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Creating Champions: Family Support, Self-Determination Sets Briana Arellano on Path to Success

Last Updated on October 16, 2019 at 12:00 AM

Originally published October 16, 2019

By Jesse Martinez

UTEP Communications

Creating Champions: This is the third article in a series about UTEP student-athletes who share their unique stories and how athletic scholarships have made a difference in their lives. Each of these students reflects on the value of their UTEP experiences and the opportunities they create for the future. Visit minerathleticclub.com to learn more about the Creating Champions campaign.

When Briana Arellano joined the UTEP volleyball team as a walk-on in 2016, she did not have an athletic scholarship, but she did have determination. Armed with that, Arellano set a goal for herself to work hard in the classroom and on the court. Her grit was recognized and eventually rewarded by the Miner Athletic Club.
When Briana Arellano joined the UTEP volleyball team as a walk-on in 2016, she did not have an athletic scholarship, but she did have determination. Armed with that, Arellano set a goal for herself to work hard in the classroom and on the court. Her grit was recognized and eventually rewarded by the Miner Athletic Club.

UTEP volleyball player Briana Arellano discusses how her scholarship has impacted her life. Video by UTEP Communications

When Briana Arellano joined the UTEP volleyball team as a walk-on in 2016, she did not have an athletic scholarship, but she did have determination. Armed with that, Arellano set a goal for herself to work hard in the classroom and on the court. Her grit was recognized and eventually rewarded by the Miner Athletic Club.

Arellano said that she was grateful for the scholarship because it means she will graduate debt-free, but also because it is a reflection that others noted her work ethic. 

Last season, the outside hitter was named to the Conference USA Commissioner’s Academic Honor Roll and she was one of three players on the roster to record more than 100 kills (105) and digs (168) on the year.

The Canutillo, Texas, resident said she is a proud representative of her hometown, and she is grateful for her scholarship because it allows her to play on the UTEP volleyball team close to home. When it’s game time, Arellano said her family and friends cheer for her and her teammates. Even after graduation, she said she knows her parents, successful UTEP alumni, will still come to games to support the team.

“I’m blessed to be here,” Arellano said. “I get to play for my hometown (team) and attend an amazing school.”

Arellano is a senior biomedical sciences major, who looks forward to a career in the mental health field to help people who might feel stressed by their jobs or other aspects of their lives. She said she wants to work for a big organization such as a hospital or athletics team to help individuals with mental health concerns to achieve their goals.