Ariana Gallardo | Vaquero Radio
UTRGV Photo by Paul Chouy
The University of Texas System Student Regent John Michael Austin visited the UTRGV Edinburg campus, where he was able to talk with students and tour the facilities.
As student regent, Austin talked to students about the issues within the university system. His visit allowed students to voice their concerns and provide valuable feedback directly to a member of the UT System board of regents.
Austin’s visit aimed to gain firsthand insight into the challenges, achievements and aspirations of the UTRGV community. He hopes that by being in this position, he can impact the community.
“I’m a student, so it means something to me,” he said. “Just an opportunity to help out the state. You know, this is my community, this is where I’m from and these are the people I want to serve.”
Austin spoke about introducing a new type of course to UT System universities.
“I’ve been working with the UT System about introducing medical Spanish courses in all of the patient-facing professions,” he said.
The initiative aims to better equip health care professionals to communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking patients, ultimately improving patient care.
“Students can do a better job of serving the community,” Austin said. “Because when you’re able to have that connection with a patient in their native language, the quality of care is just exceptional.”
Austin said he stays informed about issues by having conversations with students.
“Really, just like going to the schools and sitting down with the students and having a conversation, ‘Hey, what is really working here? What is there for improvement?’” he said. “I’m happy with that strategy. It’s been effective.”
For more information on Austin, visit utsystem.edu.
