Posted on May 6, 2026 by Klesse College Staff
As Spring 2026 Graduate Nidia Hetze gets ready to graduate and pursue her career in Biomedical Engineering, she is able to reflect fondly on her time at UT San Antonio. Nidia was drawn to Klesse College because she enjoyed the challenge it could provide, letting her grow and learn at a pace that felt rewarding and enriching. Throughout her time at Klesse College, Nidia never lost her passion for learning and was able to fully immerse herself in her education, allowing her to excel in a field that requires so much adaptability and persistence.
Read the full Q&A with Nidia down below to learn more about her journey and what she plans on doing next!
What made you decide to attend UT San Antonio?
I decided to attend UT San Antonio because of its strong engineering programs and its reputation for supporting first-generation and driven students. As someone who attended Early College High School, I was eager to continue challenging myself academically in a university that valued innovation, research, and community impact. UTSA felt like a place where I could grow both professionally and personally while staying connected to San Antonio.
Did you have any experience with your field before starting at Klesse College? If not, what inspired you to pursue a career in your field?
Before starting at Klesse College, I did not have direct hands-on experience in biomedical engineering, but I was always deeply interested in science and healthcare. I was inspired by the idea of combining engineering principles with medicine to improve patient outcomes. The opportunity to design solutions that can directly impact people’s lives is what drew me to biomedical engineering.
What did you enjoy most about your experience at UT San Antonio?
What I enjoyed most was the collaborative and hands-on nature of the program. From lab courses to senior design projects, I appreciated being able to apply theory to real-world problems. I also valued the relationships I built with classmates and professors who continuously pushed me to think critically and grow as an engineer.
What have you learned, in your time at UT San Antonio, that surprised you the most?
I was most surprised by how much resilience and adaptability are required in engineering. Not every design works the first time, and not every experiment produces expected results. Learning how to troubleshoot, iterate, and stay persistent has been one of the most valuable lessons of my time at UTSA.
What are your goals or plans after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to begin my career in the biomedical or medical device industry, where I can contribute to the development of technologies that improve patient care. Long-term, I am interested in continuing to grow professionally, potentially pursuing advanced certifications or graduate studies, and eventually taking on leadership roles in innovation-focused projects.
What advice do you have for people considering the programs at UT San Antonio?
My advice would be to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Take advantage of research opportunities, build relationships with professors, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The program will challenge you, but that challenge is what prepares you for success after graduation.
What is your life motto/slogan?
“An object in motion stays in motion — so keep going.”
Who helped you get to today?
I would not be here without the unwavering support of my mom and dad. They instilled in me the value of hard work, perseverance, and education from a young age. Their sacrifices, encouragement, and belief in my abilities gave me the confidence to pursue engineering and stay committed even when the journey felt challenging.
— Klesse College Staff
