Student of the Week

Awards/Honors

Dean’s List, fall 2007-fall 2008
General Motors Engineering Excellence Award, 2008-2009?
International Women's Board Scholarship, 2009
UTPA Excellence Scholarship, 2009-2010
Golden Key International Honour Society, fall 2008-present
SME recruiter, fall 2007-present
Manufacturing Engineering Representative nominee for SHPE, spring 2009.

Visit the archives to view previous student profiles.

Cynthia Vazquez, 20, a junior at The University of Texas-Pan American, plans to graduate in December 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in manufacturing engineering. She is an active member of Golden Key International Honour Society, Society of Mexican-American Engineers and Scientists, a recruiter for the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE). Vazquez is employed at the UTPA’s Office of Career Services as a work-study where she assists students and employers. In addition, she has volunteered for the Viva Engineering/Science Ball, HESTEC NASA Expo, Marathon Kids, Evening of Giving and HESTEC Robotic Expo/Competition. Vazquez will serve as a University Ambassador for the next school year.

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan to start working right after graduation in a well recognized company where I can show the manufacturing skills I learned at UTPA and from the companies where I will hopefully intern before graduating.

Do you plan to stay in the Valley?

Yes, I am planning to stay in the Valley because I know it is a place that has a lot to offer but will still grow a lot. Also I would like to stay in the Valley because I want to stay close to the people I love like my family and friends.

What has your education done for you?

My education has given me a lot of opportunities and knowledge. It has opened a lot of doors for me and I know it will keep opening more. Thanks to my good education I have been able to get scholarships that I did not know I could get, and I am really grateful for that.

How do you feel about your UTPA experience?

I feel very pleased with my UTPA experience. Since my first semester I have tried to be involved in as many school activities, school organizations and volunteering opportunities, while doing well in my classes. I am currently working in the Office of Career Services at UTPA and I am planning on studying abroad this summer; all of this plus doing two internships before graduating will make me feel that I have experienced the whole college life.

What is your best tip for success?

My best tip for success is to never give up, if you want it you can have it, but do not be afraid to ask for help.

What advice do you have for college-bound students?

My advice would be to get involved in school activities and school organizations. By doing so you will interact with people who share the same interests as you, without distracting yourself from school.