Alumni Profiles: Sonia Dominguez
Alumni Q & A: Sonia Dominguez
By UC Staff
Photo courtesy of Sonia Dominguez
Growing up in the Segundo Barrio, Sonia Dominguez knew that education was the key to a successful future. Here she reflects
Current job title: Director of Student Success Initiatives
Company/Organization: E3 Alliance, a regional, data-driven education collaborative based in Austin, Texas.
UTEP Degree: Bachelor’s and Master’s in Education
Were you the first in your family to earn a college degree? Yes
What sparked your interest in education?
I knew I wanted to pursue a career that allowed me to serve as a role model for students who grew up like me. Education was not my first choice, but I soon realized that teaching would support my dream of helping others reach their potential. I was a poor kid who grew up in Segundo Barrio and was able to reach many of my goals because of the opportunities I had at UTEP.
Why did you pick UTEP?
I am the oldest of four girls and a first-generation college student who grew up with a strict Chicano father, so there was no way I was leaving El Paso! With that said, I am extremely proud to be a UTEP Miner.
How has your UTEP education helped you succeed?
It gave me the start I needed. Once I earned my bachelor’s degree and started teaching, I was able to go back to school for a master’s degree. This empowered me to make decisions about my career that I never thought possible.
What is the most important thing you learned at UTEP?
Education is the key to success.
What advice would you give your freshman self?
Go to class!
What is your best UTEP memory?
I met my husband at UTEP so I would say my best UTEP memory was
What advice would you give students who want to follow in your footsteps?
Be strategic when making decisions about your career, but also be willing to take risks.