of the most important lessons he learned was that support is always available.

“A lesson I learned from SJCD was that there are people who can help you with anything, no matter what it is,” says Berrones.

After graduation, Berrones plans to continue his education and pursue a career related to writing and literature.

“My dream is to either become an author or an editor for books. I will be continuing my education. I want to transfer to the University of Houston and get my degree in English Literature,”

Berrones explained that time management skills played a major role in helping him succeed academically.

“Developing my time management skills has been a lifesaver when it came to earning my degree,” says Berrones.

Balance was also a lesson.

“My biggest challenge was trying to continue with my education while working and trying to keep up with my health and social life. It was a rough beginning, but ultimately, I overcame this challenge by not contemplating about how busy I was going to be and just doing it," says Berrones.

“The advice I would give to future graduates or current students would be to just do what you must do to get things done. It is better to do something than to do nothing at all,” says Berrones.

Matthew Lawrence. Computer Science

Matthew Lawrence is a Computer Science major.

Lawrence plans on pursuing his Bachelor’s degree and eventually work in Game Design or Game Development.

Staying focused on his schoolwork is what he says helped him earn his degree and Lawrence advise to others is to not procrastinate and avoid letting work pile up on you.

Cade Roman

Cade Roman, Communications

“I majored in Communications after making a switch from Computer Science,” says Cade Roman.

Roman's favorite course was PHED Fitness Walking because of its impact on both his physical and mental health. He explained that the class allowed him to step away from daily routines.

Roman sees the value of organization and seeking help when needed.

“The lesson or experience I will remember is to have a good schedule and don't be afraid to ask for help whether from school staff - professors or advisors,” says Roman.

Roman plans to transfer to the University of Houston–Clear Lake to complete his Bachelor’s degree and pursue a career in Communications.

“What helped me most in earning my degree is to have a constant schedule and always be on top of things,” says Roman.

Choosing a major was one of Roman's biggest challenges.

“My switch to Communications came late after sticking with computer science for a while but it was a choice I am now happy with,” says Roman.

“Don't be afraid to reach out to school staff. Communicate with them and classmates,” says Roman.

Leslie Medina

Leslie Medina, Communications

Leslie Medina is a Communications major attending San Jac’s Central campus. Medina's favorite course has been Media Writing, which inspired her to continue developing her skills in storytelling and communication.

"A lesson I’ll carry with me long after graduation is to keep going, even when things get tough. Balancing classes with work and personal responsibilities wasn’t easy, but I learned that persistence and focus really do pay off," says Media

"After graduation, I plan to continue my education at UH-Clear Lake to earn my Bachelor’s degree in Communication. The support of my family, friends, and coworkers played a huge role in helping me reach this point—they kept me motivated and reminded me why I started," says Media

"My biggest challenge was learning to balance work, school, and personal life. Working full-time while studying part-time and managing a marriage required a lot of discipline and sacrifice, but with the help of my support system and a willingness to adjust my priorities, I was able to make it through," says Media

"My advice to future graduates is to stay focused and never give up, even when things feel overwhelming. Lean on your support system and trust yourself to overcome obstacles. Success takes consistency, balance, and belief in yourself—and every bit of effort will be worth it in the end," says Media

Amanda Medina

Amanda Medina, Biology

Amanda Medina is a Biology major at San Jac''s South campus.

Medina's favorite courses are Anatomy 2 and Physiology 2.

“A lesson I’ll remember after graduation is time management,” says Medina.

Medina plans to continue her education at the University of Houston Downtown, get into medical school, and become a Gynecologist.

Medina's advice to future graduates is always keep your head up even when times get tough.

Vanessa Garza Gutierrez

Vanessa Garza Gutierrez, General Studies

Vanessa Garza Gutierrez is a general studies major at San Jac's South campus. Her favorite course was Biology 2 for non-majors with Professor Haley.

“A lesson I’ll remember even after graduating is that having motivation is important to succeed especially during your last semester of college,” says Garza Gutierrez.

After graduation Garza Gutierrez plans to continue her education at University of Houston-Downtown majoring in Business.

One major thing that helped Garza Gutierrez earn her degree was the people around her being supportive at all times.

The advice Garza Gutierrez offers to future graduates is that time is definitely quicker than expected so achieve the most to your abilities while also enjoying your time as a college student.

Gabriel Serrato

Gabriel Serrato, General Studies

Gabriel Serrato is a General Studies major at San Jac's South campus. Serrato's favorite course was US History II.

“One lesson I'll remember at San Jac long after graduation is to not be afraid to ask questions,” says Serrato.

Serrato plans to continue his education at the University of Houston to become an Electrical Engineer. What helped him earn his degree was the ability to stay focused and not give up the opportunities he had at San Jac.

Serrato's advice to others is to not be afraid of creating your own opportunities because time moves quickly at San Jac.

Christopher Avila

Christopher Avila, General Studies

Christopher Avila is a General Studies major at San Jac's South campus. His favorite course was Calculus II with Dr. Cooper.

“One lesson I’ll remember at San Jac long after graduation is the importance of group work because it taught me about communication skills needed for the real world,” says Avila.

Avila's career choice in the future is to be an Electrical Engineer, and he plans to continue his education at the University of Houston. What helped him earn his degree is having connections to the right people who could help him whenever needed.

Avila’s advice to future graduates would be to learn good time management and don’t be afraid to reach out and communicate with others.

Raven About San Jac

Future graduates can also gain insight from current San Jac students. Take a listen to the latest Raven About San Jac podcast episodes. Raven About San Jac is available on Spotify – listen and follow.

Raven About San Jac, Episode 5

Raven About San Jac, Episode 6