Driven by an unwavering desire to help others, Cindy Beltran ’24 is well on her path to fulfilling a dream of aiding others by working as a mental health counselor. A first-generation and non-traditional student, this daughter of immigrant parents has triumphed over a series of challenges on her education journey. On May 11 Beltran will walk UST-Houston’s commencement stage to receive her B.A. in Psychology.

The Road to Today

Beltran’s education journey began with her graduation from Houston’s James Madison High School in 2005. Next, she served in the City of Houston’s Health Department as a certified community health worker for 10 years, a role she loved. Discerning from the experience that her calling was to be a mental health counselor, the courageous Beltran decided to go back to school. That’s when life’s road got extremely bumpy.

Navigating Life’s Challenges

“I felt defeated many times,” Beltran recalled. “In 2017, when I first returned to school, I lost my home to Hurricane Harvey. Then, in 2020, the pandemic led to the transition to online classes, and it was extremely challenging to me. I was a classroom learner, so learning via a laptop was a big adjustment.”

In addition, Beltran said she felt uneasy about the fact that she was older than the other students, but the UST ethos dispelled that concern.

An Encouraging Academic Community

“The students and professors were so welcoming and friendly. They assured me that I do belong here!”

Moreover, Beltran found solace in the faith-building opportunities to attend Mass at the Chapel of St. Basil between classes.

Where to Next?

As remarkable as Beltran’s academic achievements are, her B.A. is just the beginning. Her sights are now set on UST’s Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. After that?

“In five years, I can see myself completing my Ph.D and becoming the first doctor in my family,” she revealed.

Looking ahead, Beltran envisions opening her private practice where she intends to provide counseling services to children and adults who suffer from anxiety, OCD, ADHD, substance abuse, domestic violence, and human trafficking.  

A Beacon of Inspiration

This remarkable college grad and overcomer who made UST’s Dean’s List and is part of the Class of ‘24, hopes her story will inspire those who question whether it is too late to return to school.

“I hope to inspire others to know that it is never too late.”

Commencement 2024 When and Where

UST-Houston Commencement 2024 takes place Saturday, May 11, at 11 a.m., at NRG Stadium, 8400 Kirby Drive. UST commencement celebrates the achievements of 684 undergraduates and 302 graduate students. The Baccalaureate Mass held on Friday, May 10, at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart and the Commencement the following day will be livestreamed. View the livestream link here.