Student Spotlight
College of Arts & Sciences, Student Spotlight Series
The College of Arts and Sciences is pleased to partner with some truly remarkable students. They are hardworking and determined, and realize successes in the classroom and beyond.
The CAS Student Spotlight Series celebrates and showcases some of these great students.
Laura Montero
Laura Montero, is a senior graduating in August 2024 with a Bachelor of Social Work.
Interview with Laura:
Tell us about yourself!
"I started at TAMUCT in the fall of 2021 after transferring from UT Austin and Central Texas College. In the fall of 2022, I joined Phi Alpha and became the Vice President. By the summer of 2023, I had advanced to the position of President of Phi Alpha, a role I continue to hold. "
Tell us about your time at A&M–Central Texas.
"I attended TAMUCT because I have Glioblastoma Multiforme (brain cancer), and my parents were not comfortable with me attending a university far away in case of a medical emergency. My favorite part about TAMUCT is that it is a smaller institution, allowing for a more personalized and supportive learning environment. "
Tell us about your favorite part about attending A&M–Central Texas.
"I chose to attend A&M–Central Texas for several reasons. The A&M University name meant that I would have a solid degree to stand on. My degree had the option of majority online classes, and I wanted a smaller school in case I did need to go in person at some point. It had everything I was looking for!"
Tell us about any awards, scholarships, or recognition you have received
Awards:Scholarships:
- NASW 2024 Social Work Student of the Year
- Texas A&M University- Central Texas Social Work Department Award of Excellence
- College of Arts and Sciences Academic Scholarship.
- The Knight Scholarship - Summer
- MD Anderson Adolescent and Young Adult Scholarship Program
Tell us about any work (past or present) that you are proud of.
"As the president of Phi Alpha, TAMUCT’s honor society for social work, I am immensely proud of our community initiatives. Our efforts have included feeding the homeless, providing Christmas gifts to impoverished families, ensuring Thanksgiving meals for families in need, and hosting an annual Christmas party for residents of the Exchange Sunshine Home, a low-income senior living facility in Copperas Cove. Through hard work and determination, I have achieved the institutional GPA of 4.0 and my overall GPA of 3.8. "
Tell us anything else you’d like to share!
"In December 2018, I was diagnosed with Glioblastoma Multiforme, an aggressive and terminal form of brain cancer. Despite the physical and mental challenges, I enrolled in self-paced classes at Central Texas College, determined to continue my education. By 2021, I took a step forward and began attending in-person classes at Texas A&M University-Central Texas, majoring in social work. My decision to pursue social work was driven by my desire to support other adolescents and young adults (AYA) and their families in adjusting to their medical diagnoses as a medical social worker. Through my experiences, I recognized a significant gap in resources for AYA cancer patients, as most support systems are tailored to older adults or children. I aspire to bridge this gap by leveraging my knowledge and lived experience to create resources and provide much-needed assistance to this underserved group. As of last year, I achieved a significant milestone by joining the 5% of people who live past five years with my cancer. This journey, albeit difficult, has only strengthened my resolve to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others facing similar challenges."
