Students first to graduate UTPA computer engineering program

The only thing the computer engineering graduates seem to share in common is their love for technology.

Samantha Lozano, Christopher Martinez, and Esteban Torres were the first three students to graduate from the University of Texas-Pan American's computer engineering program this month.

Lozano said she already has a job lined up with Exxon Mobil - her start date is June 3.

"I've been into technology since high school," Lozano said. "It's really exciting being a part of something new."

But Torres says he wants to keep studying and earn a master's degree in electrical engineering.

"I love electronics," Torres said. "I like learning complex systems and putting together hardware and software."

Martinez remains flexible with his options.

"I'm just looking for jobs anywhere," he said. "If nothing comes up by summer's end, I'll study for my master's in math or computer engineering."

The students just graduated from UTPA with computer engineering degrees - the first ever awarded at the campus. They switched their electrical engineering major two years ago when the computer engineering program was created.

"It's pretty demanding," said Pearl Brazier, the program's director. "But they're excellent students with good study habits."

Ana Ley covers law enforcement and general assignments for The Monitor. She can be reached at (956) 683-4428.