Odalys Anahi Saenz Perez
Name: Odalys Anahi Saenz Perez
Age: 21
Major: Bachelor’s in Psychology with a Minor in Legal Studies (Pre-Law concentration)
Class: Junior
College: College of Liberal Arts
Hometown: Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
High School: Juarez-Lincoln High School, Mission, TX
Why UTRGV?
The reason I committed to UTRGV was that it would provide me with a more personable experience closer to home and I truly aligned with UTRGV’s mission, vision, and values, which was extremely important as it would reflect my university experience.
What made you decide on your current major?
My fascination with human behavior and crimes was the greatest factor in deciding my major and career selection. The mixture of Psychology and Legal Studies was the perfect harmony allowing me to dive deep into both topics.
What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
What I see beyond the completion of my major is attending law school. My dream is to become an attorney at law in a concentration in criminal law. I want to use my law degree to open a pro-bono facility down in the Rio Grande Valley. The need for law services without a cost is in demand, especially coming from a border town. Being able to provide these services could help many individuals from the wrongfully accused to other legal services. Many in the Rio Grande Valley do not have financial means to afford law services which prevents them from getting professional civil legal aid. With such high demand we need to act and help our community.
What do you like most about UTRGV?
I love the strong culture and diversity in UTRGV and the unity we all share in pursuing a higher education.
What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
To me, being a Vaquero goes beyond pride; it’s being kind, respectful, and honest in everything you do.
What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
The unwavering support that I have received from my advisors and professors has solidified that I am on the right career path. Without them I would not be who I am today, they have pushed me to seek opportunities outside of what I initially thought was possible. Because of this I was recently selected by The UT Law Cohort Pipeline Program to attend a year-long preparation and admissions support program designed for current law school applicants. This opportunity has skyrocketed my boundaries to receive mentorship from UT Law School and the Texas Law Community to prepare me for the law school admissions process. Setting me up for success in the future.
What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
While the journey ahead may present obstacles, do not let this determine your outcome. Embrace the growth and remember rejection is always redirection to a greater opportunity. Do not let it define who you are but let it define how you will grow.