Photo Taken by Emilio Suarez
Trailblazers help students through their first and second year experience by giving them guidance, connections and appointments.
Trailblazer Arath Navar said his role is centered on supporting students as they begin their academic journey.
Navar said being a trailblazer means to help new students with their new experience at college, help guide them in any problem or advice in a situation students may have.
He said the support is especially important for students who may arrive on campus unsure of how college works or what to expect academically.
“It is important because I know that some students that are coming to college that don’t know which classes to take,” Navar said.
Navar said he encouraged students to build strong study habits early, highlighting consistency and preparation before exams.
“Take notes and try to do their assignments and study earlier,” he said.
When it comes to balancing academics and social life, Navar said students should learn to manage their time and pace themselves throughout the day.
Trailblazer Mario Zermeño said understanding how professors design their exams can make a major difference in preparation.
Zermeño also said building consistent study habits, even in small increments, is highly important.
“Make that time for yourselves to study, maybe like 30 minutes every day, or more than 30 minutes or an hour,” he said. “But try to be more intentional [about] how you study and learn what you haven’t [understood].”
Zermeño recommends taking advantage of designated study spaces and academic support services such as the Learning Center and the Writing Center for finals preparation.
He said beyond finals, the long-term success comes from staying engaged throughout the semester, attending class, taking notes and learning from mistakes.
“Try to be more intentional with your classes, try to put more attention, because sometimes, you have a low grade because you don’t go to class,” Zermeño said.
For more information visit the trailblazer’s website, or email StudentSuccess@utrgv.edu.
