I learned to be a leader this semester (good or bad is up for interpretation). I became someone who gives answers to the unknown, and guides others around the Sun Bowl for the first time, seeing their faces light up as we enter from the field.

All of this reminds me of the past. When I was a kid, I had no confidence. I was so nervous to be myself. There were only a few times I felt I could really be myself. I learned that I was an observer. Having this trait has been so useful to me in learning the type of person I want to become and those who I want to surround myself with.

Watching up close or from afar, I am able to relive those key moments of observation in my life, and I can still feel those emotions.

For example, I vividly remember a man who was supposed to be security for a club I was doing photography for back in 2024. He and his friend would take frequent “trips” to the bathroom. Seeing them verbally abuse the women who were working there showed me people’s true character when they thought nobody else  was looking. This moment established within me an example of the type of people I want to avoid at all costs.

Although I have had these experiences, I am fortunate to have only scratched the surface of that tough world.

Throughout my 22 years of life, I have observed so much lost potential. Seeing people at a young age feel like they have nothing to offer or work towards breaks my heart. I have seen so many people defeated by life as if the world is against them. The number of obstacles some people must go through just so they can be content with their lives is surreal.

But, here at The Prospector, the people I am surrounded by in the newsroom have so much potential, talent and passion for what they do. I began working at The Prospector in January 2025 as a contributor. Since then, I have grown into my new leadership position as sports editor. Although I’ve had my growing pains, I believe I have become well-adjusted to the role and what it means to lead.

Becoming a leader is a mindset to strive to push others around you to become the best versions of themselves. I learned how people react to certain types of teaching and motivation styles. You have to admit and accept when you are wrong when you’re a leader. You must push yourself further than you ever thought possible. Being a leader in a 24/7 role means always being a helping hand.

What may seem trivial to you represents how far I’ve come. I understand I’m an editor for a student newspaper at a university that is often overlooked. I’m not saying you need to care as much as I do; I only ask that you respect it.

It doesn’t go without saying that I wouldn’t be the person I am today without the people I’m surrounded by. To the director of the El Paso Community College (EPCC) Dance Program Jermey Edmonson, thank you for giving the opportunity and trust to have creative input about the themes around the end of semester event. Thank you to EPCC professors Michael Head and Marvin Hanley who have helped me refine my skills. To my former coworkers at the dealership, Carlos Sanchez and Chris MacDonald, thank you for opening a completely new industry to me that I have found my passion for.

 Thank you to my friend Raymond Menchaca and his family for embracing me and making me a part of their family. Thank you to UTEP alumni John Finnie for giving me life with the camera in April of 2023.

 Thank you to editor-in-chief Evelyn Palma for giving the opportunity to be a leader in the newsroom and always steering me in the right direction. Thank you to former Prospector members Joseph Montero and Jesie Garcia for joining me along the spring 2025 journey of balancing school and The Prospector.

 Thank you to copy editor Ximena Cordero, audience and engagement editor Kahri Reyes, arts & culture editor Abby Pedroza and photo editor Iziah Moreno for giving me the best chisme during the long workdays. Thank you to all of the members of The Prospector for encouraging me to keep moving forward and always trying to improve my craft.

And last, but not least, multimedia editor Sebastian Perez-Navarro for being my partner in crime throughout the entire time I have known him. Although he may think he has not found success yet, I know at his young age, he will thrive anywhere he goes no matter the obstacle.

As a child, I never thought I would be in this position. As a man, I know I can be in these positions and become so much more. Keep going and make progress no matter how small it may seem.

Kristian Hernandez is the sports editor for The Prospector and may be reached at [email protected] and social media tags @northeastvideography.