Student of the Week

Awards/Honors

Dean’s List, 2007-2008
University Scholars Scholarship recipient.

Visit the archives to view previous student profiles.

David Estrada Jr., 20, a senior at The University of Texas-Pan American, plans to graduate in December 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in marketing. He is the vice president of chapter activities of the American Marketing Association and a member of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities. He currently is employed at the La Joya Area Federal Credit Union as a teller and interning as a manager in training with The Buckle, Inc. while also working with Missy’s Modeling Studio as an instructor and a model. Estrada’s main goal before graduating is to make himself a well-rounded individual. He has previously studied abroad in Salamanca, Spain and interned with the American Heart Association and the American Heart University.

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan to completely consume myself in the workforce environment and make my marketing degree open doors for me. I will transform my skills gained here at UTPA into weapons to help me achieve all of my goals.

Do you plan to stay in the Valley?

I do not plan to stay in the Valley immediately after graduating, but I do plan to come back. I think it is completely necessary for graduates to experience new locations so that they can be able to return to the Valley and add to the innovations going on there.

What has your education done for you?

My education has opened so many doors and opportunities. Not only has it made me a stronger, more equipped individual, but it has also made me a part of a distinct group that is on a path to success.

How do you feel about your UTPA experience?

There is no other place like UTPA! You get the best of everything. They have the best study abroad programs, student organizations, and they provide the best help with finding an internship or a job after graduation.

What is your best tip for success?

Giving up is not an option! Remember that the hard work will pay off like you can’t even imagine. The feeling of fulfillment will soon run through you and you will look back and tell yourself, “It wasn’t that bad!”

What advice do you have for college-bound students?

Get involved with whatever makes you happy! Do something productive everyday and plan for your future. Don’t be afraid, go explore the world and study abroad. Don’t forget to find internships before you graduate and above all, don’t give up.