Jose Tabarez
Name: Jose Luis Tabarez Jr.
Age: 22
Major: B.S. Civil Engineering, Minor in Business Management
Class: Senior
College: College of Engineering and Computer Science
Hometown: Corpus Christi, Texas
High School: Gregory-Portland High School – Portland, Texas
Why UTRGV?
In February 2018, while studying in Mexico, I attended a study abroad expo in Guadalajara and discovered UTRGV. Its deep connection to my South Texas roots immediately caught my attention. Growing up in a predominantly Hispanic community, I sought a university where I could embrace my culture and be surrounded by peers with similar experiences. UTRGV's large Hispanic population made it feel like home, a place where I could thrive both academically and culturally. As a first-generation student, the financial aid opportunities were crucial in my decision. UTRGV allowed me to stay close to my heritage while pursuing a high-quality education. Years later, as a UTRGV student, I had the chance to study abroad twice—in Peru and South Korea—completing my journey full circle.
What made you decide on your current major?
My interest in civil engineering, particularly in construction, has always been strong, especially the teamwork and planning involved. I'm particularly drawn to transportation engineering—the planning, construction, and maintenance of roads, bridges, highways, and airports. Project management fascinates me as it allows me to oversee the bigger picture in urban planning, coordinating all aspects of a project from start to finish. My father, who has worked in construction his entire life, is my biggest inspiration. He taught me the value of hard work and the importance of leaving a lasting impact, motivating me to pursue STEM and construction. His dedication has inspired me to follow in his footsteps and make my own mark in the field.
What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
Upon completing my B.S. in Civil Engineering, I am excited to start my full-time role as a Highway Engineer-in-Training (EIT) with Jacobs in Dallas, Texas. This role marks the beginning of my career in transportation engineering, where I will contribute to developing and enhancing infrastructure. Over time, I aim to gain the experience needed to manage large-scale projects and transition into project management, overseeing complex urban planning and transportation systems that impact communities positively. Professionally, I intend to remain active with the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) and maintain a close connection with UTRGV and the College of Engineering and Computer Science (CECS) as an alumnus. I look forward to sharing my experiences and, in the future, creating scholarships to help students pursue their dreams, just as I was able to.
What do you like most about UTRGV?
What I cherish most about UTRGV is the people—the faculty, staff, and students—that create a strong sense of community. The relationships I've built here make the university special. The close-knit connections have allowed me to fully engage with the university and take advantage of available opportunities. The university's size fosters these relationships, and I appreciate the unity within our diverse campus, which includes people from various backgrounds and stories. The numerous opportunities I've had as a student, leader, on-campus resident, and student employee have enriched my time at UTRGV, allowing me to develop both personally and professionally. Being part of CECS and the Civil Engineering Department has been rewarding, with Dr. Ala-Qubbaj inspiring me with his commitment to family and leadership. The CECS slogan, "SUCCESSFUL TOGETHER!" reflects the collaborative spirit fostered by our faculty and staff, which has been key to my growth at UTRGV.
What does being a vaquero mean to you?
Being a Vaquero embodies the values of hard work, dedication, and community—values that resonate deeply with me. It represents a connection to my heritage and a proud tradition of perseverance. At UTRGV, I've learned that being a Vaquero is about more than academic achievement; it's about fostering relationships, supporting others, and making a lasting impact. The people of UTRGV, from peers to faculty and staff, have shown me what it means to lead with humility, embrace diversity, and stay true to our values. Ms. Kourtnie Hernandez, the SGA Program Coordinator, has been particularly inspiring, encouraging me to pursue opportunities and always supporting me along the way. Her mentorship has been crucial to my growth as a leader within the Student Government Association and beyond. As a Vaquero, I am proud to be part of a university that prioritizes excellence, cares about giving back to the community, and empowers future generations. And, of course, I never miss an opportunity to show my V's Up whenever a camera is in sight!
What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
UTRGV has provided me with invaluable opportunities for leadership and community engagement. Through roles in student organizations like SHPE, TBP, ASCE, TSPE, and the Honors College, I've taken on leadership positions that allow me to engage with fellow students and drive initiatives promoting academic excellence, inclusivity, and professional development. As a Student Government Association (SGA) senator for CECS, I represented my peers and worked to improve the student experience. Additionally, my involvement in university committees such as Global Affairs and Food Services allowed me to contribute to decisions impacting the broader UTRGV community. Being part of the Student Leadership Academy (SLA) and the Freshman Leadership Academy (FLA) has further developed my leadership skills and helped me organize events supporting the campus and local communities. My experience as an on-campus resident for four years and a student employee for one year enriched my time at UTRGV, deepening my connection to the university and its operations. These experiences, along with my work with faculty, staff, and peers, have allowed me to make a lasting impact on campus and beyond. Through UTRGV, I've been able to pursue my passions and give back in meaningful ways.
What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
My advice is simple: be proactive, embrace opportunities, and stay resilient. University is about more than just classes—it’s about the people you meet, the skills you develop, and the experiences you gain. Get involved with professors, peers, and campus organizations. Seek leadership roles, internships, and networking events that will open new doors. Step out of your comfort zone, pursue what inspires you, and don’t be afraid to fail. Success isn’t about grades; it’s about growth and learning. As I’ve come to believe, "Success isn't about what you accomplish in your life; it’s about the impact you have on others." Build connections, ask for help when needed, and always give back to your community. With determination and integrity, your journey will be a rewarding one.