Kimberly Hinojosa
Name: Kimberly Hinojosa
Age: 21
Major: Biology
College: College of Sciences
Hometown: Roma, TX
High School: Roma High School
Why UTRGV?
I choose UTRGV because it allows me to continue my education and it is close to home so I can visit my family more often. Also, compared to other institutions UTRGV has affordable tuition and they provide multiple grants that can help with tuition, books, or any other expenses. They do a great job in integrating the local community’s culture and making everyone feel welcome.
What made you decide on your current major?
Growing up I was always interested in science, once I entered high school, I noticed I did well in biology. I chose to study biology because getting a degree in this major can help you learn how to conduct research, think critically, while also understanding the natural world.
How are you maneuvering being a student during the COVID-19 pandemic?
The COVID-19 pandemic changed everything from one day to the next. At first it was difficult to maneuver the changes that were made, but what made it comforting was that we were all learning how to adjust to the changes together. The pandemic helped me in becoming more organized and allowing me to create a schedule that kept track of my assignments or tests in a way that they were spread throughout the week to keep me from procrastinating.
What are your greatest strengths and what are some challenges?
My strengths would have to be adaptability, determination, and patience which have helped me since COVID started. When the pandemic began, I became determined to keep receiving good grades and learn how to manage my time better. Some of my challenges would be staying focused while staring at a computer for multiple hours and keeping my anxiety in check. As time has gone by, I have been able to find ways to destress and keep my anxiety at bay.
What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
With the completion of my major, I hope to continue my education in law school and become a lawyer. I want to give back to the community and be part of the change that South Texas is going through, and becoming a lawyer seems like a unique position in which we can help individuals or organizations with any legal problems and further the public good.
What do you like most about UTRGV?
What I like most about UTRGV would be the community, opportunities that are offered, and the financial support UTRGV provides. When I was in high school, I recall there being a program called concurrent enrollment where you could take some courses at UTRGV, and they were covered by the institution. This helped me in advancing a couple of classes towards my degree.
What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
To me, being a vaquero means having a variety of students from different backgrounds all come together and help each other out in representing the RGV and what we are capable of. We can all relate to each other, so you never feel out of place.
What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
UTRGV has offered me the opportunity to gain employment experience since I started working at U Central. Prior to my employment I had no work experience and needed a job to help my parents pay for my tuition and other necessities. Thanks to my supervisor and co-workers I have been able to build upon new skills such as communication, teamwork, the use of technology, etc. I will always be grateful for the opportunity and for the people I have met in the process.
What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing degrees during the COVID-19 pandemic?
My advice would be to have patience and stay focused during the pandemic. It may seem challenging, but it should be viewed as motivation in continuing your education. Always remember you are not alone and if you need help, we have a community that can assist and support you.