Nathaniel Puente 
Edinburg- In 2015, UTRGV began as an ambitious merger between two universities over 60 miles apart. The unprecedented effort connected the Rio Grande Valley in a unique way. In the middle of this transition were students who just wanted to go to college. On top of the pressures of being a college student were the growing pains of the transition.
Now, the “First Class” is set to graduate.
“My experience at this university has been great,” says Criminal Justice Senior Jenny Martinez.
“I love it here,” says Marketing Senior Arturo Cuellar. “It’s really grown since the first year.”
If student testimonies aren’t enough, how about a word from the university’s president?
“If you ask people from the community, it’s been a big success,” comments UTRGV President Guy Bailey. “From the inside we sometimes don’t see what people on the outside see and that’s the impact on the lives of the Valley.”
So, what’s next for the university now that the first four years have passed?
“New programs are in the pipeline,” admits Bailey. “All of those programs will create opportunities for students. As we do that, you’ll see people from all over the state coming here.”
Although the “First Class” is graduating, it’s only the start for the university. UTRGV will continue to grow on into the future.
Click on the video below to watch the full story.
