What are your plans after graduation?

I am currently planning for the future by applying to various corporations for an internship opportunity. I have become very interested in corporate marketing and plan to gain entrance into our present-day corporate America.

Do you plan to stay in the Valley?

I have never ruled the Rio Grande Valley out as an employment location. I recognize there are respectable career opportunities within the Valley; however, I wish to broaden my perspective by experiencing life in a fast-paced business center. By moving out of my comfort zone, my experiences, knowledge and viewpoint will expand, thereby, modifying my individuality enough to make a difference in the marketing industry.

What has your education done for you?

I entered school when I was four years of age, and have never taken a year off of my education since. Because of it, I hold not only basic understanding, but so much more including the concepts of existence, mathematical theories that construct time, and the ability to link past attempts to future innovations. Specific to my area of study, education at The University of Texas-Pan American has helped me to develop my conceptual skills and structure my ideas into strategies. My education has taught me to be prepared for the future and think not only as an entrepreneur but as an employer.

How do you feel about your UTPA experience?

I am grateful for the opportunities UTPA offers to its students. Beyond the immeasurable knowledge gained and the highly equipped professors UTPA offers, I also gained advantage from the career activities offered. The career fairs and career services programs reminded to be prepared about the near future after graduation, in which your expertise is put to the test. Mock interviews, internship programs, and networking opportunities taught me to act as a self-starter and think as a demanding employer.

What is your best tip for success?

Identifying your personal success is the trickiest part of achieving it. Just as no one’s personality is the same, neither are one’s goals or their theory of success. The best start is probably through a SWOT analysis: identifying your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. Following the analysis would be to link it with your ambitions and aspirations to develop an ultimate objective of success. I believe the best tool for achieving your objective is through your self analysis.

What advice do you have for college-bound students?

My advice for college-bound students is to view their college experience as an opportunist and take advantage of every occasion. Lead a student organization to outline your management skills; join a sports team to expand your teamwork skills; attend business conferences, networking socials and perform mock interviews to excel in a professional environment and adapt to the employer’s expectations. Above all, have fun with friends around campus to prove maturity through a balanced lifestyle of professionalism and fun.