Howdy! My name is Zachary Lawrence and I am a sophomore psychology major from Shiner, Texas. I’m also a member of the 
Corps of Cadets in Company E-1. Most importantly I am a proud of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Class of 2016!  I was raised in a family of Aggies. My grandfather was class of ’64, my parents were both class of ’89, my brother graduated last Spring, and my sister is currently finishing her degree. My family  dates back to this university’s beginnings. My great-great grandfather became the first student to enroll at Texas A&M when was just 16. For as long as I can remember, my family has lived and breathed Texas A&M University. I was blessed to grow up hearing stories about the different eras of the school’s history and felt a love for this school long before I had even seen it. Although being a fifth generation Aggie might have given me an inherent love and interest for the school, it was not the only reason I wanted to become an Aggie. My family’s occasional visits in the fall opened my eyes to A&M’s unique qualities that make it special. The energetic atmosphere of campus on game day, the time honored traditions, and the small town feel of College Station are what really impacted me and overwhelmingly drew me here. 

Since coming here my love for the University has only grown stronger. My amazing Fish Camp experience introduced me to many Aggies that would become my new classmates. Their welcoming friendliness helped make the beginning of my journey here one of my favorite memories. I joined the Corps of Cadets as a member of E-1 like my father and brother before me. Through the Corps, I have made some of my best friends and I have learned more about leadership than I thought possible. By attending Silver Taps and Muster, I have had the true power of the Aggie spirit instilled in me. I have also had the opportunity to participate in Big Event as well as Songfest. By doing this, I have learned there is so much to be gained by giving back to those in need. From the beginning, being an Aggie has been my driving motivation. This University has given me so much more than I ever could have imagined. Recently I have been blessed further with the opportunity to possibly serve as a Junior Yell Leader. If selected for this honor, I will serve with the same energy, passion, and love I have felt for Texas A&M all my life.