Flatonia student starts college career right down the road
Gonzalez taking core classes at Blinn's campus in Schulenburg
November 25, 2019
Like many college freshmen, Maricruz Gonzalez was a little unsure about her career path, but she was crystal clear about where she was going to start that journey.
Gonzalez, who makes the 15-minute drive daily from nearby Flatonia to attend the Blinn College-Schulenburg Campus, said she has found everything she needs there academically, including small class sizes and professors eager to help.
“Most classes are small, so it’s really easy to learn,” she said, “and if you need help from any professors, they’re always glad to help. If I ever have questions, I can just contact them.
“If we need help, we can always go to the library and they’re really helpful.”
Gonzalez, in her first semester at Blinn, plans to complete her core classes at Blinn before transferring to a four-year university. She has Texas A&M University and Sam Houston State University in mind as potential places to continue her education.
A standout student at Flatonia High School, Gonzalez was accepted by a host of four-year universities but decided Blinn was the best choice.
“You get your basics out of the way,” she said. “You save a lot of money. I’m glad I did, because it’s helped me get things figured out.”
Gonzalez is looking at a career as an athletic trainer. She said she has been able to find the guidance – and classes – she needs at Blinn.
“I was kind of indecisive, but now I want to do something with athletic training,” she said. “I’ve always been around high school athletics, so probably that.”
Gonzalez played basketball, volleyball, and softball in high school and was a member of the FHS basketball team that made it to the regional tournament in 2018.
In addition to a full load of college courses, she works part-time as a job coach for a young man with autism.
Education is important to Gonzalez’ family, and she said her two older sisters “pushed me to work harder and be a good student.”
“They’re good role models,” she said.
Dr. Becky Garlick, Executive Dean of the Schulenburg Campus, said Gonzalez is a model student.
“Maricruz is a determined student who knows the importance of education,” said Garlick. “She also works diligently to achieve goals that she has set for herself. She exhibits a positive attitude, and she is always smiling.
“We are so proud to have Maricruz on the Schulenburg Campus.”
Registration is now open for the Winter Minimester that begins Monday, Dec. 16, and for the Spring Semester beginning Tuesday, Jan. 21. For enrollment and registration information, visit www.blinn.edu/admissions or visit the Blinn-Schulenburg Campus at 100 Ranger Drive.
