Let's Continue to Raise Our Picks!
May 2024
By Anna Carrillo, '19, '21
Last month, UTEP celebrated its 2nd Annual Raise Your Pick Day. This event was exciting because we glimpsed the initiatives and projects actively enhancing the lives of Miners and others in our community.
Reflecting on my experience as a student, I had the joy of working with UTEP's Athletic Development team, contributing to fundraising efforts to support student-athlete scholarships. My work in athletics is where I learned to understand the importance of fundraising. As a member of the fundraising team, I witnessed firsthand the incredible impact that support from donors can have on students. No matter how big or small a contribution was, each contribution played an impactful role and created a wave of positive outcomes.
Group picture with the 2019 UTEP Athletics Marketing Interns after working a football game.
If there's one thing that's true about UTEP students, they are mission-driven and hardworking. Some working two jobs to pay for tuition. Although the same is true for our student-athletes, all their available time is spent juggling academics and athletics. Not only do they have workouts, practice, games, competitions, and other commitments, but they also have to excel academically to maintain their eligibility. A perspective I've observed, which others may not often consider, is that while balancing work and studies presents significant challenges, it can also be seen as a privilege. Like our student-athletes, many of my peers didn't have the luxury of working due to the demanding nature of their academic pursuits. Whether they were immersed in nursing school, juggling clinical placements, dedicating themselves to a rigorous thesis for their Master's program, or perhaps even fulfilling the responsibilities of being a full-time parent. These individuals made remarkable contributions to our community, ranging from nursing, literature, medicine, and leadership roles. Much of their success can be attributed to the much-needed support and financial assistance provided by UTEP during their academic journey.
Anna and her mom after assisting at a fundraising luncheon.
This brings me to my following observation, which remains true today. For students who cannot work and whose financial assistance is solely designated for tuition and books, a pressing concern arises: how do they afford meals? Numerous UTEP students face food insecurity, defined as the uncertainty of where their next meal will come from. Thankfully, UTEP has established a Food Pantry to address this issue. No student should be forced to choose between purchasing textbooks or putting food on the table. On Raise Your Pick Day, this was just one of the many funds and projects featured, and the Pantry continues to need the support of our community
I'm fortunate to be part of the Development team at El Pasoans Fighting HungerI've been deeply moved by the countless stories of individuals whose lives have been profoundly impacted by food donations. Contributions don't just help provide tangible items; they create a ripple effect of hope and opportunity throughout our region. When people donate to initiatives like the UTEP Food Pantry or student scholarships, they invest in our community’s well-being and success. Donating means more than just giving money. It's not just a simple transaction; it's planting a seed for something bigger. Donor support can impact students struggling to afford textbooks, meals, and other resources.
It's been an honor for me to play a part and continue to help our community tackle challenges and uplift our fellow students during their academic pursuits. My time at UTEP has shown me firsthand our student body's incredible strength and resilience. Whether working multiple jobs to cover tuition fees or managing the heavy load of academics and sports, UTEP students truly represent the spirit of grit and determination. Although Raise Your Pick Giving Day has passed, we can continue to raise our picks for UTEP students. Whether you give a little or a lot, your donation has the power to plant a seed and make a lasting and meaningful impact.
Anna Carrillo ’19, ’21, born and raised in El Paso, Texas, is a proud graduate of The University of Texas at El Paso, where she earned her bachelor’s in business marketing and a master's degree in leadership studies. With a strong belief in the power of leadership to bring about positive change and commitment to community service, Anna's current role as the Stewardship Manager at El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank allows her to engage and serve the community.
To learn more about Anna and our other Miner Nation Contributors, click here.