Karina Esquivel

Name: Karina Esquivel
Age: 21
Major: Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering
Class: Senior
College: College of Engineering and Computer Science
Hometown: Edinburg, TX
High School: Edinburg North High School 

Why UTRGV?
I chose to attend UTRGV because of the community, culture, financial assistance, and proximity to family.

What made you decide on your current major?
Initially, I was supposed to major in chemistry with an interest in pre-med; however, after exposure to framing in the construction field, my perspective on my future career changed. I saw the design and project management aspects of the industry and took an interest in them. Therefore, I decided to major in civil engineering.

What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
Once I obtain my Professional Engineering license, I plan to run a company. Through professional organizations and nonprofits, I want to foster growth and success for lower socioeconomic groups.

What do you like most about UTRGV?
What I like most about UTRGV is the student-to-professor ratio that promotes closer relationships where students can succeed both professionally and personally.

What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Being a Vaquero means uplifting communities. Attending UTRGV means I have more opportunities, support, and shared cultural values.

What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
UTRGV has helped me find new passions, organizations, and goals. I have become a founder of an organization and held leadership positions that have encouraged the further development of my professional skills. One of those professional skills is networking, through which I’ve gained much of my experience as a future engineer.

What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
I believe having a support system is important to achieving your goals in any industry. The rigor of your major is going to be demanding, so having help is crucial for your success.