As a class of 2023 high school graduate, I knew my time at The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) would be short. For some, that may seem like a blessing, and it was, but I was more concerned over how quickly it would all unfold. I enrolled in my first UTEP classes in the summer of 2023, and now, about two and a half years later, I will be graduating with a bachelor’s degree in multimedia journalism before I turn 21. 

I made the decision to pursue higher education at 13, joining my feeder high school’s early college program. By 17, I had earned my associate’s degree alongside my high school diploma. It was a meaningful achievement for me. It proved to my family that I was capable and serious–but it felt more for them than for me. 

This time around, my bachelor’s degree is different. I did it all on my own. The struggles and the journey make this accomplishment feel like it is truly mine. 

My college experience began with a reality check. Entering university as a junior in my first academic year, I felt behind. I had no internships under my belt, and had no path to walk on, just a lot of determination. It was overwhelming, and I felt like I was in a rush to get done everything other people take three years to do. 

I remember setting up conference time with Dr. Richard Pineda in fall 2023, the previous chair of the communication department, to go over my options and even the idea I was entertaining of changing majors. In that conversation, I got to tell him about myself and my academic journey and he said something that has stuck out to me all these years: “What’s the rush?” It was such a mundane question, but it carried so much weight for me. I didn’t have an answer. My whole life I had the idea that the quicker I got everything done the better. But he pointed out to me I am already ahead of schedule what’s an extra semester to go study abroad or take a summer off? 

That conversation meant a lot to me, and I feel in a way it shaped how I approached the rest of my career at UTEP. 

Funny enough, I had discussed with Dr. P that I had tried to join The Prospector straight out of high school. I dreamed of a structured trajectory; contributor, staff, editor, then editor-in-chief. But it didn’t happen. I didn’t even get an interview. At the time, I told myself that path just wasn’t meant for me. 

My first semesters at UTEP were slow-paced, giving me space to explore, learn and grow. I am especially grateful to my boyfriend, Isaac. We navigated those early college experiences together, going to events, sharing Chick-fil-a lunches while watching our favorite shows and even adventuring in Italy while we studied abroad, something I never imagined I’d have the chance to do. 

Those early months taught me there is peace in the quietness. But as each day went by, and the closer I was getting to graduation, I knew I wanted to seek more challenges to prepare me for post-graduation life. 

 Coming back from Rome, Italy, I dove into opportunities that would stretch me beyond the classroom. I joined two clubs taking on leadership roles in both and even landed an internship with the Sun Bowl Association. I was finally getting a taste of the real-world in media, and it helped me realize how much I love crafting stories that matter and connecting with the audience. 

After ending my internship in fall 2024, the opportunity to join The Prospector came my way. I was a bit unsure but decided it would be a good stop on my journey. In January, I was given the role of web and copy editor. I thrived in that position, and it solidified my love for the digital strategy and audience engagement aspect of journalism. I grew a lot as a journalist in my first semester at The Prospector. 

Once the spring semester was ending, I decided to apply for editor-in-chief. It was a leap into the unknown. I was nervous and aware that others might doubt my experience or readiness since I had only been a part of the publication for a semester, but I knew I was ready to take on the challenge and become the leader I wish I had. What I didn’t know was how much that decision would shape the last chapter of my college experience. 

Being editor-in-chief reinforced in me the power of collaboration, mentorship and trust. My team of editors became my core–Kristian, Kahri, Sebastian, Ximena, Iziah, Mia and Abby– each bringing their unique strengths and personalities. Together we navigated deadlines, brainstormed stories and shared countless late-night laughs that made the newsroom feel like home. They each do excellent work, and I have been able to count on them throughout the entire semester to keep things running efficiently. 

There were moments of doubt and challenges, yes, but they were all balanced by the friendships, guidance and moments of growth that filled my semesters. I took the time at least once every academic school year to go back and visit my mentors from high school. Visits with my high school band director, Mr. Perez, reminded me that my dreams were not only attainable but impressive to those who have watched me grow from the beginning. I always made trips to my old yearbook room, the place where I got my first chance at being an editor-in-chief. Seeing many of those fellow Rams, who were just a couple of years younger, such as Nate, Abby, Dustin and Erick, find their place in college and in The Prospector reminded me how meaningful it is to leave behind something for others to carry forward. I have no doubt in my mind that The Prospector will take good care of them for me. 

I am especially grateful for my mentors, like Crystal, who encouraged me beyond The Prospector and beyond the title of editor-in-chief, always reminding me to aim higher and think bigger. 

And of course, Isaac, my partner in all things, who has been there through the stress, the tears and the late nights, and even slept on the office couch until 3 a.m. to support me. Thank you for always encouraging me and being by my side through all of life’s phases. 

My last semester of college at The Prospector has not only built me up as a professional but has fulfilled me profoundly. The people I have worked with and the friendships I have created with them have changed the way I look back on my undergrad years. And for that, I am deeply grateful for those who I have met along the way. To my Prosector team, I can’t wait to see what’s next for all of you. 

As I prepare to cross the stage for commencement, I would like to take a moment to thank myself. Looking back, the long hours, nervous anticipation, the triumphs and setbacks led me to here. I am proud of myself for sticking it out, for taking risks and for trusting in my own abilities. From feeling invisible to inimitable, my journey, accomplishments and everything in between, I am proud for showing up for myself the days I wanted to hide. I am proud of saying yes to myself when I could have said no. 

This degree, this journey and these memories are mine, wholly and unapologetically. I am so thankful for the privilege it has been to walk this path, to live the life I once only dreamed of and to realize even in the stress, the challenges and uncertainty, I am exactly where I am meant to be. 

Evelyn Palma is the editor-in-chief of The Prospector and may be reached at [email protected]. Follow her on Instagram @evelynp.media and on LinkedIn @evelynpalma-media.