Student of the Week

Awards/Honors

AP Scholar with Honors, 2007
National Laureate Delegations on Medicine, 2007
Dean’s List –First Honors, 2007-present
National Society of High School Scholars, 2007
UTPA Excellence Scholarship 2007- 2009
Scholarship, 2007-2008
“Head of the Class” award by the U.S. Border Patrol of RGV, 2007
Teens Serving Texas Award, 2007
Who’s Who Among Students in American Colleges and Universities, 2008
LeaderShape Institute graduate, May 2009.

Visit the archives to view previous student profiles.

Nita Sharon Thomas, 20, a senior at The University of Texas-Pan American, plans to graduate in May 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in premed biology and a double minor in chemistry and English. Thomas graduated fifth in her class under the Distinguished Achievement Plan from PSJA North High School in 2007 and was a member of the National Honor Society and University Interscholastic League. She was also a part of Ameri Corps Youth Harvest and assisted in the social and academic development of youth at the local Boys and Girls Club. While attending UTPA, she actively participates in the University community by serving as senator for the College of Science and Engineering in the Student Government Association, teacher’s assistant for the biology department, and as an Ambassador Program member. She is secretary for the Indian Cultural Association and a member of the Pre-Medical Bio-Medical Society. Thomas is currently doing research on antibiotic resistivity testing with Dr. Joanne Rampersad-Ammons in the chemistry department. She is also a volunteer at Rio Grande Regional Hospital and a member of the Med-Ed program of South Texas.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to attend medical school in Texas and hopefully pursue a career in reconstructive plastic surgery.

Do you plan to return to the Valley?

After completing my residency, I plan to return to the Valley, which has been my home for the past five years and has already won my heart with its blended culture and hospitality. I plan to contribute to the growing medical community in the Valley and offer better and accessible medical care.

What has your education done for you?

My education at UTPA has given me an opportunity to stay close to my home while expanding my interests. It has provided me with great knowledge and skills to pursue a demanding career like medicine. I have been exposed to supportive faculty, great friends and helpful staff through my education at UTPA. With my experience and perseverance at UTPA, I am certain that I am prepared to face the challenges of the outside world with confidence and zeal.

How do you feel about your UTPA experience?

UTPA has given me excellent academic training and a plethora of opportunities to develop my career goals. I was able to spend my summer of 2009 at The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston as a participant in the Medical Career Diversity Program and gained a first-hand experience of a medical student.

What is your best tip for success?

Set your goals high, stay focused, exercise your will, be open to new ideas, and strive for the best in what you do. Always remember that one failure does not cut off your path to success but only brightens the determination to search for other routes.

What advice do you have for college-bound students?

College experience is more than just classes; campus activities and organizations are a great way to expand your horizons and connect with other students who share your interests. Be generous with your friendship but careful with your trust. Strive for stability, do not procrastinate and ask for help when you need it.