Student of the Week

Awards/Honors

Alpha Lambda Delta freshmen honor society inductee, spring 2007
Beta Gamma Sigma Business Honor Society inductee, spring 2009
Who’s Who among Students award, spring 2009
Dean’s List, 2006-2008.

Visit the archives to view previous student profiles.

Lidia B. Gonzalez, 22, is a senior at The University of Texas-Pan American and plans to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in international business management and a minor in communications in May 2009. She is an international student from Reynosa, Mexico. While attending UTPA she has also been working at the Office of Disability Services, where she assists students with disabilities. She is also a volunteer note taker and reader in her free time. Gonzalez recently attended the Texas Student Leadership Forum where college students from all over Texas gathered to discuss faith and values associated with leadership. In 2008, she completed the LeaderShape Institute, a weeklong program intended to help develop and improve leadership skills, and then became an intern for the program in January 2009. In addition, she is a Sophomore Academic Mentoring Program (SAM) mentor on campus. Back in her hometown, she serves as a youth leader and Sunday school teacher at her local church.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation I will work for two years in order to gain experience and then go back to school to get a master’s in international relations or public relations. My long-term goal is to get involved in diplomatic affairs that pertain to Mexico. As an international student I understand the need for good public relations among countries, and I am passionate about this field.

Do you plan to stay in the Valley?

The Valley is growing at a super fast rate and being so near the border it doesn’t get more international than this. I am not planning to stay here for my graduate studies but I definitely see myself coming back in the future. The Valley is a hard place to forget.

What has your education done for you?

My years of education have been a non-stop training that has enlightened me and helped me grow in different aspects of my life. Without education I would still have the drive to do things, but I would be missing the tools. Education has been a critical part in my life to become a better person, a better leader.

How do you feel about your UTPA experience?

UTPA granted me the opportunity to experience new things. Coming from a different background, I can say that I am a better prepared person. Here at UTPA I have learned that community plays a great role in our personal growth, and that by helping others we are building a better society.

What is your best tip for success?

Humility, service and faith are key elements in the quest for success. Humility to accept our mistakes and ask for help when is needed; service, because true leadership is found in those who serve others; and faith is the essence of the yearning for success.

What advice do you have for college-bound students?

Keep up the good work; education is the best investment and it pays off with interest. College years are precious because there are lots of things one can do on campus besides going to classes. Get involved and pursue your dreams!