Alondra Lucio

Alondra Lucio

Name: Alondra Alejandra Lucio
Age: 21
Major: Interdisciplinary Studies in Bilingual Education
Hometown: Brownsville

Why UTRGV?
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley was always my first choice. UTRGV allowed me to stay home and pursue a great major taught by knowledgeable and dedicated faculty at a very affordable price. UTRGV also has a great community that helps make of this institution and this region a well-known and admired place.

What made you decide on your current major?
Since a very young age I knew I wanted to help people. When you think of helping people, most people think of social work or health affairs. However, I decided to pursue a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a specialization in Bilingual Education where I can help and guide our future through students. Being a bilingual student, I remember struggling so much and witnessing friends who dropped out due to lack of a well-rounded education. I want to be someone for the students who have no one. 

What do you like most about UTRGV?
What I like most about UTRGV are the opportunities this institution has for students. During my freshmen year I got hired as an orientation leader and this has become the best opportunity I have experienced here. With my job I recently got the opportunity to assist NODA in Fayetteville, Arkansas which it is an annual conference all about orientation. I learned how to leave a legacy with every incoming freshman and I can’t wait to implement everything I’ve learned with the incoming class of 2023 during the summer.

What are some of your favorite study spots on campus?
My favorite study spot on campus is in the library second floor. Every day after my last class has ended, I go up to the library and finish my homework and/or study.

What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Being a Vaquero, to me, means making history. Every year UTRGV becomes a bigger and better institution, with more majors and more colleges, recognized by more and more people every year nationwide.

What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
Working as an orientation leader and tour guide has given me the opportunity to meet new students every summer and throughout the school year. Also, with my job I have had the great opportunity to meet and work with caring and brilliant UTRGV staff. Being part of two organizations around campus has given me the opportunity to meet motivated people who have the same goals in life as me.

What are a few of your favorite books?
“Esperanza Rising” by Pam Muñoz Ryan has been my favorite book since I read it in 7th grade. It talks about a young girl who has everything until her father dies. This book taught me that we never really know what life has planned for us. Every time I have the opportunity I go back to this book and reread it, just to remind myself that things will get better.

What’s in your playlist right now?
My go-to playlists are anything including Carlos Rivera, Luis Miguel, Sin Bandera and Carolina Ross. They all sing around the same genre which I really enjoy.