BROWNSVILLE, Texas — Texas Southmost College opened its doors to a Los Fresnos family that believes in the power of higher education at every stage of life.

Hilda Martinez and her children, Brandon Guzman and Alexa Fernandez Sanchez Martinez, graduated from TSC with associate degrees on Saturday, May 16, 2026.

“Really exciting,” Martinez said. “It’s unimaginable. I’m proud I was able to graduate with them.”

 
Martinez, who works full-time in a local school district, said her children inspired her to return to school.
 
“I wanted to be a role model for them,” she said. “I wanted to show them they can do whatever they set their minds to. If I can do it after so many years, they can do it.”
 
She challenged Brandon to continue his education after he earned an HVAC certification.
 
“I said, ‘You go back and I go back.’ That’s how it started.”
 
Alexa was already taking dual enrollment courses at Los Fresnos High School when her mother and brother made their agreement.
 
“My mom is my top role model,” Alexa said. “She’s everything I want to be and more. She inspires me so much. She’s the person I want to be like.”
 
Martinez earned an associate of arts degree in social work while balancing her full-time job and online coursework.
 
“With that option, I was able to complete my degree,” she said. “I know for my bachelor’s, I’ll have to attend in person, and I’m excited.”
 
Brandon, like his sister, said he was inspired by his mother’s dedication.
 
He graduated from TSC’s automotive technology program with an associate of applied science degree.
 
“She shows it doesn’t matter what you’re doing, your age or how busy you are — there’s always time for school,” he said. “All three of us work and go to school.”
 
Their unique graduation story drew attention from media outlets beyond the Rio Grande Valley, appearing in newscasts across Texas.
 
Alexa, who earned an associate of arts degree in general studies, plans on studying marine biology at a four-year institution.
 
She said graduating alongside her family is something she will always value.
 
“We honestly owe it all to TSC,” Alexa said. “As a high school student, for my mom as a working mom and for my brother, who graduated during the COVID-19 pandemic, we wouldn’t have been able to do this without TSC.”