Student of the Week

Awards/Honors

President’s Education Awards Program, 2006
National Society of High School Scholars, 2006
Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, spring 2007
Who’s Who Among Students in American Junior Colleges, fall 2007
Certified Peer Educator, fall 2008
Great Business Idea Contest, fall 2008
Beta Gamma Sigma International Honor Society inductee, spring 2009
Certified volunteer income tax preparer, spring 2009

Visit the archives to view previous student profiles.

Bernardo Diaz, 22, a graduate student at The University of Texas-Pan American, is pursuing his Master of Accountancy with plans to graduate in December 2010. He graduated from UTPA in May 2009 with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. Diaz is an international student from Mexico City, Mexico. After completing 10th grade in Mexico, he transferred to Sharyland High School in Mission. Despite being placed as a freshman with only four credits, Diaz was determined and disciplined and was able to finish high school in two years, graduating in the top 10 percent of his class in 2006. After high school Diaz attended South Texas College, where he became a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and received his associate’s degree within one year. During this period, he worked at a custom house broker across the border. At UTPA, Diaz has served as a treasurer for two student organizations and is a second year member of the Ambassador Program and current vice president of the Accounting Society. He also gives back to his community by volunteering with Keep McAllen Beautiful, HESTEC, Relay for Life and being part of the VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) Program.

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan to continue with my master’s program and one day work for one of the big four accounting firms. I seek to eventually obtain my CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license and attend law school to specialize in corporate law and taxation.

Do you plan to return to the Valley?

My focus is more into the international taxation area. Nonetheless, the Valley is a great place to do business and because it is growing at such a fast rate, opening a CPA firm in this area will bring great benefits.

What has your education done for you?

It has opened many doors of opportunities for me. The great entrepreneurial, leadership and networking skills I acquired have allowed me to interact proficiently within the business community.

How do you feel about your UTPA experience?

It has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. I have been able to interrelate with several business leaders and attend conferences in which I have learned valuable lessons and have met students from all over the nation. I also learned a lot of valuable lessons from my professors and those have been fundamental in my preparation as a professional.

What is your best tip for success?

Never give up! No matter how hard or overwhelming a situation might be, you should always give 110 percent. Set your goals and commit yourself to them.

What advice do you have for college-bound students?

Utilize the University’s resources – join student organizations, participate in committees, apply for scholarships, participate in study abroad programs, and look for internships. Most importantly, manage your time wisely.