Sofia Rodriguez
Name: Sofia Rodriguez
Age: 21
Major: Pre-Nursing
Hometown: Brownsville
Why UTRGV?
UTRGV provides a wide variety of opportunities such as programs of study, scholarships, and student organizations. Even though I live about 10 minutes away, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is my home away from home. I am very fortunate to attend a university with a great community environment; a place where a diversity of our cultural values are embraced.
What made you decide on your current major?
I have always enjoyed helping and working with people. I am involved in as much community service as possible because I enjoy helping people and providing them with basic needs. I chose to pursue a nursing career because not only will I be able to help save people’s lives, but I will also bring comfort, cheer, and joy to those in need.
What are your plans after graduation?
Once I graduate, my plans are to exercise my career as a nurse and, God willing, I will continue to study to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing to later become a nurse practitioner. It has always been a dream of mine to join a project abroad program and travel to third and fourth world countries that are in need of medicine and healthcare, so I can volunteer and help out the poor and vulnerable. Hopefully once I graduate, I will be able to fulfill my goals and dreams.
What are you involved in on and off campus?
On campus, I am employed in two different departments. I have been working in the Learning Center as an English Composition tutor since fall 2014 and as an orientation leader in the Recruitment and Scholarships office since summer 2015. Off campus, I am involved in community service and I also volunteer at Guadalupe Regional Middle School in Brownsville.
What is your biggest accomplishment to date?
I think I have many accomplishments. Two of them would be making the Dean’s List more than once throughout my university career so far, but most importantly, being a first generation student pursuing a higher education career.
What advice do you have for future students?
My personal responsibility and optimistic attitude toward reaching my goals have led me to where I am today. First, you have to acknowledge your potential and capability of doing what you want to do and being the person you want to be. Then, it’s all about your attitude and focus that will lead you to success.