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The purpose of the Mentoring Program is to choose top-performing students with a solid understanding of nursing concepts who will effectively guide and support their peers academically.
Student Mentors
My name is Karla Barrera, and I am currently pursuing my nursing degree as a fourth-semester student mentor, with the long-term goal of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). My interest in healthcare began while working in a physical therapy clinic after I obtained my degree in exercise science with a concentration in physical therapy, where I saw firsthand the difference compassionate, skilled care can make in a patient’s recovery. That experience inspired me to continue building my knowledge and skills in a different area of healthcare, with a particular focus on critical care. I am especially excited to gain experience in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where I can grow in a fast-paced, complex environment that will prepare me for my future education.
Outside of school, I enjoy reading, spending time with family and friends, and finding new places to explore. As a mentor, I strive to be a supportive resource for students—whether that means sharing strategies for balancing coursework and clinicals, offering encouragement during stressful times, or simply being someone who understands the nursing school journey. Most of all, I hope to create a welcoming space where students feel valued, heard, and never alone in their experiences.
Hello, my name is Kayleen Olvera. I am a 3rd semester ABSN student. I have been interested in healthcare my whole life. I’ve always wanted to know how I can help people and make their lives better. I graduated with a bachelor’s in psychology from USC in 2021. I decided to go to nursing school for a more hands-on career. I plan to continue my education and become an NP. I love being a mentor because any support in nursing school goes a very long way, and I hope I help students realize they are not alone.
Hello, my name is Neri Rodriguez, I am a 3rd-semester nursing student in the 2nd Degree ABSN program. I chose nursing as a way to honor a close friend who passed away a few years ago, and her memory continues to inspire me to pursue this career with compassion and dedication. I also serve as a mentor in the program, where I enjoy supporting other students. Being a mentor has also allowed me to strengthen my own knowledge and grow as a future nurse. My goal is to become a nurse who makes a meaningful difference in patients’ lives while upholding the values that inspired me to enter this profession.
Hello! My name is Regina Treviño, and I am a 3rd-semester traditional BSN student. My interest in nursing began in high school where I was given the opportunity to complete an EMT-basic course. Through this course I was able to gain firsthand patient care experience both in the pre-hospital and hospital setting. My time in nursing school has shown me that healthcare is a job that requires multiple professions working together toward the same goal of providing the best care possible for each patient. As a nursing mentor I hope to be a helping hand for those who need it by providing support and guidance. Together we can work towards overcoming the challenges that nursing school presents so that we may all be successful in our nursing school journey.
My name is Yrene Rivas, and I am currently a third-semester traditional BSN student. My interest in nursing began nearly seven years ago when my older sister started nursing school. She would often come home and take the time to teach me the pathophysiology of some diseases as well as the importance of holistic care. I found myself fascinated by it all. This alongside receiving the Luminary Scholarship, solidified my path toward a career in nursing. Looking ahead, I plan to pursue my master’s degree in nursing and become a Family Nurse Practitioner. I have been incredibly blessed with support and encouragement coming from my friends, family, and even professors. For this reason, I hope to give back by becoming a mentor myself, so I can support and guide others just as I have been supported!
My name is Aaron Medrano, and I am a 4th semester nursing student in the accelerated program. In 2023 I received a bachelor’s of science in biology, and during this time I also received my certification to be a nurse aide. While working as an aide, I realized nursing was something that I could see an interest in. I liked the opportunities available for growth in this career. I also knew I could not see myself working a 9 to 5 at an office job, which further increased my interest in becoming a registered nurse. My interests outside of school include going to concerts (which I frequently attend,) playing on my nintendo switch, and hanging out with friends. As a mentor, my goals are to help students understand how to navigate nursing school, learn a study method that works for them, and offer help wherever it is needed. I look forward to this upcoming semester and wish everyone the best of luck!
My name is Armando Garces III, I am in the third semester of the accelerated nursing program at UTRGV. My previous education includes a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Master of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. I was involved in research and leadership programs that allowed me to develop my professional skills that have been essential in my preparation as a student nurse. I have always dreamed of working in the health care system and the nursing program was a great opportunity for me to reach that goal. I strive to make a positive impact on the health of our community, and I plan to continue preparing myself in the future. For now, my main objective is to become a compassionate and knowledgeable nurse that can ensure patient safety and wellbeing.
Howdy, I’m Ethan Martinez. I’m a 4th semester BSN student and this will be my 3rd semester as a mentor. Along with coffee and my cat, my love of the art of nursing has always been a passion of mine. My aim as a mentor is to aid students in not only the understanding of nursing concepts, but to encourage the love of the art of nursing.
My name is Helena Lara, and I am a dedicated 4th semester nursing student at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, where I’ve not only been working toward my BSN but also actively contributing to the success of my peers and my community. For three semesters, I’ve proudly served as a peer mentor, supporting fellow nursing students by sharing resources, study strategies, and encouragement during one of the most challenging academic journies they’ll take.
Alongside my education, I work as a nurse tech in the Clinical Decision Unit (CDU) and Emergency Room at DHR, where I have the opportunity to apply my skills in fast-paced, high-acuity settings. This role has sharpened my critical thinking and strengthened my commitment to patient-centered care.
I chose nursing because it blends science, compassion, and purpose — three values I hold deeply. Growing up, I always knew I wanted a career where I could make a tangible difference, and nursing allows me to meet people at their most vulnerable moments and help them regain strength and dignity. I chose to become a peer mentor for the same reason: to be the person I once needed — someone to guide, motivate, and remind others that they are capable of achieving this dream.
Hello! My name is Ismael Alejandro Adame, but my friends call me Alex. I am a third-semester ABSN nursing student in the UTRGV School of Nursing, and I have been a mentor since my second semester. I originally graduated from UTRGV in 2021 as a medical laboratory scientist at the age of 20. Since then, I gained 3 years of medical laboratory experience through multiple hospitals in the valley as I attempted to get into PA school. My favorite department in medical laboratory settings has to be the blood bank. The adrenaline rush of having to give life-saving products without causing a reaction is unlike anything else. Then, a little over a year ago, a friend who graduated from UTRGV School of Nursing suggested the NP program, and now I am here chasing that dream, but, of course, I have to become a nurse first and get my bedside experience in. My medical diagnostic background has helped me out a lot in this new career path, but I am also trying to work my way into becoming the best nurse I can, just like everyone else here. I like being able to guide others through inside and outside of the mentorship program, and anyone who lets me nerd out for a bit will have my stamp of approval in my books! I hope I can help you out in whatever way you need, I'm always available for help. See you in the mentor room!
Hello everyone I am Angel Nunez, and I am in my fourth and final semester at UTRGV. I’ve also served as a peer mentor for three semesters including this current semester. I chose nursing because I want to combine compassion with care, making a real difference in people’s lives. Becoming a peer mentor gave me the opportunity to support fellow students, share what I’ve learned, and continue growing as a leader within the nursing community. I look forward to being able to help you guys succeed, and I wish you all well in your nursing journey!