Jesus Marquez captivated hundreds of graduates and attendees at Amarillo College’s Friday commencement ceremony held at the Amarillo Civic Center. As the keynote speaker, Marquez shared his personal journey, emphasizing perseverance, family support, and the importance of embracing opportunities.
During his speech, Marquez shared an excerpt that encapsulated his message: “Take it step by step, make sure you’re running towards success and not away from failure. Once you change your mindset to strive for greatness, everything shifts, and you begin to achieve more than you ever thought possible.”
At 21, Marquez earned his degree in engineering, marking a significant milestone in his academic and personal life. Originally from Chihuahua, Mexico, Marquez navigated the challenges of being an international student with determination and a clear vision for his future. His speech resonated with many, highlighting the struggles and triumphs that accompany the pursuit of higher education. He reflected on his college journey, saying, “The path was complicated, but I always had a clear vision of where I wanted to be. My sister Jasmine and I attended the same schools, and seeing her dedication inspired me to strive for more.” He acknowledged the pivotal role his family played in his success, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support.
His sister, Jasmine Marquez, also attended the ceremony, expressing her pride in her brother’s accomplishments.
Following in the footsteps of his older sister, Jesus Marquez enrolled at AC, initially unsure of his major but knowing he had an affinity for numbers and physics. A friend suggested he explore the STEM Scholars Program, where he eventually became a scholar after encouragement from an adviser. The STEM Scholars Program prepared Marquez for summer internships, including an electrical engineering internship at Pantex last summer. His involvement in the program also led him to represent AC at a national alliance of colleges and universities concerned with the future of education called REP4 at Boise State University. As the only junior college student and the only one from Texas at the conference, Marquez gained valuable experience and inspiration.
This foundation enabled him to secure his internship at Pantex, where he worked on a research project focused on redirecting lightning strikes away from structures and into the ground. Under the mentorship of his supervisor at Pantex, Marquez realized his passion for this career path.
Looking ahead, Marquez will attend West Texas A&M University in January to pursue a degree in electrical engineering with an emphasis on lighting design. He is also thrilled at the opportunity to return to his internship at Pantex next summer.
The young graduate emphasized the significance of seizing opportunities, noting, “These opportunities are not always available to everyone. It’s essential to take advantage of them when they come your way.” Marquez also addressed the fear of failure, encouraging graduates to adopt a mindset focused on growth and excellence rather than avoiding mistakes.
Marquez’s father, Sergio Marquez, and mother, Abi Marquez, expressed their joy and admiration for their son’s accomplishments. “We are incredibly proud of Jesus,” Sergio Marquez said. “His dedication and hard work have truly paid off, and we’re excited to see what the future holds for him.”
Abi Marquez added, “Watching Jesus grow and succeed has been a remarkable experience. His commitment to his studies and his community is inspiring to all of us.”
Overall, hundreds of graduates attended the ceremony to walk across the stage and receive the fruits of their studious work in front of their families and friends. Over 1,000 students graduated this semester.
Amarillo College, known for its strong engineering program and diverse student body, has been a cornerstone of higher education in the community for over 50 years. The STEM Scholars Program at Amarillo College is designed to prepare students for careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics by providing mentorship, internships, and hands-on project experience. The institution continues to foster an environment of academic excellence and personal growth, preparing students for successful careers and meaningful contributions to their communities.
Jesus Marquez’s inspiring words not only celebrated individual achievements but also underscored the collective strength and potential of the AC community as it moves forward into a promising future.
As he concluded his address, Marquez left the graduates with a powerful message of resilience and ambition. “This moment is just the beginning. Use the lessons you’ve learned and the support you have to reach new heights. Your journey doesn’t end here — it’s only the start of something greater.”
