Irvin Alberto Castro Jr.
Name: Irvin Alberto Castro Jr.
Age: 21
Major: Accounting
Class: Senior
College: Robert C. Vackar College of Business and Entrepreneurship
Hometown: La Feria, TX
High School: La Feria High School, La Feria, TX
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.
What made you decide on your current major?
I wanted a major that I felt a strong passion for and knew I could be successful in! I was heavily involved with business and accounting throughout high school which gave me an introduction to what I now study. Having this foundation and growing it within my studies has allowed me to see all the possibilities with my accounting major!
What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
I hope to be an inspiring Latino leader and DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) advocate within my industry. Focusing outside of just my professional career, the ability to inspire and lead others fulfills me and inspires me to build my own impactful story. Being proud of where I come from and what I’ll build in my future, ultimately staying true to myself throughout my career success is what I most hope to achieve!
What do you like most about UTRGV?
I like the close community the most at UTRGV! It helps me be more open in the classroom, be involved on campus and find support for my goals. Creating many amazing memories and bonds!
What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
For me, being a Vaquero is about showing support and spirit. It’s about being proud of being who you are and feeling that the Vaquero community is accepting of that. Taking the norm and spinning it around to showcase your own uniqueness!
What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
UTRGV has helped me grow as a student leader, a DEI advocate and as a professional! I joined ALPFA (Association of Latino Professionals for America) at UTRGV, from being a member to the president, looking to get involved within the Latino community and building my professional skills. I’ve worked at UTRGV CSI (Center for Student Involvement) as an involvement ambassador to encourage many students to get involved on campus and thrive within campus life. Leading to more opportunities by getting internships, completing an accounting internship with Ernst & Young as well as a finance internship with Google.
What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
Take initiative, take risks, take action! It’s easy to follow the flow of university and just go to class, but you can do so much more with your time and get a rewarding experience from it. Join a student organization, go to events, be the one to stand out in your courses, reach out to campus resources and ask all the right questions. Taking the initiative will help you tremendously!