Elisa Texaj-Fuentes is a Chemistry major who has earned placements on the Dean’s List and received Gold Star awards. She is an international cadet from Guatemala who plays on The Citadel women’s soccer team. Following graduation, Texaj-Fuentes plans to pursue a master’s degree and continue playing soccer.

Why did you choose The Citadel?

I chose The Citadel because I knew it would challenge me and help me grow personally. I also felt it was the right place to prepare myself for the future.

What is engraved on the inside of your ring and what is its significance?

My ring has my first and middle names, the name of my country and 2026. My names define who I am as a human being and how I evolved during these four years at The Citadel. I included my country because I always feel very proud to let the world know where I come from, and 2026 because it is the culmination of my preparation for life.

Who was the most influential person in your life that impacted your journey?

My mother, without a doubt.

What are three things The Citadel taught you that you will continue into your life and career?

Organization, helping others and believing in myself.

How do you think the challenges and experiences at The Citadel have shaped the person you are today?

I think they have forged a stronger character within me so that I can believe in myself more. They have made me plan various plans and be specific with my plans.

What will you miss the most about your time at The Citadel?

Without a doubt, the people I have met. They are the best thing I have found at The Citadel, along with the experiences and quality time that you can only have here at The Citadel.

If you could go back and give advice to your freshman self, what would you say and why?

It is one of the challenges that will help you grow the most in life; listen, learn and do it better.

Do you have a unique moment from here that you will never forget?

On Recognition Day, my heart felt peaceful but very full. I was able to breathe deeply and know that I had completed it. It was a magical inner satisfaction.

How will you bring a positive meaning to the legacy of the ring?

I will bring a positive meaning to the legacy of the ring by letting it remind me every day of the journey that brought me here and the people who stood beside me along the way. To me, this ring is more than a symbol, it carries stories of hard work, resilience and the hope of those who came before me. I want to honor that legacy by living with kindness, staying true to my values and using what I’ve learned to make a difference in the lives of others. In this way, the ring will always represent not just where I’ve been, but the positive impact I strive to leave behind.

About The Citadel Class of 2026’s ring stories

Members of The Citadel Class of 2026 receive their rings on Friday, Sept. 19. Before getting their rings, some seniors spoke about the event’s significance with Cadet Emma Moore, the Regimental Public Affairs Officer for the South Carolina Corps of Cadets. Moore is from Akron, Ohio and has a double major in Intelligence and Security Studies and Spanish. She is a member of Sigma Delta Pi, a national Spanish honor society. After graduation, Moore hopes to conduct counter-narcotic operations for the Drug Enforcement Administration.