Inspiring Others

Since its inception, Texas A&M International University has been an institution that has seen many of its former students become hard working members of society and leaders of the city of Laredo and of the state of Texas. As proof, many of them have come back and talked about their experiences and how their time at TAMIU shaped the person they are today. Former Director of Marketing and Sales for The Bridge Student Newspaper and current TAMIU Writing Center Tutor, Mark Nix, is one of those people. Having just recently graduated in August, Nix remains an asset to TAMIU. The difference is that he now performs under the staffer, as opposed to student, label. Nix visited the journalistic writing class on Sept. 25 to share his story.

Nix discussed his experience at his brand new job and how he applies what he learned as a senior reporter in a student newspaper to his current occupation. "My undergraduate experience really helped me get this job," he stated. Nonetheless, he said that his job now was quite different from his job at the newspaper as a senior reporter. "It's completely different. It's an eye-opening experience, because now I'm on the other side of the table," he said. Arguably, one of the most challenging things is the difference in writing styles that both his former and current job require. "Journalistic writing is so much different from academic writing. In the sense that journalistic writing is much more proactive and much more in the moment, as opposed to academic papers, which can be very dry, not stale, but they can be much more research oriented; and in journalistic writing there's a voice," Nix said. He also affirms that he still goes by his journalistic etiquette in his everyday life interactions with others, acting professionally and courteously, as reporters are taught to do.

Moreover, Nix discussed how he got to where he is now. He changed his mind several times before declaring a major. He had previously pursued Biology and Business, before finally deciding for Communication. Nix admitted to liking the degree plan, but at one point doubting what specific career he could pursue with such degree. Also, he liked the fact that the degree is very broad and that he could try different things like writing, photography, and video editing, as opposed to just having the chance to do one thing. "You're qualified to do a lot of things [with this degree]," he affirmed. 

Excited to continue in a field where he can help others with their writing, Nix stated, "My favorite thing when I was here, when I was a senior reporter was helping the junior reporters. Helping them develop their craft, develop their style of writing. That feeling of knowing that you are making a difference in someone's life and helping them go in the direction that they want to go in...is intoxicating. I love helping students out. I love to be able to give back what I learned." When asked about future aspirations, Nix confided that he wishes to one day become a university professor and pass on the things that he has learned over the years to other students.

Mark Nix spoke to aspiring journalists to share his story and inspire those who are still unsure of what path to take in life. For Nix, choosing a career that was right for him and not giving up and surrendering to frustration, helped him get through college and persevere. He currently still works at TAMIU and hopes his story will inspire others to follow their dreams as well.

For more information, the university's writing center is located on Billy F. Cowart Hall 203. You may call (956) 326-2883 to make an appointment or if you have any questions.

(Joana Santillana may be reached at joana.santillana@dusty.tamiu.edu)