Kazzandra Romero
PSJA Early College High School, Class of 2024
Plans to Attend: Texas A&M University - College Station,
Major: Communication
Awards/Honors
- 2023 Associate Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies (Magna-Cum-Laude)
- 2023 South Texas College President’s Honor Roll
- 2023 VITA Volunteer Completion Award
- 2023 National Hispanic Recognition Award
- 2023 KRGV Student of the Week
- 2023 Rotary Club October Student of the Month
- 2023 Dave Campbell’s Texas Live Student Multimedia Top 10 Finalist Spotlight Award
- 2023/24 RGV Border Patrol Head of Class Recipient
- 2023/24 Hispanic Heritage Foundation Scholarship Media & Entertainment Silver Recipient
- 2023/24 Student Council - President
- 2022/24 Bears News Network - President, Lead Reporter & Podcast Host
- 2023/24 National Honor Society - Reporter
- 2022/23 Junior Class - Corresponding Secretary
- 2023/24 PSJA ISD Track of Hope - Chairman
- 2023/24 Sustainable Environment Club - Officer
Tell us your story! What hardships or challenges have you overcome to get to where you are today? How have these experiences motivated you to pursue your educational dreams?
I was walking through the doors of PSJA ECHS for the first time as a timid, self-conscious sophomore, having just returned from a two-year-long pandemic and unsure of my place in a school with over 2,000 students. I couldn’t help but notice the eight immense pillars in the center court. Although at the time I was a single brick in a large structure, I aspired to become a pillar and etch my name on the walls of my high school.
Five months into the school year Mr. Leija, the TV Production teacher, sought students to pioneer a campus-wide news segment. As a reticent sophomore, I was surprised when he called me up in front of the class. Nevertheless, my people-pleasing tendencies kicked in and I accepted.
“Three, two, …,” said Mr. Leija, and that was my cue. “Welcome to Weekly Beat! I’m Kazzandra Romero here to give you the hot topics around our campus!” With my head at a tilt, my legs shaking and stumbling over my words as I held a microphone in my hands, my apprehension of the spotlight was not discrete.
Week after week my role and knowledge expanded. I was gaining confidence, revealing facets of my character and inherent qualities previously unrecognized within myself. I found my passion in a future that seemed ambiguous, building upon my singular brick that would unknowingly become a pillar.
Three years later I have continued pursuing what I love - even being referred to as the “news girl” or “interview girl”, labels I have chosen to embrace. Now, as I walk the halls of my high school I am no longer a timid brick, but a pillar with significance that was built brick by brick.
The realm of Communication has become my greatest passion and I hope to earn a Master’s degree in the subject. This will provide greater opportunities in news network markets where I will fulfill my dream of becoming a news anchor. I hope to share the knowledge and experience I gain through my education and career with my beloved PSJA community by mentoring the future generation of aspiring storytellers.
How have the opportunities offered at PSJA ISD, including the PSJA Early College Program, impacted your life?
During my seven years with the PSJA Family, I have witnessed a substantial influence on my education. Through PSJA’s Enrichment Camps I was able to foster friendships and most importantly I was able to familiarize myself and become comfortable in a future that seemed unfamiliar as an incoming sixth grader. Before I knew it, I was becoming more involved at Raul Yzaguirre Middle School, and PSJA was my new family. In the seventh grade I got a snippet of the many opportunities offered at PSJA ISD by taking freshman Algebra as a seventh grader. Little did I know that taking such an advanced course would ignite my future as an Early College student. Entering high school, I took advantage of the free TSI tutoring and testing program, and before I knew it, I was a freshman taking college classes. I learned responsibility and time management. At PSJA ISD I took the remarkable achievement of graduating with a college degree before a high school diploma to a new level as I was only one of three juniors to graduate with an Associate degree last year. Through the rigor of each college course, I received support and encouragement from my teachers, peers, and administrators.
In addition to the PSJA Early College Program, PSJA ISD offers opportunities beyond the classroom. The summer going into my senior year I applied for an internship at the PSJA ISD Communication Department. I experienced the various aspects of the communication field hands-on and met inspiring individuals who became my mentors. Additionally through the student organizations at PSJA ISD, like the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, Bears News Network, National Honor Society, and Student Council I have been able to give back to my beloved PSJA community.
What, if anything, would you say to your PSJA Family?
I am beyond grateful for my PSJA Family. The educators, administrators, and staff at PSJA Early College High School have left a lasting impact on my educational journey through their friendly, nurturing character. I am truly thankful to them for making PSJA ECHS feel like a second home. I am also grateful for the diverse individuals I have encountered these past four years, as they play a vital role in shaping the development and the enduring legacy of opportunity within PSJA ISD.
I hope to see our PSJA Family grow and continue to excel in academics, fine arts, and athletics. Being a member of the PSJA Family brings a remarkable and long-lasting sense of pride. Thank you to the PSJA teachers and staff who have molded me into the individual I am today. I am indebtedly grateful for all of the opportunities that PSJA has given me and I know one day I will give back to my profound community. PSJA is truly one-of-a-kind.
