For me, life at Morningside is about more than academics. It’s about growth, community, and opening doors for others-something I’ll carry with me long after graduation.

My name is Byanka Olivarez Gomez, and I’m proud to call Sioux City home. I’m currently pursuing majors in Spanish, Graphic Design, and Marketing. On campus, I serve as an executive member of the Spanish Club, and I’m thrilled to step into the role of President this semester. Additionally, I am the Visual Arts Editor for Kiosk, a member of the Morningside Student Advertising Agency (MSAA), and I participated in the Connie Weimer Women’s Leadership Group (CWWL). My journey has also included working as a Peer Mentor, Campus Security officer and being inducted into Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK). I’m excited to face a new challenge as a member of the Track team. After dedicating so much of my time to academics, I felt it was the right time for a new adventure and to be part of a sport.

My path to Morningside began thanks to my sister, who graduated last year. For my family, education has always been a significant milestone. My parents were not able to obtain the education that they deserved, so the idea of attending a university was completely new to us. Seeing my sister graduate was an incredibly emotional moment for our family. I’ll never forget the photos of her giving her diploma to our dad and her cap to our mom-it was so meaningful.

This May, I’ll proudly follow in her footsteps as the second in our family to graduate from college. It’s an achievement that not only fills our parents with pride but also opens the doors for younger siblings to dream big. By earning my bachelor’s degree, I’m showing them that pursuing a master’s or even a doctorate is within reach. Education has been a gift my parents taught us to value, and it’s a legacy I’m proud to continue.

When I first arrived at Morningside as an X-Path student, I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life. Honestly, I still don’t have everything figured out—but that’s okay. Over time, I reflected deeply on my skills, interests, and goals. I chose Marketing and Graphic
Design because I felt they aligned with who I am and who I want to become. Although I have always felt like I know a little about everything, I have learned that asking questions helps you grow.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the power of asking for help. It’s not something I naturally like to do, but I’ve come to understand that growth comes from learning from others, asking questions, and admitting when you don’t know something. That is where learning happens.

If there’s one message I’d like to share, especially with other Hispanic students, it’s this: do not underestimate yourselves. Keep going! Our culture instills resilience in us, and while it is important to keep striving and giving your best in everything you do, it is also important to take care of your mental health. It’s okay not to be okay, and it’s okay to take things one day at a time.

I hope that when people think of me, they remember my smile. Whether it’s through my roles at the university or when I worked as a Campus Security officer, I love connecting with others and aim to brighten their day, whether with a smile or a helping hand.