Career and Postsecondary Readiness

Welcome to Volume II of South Texas ISD’s Career and Postsecondary Readiness Newsletter for 2025–2026!

We’re excited to keep the momentum going with fresh updates, useful resources, and new opportunities to help every student stay on track toward college, career, and beyond.

Aim / Focus

The Animal Science Program of Study at South Texas ISD is designed to prepare students for careers involving animal care, biology, agriculture, veterinary applications, and related fields within the Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources career cluster. It engages learners in life science, animal biology, and industry-relevant practices needed for success in animal-centered professions and further education pathways.

Coursework / Structure

At STISD, the Animal Science program of study typically includes a sequence of hands-on, technical courses aligned to the Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources career cluster:

Animal Science Program Courses:

• Principles of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources – foundational course introducing agriculture and animal science concepts.

• Small Animal Management / Equine Science – animal behavior, handling, and species management.

• Veterinarian Medical Application / Lab – applied coursework related to veterinary practices and animal health.

• Practicum in Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources – supervised, practical experience applying knowledge and skills from prior coursework in real-world or simulated settings.

Students may also pursue industry-based certifications, such as the Certified Veterinary Assistant (Level 1), which enhances credentials and employability in animal-related professions.

Outcomes & Career

Completion of the Animal Science program prepares students for a range of postsecondary and career opportunities in fields such as:

Entry-Level & Technical Careers

• Veterinary assistant

• Animal care technician

• Livestock and animal production roles

Further Education

Texas A&M University – College Station

• Program: Bachelor of Science in Animal Science

• Overview: One of the largest and most respected animal science departments in the nation, with more than 1,300 undergraduates. Students can focus on areas like animal biotechnology, dairy and beef production, equine science, meat science, and physiology. The program prepares students for careers in animal agriculture, research, veterinary school, and industry leadership.

• Hands-On Learning: Students participate in high-impact experiences like internships, research, industry tours, competitive teams, and study abroad.

• Career Pathways: Graduates go into fields such as livestock management, food safety, animal genetics, and veterinary science support roles.

Why it stands out: Texas A&M’s strong agricultural heritage and extensive resources make it a top choice in Texas for Animal Science, especially for students planning to pursue veterinary school or research careers.

Tarleton State University

• Program: Bachelor of Science in Animal Science (with multiple concentrations)

• Overview: Offers a practical, hands-on education using farm and ranch operations, indoor labs, and an equine arena, giving students real experience with livestock, animal nutrition, reproduction, and management.

• Concentrations Available: Business, Meat and Food Science, Pre-Veterinary Medicine, Range and Ranch Management, Animal Production, and Science.

• Pathways: Students can complete internships and practical training, and the program includes a formal partnership with Texas A&M’s College of Veterinary Medicine to support competitive veterinary school admissions.

Why it stands out: Tarleton’s strong emphasis on practical learning and industry engagement makes it a great choice for students who want hands-on experience and preparation for careers in livestock production, ranch management, or food science.

Sam Houston State University (SHSU)

• Program: Bachelor of Science in Animal Science

• Overview: SHSU’s program offers a broad foundation in animal biology, nutrition, genetics, and management. Students can choose areas like pre-veterinary medicine or animal care and gain experience through on-campus farms and research facilities.

• Career Prep: Graduates are prepared for roles in animal health, livestock production, research, and education, as well as pathways to veterinary and graduate programs.

Texas State University

• Program: Animal Science (under the Department of Agricultural Sciences)

• Overview: Offers coursework in livestock and poultry industries, animal nutrition and health, commercial production, food processing, and biotechnology. The program also includes a pre-veterinary concentration that meets prerequisites for vet school.

• Experience: Students gain preparation for careers in production, management, and animal health while building essential foundational knowledge.

To access EOC scores: https://www.texasassessment.gov/

• Click on "How do I look up my access code?" (attached image)

• TSDS ID or PEIMS ID number can be found on student's transcript. Social Security number can also be used.

To access TSI scores: https://studentportal.accuplacer.org/#/studentisr

• Steps to access scores:https://accuplacer.collegeboard.org/accuplacer/pdf/how-access-test-scores-from-student-portal.pdf

To access ACT scores: https://my.act.org/account/signin?location=https://my.act.org

To access SAT scores: https://studentscores.collegeboard.org/home

With ACT and SAT links, students need to create/access their portal using their own credentials. If student cannot access their portal, they will need to call customer support.

How do I find scholarships?

You can discover scholarship opportunities by reaching out to the financial aid office at your chosen school, visiting your local library, or searching online. Just be cautious—ensure that any scholarship offers are legitimate, and remember that you shouldn't have to pay for scholarship or financial aid information. For tips on avoiding scams, check this link. avoid scams.

Try these free sources of information about scholarships:

• the financial aid office at a college or career school

• a high school or TRIO counselor

• the U.S. Department of Labor’s FREE scholarship search tool

• federal agencies

• your state grant agency

• your library’s reference section

• foundations, religious or community organizations, local businesses, or civic groups

• organizations (including professional associations) related to your field of interest

• ethnicity-based organizations

• your employer or your parents’ employers

✅ Quick Eligibility Checklist (2026–2027)

Residency & Citizenship

• U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
• Lived in South or West Texas for 5+ consecutive years
• Permanent address in one of STARS’ 30 eligible counties

Academic Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent completed
• Completed at least 12 college credit hours
• Dual Credit or AP credits count
• Minimum 2.7 cumulative college GPA

Current Enrollment

• Enrolled in a U.S. accredited institution
• Degree-seeking program

Select one:

• Community College
  Part-time (6+ hours)
  Full-time (12+ hours)

• Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) — Full-time (12+ hours)

• Graduate (Master’s/Law/Doctoral) — Full-time (9+ hours)

Application Timeline (2026–2027)

• Application opens: January 1, 2026
• Application deadline: March 31, 2026, at 5:00 PM CST

✅ Quick Eligibility Checklist (2026)

Residency & Age

• Legal resident of the United States
• OR International student with a valid visa
• 13 years of age or older

Student Status

• Currently enrolled in high school, college, or graduate school
• OR Plans to enroll within the next 24 months
• OR Parent of a student who meets one of the above criteria

Academic Requirements

• No minimum GPA required
• No major or field-of-study restrictions

Application Rules

• One entry per person per quarter
• Scholarship awarded via random drawing
• Award sent directly to the winner (not to the school)

Award Details

• $500 cash scholarship
• One winner selected each month
• Only one prize per person/email address

Application Timeline (2026)

• Application opens: January 1, 2026
• Application closes: December 31, 2026 (11:59 PM)
• Drawings occur monthly throughout the year

How to Apply

• Online application only
• https://cedaredlending.com/scholarship/

✅ Quick Eligibility Checklist (2026)

Student Background

• Identifies as a member of an underrepresented racial/ethnic group in STEM (African American, Hispanic/Latino, Native American)

Citizenship

• U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or lawful permanent resident

Academic Status

• High school senior graduating during the current academic year
• Accepted to a STEM degree program
• Two-year institution
• Four-year institution

GPA Requirement

• Minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale

Scholarship Options

• Route to STEM Scholarship (any 2- or 4-year institution)
• Route to HBCU STEM Scholarship
• Route to FAMU STEM Scholarship

Award Details

• $1,000 award
• Seven (7) scholarships available

Application Requirements

• Completed scholarship application
• Academic transcript submitted
• Two letters of recommendation submitted

Application Timeline

• Application deadline: March 31

✅ Quick Eligibility Checklist

Student Status

• Current high school, college, or graduate student
• OR Plans to enroll within the next 24 months
• Currently enrolled full-time (high school or accredited university)

Residency / Documentation

• U.S. resident, DACA, or undocumented student
• International students studying in the U.S. are eligible

Academic Requirements

• No minimum GPA required
• Open to all majors and fields of study

Award Use

Funds may be used for:

• Tuition

• Textbooks

• Housing

• Technology

• Other education-related expenses

Application Rules

• One entry per person per quarter
• Winner selected by random drawing
• Scholarship awarded directly to the student

Application Timeline

Quarterly deadlines:

• March 31
• June 30
• September 30
• December 31

🌱 Building Resilience & Grit

What does resilience really mean?
Resilience is the ability to face challenges, bounce back from setbacks, and keep moving forward—especially during stressful or difficult times. It’s not about avoiding problems; it’s about learning how to grow through them.

💪 What Resilience Looks Like in Youth

Resilient students often show:

• Confidence in their abilities and a positive sense of self

• Strong connections to family, school, and learning

• Healthy problem-solving and coping skills

• Optimism, responsibility, and a sense of purpose

• Respect for others and pro-social values

These traits help students stay motivated, manage stress, and persevere when things don’t go as planned.

🎓 Why Resilience Matters

Adolescence is a critical time for developing life skills. Since the rational part of the brain continues developing into the mid-20s, teens may be more likely to take risks or feel overwhelmed by failure. Teaching resilience helps students:

• Develop a growth mindset

• Learn from mistakes rather than fear them

• Improve emotional well-being

• Build confidence to face academic and personal challenges

Resilience reminds students that failure is not the end—it’s part of learning.

🤝 How Schools & Educators Support Resilience

Teachers and schools play a key role by:

• Modeling positive behavior and healthy coping strategies

• Encouraging strong relationships among students and staff

• Creating supportive environments where effort, growth, and perseverance are valued

When students feel supported and understood, they are more likely to thrive—both in school and beyond.

Resilience isn’t something students are born with—it’s something they build. Together, families and schools can help students develop the grit they need to succeed in academics, relationships, and life.

🎯 Why Goal Setting Matters for Students

Whether you’re a student working toward better grades, a parent supporting your child, or an educator guiding the way, setting clear goals can make a powerful difference—especially at the start of a new school year.

📚 Benefits of Goal Setting for Students

Goal setting helps students:

• Improve focus by giving them a clear direction and purpose

• Stay motivated, even when schoolwork feels challenging

• Manage time better by breaking big tasks into smaller, manageable steps

• Build confidence as they track progress and celebrate success

When students know what they’re working toward, they are more engaged, organized, and driven to succeed.

👨‍👩‍👧 How Parents Can Support Goal Setting

Parents play a key role in helping goals stick:

• Encourage open conversations about goals, challenges, and progress

• Create a supportive environment with a quiet study space and helpful resources

• Celebrate small wins, which builds confidence and reinforces effort

Positive encouragement helps students stay motivated and develop resilience.

🍎 How Educators Support Goal Setting

Teachers help students turn goals into action by:

• Integrating goal-setting activities into the school day

• Providing regular, constructive feedback

• Promoting a growth mindset—focusing on effort, learning, and improvement rather than perfection

This support helps students see challenges as opportunities to grow.

🧠 Setting SMART Goals

A helpful strategy is setting SMART goals:

• Specific – Clear and focused

• Measurable – Progress can be tracked

• Achievable – Realistic and attainable

• Relevant – Meaningful to the student’s future

• Time-Bound – Has a clear deadline

SMART goals give students a roadmap for success.

📱 Tools That Can Help

Students can stay organized and motivated using:

• Apps like Trello, Todoist, or MyStudyLife

• Online learning platforms such as Khan Academy or Coursera

• Books like Atomic Habits or The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

⭐ Final Thought

Goal setting helps students clarify their dreams, stay focused, and build confidence. With support from families and schools, students can turn their goals into achievable steps—and take charge of their future.

Now is the perfect time to set a goal and take the first step toward success!

District Website: www.stisd.net

Facebook: www.stisd.net/about/cte

It is the policy of South Texas Independent School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or handicap in its vocational programs, services or activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.

Es norma del Distrito Independiente de South Texas de no discriminar en sus programas, servicios o actividades vocacionales y brinda igualdad de acceso a los Boy Scouts y otros grupos juveniles designados por motivos de raza, color, origen nacional, sexo o impedimento, tal como lo requieren el Título VI de la Ley de Derechos Civiles de 1964, según enmienda; Título IX de las Enmiendas en la Educación de 1972, y la Sección 504 de la Ley de Rehabilitación de 1973, según enmienda.