Student of the Week

Awards/Honors

Lion’s Club Scholarship, 2006
Alpha Sigma Tau Officer Academy attendee, 2007.

Visit the archives to view previous student profiles.

Vanessa J. Castro, 20, a sophomore at The University of Texas-Pan American, plans to graduate with a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies and a minor in bilingual education. She is a graduate of La Feria High School, where she was part of the Lion Band, color guard, UIL social studies, UIL journalism, yearbook, and Journalism Club. At UTPA, Castro currently serves as the president and collegiate alumnae liaison of Alpha Sigma Tau national service sorority. Within the sorority, she runs meetings, oversees and participates in committees, and gives back to the community. She is also a Greek Council delegate and a member of Panhellenic. Castro is employed at the University as a graduate survey assistant in the Office of Career Services, where she keeps track of the careers of past graduates and helps maintain the tracking report of all permanent placements and internships. She has actively volunteered with the Bay City Beach Clean-Up, Paint McAllen Beautiful, Habitat for Humanity, Pine Mountain Settlement School, Make a Difference Day and Valley Baptist Medical Center.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I hope to follow my dream as an elementary teacher. I then plan to pursue my master’s degree in education in order to enhance my ability and increase student learning. It has always been my goal to help others and what better way than through teaching.

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

I do plan on staying in the Valley. Family is very important to me and since most of mine resides here, I will too. The Valley’s rapid growth and culture make it a perfect place to live.

What has your education done for you?

My education has helped me see who I want to be and what I want to do to for my community. I have gained confidence and learned that education really is the key to success.

How do you feel about your UTPA experience?

UTPA has impacted my life in the most positive way! I have received a unique experience and have met people from all over the world, giving me the ability to learn so much about different cultures.

What is your best tip for success?

Determination! With it, you can get anywhere and do anything. Never lose sight of your dreams.

What advice do you have for college-bound students?

Get involved and stay involved. There are many different organizations always looking for new members to share their experiences with. This will in turn give you leadership and other numerous skills that will help you in your personal life and professional career. Never be scared to take risks and never miss an opportunity…you never know what lessons you will learn.