Juan Solis

For many people, a hobby is a way to relax after a long day, spend time with friends and indulge in something enjoyable.

And while all that is true for University of Houston-Victoria junior Juan Solis, his hobby has one more bit of significance: It was the reason he selected UHV.

Solis, a Houston native, made his way to Victoria last year to take up his outfield position with the Jaguars baseball team.

The lifelong athlete began playing the sport at age 5, when his mother enrolled him in tee ball. From then on, baseball remained a big part of his life.

“It’s a sport where anything can happen,” he said. “You’re having fun on the field, hanging out with friends and competing at the same time. I really love it.”

It’s more than a love of the game keeping Solis out on the field. He said the camaraderie between team members also makes a difference.

“Everybody on the team is really good friends,” the 20-year-old said. “If we aren’t together at practice, we’re usually hanging out afterward. They’re great.”

Practice keeps him busy throughout the week, but good time management helps Solis stay on top of things. He typically opts for morning classes, for instance, so he can work his other obligations in later.

“It’s all about setting a schedule and sticking to it - just getting into the daily grind and doing what you have to do to keep involved,” he said.

Looking ahead, the business management major said he is excited to continue down his educational path.

After graduation, he hopes to enter the business world and possibly even assist with the law firm his father runs. After all, his father was the reason he started looking into business as a major.

“Growing up around my dad’s business and seeing what he does day in and day out, I realized it was something that interested me,” Solis said.

Solis advised other students getting their start in college to stay focused and avoid letting the newfound freedom get to them. It also helps to start the semester out strong.

“That way, once the pressure starts building, it isn’t really a make-or-break situation,” he said. “That’s how I’ve gotten through it.”

The UHV Outstanding Student is an online feature highlighting the exceptional students who attend the University of Houston-Victoria. To nominate a student, contact Paula Cobler, UHV interim director of marketing and communications, or call 361-570-4350.