Student of the Week

Awards/Honors

Dean’s List, spring 2006 and spring 2009
Peer Mentor, University Retention Advisement Program, Sophomore Academic Mentoring.

Visit the archives to view previous student profiles.

Natalia Martinez, 25, a senior at The University of Texas-Pan American, is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in dietetics. She plans to graduate in May 2010. Originally from Zacatecas, Mexico, she has been residing in McAllen, Texas since 2004. While at UTPA, she actively participates in the University community by serving as a mentor in the Sophomore Academic Mentoring Program, as senator for the College of Health Sciences and Human Services in the Student Government Association and as teacher’s assistant for the Dietetics Department during the spring 2009 semester. She served as the president of the Student Dietetics Association in 2008-2009, organizing events such as The Biggest Loser 2009 to create nutrition and health awareness in the student community. She is also a member of the American Dietetic Association and has been part of the ADA Student Council since 2006. Martinez has worked with the Rio Grande Valley Diabetes Association by helping with programs for diabetes prevention in children. She works with food intervention and nutrition experts and at the Academic Computer Labs as a computer lab assistant. As a Certified Sophomore Academic Peer Mentor, Martinez has mentored students who have been accepted to the UTPA Dietetic Program. In addition, she has participated in numerous community volunteer activities including the American Cancer Society Relay for Life, March of Dimes, Food Bank RGV, Salvation Army Angel Tree and Red Kettles. She has also volunteered at the Edinburg Regional Medical Center and Rio Grande Regional Hospital.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation I plan to take my registered dietitian examination and obtain my license. I am planning to apply to graduate school and seek my master’s in nutrition. I would also like to gain experience working in a clinical setting and eventually participate in research projects in nutrition for cancer patients.

Do you plan to stay in the Valley?

My plans for the future include working as a registered dietician and pursuing my master’s degree in nutrition. If my career and educational objectives take me out of the Valley, I would like to return some day to apply what I have learned to the local community.

What has your education done for you?

My education at UTPA has provided me with many opportunities. It has allowed me to be involved on campus and in the community. The quality learning experiences have given me passion for my field in dietetics and motivated me to strive for more in life.

How do you feel about your UTPA experience?

It has been the one of the best experiences of my life. As a transfer student from Mexico, UTPA has helped me adapt to college life here in the Valley, and given me the confidence to participate in the local community. At UTPA, I have a place where I can make friends, interact with professors, participate in events, and work on different projects.

What is your best tip for success?

Never give up! It may seem extremely difficult at times, but the reward for working hard will be greater when you achieve your goal. Every one of us has obstacles in our way, but with hard work and dedication we can overcome them.

What advice do you have for college-bound students?

Get to know your college. There are so many resources available for the students. The help is not going to look for you; you need to look for help. Being a college student can be many times so overwhelming, but having a good support system will help you succeed.