Roy Rodriguez
Name: Roy Rodriguez
Age: 25
Major: Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (pursuing studies in Material Science) and Bachelor of Biology (pursuing studies in Genetics and Cellular studies)
Class: Senior
College: College of Engineering & Computer Science and College of Science
Hometown: Monte Alto, Texas
High School: The Science Academy of South Texas ISD – Mercedes, Tx
Why UTRGV?
Honestly, for the opportunity. UTRGV is one of the closest universities not only to my home but also to my family. Coming from a low-income family who couldn’t help pay for college, UTRGV is one of the best universities to help with the cost of tuition. If it weren’t for the Tuition Advantage program, I don’t think I would be in college today.
What made you decide on your current major?
I love telling this story. When I was in middle school, my older sister, Jessica, was attending UTPA back in the day. There was an event happening on campus, and she invited me to go see a guest speaker — which turned out to be Bill Nye! I was ecstatic since, as a kid, I loved watching his educational videos in elementary and middle school, and now I was going to see my role model in person.
When we got to the gymnasium, eager to see the man himself, there was a giant satellite in the back of the gym. Bill Nye entered and discussed the satellite in great detail, describing each function and why each part was made. The part that stuck with me was his description of the solar wings and how they were engineered to help it soar. That phrase — that people engineered these wings — inspired me to consider a career in engineering.
What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
I want to make a significant mark in the field of Materials Science and biomaterials. Whether that’s through a breakthrough discovery or developing a new compound that helps people locally or globally, I want my work to make a real difference.
What do you like most about UTRGV?
The professors, the opportunities, and the faculty have made my time at UTRGV better than I imagined. I started without knowing exactly what area of engineering I wanted to pursue but ended up working toward two bachelor’s degrees. I’ve been fortunate to learn from incredible professors such as Dr. Lozano, Dr. Padilla, Dr. Jalal, and Mr. Cano, who shaped my passion for Materials Science and gave me the opportunity to join the Partnership for Research and Education in Materials (PREM). That experience sparked my love for research and opened the door to academia.
Lastly, the faculty in the College of Engineering gave me some of my best memories — from conversations to helping with departmental and CECS events.
What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Being a Vaquero means working and striving to be the best person you can be, no matter how hard or tough the road is. As Vaqueros, we stay strong in pursuing our goals.
What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
Honestly, my organizations. I help lead about four different groups: Rocket Launchers, American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), Material Advantage, and oSTEM. They’ve given me friends and a sense of belonging — whether with space nerds or materials geeks.
What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
Allow yourself to seek out new experiences, especially as engineering or science students. Don’t be afraid to take a semester for an internship or co-op. Go out and explore the world — it’s calling you!