Ricardo Jimenez Marmolejo
Name: Ricardo Jimenez Marmolejo
Age: 21
Major: Bachelor’s in Business Management-Administration
College: Robert C. Vackar College of Business and Entrepreneurship
Hometown: Mission, Texas
High School: Palmview High School
Why UTRGV?
I chose UTRGV because it feels like home. It is close to my hometown, and it provided me with a lot of resources to help me obtain a college degree.
What made you decide on your current major?
I have always dreamt of having my own business and hopefully turning it into a franchise. Therefore, a degree in Business was a top choice for me. Later on, I was advised to minor in Marketing, and it turns out that it is an excellent combination.
What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
Beyond the completion of my major, I want to create something extraordinary. Something unique that can help me grow as a person. I also want to inspire people who have been through similar circumstances to guide them on the same pathway to success.
What do you like most about UTRGV?
I love that UTRGV is growing tremendously. I appreciate that most professors work with you to make sure you understand their ideas and perspectives. I believe the university has done a great job of being inclusive with all its faculty and students. That’s what makes the campus so diverse and beautiful.
What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Being a Vaquero means opportunity. When I came to the United States, one of my dreams was to attend a university without placing a financial burden on my parents. UTRGV allowed me to study while being debt-free, which is one of the greatest opportunities I could have asked for. Thanks to UTRGV and my scholarship, "The Dream US," I am now able to study what I love without that financial stress.
What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
UTRGV has helped me focus on my goals toward completing my degree. While studying here, I have built long-lasting relationships with my classmates, which has helped me maintain a productive school-life balance. This has also allowed me to join student clubs such as ENACTUS, which provided hands-on experience with my community.
What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
My advice is to always follow your gut. Whatever feels best for you, do it without hesitation. Remember, the best outcomes happen unexpectedly at the perfect time. Read, study, and avoid procrastination. Do your work, and most importantly, never give up on your dreams.