GSP Scholars and Ambassadors

2026 Gulf Scholar

Junior, Biology Major

College of Sciences

“Hi, my name is Brooke Patula, and I’m currently majoring in biology at UTRGV. I’m interested in learning more about the environment, healthcare, and ways to help my community. I love taking on new challenges and being part of programs that create meaningful impact. I’m grateful for the chance to join the Gulf Scholars Program and look forward to what I’ll learn.”​

2026 Gulf Scholar

Junior, Biology Major

College of Sciences

"Hi, my name is Danielle Barber, and I’m an undergraduate junior at UTRGV on the path toward medical school with the goal of becoming a pediatrician. Alongside my studies, I work three jobs as a dance teacher, art teacher, and assistant, which have helped me develop creativity, discipline, and a strong work ethic. Balancing school and work has shaped me into someone who thrives in fast-paced, supportive environments and isn’t afraid of a challenge. Being part of a community that values growth and opportunity has motivated me to keep pushing forward and become the best version of myself as I prepare for a future in medicine."

2026 Gulf Scholar

Junior, Political Science Major

College of Liberal Arts

“I am committed to addressing the inequities that shape access to food, clean water, and reliable energy. My work in Arizona, along with my own personal experiences... strengthened my dedication to political, social, and environmental justice. Supporting Indigenous communities facing chronic water shortages and strained energy systems made me realize how deeply these issues are tied to history, policy, and equity. Through the GSP, I hope to expand my understanding…. and contribute to community-led projects that create long-term, equitable change in the Gulf region.”​

2026 Gulf Scholar

Junior, Information Systems Major

Robert C. Vackar College of Business & Entrepreneurship

“My name is Ewuradwoa Nketiah, a third-year undergraduate student of the Information Systems department and originally from Ghana. I'm so glad and excited to be a part of the 2026 Gulf Scholars Program.”

2026 Gulf Scholar

Sophomore, integrated Health Science Major

College of Health Professions

“Hello, my name is Jesus Hernandez, and I am majoring in Integrated Health Sciences. I was born and raised in Brownsville, Texas, and I am deeply committed to serving my community, which is a major reason I chose to join the Gulf Scholars Program. I have a strong passion for community health, a love for the Houston Texans, music, and prickly pears. I aspire to become a physician in emergency medicine and hope to return to serve the Rio Grande Valley, the community that shaped me.”​

2026 Gulf Scholar

Sophomore, Mechanical Engineering Major

College of Engineering & Computer Science

“Hello, my name is Joel and I am a Mechanical Engineering student hoping to one day become an Aerospace Engineer. I am a sophomore currently on my second year of university looking forward to making accomplishments and participate in many projects as I can willing to learn in any branch of engineering. I am a big fan of baseball waiting for the season to begin, also love motorsports like Formula 1, WRC, and MotoGP. And one of my hobbies during my free time or a way to rest from studying is watching TV shows and movies.”​

2026 Gulf Scholar

Sophomore, Environmental Science Major

College of Sciences

“Hi! My name is Miranda Mayek Hernandez and I am an Environmental Science major with a Business Administration minor. I’m passionate about research and science communication in different branches from my area and I want to build a career in academia , however, I’m also heavily invested in social issues. I firmly believe science and society should work as one and nurture each other. Out of my career goals, I enjoy rock climbing, reading, making crafts, nature photography and taking walks in natural areas.”​

2026 Gulf Scholar

Junior, Biology Major

College of Sciences

“I earned my associate degree in biology and spent the past two summers interning with Texas A&M AgriLife, where I gained valuable experience in research. I am also a licensed cosmetologist, which has strengthened my communication skills and passion for serving others. In my free time, I enjoy embroidery, playing volleyball, and watching movies. I’m excited to be part of the Gulf Scholars Program and look forward to contributing to projects that support our coastal communities.”​

2026 Gulf Scholar

Junior, Art Education Major

College of Fine Arts

“I am a Mexican American artist from Brownsville, Texas, specializing in photography and ceramics, with additional experience in oil painting. The cultural and social landscape of the border region has profoundly influenced my artistic perspective and continues to motivate my commitment to creative exploration. I am currently pursuing a degree in Art with a concentration in Education, where I hope to integrate my artistic practice with a dedication to creating meaningful and inclusive learning experiences for future students.”

2026 Gulf Scholar

Junior, Marketing Major

Robert C. Vackar College of Business & Entrepreneurship

“Hello! My name is Olivia Silva, and I am an international student from Mexico, majoring in Marketing with a minor in Sociology. I like to swim, read, and watch comedy shows in my free time. I currently work as a Trailblazer here at UTRGV, where I help first-year students successfully transition to college, and I am thrilled to apply the knowledge I’ve gained in this program!” ​

2026 Gulf Scholar

Sophomore, Marketing Major

Robert C. Vackar College of Business & Entrepreneurship

“Hello! My name is Rosa Aburto, and I am studying Marketing; I like crime documentaries, rock collecting, and watching horror movies; I look forward to working with everyone in the Gulf Scholars program!”​

2026 Gulf Scholar

Sophomore, Biomedical Science Major

College of Health Professions

“I’m majoring in Biomedical Science with minors in Kinesiology and Psychology, and I plan to pursue a career in medicine with a focus on pediatric oncology to create meaningful change in the Rio Grande Valley and Gulf region. I am also conducting undergraduate research on Glioblastoma Multiform through the Biomedical and Health Research Department, which has strengthened my skills in sustainability, science, and community impact. Overall, I’m excited to be part of this program and look forward to contributing positively to the people I serve in the future.”​