2023

Krystal Yates

December 26, 2023
Krystal Yates

Why UTRGV?

I chose UTRGV because I love the RGV as a whole and didn’t want to be too far from home. UTRGV is an amazing university, and it would be a shame if I didn’t take advantage of its resources and opportunities to me and other first-generation Hispanic students.

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Alondra Sanchez

December 19, 2023
Alondra Sanchez

Why UTRGV?

I chose to attend UTRGV because it provides me with a sense of being at home, surrounded by a supportive community and close to my family. This unique sense of belonging and connection is something I believe I wouldn't have found at any other university. UTRGV truly feels like home, and as they say, there's no place quite like it.

Read more about Alondra Sanchez.

Carlo Zorola

December 12, 2023
Carlo Zorola

Why UTRGV?

I knew about UTRGV because I have family that are part of the UTRGV system. I transferred from a community college, and I did not know where I was going to go. I just knew I wanted to study industrial and manufacturing engineering. UTRGV has a great Engineering Department, and this helped me make the decision. Moreover, UTRGV's affordability set it apart from other U.S. universities I was considering, even with a scholarship. The Mexican waiver they offer made it possible for me to cover all my expenses while receiving a high-quality education. As an international student, I greatly value and appreciate this opportunity.

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Carlos Revilla

December 5, 2023
Carlos Revilla

Why UTRGV?

I wanted to try someplace new. I wanted to go to a university with diversity. UTRGV has a diverse faculty as well as students. UTRGV welcomes everyone with open arms. I feel right at home here.

Read more about Carlos Revilla.

Guadalupe Yamileth Ortiz Mejía

November 28, 2023
Guadalupe Yamileth Ortiz Mejía

Why UTRGV?

As I thought of where to attend graduate school, I decided to choose UTRGV not only because I completed my bachelor’s degree here, but because it feels like home now. I have developed huge pride in being an alum. UTRGV has offered me the best professors, programs, and opportunities so close to my hometown. From amazing, caring professors to a study abroad program that gave me the opportunity to experience different cultures, it just felt right to continue my graduate studies here. The program that I am currently in has amazing professors and a prestigious accreditation that not every university has.

Read more about Guadalupe Yamileth Ortiz Mejía.

Rianna Torres

November 21, 2023
Rianna Torres

Why UTRGV?

I chose to attend UTRGV because it provides a high-quality education that has allowed me to stay close to home and still get to experience college life to the fullest extent.

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Ana Yarely Casillas Rodriguez

November 14, 2023
Ana Yarely Casillas Rodriguez

Why UTRGV?

I am not originally from the RGV, I was born and raised in Guadalajara, Mexico. While I was contemplating college opportunities, I realized I wanted to pursue my education in an English-speaking country, and the USA seemed like the perfect opportunity to be close to home. Having the border so close to Mexico and my family offered a great opportunity to visit and travel back and forth with flexibility. However, the primary reason I chose UTRGV was the academic opportunities it offers as an institution. There is so much support from the faculty members and immense potential for academic and professional growth.

Read more about Ana Yarely Casillas Rodriguez.

Alainey Cantu

November 7, 2023
Alainey Cantu

Why UTRGV?

I chose to attend UTRGV because it’s close to home and I really loved how the campus felt like a tight-knit community while providing a sense of wholesomeness. There was also a great selection of majors aligning with my interests to choose from, which made my college decision that much easier. Attending UTRGV allows me to achieve my academic goals while staying close to the people I love most!

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Miriam Casas

October 31, 2023
Miriam Casas

Why UTRGV?

I chose to attend UTRGV because it was close to home. After my first semester, I really developed a huge appreciation for the university that offered a great education at a great price.

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Daniel Montalvo

October 24, 2023
Daniel Montalvo

Why UTRGV?

I chose to attend UTRGV because of the many scholarship opportunities provided to me compared to the other universities I had applied to.

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Audrey Espinoza

October 17, 2023
Audrey Espinoza

Why UTRGV?

Numerous factors played a pivotal role in shaping my decision to enroll at UTRGV. However, the factor that led me to choose UTRGV was its provision for advancing my academic pursuits while remaining within close proximity to my family and roots. UTRGV's commitment to delivering a high-quality education, coupled with the advantage of staying near my loved ones, greatly influenced my choice. The Rio Grande Valley holds a special place in my heart as my home, and the opportunity to further my education while embracing my culture, community, and cherished relationships has undeniably propelled my college journey.

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Karla Medrano-Faz

October 10, 2023
Karla Medrano-Faz

Why UTRGV?

I chose to attend UTRGV because I wanted to grow professionally and represent the value that the Rio Grande Valley offers. By staying local, I have had the opportunity to meet people who have the same passions as myself. I have been able to obtain experiences that will strengthen my future endeavors, and of course, without having to leave home. I am a firm believer of the phrase, “You don’t know what you have until you lose it.” I had always pictured myself leaving the Valley for better experiences, but the Valley has surpassed these expectations and will continue to raise standards. I still question what would have happened if I had left, but a huge part of me is glad I stayed to see the impact that each one of us is creating in the Valley. V’s up, Vaqueros!

Read more about Karla Medrano-Faz.

Teresa Garcia

October 3, 2023
Teresa Garcia

Why UTRGV?

I chose to attend UTRGV because I knew it was an amazing school and I would get an amazing education while still being able to be near my family. The university offers amazing classes, has great professors, and great benefits. I have had amazing opportunities, created some lifelong friendships, and felt tremendous pride in being a Vaquero. One of my favorite things about UTRGV that other universities struggle with is the great relationship students have with their professors. UTRGV offers smaller classes than most universities which leads to professors getting to have one-on-one relationships with their students. I have created great relationships with my professors and fellow peers because of this.

Read more about Teresa Garcia.

Macie Blohowiak

September 26, 2023
Macie Blohowiak

Why UTRGV?

I initially chose to come to UTRGV to play soccer for the university. After being an athlete for two years, I made the difficult decision to step away. However, it was for the best. I decided to stay because of the strong community that surrounded me, and I genuinely enjoyed the small campus and the numerous opportunities the university had to offer.

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Adrian Alfaro

September 19, 2023
Adrian Alfaro

Why UTRGV?

I chose UTRGV to be closer to the community I grew to love.

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Marvely Neme

September 12, 2023
Marvely Neme

Why UTRGV?

I chose UTRGV because of my sister. I saw her out with friends, all the school events she attended, and all the support she had to pursue her studies here. The resources for Mexican American students were one of the predominant factors that made me want to be here and of course, the community that surrounds the university.

Read more about Marvely Neme.

Marcos Salinas

September 5, 2023
Marcos Salinas

Why UTRGV?

When I decided to attend UTRGV it was for many reasons. It was close to home, it was a beautiful choice, etc. But the main reason I decided on UTRGV is the amount the staff cares. When I chose this university, I knew it would be perfect because I am going to be somewhere that not only do they care about my journey for my degree, I’m also able to learn how to care for others journeys as well.

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Irvin Alberto Castro Jr.

August 29, 2023
Irvin Alberto Castro Jr.

Why UTRGV?

I chose UTRGV for three main reasons: community, inclusivity, and flexibility. Being from the Rio Grande Valley, no other university would have the sense of community I was brought up in. As a Latino, the inclusivity of UTRGV being an HSI (Hispanic-Serving Institution) lets me freely express myself and thrive on campus. Lastly, the flexibility of courses, resources and even professors has provided me with accommodations for life’s challenges that let’s me overcome any obstacle I face.

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Jadniela De La Garza

August 22, 2023
Jadniela De La Garza

Why UTRGV?

I chose to attend UTRGV because I wanted to study with the best while staying close to home. Not only does the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley offer great opportunities to all their students, but the campus environment is also fabulous. At UTRGV you will find that everyone is friendly and always willing to help. There is a positive educational environment along with one of the most beautiful campuses in Texas.

Read more about Jadniela De La Garza.

Dariana Vasquez

August 15, 2023
Dariana Vasquez

Why UTRGV?

UTRGV is one of the most affordable universities in Texas, which is very convenient for a first-generation student like me. I was awarded grants and scholarships, and I expect to graduate debt free. UTRGV creates a welcoming environment where all cultures are embraced. They also promote student success and community engagement to inspire positive change within the institution.

Read more about Dariana Vasquez.

lauren tovias

August 8, 2023
Lauren Tovias

Why UTRGV?

I chose UTRGV as my college university because of the incredible UTRGV Chess Program. It’s one of the most elite programs in the country. It offers a friendly and welcoming environment to anyone wanting to improve or just simply begin their journey with chess. Through the program I found a place at UTRGV where I can be involved, find friends, and take an active role in the university.

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Rayne Trevino

August 1, 2023
Rayne Trevino

Why UTRGV?

While I grew up in San Antonio, my parents and grandparents are from the Rio Grande Valley. I chose UTRGV to grow closer to my family, culture, and language while also receiving formal education. Because of that, I feel like I not only know my family better, but also myself, and that kind of education I don’t think any other university could have offered me.

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Ingridy Nicoleti Foltran

July 25, 2023
Ingridy Nicoleti Foltran

Why UTRGV?

When Head Coach Todd Lowery invited me to join the UTRGV Volleyball team with an academic scholarship and told me that I would be able to study civil engineering, which was a course I had always wanted to take, and with this excellent engineering program, I had no doubts that UTRGV would be the college I would choose to attend. I felt connected to UTRGV as an international student because of the strong multicultural climate; I knew being away from family and friends would be challenging, but it would all be worth it. I selected UTRGV because I desired a higher education and a brighter future. UTRGV provided me with the opportunity to strengthen my abilities as a foreign student, take advantage of my opportunities and discover a whole new world.

Read more about Ingridy Nicoleti Foltran.

Christian Garcia

June 18, 2023
Christian Garcia

Why UTRGV?

I chose to attend UTRGV due to its outstanding campus, esteemed faculty, convenient location, and affordability. The smaller student body offered ample opportunity to excel academically and build valuable relationships. UTRGV's reputation for creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, along with the opportunity to immerse myself in a different culture, further solidified my decision. I knew attending UTRGV would provide the perfect environment to pursue my academic and personal goals while expanding my horizons in countless ways.

Read more about Christian Garcia.

Anasofia Chapa

July 11, 2023
Anasofia Chapa

Why UTRGV?

I chose UTRGV because it is a university that has a sense of hospitality due to our Hispanic heritage, and because of the resources there are for students. UTRGV has helped me reach my goals, and network with the help of my professors and classmates. Additionally, choosing UTRGV meant being closer to the people I love most.

Read more about Anasofia Chapa.

Maïli-Jade Ouellet

July 4, 2023
Maïli-Jade Ouellet

Why UTRGV?

I chose to study at UTRGV because two strong grandmasters lead an excellent chess program and because I received a full scholarship. I am able to play in many tournaments across the United States, and I could not be happier.

Read more about Maïli-Jade Ouellet.

Jacob Martinez

June 27, 2023
Jacob Martinez

Why UTRGV?

The main reason I chose UTRGV is that after several visits to different universities, UTRGV was the one that felt the most like home. Fortunately, I knew an alumnus from UTRGV who was able to connect me with existing staff and faculty which only allowed me to get a better/deeper connection with the university.

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Maria Malicka

June 20, 2023
Maria Malicka

Why UTRGV?

I chose UTRGV because I got a scholarship with the UTRGV Chess Team. I was invited to play with the Chess Team as I have been a chess player since I was eight years old and I have had significant chess successes, for example a Chess Olympiad medal! Coming to the U.S. to study and play chess at the same time was a great opportunity for me to grow and develop in areas I would like to focus on. I really wanted to attend a U.S. college and that dream came true.

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Viktor Gazik

June 13, 2023
Viktor Gazik

Why UTRGV?

I received an invitation to study in the U.S. from the chess program manager, and I found the opportunity to be quite intriguing. It would be a new experience as I have never been to the U.S. I am excited to explore a new country and gain new perspectives during my studies.

Read more about Viktor Gazik.

Arturo Diaz

June 6, 2023
Arturo Diaz

Why UTRGV?

Attending UTRGV was one of the easiest decisions I have ever made. I had a nightmarish experience at another university that had me immediately wanting to transfer. However, in just the application process, I found UTRGV to be a much better experience by making it easy to stay connected with the campus community. UTRGV is different from universities because they are committed to providing high-quality education and preparing students for successful careers. It is not just some marketing slogan; it is what every professor and staff member strive for.

Read more about Arturo Diaz.

Dante Beukes

May 30, 2023
Dante Beukes

Why UTRGV?

I chose to attend UTRGV because of its strong chess program. There are not many opportunities to play chess in my country, so I felt I had to leave and UTRGV was the best option for me.

Read more about Dante Beukes.

Alekxa Ariadna Guevara Rivera

May 23, 2023
Alekxa Ariadna Guevara Rivera

Why UTRGV?

As an immigrant, during my last years of high school, the idea of continuing my education was something that seemed impossible, mainly because I knew that my family and I wouldn’t be able to afford it and the idea of giving up on my dream made me super sad. Nonetheless, I decided to apply to different universities just hoping for the best. I remember getting my acceptance letters and being happy of getting accepted into different institutions, but I didn’t know how I was going to be able to afford it and that was concerning. But one day I got a big envelope in the mail from the Financial Aid Department at UTRGV in which they were congratulating me for being eligible for some grants and telling me that my classes were covered for the school year. The happiness I felt and how much I cried out of happiness is something that I’ll never forget, and so, whenever I get asked, “Why UTRGV?” The answer is very clear. UTRGV gave me the opportunity to continue my education by helping me financially. UTRGV made my dream possible.

Read more about Alekxa Ariadna Guevara Rivera.

Suchitra Acharjee

May 16, 2023
Suchitra Acharjee

Why UTRGV?

I first heard about UTRGV from an old friend who told me I could apply without any fee. Application fees can be challenging for ambitious girls like me coming from developing countries and wanting to pursue higher education abroad. Indeed, it was a great relief and an incentive as well. When I researched more about the university and found the MPA program, I knew I had to apply. Fortunately, my program coordinator was very responsive about funding opportunities which ultimately paved my way here. UTRGV made my academic life smooth and untroubled by providing countless financial support, such as grants, loans, and multiple scholarships.

Read more about Suchitra Acharjee.

Angelina Salinas

May 9, 2023
Angelina Salinas

Why UTRGV?

I chose UTRGV because it had plenty of financial resources for first-generation, Hispanic students. The opportunity to live on campus provided a chance to experience a different environment and gain personal growth through my independence. Throughout my time at UTRGV, I witnessed firsthand what it means to not only to live on my own, but to maintain a healthy school/work balance.

Read more about Angelina Salinas.

Jonathan Dominguez

May 2, 2023
Jonathan Dominguez

Why UTRGV?

I chose to attend UTRGV because it was the university that made me feel wanted. I just felt like its mission to put the Valley on the map really resonated with me. Compelled by its welcoming presence and sense of belonging, I felt like I owed it to the Valley to invest my talents into it. After all, it was the place that nurtured me, believed in me, and provided me with the opportunities to be where I’m at today.

Read more about Jonathan Dominguez.

Ariadna Jose Gonzalez

April 25, 2023
Ariadna Jose Gonzalez

Why UTRGV?

I chose to attend UTRGV because I wanted to have a better education and a better future. As a foreign student, UTRGV offered me the opportunity to improve my skills, leverage my opportunities, and discover a completely new world.

Read more about Ariadna Jose Gonzalez.

April Martinez

April 18, 2023
April Martinez

Why UTRGV?

I chose to attend UTRGV for the family aspect of the university. Other universities can’t compare to the home ethic this university offers. When I was touring this university, I fell in love with how warm and inviting everyone is. The staff and faculty are very respectful figures, yet it feels as if they’re family as well.

Read more about April Martinez.

Angelique Trevino

April 11, 2023
Angelique Trevino

Why UTRGV?

As a first-generation college student born and raised in Brownsville, TX, I knew that I wanted to stay here for college and make a difference in my community. I knew that UTRGV has all the resources for me to receive a quality education that is affordable and close to home.

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Fabian Sosa

April 4, 2023
Fabian Sosa

Why UTRGV?

I chose UTRGV because they offer exceptional and affordable college education. UTRGV ranked first in the nation among public institutions for least student debt. UTRGV gave me what other universities couldn’t - a chance.

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Juan Felipe Hinojosa

March 28, 2023
Juan Felipe Hinojosa

Why UTRGV?

I decided to attend UTRGV because it was close to home and I enjoyed the environment and being part of the Vaquero community.

Read more about Juan Felipe Hinojosa.

Jose Garza

March 21, 2023
Jose Garza

Why UTRGV?

I chose UTRGV for many reasons. I used to think that it was a university that wasn’t much during the time that I was in high school. You don’t always appreciate what is right in front of you, especially when you are young. As I got closer to graduation I started to notice all of the programs that it had to offer and how much it would benefit me to stay here. Those are my reasons and the fact that it has provided me with what I need and more.

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Ana Rosa Mena

March 14, 2023
Ana Rosa Mena

Why UTRGV?

At first, I chose to attend UTRGV because I wanted to be close to my family. I stayed here because of the opportunities available to me as a physics major as UTRGV has an excellent Physics Department that conducts cutting edge research and provides students the opportunity to be a part of it. Another reason why I chose UTRGV is because of the UTeach program. They have prepared me with the tools I need to be an excellent teacher and thanks to them I can graduate with a teacher certification.

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Jorge Rivera

March 7, 2023
Jorge Rivera

Why UTRGV?

The reason why I chose UTRGV was that it was the only school that offered the best financial aid while offering the program that I want to pursue. It was also the most convenient location since it is so close to friends and family. They offered the best support that I needed as a first-generation student.

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Jenna Scoggin

February 28, 2023
Jenna Scoggin

Why UTRGV?

UTRGV has a beautiful campus and distinguished faculty, along with being close to home and a being a smart financial decision for me. Due to the student population being on the smaller end, I knew there would be good opportunities to excel as a student. I also had several close friends that were attending UTRGV who were also science majors!

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Michael Vazquez

February 21, 2023
Michael Vazquez

Why UTRGV?

I decided to attend UTRGV because it is a local university that offered the degree in mathematics that I was seeking and the school that my cousins have attended. During my senior year in high school, the UTeach program, only offered at UTRGV in terms of local colleges, caught my attention as I wanted to become a high school teacher.

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Tiffany Barragan

February 14, 2023
Tiffany Barragan

Why UTRGV?

I chose UTRGV because it was the best economical choice as well as all the opportunities that it has to offer. It gave me the chance to stay close to my loved ones while obtaining a high-quality education. UTRGV provides a variety of programs, student aid, student organizations, and a friendly environment. My experience has been that professors genuinely care about their students, engage the students into their lectures, and guide students to the right path. They want to help you achieve, especially in my mathematics department.

Read more about Tiffany Barragan.

Nallely Garza

February 7, 2023
Nallely Garza

Why UTRGV?

I chose UTRGV because it is an affordable university that offers great opportunities and degree options to choose from. The variability of these options that will set you up to have success in the career you choose.

Read more about Nallely Garza.

Alyna Lizcano

January 31, 2023
Alyna Lizcano

Why UTRGV?

The familiarity of home, financial support, and sense of community made choosing UTRGV a simple choice for me. I have been able to grow and excel at my own pace; without the fear of financial restraint or being too far from home.

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Anna Tamez

January 24, 2023
Anna Tamez

Why UTRGV?

I am proud to call UTRGV my home because here everybody included everyone - we are like one big family that supports and encourages one another. It is an amazing school that offered me the comfort of feeling at home and staying close to my relatives. It offers a broad variety of diverse education, sports, as well as organizations that I can expand my knowledge.

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Georgina Guerra

January 17, 2023
Georgina Guerra

Why UTRGV?

I chose UTRGV because of the opportunity to be able to go to an affordable institution, with an outstanding civil engineering program while also being able to be close to my family and get the college experience. I also chose to attend UTRGV, because of the UTRGV Spirit Program, where I currently take part in as a UTRGV Dance Team Member.

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Samuel Martinez

January 10, 2023
Samuel Martinez

Why UTRGV?

I choose UTRGV for many reasons. Firstly, because I knew of the great marketing program they had and a big bonus is that UTRGV is so close to home and being close to my family is important to me, so attending this university was the best choice for me. I don’t regret choosing UTRGV since these last couple of years I’ve grown so much not only as a student, but as a person.

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Daniel Gonzalez-Franco

January 3, 2023
Daniel Gonzalez-Franco

Why UTRGV?

It all happened so fast. I had the opportunity to graduate early from high school and I felt that I was so caught up in the whole process of wanting to graduate early that I never really had time to think about what the future would hold as soon as I graduated. However, when it came to deciding which university I wanted to go to, I decided on staying here at UTRGV mainly because not only did it feel like it was the right decision, but it felt like home. Spending almost all my life here, made me want to continue my journey here at UTRGV and prosper in my career.

Read more about Daniel Gonzalez-Franco.