Meet Ana Chapa, a UTRGV Unsung Hero
Text by Amanda A. Taylor-Uchoa
As Senior Graduate Student Recruiter in UTRGV's Graduate Recruitment office, Ana Chapa helps bridge the gap between potential and opportunity. Since 2019, she’s played a pivotal role in guiding students through the often-daunting process of graduate admissions — from that first spark of interest to the final steps of enrollment.
Ana’s journey with UTRGV began as a Graduate Assistant in the Graduate College, where she discovered a deep passion for supporting student success. Now, she dedicates her days to answering questions, solving problems, and cheering on future graduate Vaqueros. “Each student’s story is different,” she says. “And I’m honored to be even the tiniest part of it.”
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT UTRGV?
I am a Senior Graduate Student Recruiter with the Graduate Recruitment team.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED HERE?
I have worked at UTRGV for almost six years, starting as a Graduate Assistant with the Graduate College in 2019. In that role, I assisted with everything from application assistance to thesis and dissertation reviews. That experience sparked my love for higher education — and specifically graduate education — which led me to my current role.
DESCRIBE YOUR AVERAGE DAY:
On a typical day, I meet with prospective graduate students to support them as they explore program options or begin their applications. I also assist our student outreach team by helping solve applicant issues and making sure they can successfully take their next steps toward a graduate education.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB?
My favorite part of my job is getting to work with a great team that truly cares about the work they do and supports prospective graduate students in every way possible.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE MEMORY OR STORY ABOUT YOUR TIME HERE?
Some of my favorite moments have been getting to know the students in our UTRGV community. I’ve worked with students at every point of their graduate journey — from the moment they first consider grad school to the final approval of their dissertation. Each student’s story is unique, and I’m honored to play even a small part in it.
TELL US SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU:
I write in my spare time and had my first poem published in a local literary magazine last year.
WHAT IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE UTRGV COMMUNITY?
UTRGV has been a part of my life during some very formative moments, starting in high school with our legacy institution, UT Brownsville. My experience at UTRGV has always fostered community, curiosity, and learning. I truly believe education can open countless doors — especially here in the RGV — and I’m proud to help connect our community to new opportunities.
