Meet Alisha Puentes, a UTRGV Unsung Hero
Text by Amanda A. Taylor
Alisha Puentes, administrative coordinator for the UTRGV Library, loves to be part of a team that collaborates and assists students in any way possible.
She believes the most important thing UTRGV students can achieve is their academic goals, and that with the help of the library staff, all students can achieve whatever they set their minds to.
She is not able to work with students on a one-on-one basis regularly now, but she relishes the time she is able to work with them during the Library’s Extended Hours program. Seeing the students work hard to achieve important milestones warms her heart.
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT UTRGV?
I serve as the Administrative Coordinator for the UTRGV Library.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED HERE?
I have been with UTRGV and before that UTPA for 15 years. I started in the Collection Development Department in the library, and now work in the Library Dean’s office.
DESCRIBE YOUR AVERAGE DAY
My average day would be collaborating with our wonderful library staff, students and occasionally faculty to ensure our UTRGV students achieve their academic goals.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB?
My favorite is the wonderful friendships I have made along the way, both in and out of the library. It’s an amazing feeling to be part of such a great team and to know you really can help make a difference for our students.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE MEMORY, OR STORY, ABOUT YOUR TIME HERE?
I think one of my favorite memories would be from when we provide Extended Hours for students during finals. I don’t often get to work directly with students, but during extended hours, I see first-hand how much they appreciate our help, and we get to see how hard they are working. It’s just a great and heartwarming feeling!
TELL US SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU
I’m a big pop culture nerd and Marvel fan. I also talk frequently in movie and TV quotes.
DO YOU FEEL A SPECIAL BOND WITH THE UTRGV COMMUNITY?
Yes, I feel working here is very much like being part of a big family. It feels as if just yesterday, I started my journey with this great university, and I look forward to all our exciting achievements yet to come! V’s Up!
