Regina, pictured front, left.
Regina Mendiola, Class of 2027
Major: Public Relations, with a minor in International Business
University programs and student organizations: Moody College Dean’s List, Campus Events + Entertainment: Headliners, UTalent Records, Texas PRSSA (Public Relations Student Society of America+)
Regina grew up in Mission, Texas, and spent the summer of 2024 in nearby Pharr, working for Hidalgo County Precinct Two. As their Public Relations Intern, she conducted research and prepared files for the county commissioner, learned about the departments within the county, and volunteered at the local sports complex.
She shares how Home to Texas gave her hands-on experience with her field and helped her better understand her community.
What drew you to Home to Texas in the first place?
Initially, I planned to stay in Austin for the summer with an internship. However, finding housing and managing the financial costs became complicated and discouraging. When I received an email about Home to Texas, I was immediately drawn to the program’s unique aspects. The idea of being back in my hometown with a scholarship, an internship, and research experience seemed too good to be true. Once I was selected for the program, a weight lifted off my shoulders.
What have been the highlights of your time in the program?
Visiting the Public Affairs office at the county's main office. I had the opportunity to shadow the Public Affairs Coordinator, tour their studios, and learn about their video equipment. I discovered the various initiatives and programs the county is implementing and the modes of communication they use. As a public relations major, I was excited to discuss media strategies and how the county communicates with its constituents, including during major events such as COVID-19 and Hurricane Beryl. I gained insight into the county's risk management strategies and, their commitment to serving the community.
What surprised you during the research process?
At first, I was nervous about the research aspect and conducting interviews, as I had never done anything like that before. However, it turned out to be fun and engaging to talk to different stakeholders about their jobs and listen to their stories. I was surprised by how much I didn’t know about my own community. I’m glad to have had the opportunity to learn more about my hometown and witness the incredible growth happening.
Have you seen connections between your experience with Home to Texas and what you’ve learned in the classroom at The University of Texas at Austin?
The Home to Texas program highlighted the differences between my hometown and Austin. Mission and Austin are very different cities with distinct cultures and ideas. This experience allowed me to better understand my community and see what it takes to become a growing, populous city.
During my 2024 spring semester, I took a class on the History of Mexican Americans in the U.S. with Professor Zamora. That class opened my eyes to how Mexican Americans were treated systematically throughout history. Fast forward to working with Hidalgo County, located near the South Texas border, I had a lot of prior knowledge about border control and immigration, which was incredibly useful when I was tasked with researching new border policies versus current and past policies. Additionally, that class helped me understand the barriers and challenges many face in my community and how the county works to support them.
How do you think Home to Texas will impact your college career and life after graduation?
Home to Texas introduced me to new friends and connections that I wouldn’t have made otherwise. This program helped me establish connections in my hometown that can help me grow when I’m back in Austin. I gained new skills in research, policy, and communication, making me well-rounded. I will definitely promote this program to incoming freshmen who are looking to build a solid foundation and expand their interests!
How has your experience with Home to Texas changed your perception of your hometown?
Working with Hidalgo County and interviewing local stakeholders significantly changed my perception of my hometown. I hadn’t noticed all the growth and innovation occurring and the efforts made by the county and community members to further develop and support the community. Working with the county commissioner and my supervisors was such an amazing experience professionally and personally. The future looks bright for the Rio Grande Valley.
What advice would you give to a fellow Longhorn who is thinking about applying to Home to Texas?
Home to Texas introduces you to working full-time, learning about professional development, and conducting research. It’s the perfect program to find yourself and your interests while being financially responsible. You also get to meet new Longhorns from your hometown that you might not have met on campus and enjoy the experience of working together. I was fortunate to have another intern with me this summer, and we became good friends by talking in the office and sharing our lunch breaks! I’m so grateful to be part of this program and experience working a job and balancing my time. My advice would be not to hesitate to click “Apply”!
Home to Texas is accepting applications for internships for summer 2025. The application deadline is February 5, 2025. For more information check out the Home to Texas website. You can also RSVP for one of the upcoming information sessions:
- Thursday, January 23 from 6-7 p.m. (Zoom)
- Monday, January 27 from 4-5 p.m. (Career Success Office, Second floor of the Flawn Academic Center)
- Thursday, January 30 from 2-3 p.m. (Career Success Office, Second floor of the Flawn Academic Center)
- Monday, February 3 from Noon-1 p.m. (Zoom)