Ivan Morales

Name: Ivan Eduardo Morales 
Age: 23
Major: Business Management and Marketing 
Hometown: Brownsville

Why UTRGV?
I chose UTRGV because it provided a safe and familiar environment where I could not only grow as a person, but I could help the community around me grow. For example, the American Marketing Association (AMA) helps various local businesses, which in turn, helps students network with community business leaders. UTRGV offered all the great services and opportunities any other university did, but in a location that was still close to home.

What made you decide on your current major?
I originally started college with a biology major because I wanted to be a doctor thanks to “Grey’s Anatomy.”  Once I realized how much I was struggling because it wasn’t something that I was passionate about I talked with my parents. They recommended I study business because it was an industry that I could easily find a job in after I graduated. After a couple of classes, I realized that I really enjoyed my business classes and after my Intro to Marketing class, I knew that I had to try and study both degrees.

What are your plans after graduation?
After my graduation, I plan to start working in the marketing field to gain some experience. My goal is to work for a big company as a Marketing Director, then Vice President of Marketing and maybe one day as CEO. I plan to travel the world and get to know European countries such as Germany, France, England, Italy, etc. 

What are you involved in on and off campus?
Like I mentioned previously, I am in the American Marketing Association. I was very briefly involved with the Circle K international organization too. Both of these organizations helped me network and get to know other people in my major as well. Currently, I work as a Senior Orientation Leader which helps me interact with various incoming freshmen to guide and advise them in regards to UTRGV.

What is your biggest accomplishment to date?
My biggest accomplishment to date is the fact that I was able to graduate with not one, but two degrees. Not everyone that begins their university education achieves their bachelor's degree. Although I took my time in finishing my education, I’m extremely proud that I get to be a graduate of UTRGV with two titles earned.

What advice do you have for future students?
My advice is don’t be afraid to make friends. I know that at times it can be intimidating to talk to complete strangers, but they are not as intimidating as they seem. Some advice I give to all incoming freshmen during orientations is to talk to the student next to them in each of their classes. That way, in case they get sick or just didn’t understand the lecture, they can have someone to help them. In the long run, they’ll have made a new friend that will experience college with them.