Andrea Ramírez-Adame
Name: Andrea Ramírez-Adame
Age: 21
Major: Integrated Health Science
Class: Senior
College: College of Health Professions
Hometown: Brownsville, TX
High School: South Texas ISD Medical Professions, Olmito, Texas
Why UTRGV?
I initially chose UTRGV for its proximity to home and affordability, but what I discovered was far more valuable. UTRGV offered unique opportunities that aligned perfectly with my passion for healthcare and community service. The university's commitment to serving the Rio Grande Valley's diverse population created an environment where I could pursue meaningful research and community engagement. Personalized attention from professors and opportunities to work with institutions like the UTRGV Institute of Neuroscience (ION) provided hands-on experiences that would have been difficult to access elsewhere.
What made you decide on your current major?
When deciding on my major, I looked for a program that offered a comprehensive education—balancing biological and clinical knowledge with critical aspects of patient care and healthcare systems. I wanted to become an effective patient educator. Integrated Health Science also allowed me to explore evolving healthcare technologies, which fascinate me as tools to improve access and quality of care, especially in underserved areas like those I’ve worked with. The curriculum's focus on healthcare ethics and the business side of medicine was equally important, as delivering effective care requires a deep understanding of the systems in which healthcare operates.
What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
Beyond graduation, I aim to become a physician dedicated to addressing health disparities in underserved communities like the Rio Grande Valley. I hope to create sustainable healthcare programs that bring services to isolated populations. By combining clinical expertise with public health strategies, I plan to deliver culturally informed, compassionate care that acknowledges the unique challenges faced by diverse communities.
What do you like most about UTRGV?
What I appreciate most about UTRGV is its genuine commitment to student success and community impact. The university creates pathways—like SEI—for students like me to engage in meaningful research and leadership roles while serving real community needs. The supportive network of professors and staff, especially in the College of Health Professions, has been invaluable. They recognize potential and continuously encourage growth.
What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
To me, being a Vaquero means strength, service, and community. The Vaquero spirit has inspired me to persevere through challenges, give back through service, and recognize that our individual achievements contribute to our Valley’s collective progress.
What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
UTRGV has connected me with many valuable community opportunities. As President of the Pre-Medical Society, Red Rover Readers RGV, and VP/Co-Founder of the Integrated Health Science Student Association (IHSSA), I’ve led initiatives that benefit both students and the community. My SEI internship with UTRGV ION led to the creation of Memoria Sin Fronteras, a program that brings expressive arts to rural areas. As a Service-Learning Ambassador, I helped students find meaningful service opportunities and supported UTRGV’s mission of community engagement. Collaborations with UTHealth gave me hands-on experience in epidemiology and cancer prevention. These experiences strengthened my leadership, broadened my network, and deepened my impact.
What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
Embrace every opportunity UTRGV offers beyond the classroom. Join organizations—or create your own—build community and discover your passions. Seek out research experiences and internships, as they develop your skills and bring clarity to your goals. Don’t be afraid to propose new initiatives when you identify a need and find mentors among the faculty to guide you. Most importantly, balance academics with community engagement—you’ll graduate not just with a degree, but with purpose.