Get to Know Jasbeth
After finding a book by a UT San Antonio professor while doing research for an essay, Jasbeth Medrano began to take an interest in the university. Her decision to become a Roadrunner and pursue a degree in political science was solidified only after meeting with current UT San Antonio Top Scholars during the recruitment process. Their insights and experiences inspired her to take the leap.
Hands-on Learning
Jasbeth wasted no time getting involved and learning hands-on at UT San Antonio. She enrolled in the Philosophy and Literature Circle, an immersive course where students engage in discussions on humanities, liberal arts and literature alongside incarcerated participants at San Antonio’s Dominguez State Jail. The experience instilled a passion for criminal justice reform in Jasbeth, and inspired her to take up a criminal justice minor.
Jasbeth’s Career-Ready Journey
Volunteering with refugee and migrant services organizations gave her hands-on experience in community service.
Campaigning for Beto O'Rourke's gubernatorial run as a student fellow provided real-world experience in her field, exposing her to the inner workings of a political campaign.
By helping to organize the International Women's Day march in San Antonio, Jasbeth gained insight and experience into another aspect of the political science world.
Studying Abroad
As a Top Scholar, Jasbeth had the opportunity to study abroad. With the help of alumnus Taylor Helmcamp ’21 and director of the Office of Nationally Competitive Awards, Jasbeth was able to apply for and be accepted to the Fulbright UK Summer Institute (UKSI) at the University of Bristol. The three week program allows students to explore how the arts, activism and social justice intersect while learning leadership skills. It was an ideal opportunity for a political science major like Jasbeth, whose background in volunteer work and activism made her a natural match.
“The selection process [for Top Scholars] was a lot of fun, and it made me realize that this program was more than just a scholarship; it was a community,”