Isabel Jimenez

Name: Isabel Jimenez
Age: 23
Major: Exercise Science
Hometown: Brownsville   

Why UTRGV?
What I appreciate about UTRGV is its location, which has allowed me to get the full college experience in one of its best programs close to home.   

What made you decide on your current major?
Athletics has always been an important aspect of my life and it seemed as though this degree plan the university offers was a perfect fit for me. My passion of athleticism made this program exciting and a pleasure to get through.  I thank my professors who challenged me and inspired me to continue to reach the milestone of graduation and to strive to further my education after graduation. I also love working with kids with disabilities and can see myself enjoying a longtime career working with them. 

What are your plans after graduation?
Following graduation in December 2016, I intend to further my education by obtaining a degree in physical therapy or a Certification in Physical Therapy Assistant and work with kids with disabilities for the upcoming fall semester in San Antonio. During this break in my studies, I plan to travel with my family and find a job in my field of study. 

What are you involved in on and off campus?
During my freshman year of college I was introduced to and became part of a campus ministry called Alpha Omega. I have also been a member of the exercise science program club. I currently work for the Department of Residence Life at Casa Bella.  Off campus I have been coach at a CrossFit facility here in Brownsville for the past three years, and have been participating in CrossFit for four years now. When I’m not training, I spend my time at local rehabilitation facilities shadowing physical therapists to see exactly what they do and if this is what I see myself doing for the rest of my life. 

What is your biggest accomplishment to date?
My greatest accomplishment is making the Dean’s List for three semesters and being the first in my family to graduate with a bachelor’s degree. Another big accomplishment is winning first place in the Summer Games for CrossFit in 2015 in the advanced division. Finally, another big accomplishment is a certification I received as an adapted aquatics and rehabilitation instructor. 

What advice do you have for future students?
My greatest advice for future student is to get involved. Personally, participating in university programs or clubs has really opened my eyes to truly utilizing all that is offered by the university. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions; there is plenty of help and programs available that students don’t take advantage of that be an asset to their education. I wish someone had given me this same advice when I was a college freshman.