Margarita Alvarez ’22, ’24 named Outstanding Islander Graduate for the College of Science

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — When Margarita “Margie” Alvarez ’22, ’24 looks back on her first days as an Islander, she doesn’t recognize herself.

“I was shy and isolated myself from the activities of campus life,” she reflected. “But that changed as soon as I walked into the chemistry lab. It was transformative to immerse myself in a subject that I was so passionate about, and to meet people who loved chemistry as much as I do.”

From that point on, Alvarez flourished at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, dedicating herself to both her research and to helping new Islanders transition to campus life.

Now graduating with a Master of Science in Chemistry, Alvarez has been selected as the Summer 2024 Outstanding Islander Graduate for the College of Science. A highlight of her time on campus was her mentorship of undergraduate and graduate chemistry students in the lab of Dr. Fereshteh Billiot, Professor of Chemistry and Chemistry Graduate Coordinator.

“Margie mentored and guided them like an older sister,” Billiot said. “Students found comfort in talking to her about their challenges, knowing she is willing to listen and help whenever possible.”

The role of an older sister is one that Alvarez knows very well. As the eldest of four children, the responsibility of caring for her siblings often fell to her, spurring her determination to set a good example in her pursuit of education.

“Being a first-generation college student and the primary supporter of my family while studying full-time has not been easy. Even though I grew up in Corpus Christi, I had no one to share their college experience with me, and money was often tight,” Alvarez said. “However, these challenges have shaped me into a resilient and resourceful person who can navigate obstacles with perseverance and seek out support systems.”

Recognizing the importance of finding a supportive network inspired her to volunteer as a peer mentor in the Academic Success Center.

“As a peer mentor, I guided new students through their transition to university life, providing academic support and personal encouragement,” Alvarez said. “Serving as both a peer mentor and a lab mentor, I have developed leadership, communication, and teamwork skills. This experience has enriched my university years, and I hope it has left a lasting positive impact on those around me.”

Alvarez credited mentorship from Nathan Black, an instructor in the College of Science, for sharing his enthusiasm for scientific discovery.

“Nathan’s mentorship has been a cornerstone of my academic and personal growth,” Alvarez said. “His unwavering support, expert guidance, and genuine belief in my potential have been invaluable.”

In addition, Alvarez said support from the Joe A. Gonzalez (JAG) Education is our Freedom GED/High School College Endowed Scholarship profoundly changed her academic journey.

“This scholarship has been a lifeline, allowing me to focus on my studies without the constant worry of accumulating debt or the pressure of working excessive hours to pay for my education,” Alvarez said. “Moreover, this scholarship has given me a sense of validation and encouragement. Knowing that a selection committee believed in my potential enough to invest in my education has been incredibly motivating.”

Alvarez plans to eventually pursue her doctorate in chemistry, but not before sharing her love of the subject with the next generation.

“I aspire to bridge educational gaps at a school that serves low-income or first-generation students,” she said. “By dedicating a few years to teaching in such an environment, I hope to empower students with the tools they need to succeed and foster a passion for learning.”