As Commencement approaches, UTSA graduates are workforce ready

University resources such as the University Career Center also play a role in preparing students with the help of career fairs, internship resources, resume building and interview skills. The Career Center's services aren't limited to just students; alumni can take advantage of them as well. The center's staff is dedicated to working with students to help them transition from their academic studies into a career that is aligned with their professional goals. They also work alongside other offices such as the colleges, the Center for Civic and Community-Engaged Leadership, the Najim Center for Innovation and Career Advancement, the Office of Undergraduate Research and the Institute for Law and Public Affairs to ensure student success.

Similar to Hocaoğlu, Beverly Quintana's hard work and professional development in her internship with The University of Texas/Texas A&M Investment Management Company (UTIMCO ) has also led to a full-time job after graduation. She's been hired by UTIMCO as a private equity analyst.

Quintana, who is earning a B.B.A. in Finance from the Carlos Alvarez College of Business, was one of five students in the highly competitive UTIMCO internship program. During this time, the UTSA undergraduate gained hands-on experience in asset management and discovered a passion for private equity.

"It was surreal," she said. "I told myself I had to be good enough that they couldn't say no."

At UTSA, graduate students are likewise well-positioned to compete with the nation's best.

Swathi Weaver , who is earning her doctorate in counselor education and supervision this month from the College of Education and Human Development, can attest to this.

Weaver came to UTSA in 2022 with nearly a decade of experience as a professional counselor when she decided to pursue her Ph.D. Now that she is poised to begin the next leg of her career, Weaver will be joining Eastern Oregon University as a full-time faculty member mentoring students who are on the path to becoming counselors.

While at UTSA, Weaver conducted research into eating disorder risks among adult women of Indian descent in the U.S. She presented her findings at conferences around the country and published research articles, which she says has shaped her professional identity. She also mentored students entering the field and she supervised master's-level clinicians during their practicum semesters. This opportunity helped her hone her teaching and mentorship skills.

Hocaoğlu, Quintana and Weaver will celebrate their accomplishments with the UTSA Class of 2025 on May 18. The morning Commencement ceremony will celebrate graduates in the Carlos Alvarez College of Business, College of Education and Human Development, Margie and Bill Klesse College of Engineering and Integrated Design, and University College. The afternoon Commencement will honor graduates in the College for Health, Community and Policy, College of Liberal and Fine Arts and College of Sciences.