Katzin Jasive Garcia Ramirez

Name: Katzin Jasive García Ramírez
Age: 30
Major: Master of Education in Early Childhood
Class: Graduate
College: College of Education and P-16 Integration
Hometown: Victoria, Tamaulipas
High School: Centro de Bachillerato Tecnológico Industrial y de Servicios No. 236 (Victoria, Tamaulipas)

Why UTRGV?
Choosing a university meant leaving home, which was a difficult decision. UTRGV has become a place where I feel at home, even while being far away. Its commitment to bilingual education and multicultural engagement creates a welcoming and inclusive environment. Beyond academics, UTRGV offers affordable tuition and generous access to grants and scholarships that make higher education truly accessible.

What made you decide on your current major?
My path to this major was not straightforward, it took several detours and moments of reflection. When I decided to pursue graduate school, I never imagined I would end up in this field. It wasn’t until I revisited childhood memories of playing teacher and admiring the educators around, especially my mom, an elementary school teacher, that I realized my passion had always been in education. Those early experiences shaped my desire to become a role model for young learners.

What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
I envision myself in a classroom supporting young children as they grow and reach developmental milestones. My goal is to foster a nurturing and stimulating environment where every child feels seen, supported, and empowered.

What do you like most about UTRGV?
The community at UTRGV is what I cherish most. It’s incredibly diverse to meet people from all over the world, and that exposure enriches your perspective. I’ve also had the privilege of learning from exceptional professors like Dr. Medrano, Dr. Cuevas, Dr. Viren, Dr. Gonzalez, and Dr. Garza. Their dedication goes beyond academics; they genuinely care about our success and well-being.

What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
To me, being a Vaquero means being part of a legacy. It’s more than just being a student, it’s about belonging to a growing community that values resilience, diversity, and impact. Every Vaquero’s story contributes to the strength and spirit of UTRGV.

What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
Working with the Office of Undergraduate Recruitment and New Student Orientation, under the guidance of Andrea Yen and her dedicated leadership team, opened doors I never expected. That experience was instrumental in my professional development and ultimately led to my current role as a Graduate Research Assistant. Joining UTCARES has also provided meaningful opportunities to serve the community through volunteer work—supporting children and encouraging their development across various domains.

What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
Never give up. You are never too late to pursue your goals. Life may present obstacles or setbacks, but persistence leads to opportunity. If you’re told “no,” keep searching for your “yes.”