Foundations in Kingsville, Built for the Future
Publication Date: August 29, 2025
Author: Jesus A. Reina and Ariel L. Ramon
Photo Caption: Alonso Jimenez Jr. brings confidence and character to every challenge—on a mission to engineer a better tomorrow.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Alonso Jimenez Jr
For Alonso Jimenez Jr., pursuing a degree at Texas A&M University–Kingsville wasn’t just about staying close to home—it was about building a future with purpose. Born in Corpus Christi but raised all his life in Kingsville, Jimenez is now a senior majoring in architectural engineering, joining his sister as one of the first in their family to achieve a college education.
Jimenez’s interest in engineering began at H.M. King High School, where hands-on coursework sparked his curiosity. Choosing Texas A&M–Kingsville felt natural—familiar, close to home, and backed by a strong academic reputation.
“At first, I chose Texas A&M–Kingsville because it was in my hometown and I did not want to travel to other cities or states; and I was told they have one of the best colleges from a top-rated standing to learn engineering with the programs they offer,” Jimenez said.
Since arriving on campus in the fall semester of 2021, Jimenez has grown both academically and personally. He credits Texas A&M–Kingsville for shaping his understanding of the real-world applications of architectural engineering.
“My experience here has shaped my academic growth by showing me aspects of what the real world has to offer in the architectural engineering world—and the knowledge I’ve gained gives me hope and confidence that I will succeed in whatever path I may take in my engineering career,” he said.
Beyond academics, it’s the personal connections that have made his journey especially meaningful.
“I’ve met people I can truly call my friends as we learn together in our ventures of engineering knowledge,” he explained. “Kingsville is not only about the education you learn, but it’s also about the family and friends you gain along the way.”
One of the most impactful relationships he’s formed is with James Glusing, an associate professor at the Frank H. Dotterweich College of Engineering. Their connection began when Jimenez was named valedictorian at a local awards event and grew stronger once he became a student in Glusing’s class.
“Over time, we gained a great experience of friendship, and the knowledge I gain from him is always a blessing—whether it’d be studious or even personal advice about our lives. Every time I see Glusing, I get a smile on my face and I know that the day will end in glees of laughter.”
Looking ahead, Jimenez is excited to apply what he’s learned in the classroom to a meaningful career.
“I can see myself using the Autodesk services in the future that they teach you to learn such as AutoCAD and Revit. Learning those programs in architectural engineering is essential; and I enjoy working with computers, so learning that software was a joy to experience.”
Jimenez’s story is a testament to how drive, mentorship, and a strong community can create a foundation built to last.
Embark on your journey to excellence! Discover the opportunities awaiting you at Texas A&M University-Kingsville.
Schedule a tour and explore the path to success in the Frank H. Dotterweich College of Engineering.
Visit Texas A&M University-Kingsville
Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering
Categories: Undergraduate, Acknowledgement
Author: Jesus A. Reina and Ariel L. Ramon
Photo Caption: Alonso Jimenez Jr. brings confidence and character to every challenge—on a mission to engineer a better tomorrow.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Alonso Jimenez Jr
For Alonso Jimenez Jr., pursuing a degree at Texas A&M University–Kingsville wasn’t just about staying close to home—it was about building a future with purpose. Born in Corpus Christi but raised all his life in Kingsville, Jimenez is now a senior majoring in architectural engineering, joining his sister as one of the first in their family to achieve a college education.
Jimenez’s interest in engineering began at H.M. King High School, where hands-on coursework sparked his curiosity. Choosing Texas A&M–Kingsville felt natural—familiar, close to home, and backed by a strong academic reputation.
“At first, I chose Texas A&M–Kingsville because it was in my hometown and I did not want to travel to other cities or states; and I was told they have one of the best colleges from a top-rated standing to learn engineering with the programs they offer,” Jimenez said.
Since arriving on campus in the fall semester of 2021, Jimenez has grown both academically and personally. He credits Texas A&M–Kingsville for shaping his understanding of the real-world applications of architectural engineering.
“My experience here has shaped my academic growth by showing me aspects of what the real world has to offer in the architectural engineering world—and the knowledge I’ve gained gives me hope and confidence that I will succeed in whatever path I may take in my engineering career,” he said.
Beyond academics, it’s the personal connections that have made his journey especially meaningful.
“I’ve met people I can truly call my friends as we learn together in our ventures of engineering knowledge,” he explained. “Kingsville is not only about the education you learn, but it’s also about the family and friends you gain along the way.”
One of the most impactful relationships he’s formed is with James Glusing, an associate professor at the Frank H. Dotterweich College of Engineering. Their connection began when Jimenez was named valedictorian at a local awards event and grew stronger once he became a student in Glusing’s class.
“Over time, we gained a great experience of friendship, and the knowledge I gain from him is always a blessing—whether it’d be studious or even personal advice about our lives. Every time I see Glusing, I get a smile on my face and I know that the day will end in glees of laughter.”
Looking ahead, Jimenez is excited to apply what he’s learned in the classroom to a meaningful career.
“I can see myself using the Autodesk services in the future that they teach you to learn such as AutoCAD and Revit. Learning those programs in architectural engineering is essential; and I enjoy working with computers, so learning that software was a joy to experience.”
Jimenez’s story is a testament to how drive, mentorship, and a strong community can create a foundation built to last.
Embark on your journey to excellence! Discover the opportunities awaiting you at Texas A&M University-Kingsville.
Schedule a tour and explore the path to success in the Frank H. Dotterweich College of Engineering.
Visit Texas A&M University-Kingsville
Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering
Categories: Undergraduate, Acknowledgement