Ana Mears

ana mears

Name: Ana Silvia Mears
Age: 26
Major: English
College: College of Liberal Arts
Hometown: Houston, Texas
High School: McAllen Memorial High School 

Why UTRGV?
I chose UTRGV because of the variation of people and opportunities academically. At UTRGV, I was able to achieve my dream of being able to graduate debt-free!

What made you decide on your current major?
I am pursuing a Bachelors in English as a second language because I want to someday travel to be able to teach the language internationally. Growing up in a home where Spanish is dominant, learning English was a challenge. I spent years trying to acquire the necessary skills to write, speak and read English, and now that I have become proficient, I would like to do the same for others who may not have the resources available or offered to them.

How are you maneuvering being a student during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Due to the pandemic, I am being sure to take the necessary precautions needed to keep, not only myself, but others safe as well. Working through my classes online has been quite a challenge but with the help of my professors and classmates, I have been able to become a bit more knowledgeable on maneuvering my way through. Having classes being taught hybrid are a best option for students like me who learn best in a kinesthetic manner.

What are your greatest strengths and what are some challenges? 
Some of my greatest strengths are being able to maintain the academic integrity regardless of remote learning. Having to adjust to a new method of learning can easily halt a student’s motivations but with the guidance of resources such as tutors and supplemental learning, it is all possible. 

What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
As a first-generation student, I hope to achieve a platform for students to feel comfortable in receiving guidance with learning English as a second language and understanding the importance of acquiring dual or multi languages. I would want to become an English (second-language tutor) at the UTRGV language institute branch. 

What do you like most about UTRGV?
What I like the most about UTRGV is the diversity and various opportunities for extracurricular activities. I have become part of multiple organizations and honor societies that other universities do not offer. I am grateful for the opportunities given by this institution that make a students first years at UTRGV the best!

What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Being a Vaquero, to me, is more than attending a school/university. It is about making the connections necessary to be able to build a network that will advance you in the future. Having great people skills and being a well-rounded student has its perks and one of them is being part of such great academic programs and scholarships.

What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
At UTRGV, I was able to become more than a student by becoming more involved in the community and organizations that provide means to give back. Community service and volunteering opportunities are a big factor that kept me motivated to staying at UTRGV. I was glad to receive the opportunity to learn more about how to give back and ways to raise awareness on causes that needed our attention.

What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing degrees during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Dreams do come true! UTRGV was one of the universities that made it possible for me to graduate as a first-generation student and it was possible by the necessary resources given by the university. In whichever way you would prefer to be taught, there are resources and departments that can provide that extra guidance and help you continue your education.