Julia Guerrero EDINBURG- Student dedication goes beyond the classroom with UTRGV’s community engagement services. Through various initiatives and acts of service, UTRGV students are making a difference in the community by using the service-learning platform, Engagement Zone.
An official volunteer program offered through the office of Engaged Scholarship & Learning, the Engagement Zone is UTRGV’s number one tool to connect students and campus organizations with over 300 non-profit agencies that offer community service opportunities.
“UTRGV actually is recognized with the Carnegie Foundation and Community Engagement,” Neida Gutierrez, the office’s Service-Learning Coordinator said. “So, we are a Hispanic serving institute, so we are one of 49 that have been recognized nationally.”
According to Gutierrez, the opportunities benefit students by giving them service hours and the chance to collaborate and network with others.
“Just increasing those collaborations our students are doing and really reflecting what our student body is doing is going be beneficial to our community to showcase that UTRGV represents our community,” Gutierrez said.
Francisco Leal, Program Coordinator for Sorority and Fraternity Life said getting involved with community acts of service is beneficial for your career path and character development.
“It does definitely bring a lot of opportunities,” Leal said. “I think as a student you at times get focused primarily on school, the academics. I think you may lose sight of the holistic approach when it comes to applying for job.”
Melany Elizond, Philanthropy Chairwoman for Delta Zeta said community service and involvement is very beneficial to the members individually and as a whole.
“I would say it’s very important,” Elizondo said. “It doesn’t only help us get in closer with our community, but it also helps us develop empathy and leadership skills.”
To sign up or get involved visit Vlink or the Engagement Zone webpage at ez.utrgv.edu
