Lauren Tovias

Name: Lauren Tovias
Age: 21
Major: Multidisciplinary Studies in Psychology, Marketing & Business Administration
Class: Sophomore
College: College of Liberal Arts
Hometown: Harlingen, TX
High School: Harlingen School of Health Professions (HSHP) 

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.

What made you decide on your current major?
My father is a general manager for HEB and has been with the company for more than 20 years. I would like to follow in my father’s footsteps and make a career for myself with HEB. I believe it is a wonderful company which truly cares about its employees, and I would love to be a part of that. 

What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
I hope to become an independent woman who not only focuses on her career, but her life as a whole. I plan to buy and own my own home. I also want to get married and raise a family. I have very big plans for travelling in the future and hope to see much of the world and meet as many new people as possible. Life is about experience, and I hope to do a lot of that.

What do you like most about UTRGV?
What I like most about UTRGV is the people I met along the way. From professors to coaches, fellow students, teammates, and my fiancé, it is the bonds I have created that keep me coming back. Although the university is beautiful and the classes are engaging, it is the relationships that I have created while attending this university that I will carry with me forever.

What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Well, there is nothing like telling someone that you are a part of the UTRGV Chess Team - the look of awe and intrigue in someone’s face after you have told them. Many people within the community are aware of the great success that the chess team has had over the years and their accomplishments are not lost on our community.

What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
I became the UTRGV Chess Team photographer and social media advisor.

What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
My advice would be to find something you love and get involved. It makes college so much more bearable. Relationships are key. College is hard enough, don’t do it alone.