Vanessa San Martin
Name: Vanessa San Martin
Age: 23
Major: Business Management
Hometown: Ebano, San Luis Potosí, Mexico
Why UTRGV?
I chose to study at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley because it offers big opportunities for students, it is in a great location near Mexico and my family, and more importantly, it has a great academic rank. I have learned English as a second language thanks to the courses the university offers for beginners. I have also discovered a culture that contrasts with mine, and that is important because when you experience new things, you grow both as a person and professionally.
What made you decide on your current major?
My parents have always been an excellent example of what entrepreneurship is and I think I get my love for business from them. I grew up around the family business and since I was very little I knew that I was going to study business for sure.
What are your plans after graduation?
After I accomplish a goal, there has to always be another one. After graduation, my goal is to invest in my own business – that is why I chose to study management. I want to implement all my knowledge to make my dream come true and take my own business to the top.
What are you involved in on and off campus?
I work in the UTRGV Recruitment and Scholarships Department, where I help students achieve their educational goals and continue to improve my customer service skills. I have been on the Dean’s List numerous times, which is amazing for me because I came to this country from zero and now I can say “I did it.” All the sacrifice and effort was worth it.
What is your biggest accomplishment to date?
There is nothing impossible in this life, because if there is life, there is opportunity. We have our future in our hands. What is going to decide if we are going to be successful in life or not, are our very own decisions. I already decided; I challenged myself to learn a new language, culture, people, and to improve my knowledge and expectations of life. I reached my goal. I am an international student at UTRGV and I am on its Dean’s List. Those are my biggest accomplishments; now, I am coming for more.
What advice do you have for future students?
It is easy to get lost sometimes, so I encourage all new students to always focus on what they want and to be passionate about what they do. Always see the positive side of everything and learn from your experiences.