Student of the Week

Awards/Honors

Dean’s List-First Honors, fall 2006, fall 2008
Dean’s List-Second Honors, spring 2007, fall 2007, spring 2009
Who’s Who Among Students in American Colleges and Universities, spring 2009
Golden Key International Honor Society Conference attendee, summer 2008
Golden Key International Honour Society UTPA chapter scholarship, 2008

Visit the archives to view previous student profiles.

Laura Fonseca, 21, a senior at The University of Texas Pan-American, plans to graduate in spring 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in biology and a minor in chemistry. She graduated second in her class from Instituto Internacional de Estudios Superiores (IIES High School) in Reynosa, Mexico in 2006. At UTPA she is an active member of Golden Key International Honour Society, where last year she served as the UTPA chapter president and currently holds the newsletter editor position. She has been very involved with her community participating in events such as Golden Key school supplies drive. Back in her hometown she is a volunteer at several orphanages and at the Reynosa Food Bank. She is also very involved in her church as part of the youth group.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation I plan to attend medical school in Texas and later pursue a specialization in pediatric oncology.

Do you plan to return to the Valley?

To pursue my education as a physician, I will have to leave the Valley, but certainly I plan to come back. The Valley has given me so much that I feel I need to give back to the community. Besides, I think it is a great place to live!

What has your education done for you?

My education has helped me to grow as a person and to look at the world with a different perspective. It has increased my hunger to learn and set higher goals. It has also taught me that every obstacle in my way is an opportunity to work on my weaknesses and become a stronger person.

How do you feel about your UTPA experience?

UTPA has been a stepping stone on my way to becoming a physician. The biology department has awesome contacts with the different medical schools in Texas. It has given me the opportunity to participate in several summer programs and attend numerous seminars.

What is your best tip for success?

Dream big and then work hard. Personally, my family and friends have been my support when facing challenges and a motivation to persevere. However, knowing that God is by my side has been the true secret for everything I have achieved.

What advice do you have for college-bound students?

Take advantage of all the UTPA resources, such as the Learning Assistance Center and the Wellness and Recreational Sports Center, become involved with the campus organizations, and participate in the volunteer activities. If you are struggling with a class do not hesitate to ask your classmates or to visit your professor's office. Be aware of all the opportunities the university has for you and make the most of them. Do not forget that college is a once in a lifetime experience.