Isaac Huerta
Name: Isaac Daniel Huerta
Age: 25
Major: Masters in Exercise Science
Class: Sophomore
College: College of Health Professions
Hometown: Edinburg, Texas
High School: Valley View High School, Hidalgo, Texas
Why UTRGV?
UTRGV allowed me to pursue a high-quality education while staying close to home in the Rio Grande Valley and maintaining my family ties. Its strong exercise science program, dedicated faculty, and focus on community engagement offered unique opportunities not always found elsewhere — aligning perfectly with my passion for sports and helping local athletes.
What made you decide on your current major?
I’ve been passionate about sports since childhood, from being a football fan to playing basketball, even though I lacked natural athletic advantages. I once believed athleticism was determined solely by genetics, but in high school I began to question that belief. I trained tirelessly, though not always effectively, until a coach’s indirect feedback — that I was “missing something”—pushed me to reflect and improve. After high school, I dedicated myself to learning how to get faster, stronger, and jump higher, experimenting with training techniques that transformed my performance. That journey led me to exercise science at UTRGV — a field that combines physiology, biomechanics, and performance optimization with the development of speed, strength, and power. It perfectly aligns with my goal to help athletes reach their full potential.
What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
I aspire to guide athletes to their full potential, whether as a physical therapist or strength and conditioning coach. While I’ve achieved many personal goals, I now find the greatest reward in helping others succeed. Using my knowledge of exercise science, I aim to empower athletes to overcome physical and mental barriers, fostering resilience and peak performance through tailored training and rehabilitation.
What do you like most about UTRGV?
UTRGV’s inspiring professors stand out most — they fuel my passion for exercise science through engaging classes and mentorship. The vibrant campus community, research opportunities, and local internships create a dynamic learning environment. Most importantly, UTRGV allows me to grow academically while staying rooted in the Valley, preparing me to positively impact athletes’ lives.
What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Being a Vaquero means embodying resilience and pride in the Rio Grande Valley. It’s about beating the odds, rising above challenges, and carrying UTRGV’s mission of education and service into my work. As a Vaquero, I’m proud to represent my community’s determination and to strive to help athletes succeed with the same grit that defines our region.
What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
UTRGV has opened doors to valuable community opportunities, including internships with the university’s strength and conditioning program and work at The Pistokache Gym. These roles have allowed me to coach athletes, design training programs, and apply exercise science principles in real-world settings. Volunteering with local youth sports programs has further deepened my passion for mentoring young athletes and helping them overcome performance barriers.
What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
Find something you are passionate about and be resilient in pursuing it. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Engage with professors, get involved in hands-on experiences like volunteering or research, and explore your career options with an open mind. Balance dedication with self-care and keep learning to unlock your potential — just as I am navigating my path to help athletes excel.