The Honors Experience

Your Honors journey goes beyond the classroom, guided by three cross-curricular pillars: Inquiry & Creativity, Leadership, and Local & Global Engagement. These pillars shape what you learn and who you become, fostering curiosity, leadership, and a commitment to service.

Each year, Honors Scholars complete at least two activities in each pillar, with one per pillar from an Honors College or HON-sponsored event. These experiences complement — not duplicate — your coursework, encouraging you to explore passions, build skills, and make a difference locally and globally.

Activities must be completed outside required course assignments, HBC projects, practicums, or degree-required internships.

UTRGV Honors College students can take Honors courses abroad, combining academic excellence with the transformative experience of living and learning in a new cultural setting. Studying abroad allows you to immerse yourself in another country’s history, traditions, and perspectives while earning Honors credit toward your degree.

These programs deepen your understanding of the world, strengthen cross-cultural communication skills, and broaden the way you see your studies — and yourself — within a global context.

Eta Omicron Nu (HON) is the student organization of the UTRGV Honors College, open to all Honors students who want to connect, lead, and serve. Through regular meetings, service projects, and campus events, HON members give back to the community, foster a spirit of collaboration, and represent the best of Vaquero life.

Grounded in leadership and community engagement, HON offers students opportunities to build lasting friendships, develop professional skills, and make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond.

Follow HON on Instagram @honorsgetsitdone to see our members in action.

The Archer Fellowship Program offers students from across the UT System the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in Washington, D.C., exploring government, policy, and leadership. Honors students are encouraged to apply to strengthen their professional skills, expand their networks, and grow as changemakers ready to make an impact.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Overall GPA: 3.0 or higher
• Previous work or internship experience
• Campus leadership and/or community involvement
• Junior or senior status at the time of participation
• Completion of 24 hours in-residence and basic government coursework

For more information, visit UTRGV's Archer Program website.