New Student Orientation Department of Undergraduate Admissions

Major: Biology 

Hometown: Weslaco, TX 

Class of 2024 

Advice for New Students: “Try to be involved in school organizations and activities if given the opportunity. It will allow you to meet new people and build connections; overall bettering your college experience.” 

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Juliete Gonzalez
Lead Orientation Leader

Major: Biology 

Hometown: Roma, TX 

Class of 2022 

Advice for New Students: “A piece of advice I would give to incoming Freshmen or transfer students is to always ask questions when confused about anything, it does not hurt to get clarification. In addition, I would also advice new students to always try to make friends with other students around campus because you will benefit from having friendships in many ways.” 

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Aissa Rodriguez
Lead Orientation Leader

Major: Civil Engineering 

Hometown: McAllen,TX 

Class of 2023 

Advice for New Students: “A piece of advice for the incoming Freshman is to use a planner to help remain organized and not fall behind.” 

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Jose Garza
Orientation Leader

Major: Psychology 

Hometown: McAllen, TX 

Class of 2024 

Advice for New Students: “Keep an open mind, you’re finally in college! Don't be afraid to meet new people, just be yourself and everything will be okay! I 100% recommend utilizing the services UTRGV offers, such as: the Counseling services, Learning Center, Writing Center, etc. And if you ever have a question, don’t be afraid to ask us or anyone! V’s Up! ✌🏽🧡.” 

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Maria Ortega
Orientation Leader

Major: Social Studies Composite - Teacher Certification 

Hometown: Santa Maria, TX 

Class of 2023 

Advice for New Students: “If you are an incoming Freshman or a Transfer student going to attend UTRGV, my advice is to not be afraid of change. Change is inevitable, but growth is optional.” 

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Yuliana Morales
Orientation Leader

Major: Exercise Science & Dance 

Hometown: Victoria, Tamaulipas, MX 

Class of 2021 

Advice for New Students: “It doesn't matter how hard the road is to finish your career, what matter is that you finish it.” 

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Katzin Garcia
Orientation Leader

Major: Biology 

Hometown: Houston, TX 

Class of 2022 

Advice for New Students: “Join Clubs and involve yourself in the campus activities, so you can meet all kinds of people!” 

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Giselle Rodriguez
Orientation Leader
New Student Orientation

Major: Integrated Health Science 

Hometown: Brownsville, TX 

Class of 2023 

Advice for New Students: “Attend as many events as you can, don’t be shy and always ask questions if needed help!” 

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Joanna Hernandez
Orientation Leader

Major: Criminal Justice 

Hometown: Weslaco, TX 

Class of 2022 

Advice for New Students: “Keep deadlines noted and definitely don't procrastinate. Choose a career path based on things you are passionate about. Don't be afraid of asking questions, there is nothing wrong in doing so. Join clubs and organizations of your interest or based on your major/minor, they will definitely help you once you graduate or apply for jobs.” 

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Lessli Ybarra
Orientation Leader

Major: Biology 

Hometown: Donna, TX 

Class of 2021 

Advice for New Students: “It's okay not to know what you want to do for the rest of your life, coming into college. I know some people who have changed their major at least 3 times, myself included. Not everyone gets it right the first time and that's okay. Also, be nice to yourself. Only you know how much you've had to put in to get where you're at so be proud of yourself, you got this! (:” 

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Olivia Rodriguez
Orientation leader