Running Toward Success: Cece Charles’ ETAMU Journey
Born and raised on the Caribbean Island of Grenada, Cece Charles began her academic journey at East Texas A&M University in January 2024. Now a Business Administration student with a passion for Economics and a committed member of the track team, she has found an environment where she can excel both in the classroom and on the track — a path she plans to continue to pursue after her graduation.
Expected to graduate in May 2026, Cece came to east Texas A&M on a track and field scholarship and recognized it as the perfect place to challenge herself and grow. Cece's interest in business was sparked during high school years, but it was her first economics class that cemented her resolved to pursue economics.
“Its connection to abstract theory with issues that are happening in the world today like inflation, trade, tariffs and the economy as a whole has always kept me wanting to learn and study it more,” Charles explains.
This enthusiasm has been further nurtured at East Texas A&M, particularly through the mentorship of Director of Marketing and Communications for College of Business and Adjunct Instructor of Marketing, Yazan Kakish, who inspired her decision to continue with a master’s degree in Economics at the university.
“Doing my master's here, I hope to gain the resources and knowledge needed to understand problems that are happening in the economy, how to fix them, and how to help others who are also experiencing those problems,” she said.
Beyond the classroom, Charles is an accomplished track athlete who has been running since childhood. Her athletic achievements include winning national championships in her home country of Grenada and successfully competing against college students while still in primary school. Charles credits track with helping her develop discipline, time management skills, and building her confidence.
When asked about managing her demanding dual commitments, Charles attributes her success to careful planning emphasizing the need for structure and consistency.
“I balance my track and academic simply by using a planner. Every Sunday I will write down what assignments I’ll do per day and I will always get them done on that specific day”.
To fellow students pursuing multiple passions, Charles offers this advice: “Set goals and work towards them. Be intentional with your time and don’t stray away from your priorities. Lean into your support system and don’t go through anything alone”.
The College of Business at East Texas A&M continues to support exceptional students like Cece Charles as they balance academic pursuits with other passions, preparing them to make meaningful contributions in their chosen fields