Student of the Week

Awards/Honors

College Reading and Learning Association Tutoring Certificate, April 2008
Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, February 2008-present
Dean’s List, First Honors, August, 2006-May 2008
Honors Program, August 2006-present
Don Esteban Garcia Scholarship, 2008
International Education Fee Study Abroad Scholarship, May 2008
International Women’s Board Scholarship, May 2008; and J.H. Jones & M.G. Jones Scholarship, 2008.

Visit the archives to view previous student profiles.

Karina Peña, 21, a senior at The University of Texas-Pan American, plans to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in biology and double minor in chemistry and Spanish. Today, she is in the top seven percent of her class and has been named to Dean’s List First Honors. Peña is a member of several UTPA professional affiliations such as the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, Golden Key International Honour Society, Eta Omicron Nu (HON) Honors Fraternity, Pre-Law Society, Biology Club, and the History Club currently serving as secretary. She is currently working on her honor’s thesis with UTPA Professor Dr. Bimal Banik’s medicinal organic chemistry research laboratory where her research focuses in the synthesis of novel anticancer and antibiotic agents. Furthermore, she has also done research in the Department of Biology under Dr. Jonathan H. Lieman. She has done volunteer work at Brigit’s Nursing Home, the University’s Volunteer Tutoring Program, and the Mission International Medicine Clinic. On campus, Peña works as a supplemental instruction leader for the subjects of American Heritage II and Anatomy and Physiology II. In spring 2009 she will also work as a teacher assistant for General Chemistry II.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to attend The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio where I can gain the medical education and training I need to become a physician. At the UT Health Science Center, I plan to engage in clinical environments such as the Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital and the Cancer Therapy and Research Center.

Do you plan to return to the Valley?

I am inspired by the Latino community of the Rio Grande Valley. I appreciate the importance of seeing medicine from a culturally insightful perspective and plan to one day benefit this community as a physician. In the Valley, I plan to use my learning for professional enhancement and public service.

What has your education done for you?

My education has helped me better understand my own cultural values, and it has influenced me to seek out a greater diversity of friends. Most importantly, my education has increased my self-confidence, and served as a catalyst for increased maturity.

How do you feel about your UTPA experience?

UTPA has allowed me to find my calling and develop my strengths. My UTPA experience has ignited an interest in a career which I am passionate about. My experience at UTPA has definitely been enriched through my involvement in different organizations, programs, and I have obtained friendships that I will forever treasure.

What is your best tip for success?

Time management is critical to anyone’s success. It is important to get involved with campus activities but never lose sight of your academic studies. The fact is it may take a little trial and error before you find the right balance between academics and activities.

What advice do you have for college-bound students?

Becoming involved in campus organizations and activities will give you a more meaningful college experience. Also, make your college education your number one priority. When a class or life itself seems difficult do not give up! Ask for help immediately and take advantage of the many campus academic support services.