Austin Community College District (ACC) celebrates a record number of graduates at its spring 2022 commencement ceremony. More than 3,340 students are invited to participate Friday, May 13, at the HEB Center in Cedar Park.

One of those students is Pete Ramirez. He is graduating from ACC’s Journalism program. Here is why Pete chose ACC and what’s next.

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Written by: Pete Ramirez

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My name is Pete Ramirez, and I'm an unconventional ACC student. I received my bachelor's degree in fine arts from Texas State University in 2013.I came back to school to pivot into the journalism field by pursuing ACC's journalism associate of arts degree. I’m excited and proud to be receiving my degree, but I know I will miss the freedom, support, and opportunities that I found at ACC.

During my time at ACC, I started contributing to the student-led news organization, ACCENT and eventually became the Editor-in-Chief. I've held that position for a year now and will be passing the reins at the end of the semester. Working with and getting to know talented student journalists with ACCENT has been my favorite part of my time at the college. Through our work, we’ve consistently created fact-based journalism that helps ACC students learn about their school. I can’t wait to see what they create next.

I can’t graduate without thanking the class-act person and all-around amazing instructor, Professor Paul Brown. He’s been incredibly helpful and supportive throughout my time at ACC. Dr. Brown teaches his journalism classes in such an infectious way. Before you know it, you’ll want to be a journalist too.

I’m currently looking for full-time reporter jobs in Texas and the Southwest U.S. At the moment I’m aiming to enter the journalism industry by working at a public radio station or a local newspaper, but I’m open to considering any opportunity that presents itself.

To my fellow ACC Riverbat graduates of spring 2022, congratulations on your achievements! Trust in yourself and your abilities. We made it this far, and now it’s time for us to show the world what we can do. I can’t wait to see where your path leads you. I hope our paths cross again soon.