Student of the Week

Awards/Honors

Texas Grant recipient
Academic Competitiveness Grant, fall 2006
Linebarger, Goggan, Blair & Sampson LLP Scholarship recipient, fall 2006
Associated Plumbing Heating-Cooling Contractors of Texas Scholarship recipient, fall 2006
Sisterhood Award, fall 2007.

Visit the archives to view previous student profiles.

Cynthia Rae Zamora, 20, a junior at The University of Texas-Pan American, plans to graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and a minor in criminal justice in December 2009. Zamora graduated under the Distinguished Achievement Program from La Feria High School in 2006. She was a part of the Lion Band, served as co-captain for the Color Guard Team, and competed in the UIL Journalism Team. While attending UTPA, Zamora has continued to be involved on campus. She has served in many officer positions for the national sorority Alpha Sigma Tau, including president, recruitment chair and new member educator. She has also participated in HESTEC, Carnival of the Great Pumpkin, and volunteered during Bronc Move In. Zamora has also been active in helping out her community through her volunteer activities with Habitat for Humanity, Paint McAllen Beautiful, Feast of Sharing, Bay City Beach Cleanup, Valley Baptist Medical Center, and Pine Mountain Settlement School. She also works at the Office of Career Services and serves a mentor for the Sophomore Academic Mentoring Program at UTPA.

What are your plans after graduation?

My plans after graduation are to continue my education and get my master’s degree in psychology and with my knowledge in psychology, eventually become a parole officer to help former prisoners adjust to life after prison.

Do you plan to stay in the Valley?

I plan to leave the Valley for awhile to gain a broader experience elsewhere and then hopefully bring it back to the Valley to help others in my community.

What has your education done for you?

My education has helped me with so much. It has made me more knowledgeable and has also helped me increase my self-confidence.

How do you feel about your UTPA experience?

Being at UTPA has helped me stay close to my family and friends who I love and has also given me a great college experience! Throughout my college years, I have met so many great people that have had a huge impact on my life. I thank everyone who has been there for me and helped me enjoy every minute of it.

What is your best tip for success?

Your education is something no one can take away from you and is something you will always need. Don’t let anyone or anything keep you from getting your education.

What advice do you have for college-bound students?

Enjoy every minute of it and always remember that God will never give you anything you cannot handle!