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Valeria Tapia, a first-gen Wildcat and Arizona native, plans for a future in the science of sound, fueled by her family roots.

Valeria Tapia, Class of 2023
From: Nogales, Arizona
Major: Music
Minor: Information Science, Technology & Arts

Valeria Tapia is motivated. She’s a first-generation college student, a Magellan Scholar, member of multiple campus clubs and organizations, and she maintains a high GPA. She’s already a success, working toward a future in audio engineering – and with the University of Arizona’s resources, and her family cheering her on, she’s aiming for the stars. 

What are you most passionate about?

I am most passionate about the technology of sound. I love to work with anything that is audio-related, and the science of sound is very interesting to me. After college, I plan on continuing my studies in a field like audio engineering or music technology. 

What keeps you motivated?

What keeps me motivated is the fact that I am a first-generation college student, and that studying what I like will hopefully get me to my dream career. Also, being able to make my family proud and beat the odds. Family is the most important thing to me, and I receive a lot of support from them. 

Tell me about your background and heritage.

My family and I are all from Hispanic roots. My father is Mexican-American and is of Yaqui descent – he was also born and raised in Nogales, Arizona. My mother is also Mexican-American born in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico but raised in the United States in Nogales, Arizona. All my immediate family are from Mexican-American descent including myself. My father’s biological mother is half-blood Yaqui. While my father’s grandfather is full-blooded Yaqui born in Mexico.

What has been the most rewarding part about being a student at the University of Arizona so far?

Access to an immense amount of helpful resources, and being surrounded by awesome professors and staff – they are a huge help when it comes to succeeding in college and in helping you discover your future career. 

What advice would you give to future Wildcats? 

Try to network with people in your desired career path – networking is one of the best ways to find connections in the field you want to achieve a career in.

Did you know, the University of Arizona is Arizona’s first four-year public university recognized as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) by the U.S. Department of Education? Learn more about resources for our Hispanic students or start your Wildcat journey by applying today.