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Lessons About Legacy

What my dad’s passing taught me about building a life of meaning.

By Jake Carter '25, Head Yell Leader

Belonging to Company E-1, Carter has also served Texas A&M as a member of the Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity and Texas A&M Foundation's Maroon Coats ambassador program.

There I was on the 50-yard line, leading “The Spirit of Aggieland” to over 100,000 Aggie fans in a sold-out Kyle Field. Chills rushed through me as I took in the incredible, word-defying experience. Scanning the stadium, I grasped the immense power of the 12th Man and truly understood the meaning of “There’s a spirit can ne’er be told.” In that moment, I knew I was exactly where I was supposed to be.

What led me to Texas A&M University and my journey as a Yell Leader was my dad, who, despite being a t-sip, encouraged me and my twin sister to consider Aggieland for its sense of community. Unfortunately, he never got to see us in maroon and white due to his passing from cancer the summer before my freshman year of high school. I remember going into his bedroom afterward, confronted by all his belongings, and it struck me: Life goes by in the blink of an eye, and all our things will be left behind. What lives on is our legacy and the lives of the people we impact. Through my grief, I realized the importance of being intentional with the time I had to build a life and legacy of meaning. When it came time for college, I saw Texas A&M as the perfect place to carry out that calling.
 


Here in Aggieland, I have fully immersed myself in the rich culture and traditions at the heart of our university. I’ve realized that Texas A&M is more than just a place to earn a degree; it’s a family willing to do whatever it takes to support one another. I feel blessed that the Lord has allowed me to pursue my mission of intentionally and humbly serving others through my role as a Yell Leader. To think that I am living out my story and legacy daily while contributing to Texas A&M’s legacy is remarkable. Whether I’m bringing joy and wonder to a child’s eyes as I pause for a photo or leading thousands of fellow Aggies in yells, I understand the importance of fostering the Aggie Spirit and carrying out the core values that make this university more than just an institution but also an enduring legacy itself.

When I graduate in just a few short months, my legacy as a student and Yell Leader will end in exchange for the start of a new journey. But I will continue to embrace the Aggie Spirit and our core values in every experience I have, because at Texas A&M, I’ve learned that it’s ultimately through our everyday actions and encounters that our legacy forms and our life takes meaning. I will walk the stage confidently knowing I’ve answered my calling, and I know in my heart my dad is proud.

Jake Carter ’25 is a first-generation Aggie from San Antonio serving as Head Yell Leader. When he’s not listening to Marty Robbins, he’s looking for thrilling adventures or swapping stories around a campfire. After graduation, Jake plans to embark on a career in business, with a long-term goal of running his own company. 

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