Chingona Ph.D.

As my friends and family know, I am a social butterfly and the isolation of the pandemic was bad for my soul. Although I graduated with my Ph.D. in Culture, Literacy, and Language in December of 2020, we were unable to have a commencement ceremony or any celebrations due to the pandemic. I understand the need for the isolation and safety measures, but it was very upsetting.

Luckily, UTSA hosted a belated 2020 commencement ceremony in May of 2021. While it was still very small and untraditional, I was happy to see my friends from my cohort to congratulate them and wish them well. Also, I recognize that they helped me to succeed because we all supported one another. In the belated Class of 2020 commencement, we did not sit with our peers; instead we were assigned to sit with our two (and only two) invited guests. The pods of three chairs were socially distanced, and the ceremony was only for the Ph.D. students. Undergrads had their own ceremonies by college at different dates and times. The president of the university was not present, so we did not get the traditional photo with the president and chair person, but instead, the dean of the graduate school stood in for him. We did not have a raised stage, so I was glad that we got there early and got the front row of seating.

After the ceremony, we went outdoors, where we were greeted by a female mariachi band. The music was fantastic, the beginning of the sunset was beautiful, and we were all able to hug one another and be happy! We took several group photos, and of course I took a few photos with my professors and my dad. Next, we all went to dinner to have some great Mexican food and margaritas!

Dr. Smith, who is one of my committee members, suggested I take some photos in my cap and gown on my motorcycle. He pointed out that less than 2% of the population have a Ph.D., so imagine what percentage can say they are a female Harlista and Ph.D.! I thought it was kind of a funny idea, but my dad loved it. Due to the extensive rain in the month of May, we had to wait a few weeks to get some dry roads, but we did it! We took some corny graduation photos of me riding in the neighborhood. The neighbors cheered me on, and it was actually fun!

Despite the challenges faced during the pandemic, I am actually glad that it forced us to find creative ways to connect with one another. I think so many people are dependent on their devices now… they often forget to connect in person with loved ones. So, I will close by saying I am thankful to be alive, I am thankful to have celebrated my Ph.D. with friends and family, and I am thankful for the people who choose to connect with me, even amid a pandemic.