Miranda Moya: Championing Occupational Therapy in Raymondville

Raymondville, Texas, September 5, 2025

News Summary

In Raymondville, Texas, Miranda Moya is pursuing her Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree at UTSA. As a first-generation college student, she aims to bridge the gap in occupational therapy services within her community. Moya highlights the importance of personal growth through athletics and emphasizes the need for greater access to therapeutic resources in her hometown. With plans to either open a practice in Raymondville or combine occupational therapy with sports rehabilitation in San Antonio, she aspires to inspire the next generation of students in her community.

Miranda Moya: Bridging Gaps in Occupational Therapy for Her Hometown

In the charming city of Raymondville, Texas, known as the “Gateway to the Rio Grande Valley,” a remarkable journey is unfolding. With a population just over 10,000, this small town is home to Miranda Moya, a passionate student pursuing her Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA).

A Journey from Raymondville to UTSA

Miranda is a proud product of her hometown, where she was inspired to pursue a career that holds deep significance for her community. As a first-generation college student, she navigated the academic challenges with determination. Moya earned her undergraduate degree in kinesiology from the College for Health, Community and Policy in the fall of 2024, setting the stage for her future.

Experiencing Growth through Athletics

More than just academics, Moya has also engaged with the UTSA Athletics Department, where she worked as a student assistant. It was a role she sought eagerly when applying to UTSA, intertwining her passion for sports with her educational journey. With over 100 students working in similar positions, athletics communications allowed her to connect with fellow students and professionals, boosting her network within the university.

Embracing Opportunities for Personal Growth

The experience in the Athletics Department was not merely a job but a transformative experience for Miranda. Like approximately 45% of UTSA undergraduates, she embraced every chance to explore and grow in both personal and professional spheres. Moya emphasizes that seizing opportunities—no matter the field—can lead to valuable insights that can be applied in various aspects of life.

Addressing Community Needs in Occupational Therapy

Despite the progress she achieved, Moya’s heart remains in Raymondville. She sees a significant need for occupational therapy services in her community, which currently faces limited access to such resources. Drawn by the desire to make a genuine impact, she is determined to contribute to the health and wellness of her hometown.

Plans for the Future

After graduation, Moya’s vision is clear. She considers two paths: returning to Raymondville to open her own practice or staying in San Antonio, where she may blend occupational therapy with sports rehabilitation. This dual approach would allow her to utilize her skills in a way that addresses both therapeutic needs and her love for sports.

A Role Model for the Next Generation

Reflecting on her journey, Moya values her potential role as a model for young people in Raymondville. She hopes to inspire them to pursue education and demonstrate how determination can unlock a world of possibilities. By showing that success is achievable through hard work, she aims to motivate the youth in her hometown.

Growing Opportunities through Partnerships

Moya supports the recent merger between UTSA and UT Health San Antonio, which has elevated UTSA to become the third-largest research institution in Texas. This partnership opens up new avenues for students like her, enriching their educational experiences and enhancing the services they can provide upon graduation.

The Heart of a Hometown Hero

As she continues her studies, Moya embodies the spirit of resilience and ambition. Her determination to uplift her community through occupational therapy showcases an inspiring path for future generations. With dedication and heart, she hopes to bring meaningful change to Raymondville, ensuring her hometown stands strong in the face of challenges.

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Additional Resources

• KSAT News: University of Incarnate Word launches Occupational Therapy program
• Dignity Memorial: Mary Titus Obituary
• The Story of Texas: From Germany to a Texan Occupational Therapist
• San Antonio Express-News: Morgan’s Unique Endeavor
• Dignity Memorial: Krista Soria Obituary
• Wikipedia: Occupational Therapy
• Google Search: Occupational Therapy
• Google Scholar: Occupational Therapy
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Occupational Therapy
• Google News: Occupational Therapy

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