Macie Blohowiak
Name: Macie Blohowiak
Age: 21
Major: Bachelors in Sociology with minor in Graphic Design
Class: Junior
College: College of Liberal Arts
Hometown: Granbury, Texas
High School: Granbury High School
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.
What made you decide on your current major?
I've always been passionate about philosophy, psychology, and sociology, and these subjects captivated me from a young age. Eventually, I settled on sociology because I believe it offers more versatility in the business world, given that we interact with people from all walks of life on a daily basis. Personally, I find it more crucial to understand, from an academic perspective, how our society functions than simply learning how to sell a product. As for my minor, I've always had a love for art and creative expression. However, I quickly realized that I wasn't cut out to be a traditional artist. That's when I pivoted and discovered a graphic design program at my high school, instantly falling in love with it.
What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
I have a multitude of aspirations and ambitions. Frankly, I don't want to confine myself to just one career path for my entire life. Initially, I'm considering pursuing a master's degree, possibly in a marketing-related field or sociology. I'm particularly intrigued by data analysis and research studies, and I'm contemplating conducting research on contemporary issues such as climate displacement, societal stigmas, and women's/minority issues. On the other hand, I've also considered becoming a social media manager for a professional sports team, delving into photography, collaborating with athletes to establish their branding, and ultimately establishing my own business to sell my art and graphics. Another possibility is to contribute to the creation of a marketing agency. The range of avenues to explore is vast, and while not all of them may be the right fit for me, I'll never truly know until I give them a try.
What do you like most about UTRGV?
As I mentioned earlier, it was the sense of community that convinced me to stay at UTRGV. Regardless of who you meet, everyone here is incredibly willing to offer assistance in any way they can. The friendliness of the people here made me feel like I had found a second home.
What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Because UTRGV is a smaller school and may not be widely recognized nationwide, I see it as an opportunity to make a significant impact and raise its profile. It's a chance to excel and establish a meaningful reputation for the school.
What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
My current role on the Street Team has provided me with valuable insights into the opportunities available through UTRGV and its marketing team. Both my former and current supervisors, Jesica and Kara, are truly dedicated to our success and readily provide the necessary resources, including workshops and real-world experiences, to help us thrive. I'm immensely grateful to both of them; they are not only highly skilled individuals but also wonderful people to work with.
What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
You've got this! Don't hesitate to reach out for assistance. College can be challenging for various reasons, but it's important to remember that the university is invested in your success. They offer numerous resources that are available for free to students. There's no need to be afraid or feel ashamed about taking advantage of these resources when you need them! Additionally, getting involved on campus, whether through sports, clubs, or a campus job, can enhance your college experience. It not only makes college more enjoyable but also helps you build a network of incredible individuals.