For The University of Texas Permian Basin cross country student-athlete Kylie Valenzuela, success is measured by more than what happens on the course. 

A 4.0 GPA, a growing passion for mathematics (major at UTPB), involvement with STEM outreach and the demands of collegiate athletics have given Valenzuela plenty to balance. Through it all, she credits two things for helping guide her: her faith and the unwavering support of her family. 

"I believe that I owe each of my successes to God," Valenzuela said. "My faith and my family's constant love and support have helped me stay successful in and out of school." 

That mindset has helped Valenzuela navigate the challenges that come with being a student-athlete while pursuing her goal of becoming a teacher.  

Her passion for mathematics began in high school, where one teacher left a lasting impression. Valenzuela credits her former teacher, Mrs. Gibson, with inspiring her to pursue a career in mathematics.  

"Watching her lead and teach across my Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Geometry classes showed me what truly transformative teaching looks like," Valenzuela said. 

That experience helped shape Valenzuela's own vision for the classroom. She wants to create an environment where students feel comfortable with a subject that can often seem intimidating. 

"She inspired me to step into the classroom myself, driven by the belief that math shouldn't be intimidating," Valenzuela said. 

Her journey toward becoming a teacher has extended beyond the classroom and into the UTPB community through "A New World Awaits You (NWAY)", a program that is a NASA-supported space and STEM education initiative that allows her to work with middle school students through Space-STEM activities. 

When Valenzuela was first introduced to NWAY, she admits she was nervous. 

"I don't know a lot about space," she said.  

Rather than allowing that uncertainty to keep her from participating, Valenzuela saw the program as an opportunity to grow. It gave her a chance to become more comfortable leading students while gaining valuable experience for her future career. 

Her favorite part has been the opportunity to grow alongside the students. 

"While they are growing an understanding over Space-STEM, I am learning more about what I can expect from a classroom as I continue my journey to becoming a high school math teacher," Valenzuela said. 

That desire to connect with students is something Valenzuela has carried with her throughout her life. She has always envisioned herself becoming a teacher, inspired by the educators who have influenced her along the way. 

"I've been surrounded by great teachers all my life, and their impact is everlasting," she said. "Teaching and connecting with students shows promise." 

While her future may be in a classroom, Valenzuela continues to learn valuable lessons on the cross country course. 

Competing as a college athlete has taught her one lesson above all: perseverance. 

"I have learned how to persevere," Valenzuela said. 

That perseverance is rooted in her perspective about the opportunity she has been given to compete at the collegiate level. 

"I remind myself that I was allowed the opportunity to run as a college athlete by God, so why should I feel out of place," she said. 

That mindset extends beyond running. It is evident in the way Valenzuela approaches her academics, her work with students and her role within the university. 

Her path to UTPB was also influenced by family. Her sister graduated from UTPB in 2022 and encouraged Valenzuela to explore the opportunities available at the university. 

That encouragement ultimately led Valenzuela to UTPB, where she was awarded the Presidential Scholarship and began pursuing her education. 

Today, she has found herself becoming part of the same community her sister once experienced. 

When asked what she is most proud of when looking at everything she has accomplished at UTPB — from academics and athletics to STEM outreach — Valenzuela doesn't point to a grade, race or individual achievement. 

Instead, she points to something bigger. 

"I am most proud of being a part of the UTPB community," Valenzuela said. "As a student, worker, and athlete, I am extremely proud to be Falcon." 

For Valenzuela, the finish line is only one part of the journey. Whether she is competing on the course, working with students or preparing for a future classroom of her own, she continues to embrace every opportunity to learn, grow and make an impact. 

And through it all, she carries the lessons she has learned from her family, her faith, her teachers and the UTPB community—using each one to help shape the teacher, student and Falcon she hopes to become.