Belonging & Wellbeing

Transcript

Okay, our next student has built an impressive resume in college. Meet Erica, she’s a member of McNair Scholars Program, the Alamo Fellows Program, Spirit Advisory Board, the Honors Alliance, and the UTSA Ambassadors, just to name a few. She’s also accumulated more than 200 service hours through her affiliations and says that giving back has helped her find her own sense of belonging here on campus. Here’s Erica to tell us more.

– Thanks for that introduction, Alex. Growing up, I’ve always possessed a deep admiration for UTSA and public service. I’ve always valued my education and a sense of belonging. When choosing a university, I wanted to ensure that my final choice consisted of an environment with the resources and academic rigor to propel me forward. A big part of the environment at the University of Texas at San Antonio is togetherness. It’s evident in the atmosphere of the campus, and with more than 350 student-led organizations, there is definitely a place to find yourself and have fun with friends who will accept you for you. Last year, I had the great fortune to be chosen as a Spirit of the Roadrunner recipient. My campaign platform focused on amplifying wellness and wellbeing, along with my major which is Public Health and my minor, Communications. Working on this platform has heightened my passion for helping people. I’ve collaborated with wellbeing services on campus to help fellow students understand the various dimensions of wellbeing and develop skills to promote their own success. Through my involvement on campus with groups such as the First-Year Experience, the Student Government Association and the President’s Student Advisory Council, I’ve been able to expand connections, develop leadership skills, and amplify my wellbeing message to benefit our Roadrunner community. I am thankful to be a part of a university that believes in me, invest in me, and supports me through enriching environments and experiences. Investing in yourself while impacting others is profound. The contributions that I’ve made will have a lasting impact. I’ve gained so much from being involved on campus and supporting my community. UTSA is a place where absolutely anyone can develop their identity and find a true sense of belonging. Well, that’s all for me. Love to you all and back to you, Alex.

– Erica, thank you so much for sharing your story with us. I know that inclusiveness and respect are part of UTSA’s core values, and it’s so wonderful to hear how you and others put those values into practice to create a sense of belonging for all Roadrunners. Thanks again, Erica.