Awards/Honors

  • National Deans List, 2007
  • Dean List-Second, 2006
  • Texas Grant Program, 2006-2007
  • Academic Composite Grant, 2006-2007
  • UTPA Excellence Award, 2005
  • Certificate of Appreciation from the Office of Student Development, 2006
  • Lady Bear Soccer Team Scholarship, 2005
  • Pharr Police Department Scholarship, 2005
  • Med-Ed Program, 2005.
Visit the archives to view previous student profiles.

Erika Perez, 20, a junior at The University of Texas Pan-American, plans to graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and a minor in communications in 2009. Perez graduated in the top 10 percent of her class under the Distinguished Achievement Plan from PSJA High School, where she was a member of the National Honor Society. While attending UTPA, she has worked in the Office of Student Development where she has helped organize and plan events that provide students a positive college experience. She has volunteered at the Iglesia Bautista Jerusalén Vacation Bible School and is currently a choir member at her church.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduating, I hope to come back to UTPA and attend graduate school to get a degree in counseling. I want to help children by providing hope to those who need it the most.

Do you plan to return to/stay in the Valley?

I definitely plan to stay in the Valley; I think that it’s a unique place, which is full of culture and constant growth. I want to be part of that growth by making a difference in children’s life because they are our future.

What has your education done for you?

Having the opportunity to get an education is a blessing because I know that there are other people less fortunate than I am that are not getting educated. My education has opened gateways to multiple experiences that I will benefit from, when it comes to the real world.

How do you feel about your UTPA experience?

UTPA has been a one of a kind experience, I have enjoyed it! The diversity of cultural backgrounds and people that exist in this University is what makes my college experience so special.

What is your best tip for success?

Be dedicated and determined to achieve what you want in life because life is not easy. Try your best in anything that you set your mind to and never give up. Trust God with all your heart and He will guide your paths.

What advice do you have for college-bound students?

First of all, take advantage of the opportunities that high school provides, like Advanced Placement courses and concurrent enrollment because this helps you get a glimpse of what college is really like. Don’t be afraid to further your education, you can do it!

Copyright © 2006-2009 UTPA | DMCA Notice | Privacy Notice
Designed and maintained by the Office of University Relations