Laura Beth participates in the UTSA Student Alumni Association.

From that first leap, her leadership expanded across campus. Garcia served as president of the Student Alumni Association, where she focused on building connections between alumni and students, and president of the Student Organization Council, where she oversaw more than 120 student organizations and honed her skills in conflict resolution and time management.

She also served on the Campus Activities Board as Spirit and Traditions chair, helping organize the first on-campus tailgate in Spring 2006, and introducing the now-iconic Bird's Up foam hand that remains a game day tradition.

"These experiences just fed my soul," she said. "The organizations, the students, my mentors, they gave me so much. I am forever grateful for the confidence and community I gained at UTSA."

Physician Assistant program

After completing her undergraduate degree, Garcia turned her focus to medicine and was admitted into the highly competitive physician assistant program at the Health Science Center, one of only 30 students selected from more than 1,200 applicants. The rigorous three-year program demanded long hours and complete dedication, but Garcia remembers it as a deeply rewarding chapter of her life.

"It was a challenging program, but my class became like a family, always cheering each other on and committed to our shared success," Garcia said. "We put in long hours and gained invaluable experience thanks to our dedicated faculty, staff and preceptors. I have made incredible memories that will be long cherished."

Garcia's training led her to spend 10 years working in pain management before she transitioned into neurosurgery, and she now works with renowned San Antonio surgeons, Dr. Donald Atkins, Dr. Donald Hilton and Dr. Om James Neeley. The role has been humbling and rewarding, she said, pushing her to continue learning every day.

A place for everyone

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Garcia's passion for alumni engagement has never wavered. For her, staying connected to UTSA is about giving back the same support she once received.

As a proud alumna of both UTSA and the Health Science Center, Garcia brings a unique perspective to the integration of the two universities into UT San Antonio. She sees the transition as an opportunity to create something even stronger, both for current students and for alumni who span both institutions.

"We want all students to have a cohesive and consistent experience that blends the cultures of both universities," Garcia said. "With dedicated programs, shared experiences and possibly new affinity groups within the Alumni Association, there will be a place for everyone. I am excited to see what the future holds for us."