Meghan Kelley
Name: Meghan Kelley
Age: 27
Major: English with a teaching certification in grades 4th – 8th
College/Department: Liberal Arts/English - Education
Hometown: McAllen, TX
Why UTRGV?
I chose UTRGV because the Valley is my home. It is a place where I feel safe. Graduating from a local school is important to me because I want to prove to the world that education in the Valley is great despite the stereotypes surrounding our area. I strive to give back to my local community and would not be able to do so with such a great impact without the support of my UTRGV family.
What made you decide on your current major?
Growing up was hard. My childhood was far from perfect, or even close to it. To escape the reality of my situation, I often immersed myself in a book. I became the main character, finding myself in a new world each time. I decided to go into education because growing up, and even presently, some of my greatest role models were teachers. A teacher saved my life and I want to be able to be that person for students. I strive to be the educator that helps students find passion in a book or writing a story despite what might be going on in their lives. I want to help save lives, as my teacher did for me.
What do you like most about UTRGV?
I have fallen in love with UTRGV. The student involvement here is unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. There are clubs and groups for everything! It’s a great way to make new friends and dive into a new or old interest. Something else I really like about UTRGV are the professors. Professors here really care for their students even after the classes are over; they provide constant support. This is something I had never experience before. By attending UTRGV, I have learned the type of teacher I want to be by modeling professors I have had the pleasure of having while here.
What are some of your favorite study spots on campus?
Some of my favorite spots to study on campus are the library and anywhere in the education building (especially the 2nd floor).
What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Being a Vaquero means being part of something bigger than yourself, it means being part of a family. Being a Vaquero means bringing growth to our community and building a better future for our family and friends.
What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
UTRGV has provided me with so many opportunities to give back to my community. While attending UTRGV, I have had the opportunity to volunteer at a multitude of places, which have provided me with great wisdom and experience which will enrich my life forever.
What are a few of your favorite books?
My favorite book of all time will forever be “Ella Enchanted” by Gail Carson Levine. This was the first book that I deeply fell in love with as a child. It was the first book that completely engulfed my imagination. I have read that book over 20 times, most of those as an adult. You are never too old to read children’s books or YA.
What’s in your playlist right now?
Oh man! My playlist is very random. I have everything on my playlist from metal to country, Tejano to 90s dance music. Literature and music are so diverse, there are too many genres out there to limit yourself to just a couple.