Joseph Garcia
Name: Joseph Garcia
Age: 22
Major: Bachelor of Science in Integrated Health Science
College: College of Health Professions
Hometown: Edinburg, Texas
High School: Robert Vela High School, Edinburg, Texas
Why UTRGV?
I chose to attend UTRGV because it has been a dream of mine since high school and it is close to home. I’ve worked hard to get here, guided by God and encouraged by my mom, who earned her bachelor’s in nursing at UTPA. She always reminded me to never give up on my goals and to stay dedicated. UTRGV stands out to me not only for its affordable, high-quality education, but also for its welcoming community, strong cultural connection, and unique opportunities to grow and give back to the Rio Grande Valley—opportunities I know I wouldn’t find anywhere else.
What made you decide on your current major?
I originally majored in Computer Science, but I switched to Integrated Health Science after realizing my true calling is nursing. Caring for my brother for many years inspired my passion for helping others. Learning more about the role of nurses through my pre-nursing classes further confirmed that nursing is the path I want to pursue.
What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
I hope to gain experience working in a hospital setting before pursuing UTRGV’s second-degree nursing program. After completing my BSN, I plan to work as a registered nurse while preparing to pursue a master’s degree to become a Nurse Practitioner. Becoming a Nurse Practitioner has been my long-term goal since beginning my pre-nursing journey, and I am committed to achieving it.
What do you like most about UTRGV?
What I like most about UTRGV is how welcoming and supportive it feels from the moment you step on campus. Professors take the time to help students succeed, and there are countless opportunities to get involved and grow. I’ve met amazing people, and the campus feels closely connected to the community and culture. It’s a place where you can focus on your goals while still feeling at home.
What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Being a Vaquero means working hard, staying determined, and never giving up on your goals. It’s about representing your roots with pride and showing that dedication leads to success. I’m proud to be part of a university that supports its students and stays connected to the community. Being a Vaquero reminds me that I’m not just working for my future but also making my family proud.
What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
UTRGV has opened many doors for me in the community. I’ve connected with organizations like the Student Nurse Organization and the Integrated Health Science Student Association, which helped me learn more about my future career and meet peers with similar goals. I also joined Chi Alpha, a Christian organization on campus, which strengthened my relationship with God and introduced me to friends I now consider family. I know none of these opportunities would’ve been possible without God’s guidance.
What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
My advice is to never give up, no matter how challenging the journey gets. There will be times when you feel tired, stressed, or doubt yourself, but those moments shape you the most. Push through every obstacle and remind yourself why you started. Every late night of studying, every early morning class, and every ounce of effort is an investment in your future. When I first started college, I was the type of student who procrastinated often, but I realized that approach wouldn’t help me achieve my goals. Through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to changing my habits, I transformed myself into a disciplined and successful student. This taught me that no matter where you start, you can grow, overcome challenges, and achieve success if you stay determined and believe in yourself.