Jonathan Xavier Tamez

Name: Jonathan Xavier Tamez
Age: 24
Major: Theatre Performance
Hometown: McAllen 

Why UTRGV?
I chose UTRGV because it was a matter of convenience and comfortability. The campus isn’t far from where I live and I wasn’t quite ready to pack up and leave home. UTRGV also has a great theatre/film department, so it made the most sense. 

What made you decide on your current major?
I chose to be a theatre major because it’s not only a field that I excel in, but also something I really enjoy. Despite how nerve-wracking it can be, I love performing and getting to play around as other characters. My drama teachers and friends from both middle and high school highly encouraged me to take part in theatre. 

What are your plans after graduation?
Honestly, I’ve taken a lot of breaks from school that now I’m more focused on graduating than anything else. I would like to work for a theatre company and keep performing. Maybe even move out of state for more theatre opportunities. 

What are you involved in on and off campus?
I get myself in the productions run by the university (sometimes way too many) and have even performed for other companies including Thirteen O'Clock Theatre and Dancing at Tiffany’s. I’m also invested in the national theatre honor society on campus, Alpha Psi Omega Sigma-Mu. It’s a lot of fun and I work with really great people, too. 

What is your biggest accomplishment to date?
I’ve recently made the President’s List for the last two semesters and hopefully will stay there for a long while. I was secretary for the Alpha Psi Omega for a while, as well. Since getting involved with the theatre/film department in fall of 2015, I have performed in over nine university productions including most recently, Theatre People. 

What advice do you have for future students?
It’s really knowing about what your limits are. I like to pride myself on my strength and adversity, but even I know everyone needs a break now and then. Don’t overwork yourself and surround yourself with good and trustworthy people. I’ve been lucky to find so many people who want to help me as much as I want to help them, and for that, I’m eternally grateful.