Jonathan Dominguez
Name: Jonathan Ricardo Dominguez-Olivo
Age: 23
Major: Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with minor in Psychology
College: College of Sciences
Hometown: Harlingen, TX
High School: Harlingen High School
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.
What made you decide on your current major?
I decided to major in Biology because I’m interested in becoming a family medicine physician. After thinking about it a lot, I decided that Biology would provide with the best foundation for me to build my medical knowledge from. Upon doing so, I’ve realized that it was one of the best decisions I’ve made because I’ve learned to appreciate the beauty of science.
What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
After completing my major, I hope to take a gap year to work on my MCAT before applying to medical school. Personally, I would like to attend the UTRGV School of Medicine, if possible. After medical school, I hope to get accepted to a residency here in the Valley and continue to make UTRGV proud.
What do you like most about UTRGV?
What I like the most about UTRGV is its people. The culture that we have at UTRGV is surely one of a kind. I’ve been fortunate to have met and worked with such kind people. Some of which have left a life changing impression on me such as Dr. Kathryn Perez, Dr. Stephen Hirst, Dr. Maggie Hinojosa, Delma Olivarez, Yadira Mejia, Noelyn Llasos, and the Dean of Students Rebecca Gadson. Its people are what have made my experience at UTRGV memorable. They’re the type of people who make you feel as if you’re home.
What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
To me, being a Vaquero means being selfless and committed to serving those around you. Not being afraid to take a stance for what is right nor forgetting who you are, where you come from, and where you are going. Being a Vaquero for me has meant being the change that I want to see in the world.
What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
Being at UTRGV has provided me with many opportunities throughout my community. Some of which have been the privilege to have served as the 2022-2023 SGA President and contributor to the scientific research being conducted at the university. Both opportunities have been able to sharpen my skills as a scientist and leader.
What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
My advice is to put God first in everything that you do. Trust him and let him guide you through the hardships that school brings. On another note, I also advise that you get comfortable with failure. Failure is not a setback, it’s a catalyst to success in disguise. The more you get comfortable with it, the numb-er you’ll become to its side effects. As for today, take a chance and enjoy the thrill of the journey. For at the end of the day, you only regret the chances that you did not take.