Two Falcons are taking their education from the Permian Basin to the nation’s capital through a prestigious fellowship program.
The University of Texas Permian Basin prepares Falcons for careers across industries, including opportunities to learn directly from national leaders shaping policy and decision-making at the highest levels.
Often described as the Washington, D.C. campus of The University of Texas System, the Archer Center provides undergraduate and graduate students from any major across the UT System with the opportunity to live, learn, and intern in the nation’s capital. Through the program, students gain firsthand insight into how the federal government operates, collaborates, and impacts communities while building professional connections that can lead to continued opportunities after graduation.
UTPB will soon have two students participating in the program: Marissa Equiniones and Brett Jacobsen. Marissa is a junior majoring in Political Science with a minor in Communication. Brett is a graduate student pursuing a Master’s degree in Biology.
For Marissa, the Archer Center connects directly to her long-term goals. She hopes to strengthen her networking and communication skills while gaining a deeper understanding of how public policy affects diverse communities.
“I’ve always aspired to intern for a member of Congress and wanted to work in government after college,” Marissa said. “I knew it would be difficult to accomplish those goals, but Megan in Career Services told me about the Archer Program and how it aligned with my aspirations. I couldn’t wait to apply.”
Brett stresses that the program is not limited to students interested solely in politics. He believes it provides valuable insight into how government systems influence nearly every industry and profession. He plans to use his time in Washington focus on addressing the root-causes of poor health.
“The Permian Basin is the economic heartbeat of Texas, but it is also frequently underserved in healthcare,” Brett said. “The knowledge I gain in Washington will directly support my future service to our region.”
With UTPB’s smaller campus and student body, Brett felt more comfortable pursuing the opportunity.
“Being at UTPB has allowed a student, such as myself, to even consider this competitive fellowship,” Brett said. “I’m extremely grateful to have staff and faculty who not only bring attention to these opportunities, but also actively support their students’ career goals.”
For Falcons interested in expanding their professional opportunities, Marissa recommends connecting with Career Services early.
“They helped me with my resume, internship search, and interviews,” Marissa said.
For information about future programs and opportunities, contact Career Services at careerservices@utpb.edu or call 432-552-2890.
Often described as the Washington, D.C. campus of The University of Texas System, the Archer Center provides undergraduate and graduate students from any major across the UT System with the opportunity to live, learn, and intern in the nation’s capital. Through the program, students gain firsthand insight into how the federal government operates, collaborates, and impacts communities while building professional connections that can lead to continued opportunities after graduation.
UTPB will soon have two students participating in the program: Marissa Equiniones and Brett Jacobsen. Marissa is a junior majoring in Political Science with a minor in Communication. Brett is a graduate student pursuing a Master’s degree in Biology.
For Marissa, the Archer Center connects directly to her long-term goals. She hopes to strengthen her networking and communication skills while gaining a deeper understanding of how public policy affects diverse communities. “I’ve always aspired to intern for a member of Congress and wanted to work in government after college,” Marissa said. “I knew it would be difficult to accomplish those goals, but Megan in Career Services told me about the Archer Program and how it aligned with my aspirations. I couldn’t wait to apply.”
Brett stresses that the program is not limited to students interested solely in politics. He believes it provides valuable insight into how government systems influence nearly every industry and profession. He plans to use his time in Washington focus on addressing the root-causes of poor health. “The Permian Basin is the economic heartbeat of Texas, but it is also frequently underserved in healthcare,” Brett said. “The knowledge I gain in Washington will directly support my future service to our region.”
With UTPB’s smaller campus and student body, Brett felt more comfortable pursuing the opportunity.
“Being at UTPB has allowed a student, such as myself, to even consider this competitive fellowship,” Brett said. “I’m extremely grateful to have staff and faculty who not only bring attention to these opportunities, but also actively support their students’ career goals.”
For Falcons interested in expanding their professional opportunities, Marissa recommends connecting with Career Services early.
“They helped me with my resume, internship search, and interviews,” Marissa said.
For information about future programs and opportunities, contact Career Services at careerservices@utpb.edu or call 432-552-2890.
