By Victoria Brito Morales

Join us as we celebrate UTRGV alumni from the past decade who are making waves in their communities. In this special feature series, we delve into the incredible stories of those who have carried the UTRGV spirit beyond campus walls. Discover how their experiences shaped their paths and what their alma mater means to them as we honor this momentous 10th anniversary.

 

MEET Steven Masso: Game Designer Helping Shape One of the World’s Biggest Sports Franchises

 

Where It All Began: Brownsville, Texas
Scholarly Journey: Bachelor of Arts in Communication (2018)
Career Calling: Game Designer – Content Expert
Where I Make an Impact: Electronic Arts – Madden NFL

 

What is your current role, and how do you find it rewarding?

I am a designer on the Madden NFL series at Electronic Arts, where I focus on designing the Team Pass. Last year, we introduced player cards for the first time, giving users the ability to customize their profiles with backgrounds, borders, and images representing their favorite teams.

Being part of a franchise as globally recognized as Madden is incredibly rewarding — it’s a unique blend of creativity, sports, and fan engagement. Seeing players interact with and enjoy features I helped design is especially meaningful.

 

What motivated you to choose UTRGV for your studies?

I love the Rio Grande Valley — especially my hometown of Brownsville. As much as I enjoy traveling, staying close to my family and remaining part of a community I deeply appreciate made choosing UTRGV an easy decision.

 

How did your experience at the university shape your career path?

My path at UTRGV was wide-ranging. I studied communication, history, anatomy, organic chemistry — a little bit of everything. At first, I worried that exploring so many interests might be a setback. But over time, I realized that nothing we learn is ever wasted.

Each course, challenge, and new interest helped me grow, whether through networking, pushing myself academically, or discovering new passions. Pursuing all of my goals — even the unexpected ones — played a significant role in bringing me to where I am today.

 

What are some of your fondest memories from your time at UTRGV?

It’s hard to narrow down, but two experiences stand out.

After the COVID-19 lockdown, I took anatomy courses with Dr. Robertson and Dr. Canchola. Dr. Robertson’s positive, energetic teaching style and Dr. Canchola’s passion and genuine care for students were uplifting during a difficult, isolating time. Those classes meant a great deal to me.

The other set of memories comes from my communication studies. Professors like Dr. Wasike, Cook, Falk, and Hinojosa were incredible, and Dr. Strong had a profound influence on my education. His insight and wisdom shaped me in many ways. I also formed a tight-knit friend group during that time — and we still keep in touch today.

 

How do you feel the university has evolved over the past 10 years?

The growth has been remarkable. Every year, UTRGV introduces new programs and opportunities that make the Valley proud. Years ago, imagining a medical school, a cancer research center, and a Division I football team felt almost impossible — and now all of those things are a reality.

 

What advice would you give to current university students based on your experiences?

Show yourself grace. Too often, I fell into the mindset that my happiness depended on the next achievement — “once I get my degree,” “once I get this job,” and so on.

But when you slow down and appreciate where you are, you realize that progress doesn’t diminish your sense of accomplishment. There’s a well-known saying that life is about the journey, not the destination, and it’s a powerful reminder for anyone feeling pressured to succeed quickly.

 

What are your hopes for the future of UTRGV as it moves into its next decade?

UTPA and UTB were historic pillars of the Valley, and UTRGV has carried that legacy forward with strength and momentum. As the university expands and earns more global attention, I hope it continues serving as a gateway of opportunity for the local community — something I’m confident it will keep doing.