Mentorship & Guidance: TSC Speaker Series Helps Students Connect with Experience

Texas Southmost College’s Office of Student Life hosted another installment of its Distinguished Speaker Series on Thursday, October 16, 2025, in Conference Room 3 on the second floor of the Oliveira Student Services Building for the college’s Student Leadership Academy (SLA), continuing its tradition of connecting students with college leaders and professionals.

This session featured Dr. Patricia M. Blanco, instructor of Organizational Management at TSC, who spoke to students about the importance of etiquette and professionalism, which are both crucial elements of personal and career success. Her presentation covered topics such as proper workplace conduct, professional communication, and appropriate attire. Dr. Blanco emphasized how these elements work in tandem to help build confidence and credibility for students who are preparing to enter a professional environment as part of their career pathways.

“Professionalism and etiquette are essential because they prepare students not just for academic success but also for lifelong careers and personal growth,” said Dr. Blanco. “These skills build the foundation for how individuals present themselves, interact with others, and navigate diverse professional and social settings.”

The weekly presentations feature guest speakers from across the college, typically offering around nine sessions each semester. The sessions are just one of the many different professional development opportunities facilitated for the SLA, who regularly attend a variety of workshops, conferences, and special events to help build and strengthen their leadership skills. The students who attend the speaker sessions and complete 20 volunteer hours receive a certificate of completion, recognizing their dedication to leadership development and community involvement.

The series is coordinated by TSC Student Services, who strive to continuously create new opportunities for students to engage with college professionals in open, conversational, and informative settings. “These sessions are designed to help students gain firsthand insights into areas like leadership, professionalism, and networking while also preparing for their future academic and career success,” said Sophie Vega, TSC Student Services Specialist, emphasizing the many important skills that the students develop over time.

By being a part of events like the Distinguished Speaker Series, TSC’s Student Leadership Academy continues to strengthen a culture of mentorship and personal development, empowering students to take initiative and develop the professional tools needed to thrive in their future careers beyond college.