On December 12, Alyssa Barrientos became the first student to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University College of Criminal Justice (SHSU-COCJ) through the SHSU-Texas Southmost College (TSC) Pathway. Barrientos, a first-generation college student from Brownsville, Texas, chose SHSU because of its focus on supporting students and its accessibility.
“It’s a place where students are supported and encouraged to grow,” Barrientos said. “When I became aware that TSC partnered with SHSU, I was immediately very interested and excited about the partnership that would allow me to obtain my degree through a school I had always dreamed of attending.”
In 2024, SHSU expanded its criminal justice program to Brownsville by offering in-person courses taught by SHSU instructors at TSC’s Tandy Hall. This collaboration aimed to remove geographic barriers for students seeking higher education.
“World-class education doesn’t require leaving home; it requires commitment,” said David Stender, senior director for strategy and innovation at SHSU-COCJ. “Barrientos’ graduation is more than a first, it’s the foundation of a growing pathway for South Texas students.”
Barrientos maintained her connection with SHSU despite being over six hours away from the main campus. She kept in touch with professors and advisors through virtual meetings and stayed informed about campus events via social media.
“With the support of TSC, SHSU advisors, staff, instructors and especially my family, I was able to get through this journey with confidence and determination. Their guidance and encouragement allowed me not only to succeed academically but also to feel like a member of the SHSU community despite the distance,” she said. “I am grateful for everyone who played a role in helping me reach this milestone and prepare for the next chapter of my future.”
Barrientos attended the fall 2025 commencement ceremony in Huntsville, Texas, and also participated in an additional celebration held locally in Brownsville.
“Walking at commencement gave me the confidence to learn that I belong in spaces that used to only exist in my imagination,” said Barrientos. “The completion of my degree represents more than a personal achievement. As a first-generation college student, it represents years of sacrifices made by my parents and myself.”
She plans to start her career in law enforcement and is considering further studies toward a master’s degree.
“I’m looking forward to starting my career in law enforcement and contributing to a profession grounded in responsibility, integrity and service,” she said.
For more information about the SHSU-TSC pathway program, contact cjpathways@shsu.edu.
