Profile for

Crystal Reyes

College of Innovation and Design

Educational Background

• BAAS, Safety and Health, East Texas A&M University, in progress

Honors and Awards

• SCLA Member and Honor Society
• Dean’s List, Spring 2026 Semester

A Conversation with Crystal

Why did you choose to attend East Texas A&M?

I chose to attend East Texas A&M because it gave working moms like me the opportunity to continue our education. After being out of school for more than 10 years, I wanted a school that fit my expectations and busy schedule while working toward my desired degree. It has given me the chance to grow both personally and professionally.

What challenge did you overcome or are you working to overcome to achieve a goal?

The biggest challenge I am currently working to overcome is finding a healthy balance between my career, my family and my education while staying focused on my goal of graduating in 2027. As a full-time employee, a mother of three boys under three years, and a full-time student year-round, every day requires careful planning, discipline and sacrifice. My job is very demanding, requiring me to facilitate training for new operations employees, support the safe execution of turnarounds and provide health and safety support across multiple facilities throughout the plant. To stay on track, I have learned that every minute matters. I use my lunch breaks to study, complete assignments while my children are napping on weekends and often spend late evenings at the dining room table after finishing a full day of work, cooking dinner and getting my boys bathed and ready for bed. While they all sleep, Momma continues working because I know the sacrifices I make today will create a better future tomorrow for my family.

Just for Fun

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

• Rome, Italy

What makes you laugh?

• Big family gathering conversations especially on holidays.

What did you want to be when you were a child?

• A Teacher.

What is your favorite movie?

• The Sound of Freedom

What three things would you take with you to a deserted island?

• My bed, fan and music.

What celebrity would you like to meet for coffee? Why?

• Elon Musk, I admire his intelligence, creativity and ability to think differently. I would enjoy having a genuine conversation about everyday life, the experiences that shaped him and what motivates him.