Major: Architectural Engineering
Student organizations: Architectural Engineering Institute, Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, Pi Sigma Pi, Texas Latin Dance
This El Paso native and member of the 2020 UT for Me – Powered by Dell Scholars cohort shares a little about what made his time on the Forty Acres so special and a glimpse of what the future holds.
What made you decide to come to The University of Texas at Austin?
Being the best public school in Texas and having one of the best architectural engineering programs in Texas was a clear indicator for UT being my dream school. Another great factor was the strong, diverse community in the city and on campus.
How did UT for Me shape your college experience?
UT for Me allowed me to easily transition to college by providing the financial assistance and support I needed. Their textbook credits and resources like financial advising took the financial stress off my back. UT for Me was available to help me whenever I needed it.
What surprised you the most about your experience with UT for Me?
I was surprised by how quickly the community grew — not only in cohort numbers. There are many more students involved with UT for Me these days. UT for Me dealt with the aftermath of COVID very well, which enabled the program to increase in success.
What accomplishment from your time at UT are you most proud of?
Becoming a UT for Me Student Ambassador, because I am part of the program that helps students succeed and have fun in college. I gain satisfaction from being part of a team of helping hands.
What is your favorite memory on campus?
During the spring semester of 2021, when there was a big snowstorm. I went out on a walk and the entire campus looked amazing covered in snow. However, what made the scene better was the number of people enjoying the snow as well. This was surprising to me because it was still COVID era, but the students were sledding, having snowball fights, making snow angels and building snow figures. Although the Texas freeze may have been dreadful for the water pipes and electric grid, we didn’t need that kind of stuff to be happy.
What are you going to miss the most about UT?
The friends that I’ve made throughout my college years. I will miss seeing them walking along the halls or on Speedway or at student organization events. I will try my best to keep in touch with them.
What are your plans after you graduate?
I plan on acquiring my master’s degree in structural engineering at UT. I loved being an undergraduate student at this school so much that I decided to stay here longer.
What are you looking forward to most after you graduate?
The new people and experiences I will encounter. UT and UT for Me opened so many doors, and now it’s my turn to see what’s behind them.
UT for Me – Powered by Dell Scholars ensures all Longhorns have access to the tools and resources needed for a successful college career. UT for Me provides Pell-eligible Longhorns personalized, multi-faceted support throughout their time at The University of Texas at Austin, helping them stay on track toward their degrees and graduate ready to change the world.
