Providing motivated Mavericks every chance to make a difference

As her financial and personal challenges mounted, Peruvian international student Arianna Cabrera faced a crossroads: secure additional scholarship support or pause her dream of earning a UTA degree.

Thanks to the philanthropic spirit of donors Raj (’93 BS, Computer Science Engineering) and Mona Malik, Cabrera is on track to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in business analytics in fall 2025. She received a lifeline to continue her higher education journey through the Rajeev and Ritu Malik Endowed Scholarship for Student Success, awarded to promising students with financial need.

“Without this support, it would have been very difficult for me to stay in college,” Cabrera says. “I want the Maliks to know that their generosity gave me the motivation to continue my education during a difficult time in my life.”

That trying period included the loss of a close relative that forced her to assume many family responsibilities as well as another major setback that led to significant psychological and financial challenges.

Having cleared these hurdles, Cabrera is now thriving in the nurturing environment of UTA. She maintains a 4.0 GPA and has actively engaged in community service both on and off campus. She plans to pursue a career in data analysis within the U.S. tech industry, eventually taking on leadership roles where she can drive strategic decision-making and innovation.

After spending three years at Universidad de Lima, Cabrera decided to complete her education abroad and applied to three universities. She says UTA stood out because of the diversity of its students and its academic distinction. She also received a scholarship for outstanding transfer students that helped ease her transition to a major university more than 3,000 miles from home.

“First, the quality of education here is excellent. My professors truly demonstrate the high academic standards of UTA,” Cabrera says. “Second, the student diversity—with peers from all over the world—has made it easier for me to adapt. Lastly, UTA offers substantial support to students, both financial and personal.”

These resources have enabled her to focus on learning, which she calls her primary responsibility. She credits the University with providing the tools for career success, sharpening her focus on achieving her goals, helping her overcome hardships, and strengthening her resilience and determination.

“My experiences at UTA have prepared me to face future challenges with confidence and a positive attitude,” Cabrera says. “I will be eternally grateful.”