Posted on December 1, 2024 by Rebekah Alegria
As a first-generation college student, Brianna Anzaldua’s journey has been shaped by a commitment to paving the way for others while balancing the demands of work, family and school.
Growing up, Anzaldua was inspired by her love for storytelling and political science, which led her to pursue an undergraduate degree at UTSA in marketing with a minor in political science. These interests, combined with her desire to make a greater impact, motivated her to take the next step and enroll in an MBA program.
“This journey has been particularly meaningful because I’m the first in my family to earn a higher education degree,” she shared. “It’s not just about personal success but about showing others that higher education is within their grasp.”
Juggling her roles as a student, employee and family member required Anzaldua to hone her time management skills and be adaptable. From meticulously organized to-do lists to setting personal deadlines, she developed strategies to stay on top of her responsibilities. These skills, she noted, became invaluable in both her academic and professional life.
Anzaldua’s passion for community impact and sustainability was evident as she pursued internships with organizations like the District 7 City Council, CPS Energy and the Edwards Aquifer Authority. These roles exposed her to unexpected opportunities and inspired her to approach challenges with an open mind. “Each experience taught me that sometimes the roles you don’t anticipate are the ones that help you grow the most,” she reflected.
Looking back on her time at UTSA, Anzaldua highlighted the real-world applications of her coursework and the support of her professors. A particularly impactful graduate project involved organizing community events focused on environmental sustainability, which allowed her to contribute meaningfully to both UTSA and the broader San Antonio community. “Those experiences reinforced my passion for connecting people to resources and addressing important community needs,” she said.
As graduation approaches, Anzaldua is excited about the future and the opportunity to leverage her skills in marketing, communications and community outreach. Her goal is to make a lasting difference by supporting local businesses, advancing sustainability initiatives and creating campaigns that drive meaningful change.
“I look forward to staying connected with the UTSA community and giving back through mentorship and involvement in programs that helped me succeed.”