Building a Future
All it took was one semester at the RELLIS Campus and Shelby Aaron knew she wanted to leave an impact.
Today, she is well on her way to achieving that goal via her service as the Student Advisory Council President. Aaron, a psychology major at Texas A&M University-Kingsville is the second student to serve in this role and the first female.
After graduating high school locally, Aaron worked to complete her associate degree in sociology at the Blinn College District. When it came time to take the next step, she decided to enroll in courses at the RELLIS Campus.
“Choosing to go to a new school where I didn’t know anyone, I knew I was either going to sink or swim,” said Aaron. “Fortunately, I met advisors and made friends quickly, which made me fall in love with the campus.”
It was at New Student Orientation that she happened to meet a Student Advisory Council representative, and decided to join the newly established organization.
“After speaking with James I figured I didn’t have anything to lose by joining,” said Aaron. “Knowing that RELLIS is still being built and that I could leave a legacy really made me want to get involved and help.”
Post-graduation, Aaron plans to continue helping others by pursuing a graduate degree before working in the human resources field.
“I just knew this was the right career path for me,” said Aaron. “I love people and I want everyone to experience good things in life and equal opportunities.”
Knowing what feels right comes natural to someone like Aaron, who knew immediately upon visiting campus that it was the best place for her.
“The campus really had a homey feel to it, while providing a diverse experience through all the A&M System schools,” said Aaron. “There is just a sense of love here. Everyone genuinely cares about you and it is obvious to all of us.”
In her role as president, Aaron has two big goals: to be a voice for her fellow students at RELLIS and to build the campus up and help it thrive.
“It’s such a young campus and what we do now impacts where it will head in the future,” said Aaron. “I’m excited to come back in 20 years and see the growth and opportunities.
