My name is Tess Underbrink. I am a senior at Pleasanton High School and I will be attending Texas A&M University in the Fall where I will be majoring in Ag Communications and Journalism. Throughout high school, I have taken all Pre-AP, AP, and Honors classes while maintaining a 4.0 GPA. I have been the Pleasanton FFA Treasurer and Secretary, Fellowship of Christain Athletes Officer, two-year Pleasanton High School Volleyball team Captain, Texas High School Rodeo Region 8 President, Atascosa County Equine Enthusiasts 4-H Club Historian, and two-time Treasurer and National Honor Society member.
When it comes to extracurricular activities I am most active throughout my rodeo career. I have rodeoed for over 10 years and although I have been successful in the arena, I have learned so many life lessons that couldn’t be taught in the classroom. Responsibility has to be the most crucial attribute I have acquired while being involved in rodeo. From the long nights tending to injured horses to keeping them healthy and in shape, it is a 24/7 job. Throughout my time with Texas High School Rodeo Region 8 I have acquired many All-Around Cowgirl and Pole Bending Champion titles. I have qualified for State Finals every year and National Finals in the Jr. High division where I ended up 3rd in the Nation in Pole Bending.
Along with my rodeo career, I have fallen in love with the sport of volleyball. As the setter and captain of the Pleasanton High School Volleyball team my coach held me to a higher standard than the rest of the girls. Although at times I didn’t fully understand the reasons for some of the things he did, I now know that it was to not only better me as an athlete but also a person. I am grateful for volleyball because of the friendships I acquired and the high level of accountability it taught me. I will take these lessons with me for the rest of my life and most importantly to Texas A&M University.
