Student of the Week

Awards/Honors

UTPA Student Council for Exceptional Children Outstanding New Member Scholarship, fall 2008
Kenedy Memorial Scholarship recipient, fall 2008
National Honors Scholars Society.

Visit the archives to view previous student profiles.

Raquel Irene Corona, 24, is a junior at The University of Pan-American and plans to graduate in May 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies and a minor in special education. She graduated in 2003 from Edinburg North High School, where she participated in the National Honor Society and varsity track and cross country. After living away from the Valley for some time, she returned in 2007 and started back at UTPA in spring 2008. While at UTPA, she has served as a representative for the UTPA Student Council for Exceptional Children. As a UTPA Junior Ambassador, she worked in the Freshman Camp and currently mentors two freshmen. Corona has also volunteered with HESTEC, the fall Special Olympics (bowling), and at St. Joseph Catholic Church.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation I plan to start teaching in an elementary school working with special needs children.

Do you plan to stay in the Valley?

Although the Valley will always be home, I plan to move to Kingsville with my husband and my daughter.

What has your education done for you?

My education has provided me with tremendous insight into child development which in turn has helped be better understand my own child.

How do you feel about your UTPA experience?

My UTPA experience has been wonderful, filled with fabulous friends, new and old, and mentors who have helped guide me to where I am today.

What is your best tip for success?

Stay organized.

What advice do you have for college-bound students?

The advice I would give a college-bound student is to always keep sight of your long term goals, and create short-term goals to help get you there.