Deisy Garcia

Deisy Garcia

Name: Deisy Garcia
Age: 24
Major: Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science
College: College of Science
Hometown: Mission, Texas.
High School: Juarez-Lincoln High School, Mission, Texas. 

Why UTRGV?
I chose UTRGV because it allowed me to receive a higher education without any financial burdens. Not only that, but I could stay close to my family.

What made you decide on your current major?
When I first attended school, I did not know what I wanted to do. I only knew I wanted to pursue something in the STEM field. I heard many conferences and seminars where they introduced different professions to students, but none of them stuck out to me until my sophomore year. Then, a professor from Texas A&M presented her research and what she discovered. What she said intrigued me, and that was how it started. I changed my major the following semester and have been studying environmental science ever since. Everything I have learned from then on has made me love my major even more.

What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
Once I complete my major, I plan to attend graduate school to receive my master's, and hopefully, in the future, I will also complete my Ph.D. Throughout my career, I want to give back to the community and be an advocate for the environment. 

What do you like most about UTRGV?
One thing I have noticed during my time at UTRGV is that the professors in the environmental science program will go above and beyond. I could email or text many of my professors, and they will respond in a matter of minutes and advise me. The professors not only instruct us, but show their passion for teaching and help us broaden our opportunities. They push us to take opportunities such as internships, workshops and seminars and guide us through our journey.

What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Being a Vaquero means being proud of my roots and culture.

What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
I obtained a position in Student Experience Internship Program (SEI) which opened the door to work in Dr. Engil Pereira's lab. With Dr. Pereira, I have been able to help graduate students in their experiments, allowing me to enhance my research skills. In the coming semester, I will be able to analyze data in depth, which I am excited for. In our lab, I could find a community among the undergrad and graduate students, and if I ever had a question or concern, I could always ask someone from the lab.

What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
Never let fear take your opportunities away. Sometimes we overthink or self-doubt, but you’ll never know how far a pursued opportunity can take you unless you go for it.