Posted on May 13, 2025 by Amanda Cerreto
Lauren Garza is crossing the stage this May with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with a concentration in health science. She also minored in psychology. She has plans to be a physical therapist in the future.
What made you decide to attend UTSA?
I mainly chose UTSA because it’s close to home. I’m from the San Antonio area, so after completing my Associate’s degree with Alamo Colleges, it felt like the natural next step.
What made you choose your major?
I chose my major because I want to pursue a career in physical therapy. After experiencing a medical situation that left me suddenly paralyzed for 10 months, I lost faith in the medical system. It wasn’t until I attended the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, and participated in their Pain Rehabilitation Center program that I began to heal — physically and emotionally. The physical therapists there inspired me so much that I decided I want to give back to my community and help others feel the same hope and freedom that I once thought was impossible.
What has been your favorite moment/experience at UTSA?
My favorite experiences have been through my involvement in clubs, mentorship programs, and work-study. It took me a few semesters to discover how many clubs UTSA offers, but once I did, I jumped in. Finding clubs and societies that provided career guidance, information about graduate school, and networking opportunities was incredibly rewarding.
How did your degree shape your future goals?
My degree gave me a deeper look into the field I’ll be working in. Although a DPT program doesn’t require a medical-based undergraduate degree, studying kinesiology has helped better prepare me for the challenges ahead. It also solidified my passion for physical therapy and reassured me that this is exactly the field I want to be in.
What accomplishment are you most proud of from your time in college?
I’m most proud of maintaining a high GPA at UTSA. After graduating from high school in 2012, I was in and out of school for years, trying to figure out my path. In 2021, I decided to fully commit to becoming a PT. Although I had previously been on academic probation and suspension, starting fresh at UTSA proved to me that I could succeed and pursue my dreams with confidence.
What was the biggest challenge you faced during your college years, and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge was figuring out what I truly wanted to do. Over the span of about 13 years, I changed my major and career goals four or five times. It took time, but I eventually found my true calling in physical therapy.
If you could give advice to incoming students, what would it be?
Everyone moves at their own pace. Some people will reach their goals quickly, while others will take different routes to get there. That’s perfectly okay. College is a journey of self-discovery, and sometimes that means changing plans. Trust your path — even if it’s not the straightest.
What are your post-graduation plans,?
I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been accepted into the University of the Incarnate Word’s DPT program, which begins in August! I’m incredibly excited to take the next step toward becoming a physical therapist.
If your years at UTSA had a theme song, what would it be?
I’m a huge fan of K-pop, and it has been a big source of positivity for me. My theme song would be "My Way" by ATEEZ. It’s about pushing forward on your own path, even when things get tough, and trusting the journey you’re on — a message that really resonates with my college experience.
What’s your go-to comfort food for stressful study sessions?
Mandarin oranges! Peeling them helps me destress, and finding one that's especially sweet or sour feels like a little reward during tough study sessions.
What surprised you the most about college life?
I was surprised by how many resources and clubs were available. At first, I thought I wouldn’t find anything that fit my interests, but once I took the time to look, I found so many opportunities that helped me grow both personally and professionally.
How do you want to use your degree to make a difference in your community or field?
I plan to use my degree to become a physical therapist and, eventually, open my own clinic. My dream is to combine physical rehabilitation with mental health support by incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques. I believe true healing addresses both the body and mind, and I want to offer that holistic approach to my future patients.
If you had to sum up your college experience in three words, what would they be?
Challenging, fun, rewarding.
What’s one piece of advice that you received during college that you’ll carry with you?
A physical therapist I shadowed once told me, “We are always learning — even after you get your degree and pass your boards.” He reminded me that innovation and research are constantly evolving, and it’s important to stay curious and committed to learning — not just for myself, but for the benefit of my future patients.
— Amanda Cerreto
