“In 2021, my brother graduated high school, my sister graduated from MSU Texas, and I as well will be walking the stage this year,” Monica said. “I hope that my siblings know they can do whatever they put their minds to, and I led by a good enough example. I also hope my parents know that without them none of us would have gotten this far.” 

Monica will take many fond memories from MSU Texas. She said she’ll never forget the bond with her classmates, including a group of six friends who were together from the start. “Some of us went through things I couldn’t imagine during these last two years,” she said. “All of us have been there for each other and have helped one another come out stronger and reach our goals. I know we have made lifelong bonds, and I will always be grateful for their friendship and support.”

She enjoyed her internship class, and also the chance to learn from Dr. Fox, who made a lasting impression on her after arriving at MSU Texas. “I was nervous about having a new professor, but she is everything we needed and then some! Her knowledge about mental health is outstanding. She speaks to us as equals and helps us reach our fullest potential. I plan to return to school and get my PhD. I never would have thought about doing that if it were not for Dr. Fox. It is because of her that I hope to teach others about the mental health field and how to be an amazing counselor. I truly look up to her.”

Monica passed her National Counselors Exam in November. She worked at Helen Farabee Center for five years as a child and adolescent case worker.

She said the social aspect attracted her to the mental health field. “I am a people person and enjoy meeting new people and hearing their stories. We have all been through dark days, and I want to help others know that there is still a chance for brighter days. I love being able to help others see the potential that they didn’t see in themselves. Just being someone who can listen and support someone makes the biggest difference.” 

Her experience has already given her confirmation that she choose the right path at MSU Texas.

“Each time a client thanks me, or more recently when they have been tearful, that I am leaving my current job, it shows me that I am making an impact,” Monica said. “There are days I question if I am making an impact? But more recently I have learned that I am great at what I do and being a counselor is a perfect fit for me. Growing up, this was not a field I planned to go into, but through fate and being bad at math, I found my true passion. I love what I do and I love being able to help people every day.”

Focus and her family helped her attain her Master’s degree. Her mother was her rock and her grandmother inspired her every day. Monica said she’s forever grateful. “It’s for my Wela and Lui, who I know would be cheering me on across that stage if they could be here,” she said. “It’s proof that I am stronger than I imagined. Walking across the stage is just as much for them as it is for me.”