Assistant Director of Admissions Dalinda Martinez
Hometown: Weslaco, Texas
College Major: Spanish (minor: communicative disorders)
Territory: Rio Grande Valley
Office: Valley Admissions Center
Phone: 956-365-8618
Q: Where are you from?
A: I was born and raised in Weslaco, Texas, home of the Fighting Panthers. My graduating class had more than 600 students. After graduation, I left Weslaco and moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico, where I attended college at the University of New Mexico. I realized I had much to learn as I met new people, not only from across the nation, but from around the world. It was quite a change for me because I didn't know anyone who had moved away to attend college. It was challenging, but it was all worth it. After being gone for 12 years, I moved back to the Rio Grande Valley and have seen much growth in the area.
Q: What did you study in college? Why?
A: I received a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and a minor in communicative disorders. I studied in Granada, Spain, for a year and would recommend and encourage everyone to study abroad. It is an amazing experience and will open your eyes to new worlds and cultures. I received my degree in Spanish because I realized the value of knowing the language of my heritage, and it became an important part of my life after studying abroad. After I received my bachelor's degree, I was able to obtain my master’s degree in organizational learning and instructional technologies while working for the University of New Mexico. I am very fortunate for the education I have obtained and will always have a special place in my heart for New Mexico.
Q: How long have you been working in higher education counseling and admissions?
A: I have worked in the field of education for nine years. I have worked with different organizations in various capacities, cultivating relationships with university scholars, high school students, professors and teachers. I believe higher education is the beginning of an amazing journey, and The University of Texas at Austin is a great place to begin the path of furthering your education.
Q: What parts of counseling do you enjoy?
A: I’ve always had a passion for helping students navigate the transition from high school to college. It’s an important time for both the student and their family. I believe it is critical that you find the right school for you and find a place where you can succeed. I want to be a resource for families, communities and anyone who is already thinking and planning ahead for higher education.
Q: What is your favorite place on the UT Austin campus?
A: If I had to choose one place, I would say it is the Texas Union. The couches are comfortable, and the coffee is great. I like that the university provides a space for people to come together and share ideas. Looking around you can always see students engaged in studying, socializing and enjoying the atmosphere. You never know if this is where the idea for the next great invention will happen.
Q: What are some of your favorite things to do in Austin?
A: I love listening to blues music and enjoy the great live music scene in Austin. One of my favorite things to do is attend the Austin City Limits Music Festival. I like being around the diversity the city offers, whether it is the food, the people or the music; it is a time for me to learn and see new things.
Q: What is your favorite UT Austin fact?
A: UT Austin unveiled the statue of Cesar Chavez in the fall of 2007. As a daughter of migrant workers, I am honored to have the struggle commemorated with the statue which is located in the popular West Mall area. I am reminded that we must continue to work for social change and can do so through education.
Advice to Students
- The process of applying to universities can seem tedious and overwhelming, but you have worked hard to this point. Give yourself the time to make important decisions and choices in order to select the best path for your future.
- Be true to yourself! Be authentic in all you do. Through your admissions essays and resume, we get the chance to learn more about you and hear your voice. However, we receive thousands of applications, and it is up to you to stand out from the rest. Take the time to write and rewrite. Ask for help even if you think you don’t need it. There are people who can help support you through this process. You can learn from their experiences and hopefully one day you will share yours with someone else.