Camila Gutierrez
Name: Camila Gutierrez Saldierna
Age: 20
Major: Visual Communication Design
Class: Senior
College: College of Fine Arts
Hometown: Edinburg, Texas
High School: Edinburg North High School
Why UTRGV?
My dad has been teaching at UTRGV since it was still UTPA, so I had visited the campus for many years. I always enjoyed walking around the library and getting snacks from the vending machines outside the lecture rooms. It might seem insignificant, but I always dreamed of walking those halls as a true UTRGV student. As a senior in high school, I knew I wanted to stay close to family and friends, and earning the UTRGV Presidential Scholarship made that possible. Because of the scholarship and my family tradition, I chose UTRGV.
What made you decide on your current major?
I’ve always had a strong interest in art and design, which led me to discover graphic design. At the same time, I became curious about how websites are built, so I decided to add computer science as a minor. Together, these areas allow me to explore both the visual and technical aspects of design.
What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
As the digital age continues to grow rapidly, I hope to use my skills in graphic design and computer science to help people create meaningful, user-friendly digital experiences.
What do you like most about UTRGV?
I enjoy the classes I’ve taken and the people I’ve met who share similar interests and goals. These courses have taught me a lot and have improved both my design and communication skills.
What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
I find it meaningful that even beyond the university, local shops carry UTRGV memorabilia. It’s inspiring to see how connected the community is, and it makes me proud to be a Vaquero. The widespread support from local businesses and individuals reflects the strong spirit and reach of the university.
What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
I’m fortunate to work with the university’s Department of Marketing and Communications as a part-time student graphic designer. This opportunity has allowed me to apply what I’ve learned in class to real-world projects. While my courses provide the foundation for design principles, UMC has challenged me to create work for a broader audience beyond the classroom.
What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
Continue to set goals for yourself. Even if it’s just writing out a few assignments due that week, it’s very rewarding to complete tasks—it builds motivation. Eventually, it becomes a habit, and you’ll find yourself setting goals outside the university, like building your portfolio or learning a new program.