North Texas father and son are classmates in UTA’s MBA program

At the University of Texas at Arlington, boasting a student body of approximately 40,000, a unique bond flourishes between two students who happen to know each other better than most on campus.

For Oswaldo Ortiz Jr., embarking on the journey of pursuing an MBA graduate program at UTA alongside his father, Oswaldo Ortiz Sr., has been nothing short of remarkable.

The decision to enroll together was spontaneous yet filled with excitement, as Ortiz Jr. reminisces, “I didn’t see this coming. I told my dad, we should do it together. It would be fun!”

The journey to UTA traces back to 2012 when Oswaldo Ortiz Sr. relocated his family from Mexico City to Grapevine, driven by the pursuit of greater opportunities in the U.S.

Having cheered his son on from the sidelines since infancy, Ortiz Sr. now finds himself with a front-row seat to witness his son’s academic pursuits unfold.

Despite their different seating preferences in class – with Ortiz Jr. humorously noting his father’s penchant for the front row while he himself gravitates towards the back – the duo engages in friendly competition, particularly regarding their GPAs.

Amidst their banter, there exists a profound sense of pride between the father and son. “I almost cry when I see him presenting, to me, being the best in the class,” shares Ortiz Sr., while Ortiz Jr. acknowledges, “I am the person I am because of him.”

Beyond the academic achievements, what truly resonates for both is the invaluable quality time spent together. As Ortiz Jr. reflects, “We’re getting quality dad and son time. I’m going to cherish these moments for the rest of my life.”