Jenna Rivas

Name: Jenna Rivas
Age: 21
Major: Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science
Class: Senior
College: College of Health Professions
Hometown: Mercedes, TX
High School: Mercedes High School

Why UTRGV?
As a 2020 high school graduate, I decided to stay local and attend UTRGV to stay safe and close with my family during the COVID-19 pandemic. After finishing my first year, I decided UTRGV was the right school for me as it has allowed me to pursue a challenging degree with almost no financial burden and countless opportunities to grow.

What made you decide on your current major?
I chose Biomedical Science because of my love for human anatomy and medical science. The major allowed me to complete most of my pre-requisites for graduate school. 

What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
After graduation, I plan to attend grad school and become a Physician Assistant serving the underserved communities in the RGV. Because of my love for community service, I would like to help non-profit organizations by providing health education and services to those in need. After a few years of practice, I would love to become a professor. I have a high appreciation for my professors for their education and guidance. It would be an amazing opportunity to be able to come full circle from a UTRGV undergraduate student to UTRGV professor.

What do you like most about UTRGV?
My favorite thing about UTRGV is receiving a quality education while staying close to home. The people at UTRGV are also what makes the university so great. My classmates, professors, coworkers, and supervisors are a huge support system, and some have become like a second family to me.

What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Being a Vaquero to me means to inspire others. To be a Vaquero does not just mean being a UTRGV student but a future leader. I have been inspired by many professors and upper-classmen, and I hope throughout my time here I have inspired other students to continue to strive towards their goals.

What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
My proudest achievements here at UTRGV would not be possible without the work I do with my job at the Center for Student Involvement. I have organized numerous community service events, and I have learned so much from my position in the past two years. Working on campus is a great opportunity to meet people outside of my classes and form connections with community leaders. The best experience from my job has been the opportunity to give back to the City of Uvalde along with fellow UTRGV students this past spring semester. Being a member and officer of student organizations has also helped me connect with my campus community. Being among individuals with the same goals and passion as I push me to become a better student and person.

What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
My advice for UTRGV students is to always remember why you started. College is a stressful environment without the challenges we face outside of school. It is not easy but having motivation and support can make all the difference. For me, my motivation is my late grandfather who always encouraged me to pursue higher education. My degree for me would not just mean landing a high-paying job but having the resources to support my family the same way they have supported me on my academic journey