Our Experiences - Spring 2012 Graduates
College of Nursing:
“I am both excited and nervous to finally reach one of my goals in life. I will proudly and confidently walk to receive what I have worked so hard for and will thank God for allowing this to happen.”
Natividad Carrillo
Master’s of Science in Nursing
“I had three influential faculty members at UTB: Ofelia Hess, Janet Williams and Karen Fuss-Sommer from the Vocational Nursing Program. These instructors challenged me and provided support in their own individual ways that allowed me to succeed in my journey in becoming a nurse.”
Samantha Saldana
Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing
“Commencement is the day every college student waits for. It’s an exciting and memorable day everyone looks forward to.”
Crisela A. Pate
Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing
“All incoming freshmen should find what they want to do in life and go for it and make school their priority. They should strive to get their education in four years and never get discouraged by whatever unwanted obstacles come their way.”
Anna Paz
Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing
“Web-based programs were unknown to me, but after finishing this program I am more confident with the user-friendly approach UTB has invested.”
Mario A. Vega
Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing
College of Science, Mathematics and Technology:
“Dr. Daniele Provenzano has not only expanded my way of looking at biology and science in general, but doing research with him gave me the ability to question and think methodically.”
Roberto A. Benavides
Bachelor’s of Science in Biology
“Just because I’m graduating doesn’t mean I am finished with my education. I’m a person who has always set short-term goals and achieve them no matter what. Following graduation I’m planning to take the ACT and prepare myself for the actuary exams while I get a job as a math teacher. After that I’ll set a goal for a doctorate.”
Sofia A. Quiroga
Bachelor’s of Science and Master of Science degrees in Mathematics
“I enjoyed working in a lab and tutoring students in classes like biology. I can honestly say its mind blowing to me and others to know where things are in a lab or tutor from the top of your head and realize how much time has gone by.”
David Silva
Bachelor’s of Science in Biology
“I’ve had several great professors. One was Michael Boster, Master Technical Instructor in Drafting Technology. The one that really pushed me to be my best was Dr. Celia Flores-Feist, Associate Professor of Chemistry. She is a great professor and I really enjoyed her class and encouragement to be my best.”
Alma N. Salazar
Bachelor of Applied Technology in Computer Information Systems Technology
“The only obstacles that I had to overcome were the doubts that I would sometimes get while taking certain classes.”
Alejandro Garcia Jr.
Bachelor’s of Science in Physics
College of Education:
“I have to say that I enjoyed every course I enrolled in. Most professors were always willing to go the extra mile to help me all along my journey. There have been numerous individuals, both faculty and administrators who truly encouraged me to continue and complete this new chapter in my life.”
Joel S. Garza
Doctorate of Education
“I am grateful for all of the professors that helped me and supported me throughout the years. All of the professors here at UTB rooted for me and always went above and beyond to help me succeed.”
Melinda Lopez
Doctorate of Education
“I thoroughly enjoyed the doctoral program. I learned a great deal. My professors and my dissertation committee pushed me to reach my full potential while supporting me and providing me with a rich learning experience.”
Lori Wells
Doctorate of Education
“The obstacles I dealt with were juggling work, family and school. I was very pleased with the instruction and advising I received in the Master of Educational Technology program. My advice to students is to develop time management skills.”
Pat Celaya
Master in Educational Technology
“It’s great to be graduating. My plans after graduation are to study for the state exams. I had lots of obstacles but, I did it. I was truly blessed to have wonderful professors. Dr. Webb is a professor that really cares for her students. She is my role model. She believes in all her students.
Rosa Linda Silva
Bachelor of Art in Interdisciplinary Studies, Early Childhood - 6th Grade Generalist/EC-12th and Special Education
School of Business:
“If you're serious about your education, make friends of the people that sit in the first two rows in all your classes. Get to know them, because you’ll be having late night homework chats and weekend study sessions with them.”
Sandra Aramburo
Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting
“It is important that you set your path correctly from the beginning of your freshman year; otherwise, it will be both an educational and financial struggle to get to your senior year.”
Javier F. Aguilar
Bachelor of Applied Technology in Workforce Leadership and Training
"Everyone here has been very helpful. The counselors are knowledgeable and go above and beyond to answer questions, especially relating to my GI Bill. On a personal level, I appreciate David Rivera at Veterans Upward Bound for all that he and his staff do for the veterans."
ROTC Cadet Jose Campos
Bachelors of Business Administration
College of Biomedical Sciences:
“Don’t waste any time. Sometimes it feels like it might be more fun to skip out on class and do something fun, but you should look around because you might be sitting next to your new best friends. It would do you more good to hang out with your classmates and pass your class while you’re at it.”
Rubi Barreda
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Laboratory Technology
“The most excited moment was when I received the Scholastic Excellence Award during spring 2011 and also when I received my final grades at the end of each semester.”
Sheeraz Abusalim
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Laboratory Technology
“I have many plans which include short- and long-term goals. I plan to finish my bachelor’s degree in May 2013 and hopefully apply for the nursing or physician assistant program in Edinburg.”
Samuel D. Soto
Associate in Emergency Medical Science
“My plans following graduation are to work as a respiratory therapist and shortly return to my studies to obtain a master’s degree in occupational therapy.”
Jennifer Lemus
Bachelor’s of Applied Technology in Health Services Technology
“I am excited to be receiving my Masters degree because I didn't think that I could accomplish this. I am grateful for the professors in the counseling program because they expect their students to perform at their highest and they are very knowledgeable in their areas. My advice to students is to be prepared, focused and prioritize their school work”
Beatriz Guevara
Master in Counseling
College of Liberal Arts
"I will be pursuing a master’s degree in Criminal Justice and Criminology at Sam Houston State University. While in graduate school, I hope to work as a probation officer. After obtaining my master’s I would love to work for the U.S. Marshals."
Graciela Balli
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
"My advice to freshmen: Get involved in college! Don’t just go to class and go home. UTB has so much to offer that students don’t realize or take advantage of. Join a club, volunteer, get a job on campus, attend events, etc. It’s not just about the destination, it’s about the journey."
Peggy Sue Reyna
Bachelor of Arts in Music Education
"Carol Sachs, my opera director and voice instructor, challenged me to make it through vocal juries and all the anxiety I felt with them. Dianne Brumley, my choral director and professor, challenged me to be the best conductor and professional I could be in my field of study."
Victoria Rodriguez
Bachelors of Arts in Music Education
"Get involved in student organizations that will prepare you for the world, like Toastmasters. Also, pick a major you’re interested in and not one you’re pressured into by friends, relatives or money."
Prax Cortina
Bachelor of Arts in English
"I’ve seen this school change a lot for the better. I’ve seen new buildings and facilities appear before my very eyes. I’ve had the best music teachers transfer the knowledge that made them successful down to me. I couldn’t be prouder of the education I received at the University of Texas at Brownsville."
Rodger Medrano
Bachelor of Arts in Music Education