Gabby Gonzalez
Public health
Falfurrias, TX
Gabby decided to attend UTSA because she wanted to grow in a new environment and be part of an emerging university. Gabby chose to come to San Antonio because she often visited with her family and fell in love with the city. Although UTSA was a new space to her, Gabby was familiar with the area and ready to spread her wings.
Gabby’s favorite things are helping people and learning about science, so it’s no surprise she wanted a major that incorporated both. This guided her toward studying public health, where she’s learning how to help people with health issues.
In between her studies, Gabby also makes time for student clubs. She’s going on her fourth year with VOICES, the largest volunteer organization on campus, where she’s currently serving as the Vice President of Special Programs.
“I left high school feeling like I had made an impact,” said Gabby. “I want to leave UTSA feeling the same way; knowing that I made a difference on campus and in the San Antonio community.”
Last spring break, Gabby volunteered in Puerto Rico to help provide aid from Hurricane Maria. “It was a life-changing experience for everyone that went,” said Gabby. “We got to know each other so well and are still in contact today.”
Gabby is also involved in the Pre-Dental Society, which hosts advisory panels on topics like taking the Dental Admissions Test and applying to dental school. The society also holds a weekly event called Brush Rush where they travel to local elementary schools to teach children about dental hygiene and oral health.
By joining these organizations, Gabby has sharpened her leadership and communication skills. These soft skills will be valuable in her future career as a dentist. In her purse, Gabby has a worn out business card from a bubble tea shop that she once applied to for a job. In place of the store’s logo, the card now holds an affirmational message in bold permanent marker that reads, “I will be a dentist.”
Gabby’s advice to Future Roadrunners is, “Go into the world and learn the things that aren’t covered in your textbooks. Say yes to every opportunity because you never know who you’re going to meet or where it’s going to take you.”