Lynsey Torres
Name: Lynsey Torres
Age: 21
Major: Bachelor of Science in Biology
Class: Senior
College: College of Sciences
Hometown: Edinburg
High School: Edinburg High School (Edinburg, TX)
Why UTRGV?
UTRGV offered me their Presidential Scholarship, which essentially covers all of my tuition expenses. Even though my high school academic standing qualified me for acceptance to any school in Texas, UTRGV offered by far the most financial assistance.
What made you decide on your current major?
I love the fact that as a biology major, I have a wide variety of classes to choose from—my favorites being chemistry and environmental courses.
What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
As a graduate student, I hope to conduct research tailored to the Rio Grande Valley’s agricultural needs. Beyond that, I’d like to engage in community outreach to educate local farmers on sustainable practices outside of an academic setting.
What do you like most about UTRGV?
I appreciate the small class sizes at UTRGV. Having fewer students per class allows professors to be more personable and provides a better learning experience.
What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Being a Vaquero means never forgetting our home. I love that even in our core classes, professors often include RGV history because that pride is such a big part of UTRGV’s culture.
What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
UTRGV has helped me secure multiple internships in and out of state, with covered expenses. I also experienced an exciting study abroad in Costa Rica. Here at the university, I’ve grown fond of UTRGV’s agroecology program and its farm, the Hub of Prosperity. The program is a close-knit community of highly educated individuals dedicated to sharing knowledge on sustainable growing practices in the RGV.
What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
Don’t let your college years slip by. Take on internships, study abroad, and pursue any valuable life experiences available to you. You have the freedom to do this now, and many of these experiences are paid, so let cost concerns go. Seize every opportunity!