Texas A&M International University Student Affairs

⭐️ Student Spotlight ⭐️

Miracle Zavala, a junior pursuing Pre-Nursing, has served for one year and three months with the City of Laredo Health Department through the TAMIU Community Work-Study Program. Miracle is also part of TRIO Student Support Services and was a former Reading the Globe recipient who traveled to Singapore. Through her placement, she had the opportunity to gain experience in three different departments: Human Resources, Nurse-Family Partnership, and EMS Billing.

During her time with Human Resources, Miracle assisted with updating policies, awarding community service hours to volunteers and student interns from external health programs, translating documents into Spanish, and attending meetings. With the Nurse-Family Partnership, she helped update client accounts and information, supported social media campaigns, and engaged with families and infants during community events. In EMS Billing, she learned how to use an insurance database, understand insurance coding, review incident reports, and become more familiar with medical terminology and healthcare-related language that will support her in her future profession.

Through this experience, Miracle developed valuable skills in communication, data management, teamwork, leadership, time management, and creative software such as Canva. She shared that her placement was an eye-opening experience that helped her better understand the resources Laredo offers to the community while also giving her a behind-the-scenes look into the medical field. The opportunity helped her become more outspoken, confident in sharing her ideas, and prepared to continue growing as a future healthcare professional.

⭐️ Student Spotlight ⭐️

Angela Dominguez, a sophomore majoring in Political Science, has served for eight months with the Laredo International Fair and Exposition through the TAMIU Community Work-Study Program. As part of the Livestock Committee, Angela helps prepare for shows, assists with validations, and works hands-on with the animals. In the office, she also assists with daily operations, including phone calls, exhibitor outreach, customer service, supporting community members, and helping coordinate with the Junior Board.

For Angela, this experience has been a full-circle moment. Before joining the program, she was an exhibitor and a former Junior Board member, and now she has the opportunity to see the other side of the organization while helping lead and support the organization in a new leadership role. Her work has allowed her to stay connected to events, livestock, and show preparation while developing a deeper appreciation for the planning and organization that happens behind the scenes.

Through this opportunity, Angela has strengthened her professional communication, time management, leadership, and customer service skills, both in person and over the phone. She has also gained experience using the registration software and data collection tools that have helped her build transferable skills for the future. Angela recommends the Community Work-Study Program because it provides hands-on experience, teaches skills that are not always learned in the classroom, and helps students grow professionally while serving the community.

⭐️ Student Spotlight ⭐️

Grisseth Ortiz, a recent Communication graduate with a concentration in Media Production and a minor in Marketing, spent one year serving with the Laredo Film Society through the Community Work-Study Program. Before joining the agency, Grisseth gained experience as a former member of the TAMIU Filmmakers Guild, a student organization where she served as Risk Manager, and as a former student employee with the Fine and Performing Arts Center. These experiences gave her a strong foundation in media, events, and the arts.

In her role with the Laredo Film Society, Grisseth supported sponsorship outreach, email communication, phone calls, event planning, and coordination with volunteers and interns. She also assisted with social media by posting event photos, highlights, and promotional content, while capturing video for grant proposals and event partnerships. One of her proudest accomplishments was helping create an annual report that the organization’s board used to apply for a grant, which was later awarded.

Through this experience, Grisseth strengthened her communication, writing, networking, and media production skills. She gained confidence through opportunities such as participating in live broadcast moments with KGNS, writing blogs for the organization’s website, and connecting with board members, volunteers, filmmakers, and community partners from Laredo and beyond. Grisseth is grateful for the experience and encourages students interested in media, communications, or marketing to take advantage of the program for the hands-on experience, professional growth, and meaningful connections it provides.

⭐️ Student Spotlight ⭐️

Brayan Garcia will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Systems Engineering. Throughout his time at TAMIU, he was actively involved in campus and community initiatives, including the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers and the University Honors & Undergraduate Research Program. Beyond campus, Brayan participated in outreach efforts at local elementary and middle schools, advocating for the university’s engineering program and inspiring younger students to pursue STEM pathways.

Brayan’s commitment to service was highlighted through his role as a Team Leader for The Big Event 2026, where he supported volunteers in beautifying Dryden Park. This experience allowed him to step into a leadership role and further develop his passion for civic engagement. Through volunteerism, Brayan strengthened his interpersonal and leadership skills while fostering a deeper connection to his field. He encouraged his peers to remain open to learning from others and to view service as a gateway to meaningful connections and professional growth.

Learn more about the TAMIU President’s Service Award (TPSA) here: https://www.tamiu.edu/studentaffairs/tpsa.shtml

⭐️ Student Spotlight ⭐️

Daniela Vigil will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. A Nuevo Laredo native, Daniela came to TAMIU determined to expand her experiences beyond the classroom and engage with the Laredo community. Through encouragement and her own initiative, she became actively involved in campus life through her leadership roles as Community Service Chair for Sigma Delta Lambda, member of the Campus Activities Board and Freshman Leadership Organization, Student Mentor with ACE, and Service Abroad Ambassador for the South Korea 2026 program.

Daniela’s commitment to service was strengthened through her involvement in the Youth Leadership Program hosted by the Laredo Chamber of Commerce. This experience allowed her to work closely with youth and support educational initiatives aligned with Sigma Delta Lambda’s philanthropic values. Through volunteerism, Daniela developed strong leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills while gaining confidence in taking initiative within her community. She encouraged fellow students to take that chance—to connect, learn from others, and build meaningful relationships.

Learn more about the TAMIU President's Service Award (TPSA) here: https://www.tamiu.edu/studentaffairs/tpsa.shtml

⭐️ Student Spotlight ⭐️

Raul Santiago Resendez will graduate with a Bachelor of Business Administration. Originally from Mexico City, Raul came to Texas A&M International University with the intention of focusing solely on his academics. However, through the encouragement of his peers, he became deeply involved in campus life. He served as a federal work-study student in the Office of Student Affairs, contributed to the Honor Council, held the role of Risk Manager for the Transportation & Logistics Network, and most recently served as the Student Government Association Elections Commissioner. Santiago also took on leadership roles as a Team Leader for both Make A Difference Day and The Big Event, supporting large-scale community service initiatives.

Santiago’s commitment to service began through his participation in Make A Difference Day and The Big Event, where he developed a strong connection to the Laredo community and discovered a passion for civic engagement. Through these experiences, he strengthened his communication, public speaking, and leadership skills. Santiago consistently encouraged fellow students to view service not only as a way to give back, but as a meaningful opportunity for personal and professional growth.

Learn more about the TAMIU President's Service Award (TPSA) here: https://www.tamiu.edu/studentaffairs/tpsa.shtml

Dustdevils, stop by the STC Rotunda May 4th - 7th from 10AM- 1PM. ☕️ FREE iced coffee, snacks & bluebooks while supplies last!

Sun, vibes, and well-deserved celebration ☀️🌊

Our Big Event Team Leaders from TAMIU and Laredo College came together for an evening to unwind after a semester of hard work and service. LC hosted us poolside, where students enjoyed Clementine’s catering, refreshing raspas, great music, and some time to float and relax.

A perfect way to celebrate the impact they’ve made in our community. Thank you for everything you do! 🙌✨

Volunteer Opportunity Alert!

Be part of something meaningful and support our community through the South Texas Food Bank’s Adopt-A-Family Program.

Food Distribution Volunteer Event
Date: April 17, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Location: 2121 Jefferson St, Laredo, TX

Duties: Assist with food distribution
Dress Code: TAMIU T-shirt, jeans, and closed-toe shoes
Volunteers will earn 3 community service hours

Make a difference and give back to those in need.

Sign up on TAMIU Presence today.