Allison Mireles

Name: Allison Mireles
Age: 20
Major: Bachelor’s in Early Care and Early Child Studies
Class: Junior
College: College of Education and P-16 Integration
Hometown: Brownsville
High School: STISD Medical Professions

Why UTRGV?
I chose UTRGV because it's located in my hometown, which allows me to stay connected to my community while also offering the opportunity to explore and experience the other campus. It provides a unique balance of familiarity and new experiences, along with strong academic programs and a supportive environment that sets it apart from other universities.

What made you decide on your current major?
I chose to major in education because of the incredible educators who have shaped me into the person I am today. I’ve always loved school, not just learning, but the entire process behind it. Ever since I was young, I was the kind of student who loved helping my teachers in the classroom. Now, I look forward to becoming that kind of role model and inspiring young minds to grow into kind, curious, and capable individuals.

What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
In the future, I aspire to earn my Master of Education in Educational Leadership from UTRGV and become an elementary school principal. My goal is to create a healthy, supportive, and fun school environment where both students and teachers can thrive. I also hope to pursue a Ph.D. later on to continue growing as a leader in education.

What do you like most about UTRGV?
What I like most about UTRGV is the strong sense of community and the many opportunities it offers. Being part of the Vaquero community means having a support system that truly wants to see you succeed. UTRGV provides valuable resources, and the encouragement from faculty, staff, and fellow students creates an environment where everyone is motivated to grow and achieve their goals.

What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
What instills pride in me about being a Vaquero is being part of a university that truly represents and uplifts its diverse community. UTRGV values culture, education, and growth, and it’s inspiring to be surrounded by students and faculty who are passionate about making a difference.

What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
One of the best opportunities UTRGV has given me is being part of the UTRGV Street Team. It’s a great student job on campus that has helped me meet so many amazing people and experience new things. I’ve had the chance to cover UTRGV’s first football game and go behind the scenes of the Theatre Department’s production of Romeo and Juliet. These experiences have helped me grow and discover new interests. Next year, I hope to study abroad in Spain and continue exploring new opportunities through UTRGV.

What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
My advice for fellow students is to stay focused and remember why you started. College comes with ups and downs, so it’s important to find a community that supports you and helps you stay motivated. It’s also important to use the resources available on campus. Whether it’s tutoring, counseling, or student organizations, UTRGV offers a lot of support—and taking advantage of it can really help you succeed.