Patricia Hernandez Howard
Name: Patricia Danielle Hernandez Howard
Age: 21
Major: Environmental Science
College: UTRGV College of Sciences
Hometown: Cuautitlán Izcalli, Mexico
High School: Colegio de Ciencias y Humanidades, Plantel Azcapotzalco.
Why UTRGV?
When I realized I wanted quality education that would not depend on my economic circumstances, while remaining close to my loved ones, UTRGV became the only true option for me. As the first amongst my brothers to attend college, I made it my goal to get my degree at UTRGV and later help my brothers get theirs.
What made you decide on your current major?
Ever since I was young, nature has been a big part of my life. Outdoorsy as far as my memory goes, I knew that nature was what I wanted to do for a living at an early age. However, when I first started saying things like “I want to be a botanist” or “I want to study the environment,” many people opposed my career preference and pushed me toward a career like becoming a medical professional or a lawyer. I made myself believe that was the way to go for many years of my life, until one day I had to decide. When filling out my application for UTRGV in 2019, when the question on what major I wanted to study popped up, I knew I could not allow myself to pursue a career just for the money. I had to do what I was created to do.
What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
After graduating from UTRGV, I plan to pursue a graduate degree to enhance my personal and professional skillset either before I go into my career in Environmental Policy, or while already in it.
What do you like most about UTRGV?
One of the things I like the most about UTRGV is that some of my professors have become mentors. To name a few: Dr. Goren, who reminded me that reading is beautiful; Dr. Martindale, who taught me how deeply interesting history can be; Dr. Kang, who is so devoted to teaching; Dr. Wenzel, who was central to me declaring my minor; and Dr. Interlandi, who motivated me to pursue sustainability in every lecture. Another aspect of UTRGV I deeply appreciate are my supervisors and people I work with at SGA— Ms. Jodie, Ms. Mabel, Ms. Olga, and Ms. Delma— important pieces to the puzzle of my professional development. Also, special thanks to former SGA president Jose Pablo Rojas for being a driving force in many areas of my life, and for helping me find my path towards my successful career— and shoutout to the rest of the SGA family too! Also, I would like to use this space to thank God and my family for always being my main support system. I am thankful for each one of you.
What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
It means opportunity— that I get to pursue the career I want, despite my economic circumstance; and, to top it all off, I get to do so while being surrounded by a supportive community that presents me with many opportunities, I never imagined I would have.
What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community
Opportunities like receiving funding to carry out research projects, internships, and so much more!
What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
To finish this off, my advice to all my fellow Vaqueros is to be on your guard, be courageous, be strong; but do everything in love.
What’s in your playlist right now?
“Found” by Zach Webb: It reminds me that I am loved, I hope it does the same for you!