Eryssa Quintanilla
Name: Eryssa Quintanilla
Age: 25
Major: Master of Science Engineering in Mechanical Engineering
Class: Graduate
College: College of Engineering and Computer Sciences
Hometown: Alton, TX
High School: Sharyland Pioneer High School
Why UTRGV?
Attending UTRGV allows me to remain close to my family and offers more financial assistance for students compared to other universities.
What made you decide on your current major?
I decided to major in mechanical engineering because I was inspired by my dad, and later my teacher helped me focus on which type of engineering suited me best. Growing up, I watched my dad build a variety of projects—my favorite was a go-kart he constructed from scratch. I wanted to understand how he made it, how it functioned, and what knowledge I would need to create something similar. In high school, my teacher introduced me to 3D printing and robotics, which further solidified my interest in mechanical engineering. It’s a broad field that touches on circuits, electrical components, civil structures, and more.
What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
After earning my master’s, I’d love to work in renewable energy, robotics, or 3D printing. My goal is to contribute to projects that benefit the planet, such as developing recycling methods that can be applied to creating renewable energy systems.
What do you like most about UTRGV?
I appreciate the university’s diverse community and how it encourages students to embrace those differences. Seeing how people have both similarities and unique qualities reminds me of how vast the world can be.
What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Being a Vaquero means embracing diversity, supporting one another, and being determined. Everyone comes together for different reasons, and being in an environment that nurtures that unity is truly reassuring.
What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
I’m grateful for the friends and mentors I’ve made, especially during my last year as an undergraduate. Collaborating on a robotics project for senior design introduced me to a fantastic group, and together we even explored an internship opportunity in Tennessee.
What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
Seek out and use the resources available to you, particularly the tutoring center and your academic advisors. Many students avoid asking for help when studying gets stressful, but I found that the tutoring center helped me earn A’s in my courses. Advisors are also invaluable for planning your schedule and avoiding course overload. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or try new things; every challenge you tackle brings you closer to your goals.