StUDENT MEMBER RESOURCES

Student Spotlight:

Please enjoy the following excerpt written by Jeff Watts, a member of HMPA's Board of Directors and Professor of Paralegal Studies at Lone Star College -North Harris. 

"In the bustling halls of Lone Star College and Avalos P-TECH, one name echoes with the

resonance of accomplishment and aspiration: Briseida Sanchez. A trailblazer, a scholar, and an

advocate, Briseida stands as a beacon of hope for her community and a testament to the power of

perseverance.

Hailing as the eldest child of immigrant parents, Briseida's journey is one marked by

determination and dedication. As she marches towards her graduation, she not only secures a

high school diploma but also an Associates in Applied Science of Paralegal Studies. This

milestone not only marks her personal triumph but also signals a generational shift as she

becomes the first in her family to tread the path to higher education.

Briseida's academic prowess shines brightly, with a stellar 4.0 GPA placing her among the top

three students out of a cohort of 107. But her impact stretches far beyond the classroom walls. As

a Student Ambassador, she embodies leadership and service, guiding her peers towards success.

As the president of speech and debate, she hones her advocacy skills, preparing herself for a

future where her voice will resonate in courtrooms and boardrooms alike. Additionally, her role

as the senior photography editor adds a creative flair to her repertoire, showcasing her

multifaceted talents.

Yet, Briseida's commitment to her community is perhaps most evident in her role as a catechist

for second graders and as a family translator and interpreter. In these roles, she bridges not only

language barriers but also fosters a sense of unity and understanding, enriching the lives of those

around her.

Briseida's achievements extend far beyond her academic institution, as evidenced by the array of

prestigious colleges and universities that eagerly sought her presence. From the University of

Houston to the University of Pennsylvania, each institution recognizes the potential and promise

that Briseida embodies. Her dedication to her education is matched only by her commitment to

service, as reflected in the impressive $2,335,032 in scholarships she has earned, including the

esteemed Gates Scholarship, a testament to her exceptional abilities and unwavering

determination.

Throughout her journey, Briseida has garnered a multitude of accolades, from the Quest Bridge

College Prep Scholars to the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute Alumni. Each award

serves as a testament to her excellence and her potential to effect meaningful change in her

community and beyond.

As Briseida embarks on the next chapter of her journey at the University of Pennsylvania, she

does so not only as a scholar but as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Her story serves as a

reminder that with perseverance, passion, and purpose, any obstacle can be overcome, and any

dream can be achieved."

Get Certified Today!

A board-certified paralegal has met the standards of their preferred program and is committed to excellence in their profession. Paralegals who are board certified often have superior benefits such as: increased job opportunities, credibility among legal professionals, higher earning potential. Please see below for a list of HMPA approved organizations that offer certification. 

• Texas Board of Legal Specialization (TBLS)
• National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
• National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)