Pamela Xhunaxhii Ortiz Suarez is making the most of her time at Austin Community College District (ACC), and she’s doing it with heart, talent, and purpose. The 19-year-old Music Instrumentation major is working toward her associate degree with plans to transfer to the University of Texas at Austin and pursue a bachelor’s in Music Education.

She’s also a performer, guitar and voice teacher, and pageant titleholder currently serving as Miss Teen Supreme Texas.

“I started last fall of 2024 and hopefully finish by next spring of 2026,” Pamela says. “I chose ACC for the free tuition, and the experience here is what makes college worth it!”

Pamela’s story is a reflection of the message behind It’s Your Time—ACC’s campaign celebrating the students who are choosing themselves, their futures, and their next steps. For Pamela, ACC arrived at just the right moment.

“I think ACC was the right time for me since I was still considering a certain minor, and in the end, I went a different route. Luckily, since ACC has given free tuition, I have taken the advantage to explore other options and courses.”

She selected the music program because it speaks to her core: “Since I was a little girl, I was guided to learn and teach music in a way to inspire others.”

In addition to her passion for music, Pamela is a first-generation college student proud to represent her family in higher education. She’s also made the most of ACC’s support systems. “I used the advising resource, which helped me develop my course schedule to my liking and helped me choose the best courses.”

Through it all, Pamela has found community and mentorship on her path.

“My favorite part of ACC is learning about the community and how welcoming everyone is. No matter where you come from it will always feel like home at ACC,” she says. “My favorite memorable experience was my first guitar ensemble. Learning and having fun with my friends and family is the best feeling.”

Her advice to those wondering if it’s their time: “First off, go for it! It is a huge opportunity to succeed and be someone you aspire to become! Take risks, make mistakes, but most importantly, be yourself and be patient with the process! No matter the outcome you will succeed and triumph in the future!”

It’s Your Time to start this fall at ACC. For more information, visit austincc.edu/fall.

Tags: Fall 2025, Free Tuition, It's Your Time, music, Music Instrumentation