Meet Veronica

What I Truly Wanted Out of a University Experience

As a graduating high school senior, my college choice was affected by many opinions- those of my teachers, my counselors and my family - everyone’s except for my own. I followed their advice and when August came, I packed my bags and went to Baylor University.

Baylor is definitely a great school, but I realized that it was not for me. My entire freshman year I felt out of place and unhappy. I realized that I had not made the decision based on what I truly wanted out of a university experience. While I made amazing friends and great memories, I knew that I had to begin a search for the university that was right for me. After researching different universities, I decided to visit The University of Texas at Austin and completely fell in love with it! Everything felt right- the people, the city, the programs- I couldn’t wait to be a part of it!

A Perfect Major for Me

My interest in speech language pathology arose in middle school after I visited the Good Samaritan Society, a nursing and rehabilitation center in McAllen, Texas. I observed a speech language pathologist as she provided swallowing therapy to an elderly person. She was compassionate and patient- both qualities that I believe I possess. It was during this visit that I realized that my skills and abilities pointed me towards becoming a professional in this particular field of health services. I love to work with people, so this major is absolutely perfect for me! I have been lucky enough to be accepted into the Communication Sciences and Disorders program both at Baylor and here at The University of Texas.

I am currently in the process of applying to graduate school at different universities for a master’s degree in speech language pathology. UT’s College of Communication is known as one of the best in the country and I know that completing my undergraduate degree here will definitely give me an edge in the application process. I hope to get in!

Embracing Diversity

I attended the unveiling of the Cesar Chavez statue in October of 2007- the first Latino statue erected on the UT campus. I felt so proud of my heritage and the fact that I was part of a university that embraces diversity. It was such a beautiful event- a mariachi band played and several prominent Latino figures spoke. I remember that day every time I walk past the statue.

Valuable Communication Skills

Texas Latin Dance has forever marked my college experience at UT. Not only have I made amazing friends, I have been able to perform in various festivities including the Old Pecan Street Festival, talent shows, and different events for UT organizations. I became the publicist for the organization in the fall of 2008.

Joining this social organization has taught me valuable communication skills that I otherwise would not have learned. I am more comfortable speaking to large audiences and introducing myself to people- two things that definitely come in handy when meeting professors and classmates!

I highly encourage you to join an organization that interests you or that is related to your major. You will learn a lot of new skills and make a lot of friends on the way too!

Becoming Independent and Responsible

I call the Rio Grande Valley home and leaving it is probably the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. It’s not easy to pick up and go- to leave your family behind and go somewhere new- but part of becoming a successful person in life is learning to be independent and responsible. Even though I think about my mom and sisters everyday, I know that I am learning invaluable lessons at The University of Texas and that I will return to the Valley a better person because of it. Trust me, you won’t regret it!