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College of Health Professions
Office of the Dean
Edinburg Office - Health Affairs Building West (EHABW) 2.230
Brownsville - Biomedical Research and Health Building BBRHB 2.101
Email: cohpinfo@utrgv.edu
Phone: 956-665-2291 (Edinburg campus)
Phone Alt: 956-882-5000 (Brownsville campus)
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Profiles in Excellence

2021

August 17, 2021

Kortney Mettlach

Name: Kortney Mettlach
Age: 21
Major: Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science
College: College of Health Professions
Hometown: Mission, Texas
High School: Homeschooled – Mission, Texas 

Why UTRGV?

During my last two years of high school, I had the opportunity to take several concurrent classes at UTRGV. As a homeschooler, it was a new, exciting experience for me. Because of the friendly community, I quickly felt that UTRGV was where I needed to stay for my bachelor’s degree. I wanted to live at home and stay close to my family, and UTRGV provided just that. I have met wonderful staff, faculty, and students that have challenged me both academically and professionally. UTRGV also has an impressive occupational therapy program that I hope to attend. In every decision I have made for college, I have trusted in God’s guidance and provision. I planned my course, but the Lord directed my steps – from choosing to attend UTRGV until now.

Read more about Kortney Mettlach.

 July 6, 2021

Gisselle Montemayor

Name: Gisselle Montemayor
Age: 22
Major: Biomedical Sciences
College: Health Affairs
Hometown:  McAllen, Texas
High School: James Nikki Rowe High School

Why UTRGV?

I chose UTRGV because I was offered a full ride for all four years of college and I would still be able to pursue a degree in what I was interested in. I am a very family-oriented person so staying here I felt would be the best decision for me. Many people don’t realize that the RGV is growing and changing, providing many opportunities that the generations before us didn’t have. Here I am four years later, debt free and pursuing a B.S. in Biomedical Sciences.

Read more about Giselle Montemayor.

May 11, 2021
Anayi Lenise Garza

Name: Anayi Lenise Garza
Age: 22
Major:  Rehabilitation Services
College: College of Health Professions
Hometown: Rio Grande City, TX
High School:  Rio Grande City High School 

Why UTRGV?
I wanted to stay close to home while attaining a quality education, and that is just one thing that UTRGV was able to offer me that no other school could. I’ve come across some incredible faculty, staff, and classmates throughout the years that I have learned so much from as a student and professional. UTRGV has provided me with amazing opportunities which I’m very thankful for. 

Read more about Anayi Lenise Garza.

March 9, 2021 Ana Sophia Mendoza

Name: Ana Sophia Mendoza
Age: 19
Major: Biomedical Sciences
College: College of Health Professions
Hometown: Edinburg
High School: South Texas High School for Health Professions, Mercedes, TX 

Why UTRGV?

I chose UTRGV based on three criteria: Cost-friendliness, proximity to home, and sense of community. This university offers quality education, all the while allowing me to experience college life amongst familiar faces and a culture unlike any other.

Read more about Ana Sophia Mendoza.

 February 23, 2021Alfredo Robles

Name: Alfredo Robles
Age: 21
Major: Exercise Science
College: College of Health Professions
Hometown: San Juan, TX
High School: South Texas High School for Health Professions, Mercedes, TX 

Why UTRGV?

I’m extremely thankful for everything I was able to learn from the great staff at UTRGV, and I feel blessed for having the opportunity to grow as a person and professional here. I chose to attend UTRGV because the university was so close to home, and it would allow me to spend more time with my family. After researching universities that offered the program of studies I was interested in, I quickly learned that UTRGV was an excellent option. It allowed me to graduate with no debt and start a new path to something greater.

Read more about Alfredo Robles.


 January 5, 2021Jacqueline Trevino

Name: Jacqueline Trevino
Age: 22
Major: Master of Science in Health Sciences Concentration in Healthcare Administration
College: College of Health Professions
Hometown: McAllen, TX
High School: James Nikki Rowe High School, McAllen, TX

Why UTRGV?

I chose to continue my education at UTRGV after graduating with my Bachelor of Science in Biology. I knew how extensive and well-rounded my education experience was at UTRGV and was hyped to come back and pursue a master’s degree. Not to mention it’s easily accessible from where I live and has very competitive pricing per course hour.

Read more about Jacqueline Trevino.

 

2020

November 17, 2020 Nicholas Gutierrez

Name: Nicholas Gutierrez
Age: 25
Major: Exercise Science
College: College of Health Professions
Hometown: Mercedes, TX
High School: Mercedes High School, Mercedes, TX 

Why UTRGV?
I decided to attend UTRGV mainly because I am able to stay close to home. The support of my mother, Lisa Hernandez, and grandpa, Amado Hernandez, make everything possible for me. With my four years of experience at UTRGV, it’s safe to say that this university also brings a warm and cozy feeling, just like home.

Read more about Nicholas Gutierrez.

 September 1, 2020Gabriela Parra

Name: Gabriela Parra
Age: 24
Major: Communication Studies
College: Liberal Arts
Hometown: McAllen, TX
High School: McAllen High School 

Why UTRGV?
I have collected an abundance of invaluable family memories at UTRGV from the time I was three years old. Evening walks around the Bronc Trail, standing in line with my brother to take a Christmas photo and celebrating my quinceañera at the UTPA Events Hall are just some of my many unforgettable moments. I have attended almost every March Madness, HESTEC and other campus events. My heart has always belonged to this campus and I am gratified that I followed it to UTRGV.

Read more about Gabriela Parra.

 August 25, 2020Stephanie Ayala

Name: Stephanie Desiree Ayala
Age: 29
Major: Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies
College: College of Rehabilitation Studies and Counseling
Hometown: San Antonio, TX
High School: James Madison High School in San Antonio, TX 

Why UTRGV?
UTRGV is completely different than other UT campuses and is unique in the sense of how close the community is. I have toured other campuses within the same university school system and did not find one quite like UTRGV. The staff along with faculty members are so friendly, helpful, and readily available to answer all questions and/or concerns.

Read more about Stephanie Desiree Ayala.

July 21, 2020Jose Garza

Name: Jose Omar Garza
Age: 22
Major: Rehabilitation Services
College: College of Health Professions
Hometown: Laredo, Texas
High School: United High School, Laredo, Texas 

Why UTRGV?
I chose UTRGV specifically because it was close to home and my family. Also, because it has the major I wanted to pursue and a great school environment.

Read more about Jose Garza.

 July 14, 2020Dan Reagan

Name: Dan Reagan
Age: 60
Major: PhD in Rehabilitation Counseling
College: College of Health Sciences
Hometown: Edinburg, Texas
High School: Edinburg High School 

Why UTRGV?
I chose UTRGV because of the interactions I had experienced with many of the faculty prior to me considering entering into a program of study. I appreciated the interest they demonstrated when presenting professional presentations in the community and among others in their profession. Much of the growth I experienced in the field was a direct result of faculty at the university encouragement I received even before applying for the program

Read more about Dan Reagan.

April 14, 2020
Jo-Ann Galindo

Name: Jo-Ann Galindo
Age: 22
Major: Clinical Laboratory Science
Hometown: Rio Grande City, TX

Why UTRGV?
Before graduating high school, my plan was to move away for college. However, as graduation got closer, I realized being close to home and my family was very important to me. It was then when I decided to stay in the Valley and attend UTRGV. Being close to the people I most love while still being able to attend college and obtain my desired degree was perfect. 

Read more about Jo-Ann Galindo.

March 10, 2020Ricardo Duarte

Name: Ricardo Duarte
Age: 25
Major: Master of Science in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling 
Hometown: Pharr, Texas
High School: PSJA North High School

Why UTRGV?
UTRGV offered one thing to me that no other university could offer, which was closeness. The fact that I can attend a university right in my neighborhood without ever leaving my home or my family didn’t make me think twice about my choice to attend UTRGV. I had the same idea when I was graduating from high school and was able to attend UTPA and earn a bachelor’s degree in Psychology back in the spring of 2015. The fact that I can attend UTRGV and go back home after my classes makes it perfect for me.

Read more about Ricardo Duarte.

 February 11, 2020Dana Day

Name: Dana Day          
Age: 25
Major: BS in Exercise Science with emphasis in Physical Therapy
Hometown: Coarsegold, California
High School: Yosemite High School 

Why UTRGV?
I was looking for a college that was supportive, affordable and knowledgeable about contemporary career choices. While a biology pre-physical therapy route is common, I noticed that UTRGV was preparing pre-health professionals through their exercise science degree plan which is helping to bridge the path for these majors into the allied health field of Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT).

Read more about Dana Day.

 

2019

December 3, 2019Gabriel Carrizales

Name: Gabriel Esteban Carrizales Jr.
Age: 31
Major: Master of Science in Health Care Administration
Hometown: Mission, Texas
High School: La Joya High School 

Why UTRGV?
After serving seven years in the United States Navy, I wanted to come home and start over. I knew I wanted to go to college locally. Before I got discharged, my mom, Criselda, and sister, Selina, motivated me to complete the paperwork to begin school at South Texas College. After they graduated, we all transferred to legacy institution UTPA. As a Veteran, I struggled at first with the transition into civilian life. The Military and Veterans Success Center on campus helped facilitate my transition into a full-time student, and I was hired as a work-study soon thereafter. Being around fellow student Veterans really made things easier, along with my family being with me every step of the way.

Read more about Gabriel Carrizales.

October 22, 2019

Luis Salinas

Name: Luis Enrique Salinas
Age: 20
Major: Clinical Laboratory Science
Hometown: McAllen, TX 

Why UTRGV?

Contrary to other younglings, I do quite love the Valley and would find it hard to ever leave! UTRGV offers the unique experience of obtaining a higher education while being able to stay close to friends and family.

Read more about Luis Salinas.

July 30, 2019

Roberto De La Garza

Name: Roberto De La Garza
Age: 21
Major: Biomedical Sciences
Hometown: Brownsville, Texas 

Why UTRGV?
I decided to attend UTRGV for the Rio Grande Valley's rich culture and its proximity to my home. As a Biomedical science student, UTRGV offers a wide spectrum of research fields and topics to choose and learn from. Additionally, UTRGV offers a quality education comparable with many of the state's leading public universities.

Read more about Roberto De La Garza.

May 7, 2019

Mariana Cerda

Name: Mariana Cerda
Age: 21
Major: Biomedical Sciences
Hometown: Weslaco, TX 

Why UTRGV?
My parents attended the university when it was UTPA, so I was always interested in the school and knew I would apply. I was admitted into the BMED program and was excited for the opportunity. I love that UTRGV has so much to offer and it is so close to home.

Read more about Mariana Cerda.

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