Jimena Gamboa
Name: Jimena Gamboa
Age: 21
Major: Interdisciplinary Studies- Bilingual Education
College: Education
Hometown: La feria, Texas
High School: Santa Maria High School
Why UTRGV?
I chose to attend UTRGV because I was very interested in their Bilingual Education program. I knew that getting my teaching experience in the Rio Grande Valley would allow me to prepare myself as a bilingual educator due to the high number of Spanish speakers. I also wanted to stay close to my family, and I knew that attending this university would allow me to get a good education and be near the ones I love.
What made you decide on your current major?
I have always loved working with children and knew I wanted to be a teacher since I was young. As a kid, I struggled with learning the English language and had the wonderful teachers who helped me in my learning. Due to this, I realized that I wanted to help kids who are struggling to learn a new language and give them the best bilingual education possible in order for them to have a positive outlook of learning.
What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
I would love to obtain a job as a bilingual education teacher for either first or second grade. My goal is to obtain a master’s degree after teaching for three years. I am still unsure of what I would like to have a masters in, but I am sure that it will involve working with children and helping them in their learning experience.
What do you like most about UTRGV?
I like that UTRGV keeps trying to become a better university by making constant improvements that will benefit their students. I also love that the classroom sizes are perfect for students to make strong connections with their professors.
What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Being a Vaquero means that I am part of a community with strong pride towards their campus. Whether it’s going to sporting events or campus activities, I see everyone joined together to celebrate and I am reminded that we are all Vaqueros- one big family.
What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
Thanks to UTRGV I have been able to volunteer in many organizations that have enabled me to gain experience as a future educator. I have volunteered for Red Rover Readers and Texas ACE. Additionally, thanks to the university and some of my professors, I was able to be a part of an amazing summer fellowship in Providence, Rhode Island called Generation Teach. Now, I am part of the STEP-Up program of the College of Education and am thrilled with it. I am certain that all these opportunities that the university has opened up for me will allow me to gain valuable experience and become a great teacher.
What are a few of your favorite books?
Some of my favorite books are “The Help,” “Coming of Age in Mississippi” and “No Te Enganches.”
What’s in your playlist right now?
Some of the artists in my playlists include Enrique Iglesias, Carlos Rivera, JBalvin, Maluma, Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus and Lana del Rey.