Ava Valdes

Sociology and Economics student

Eager to learn about how the world is socially constructed. Accomplishing this goal by investing her time in a liberal arts education.

Professional image of Ava Valdes

Happy you're here!

This is a photo of Ava in front of the Wells Fargo logo wagon located in their Chandler office

About Me

I am a dedicated student, researcher, and emerging professional with a passion for understanding how people, systems, and environments shape one another. Throughout my academic journey, I have explored the intersections of sociology, economics, health, and community well-being, contributing to projects ranging from studies on social integration and loneliness to analyses of educational and operational systems. I enjoy transforming complex ideas into meaningful insights—whether through research, data analysis, or creative problem-solving.

My experiences as a peer advisor, research assistant, and campus leader have strengthened my commitment to supporting others and fostering inclusive, well-designed communities. I approach each project with curiosity, clarity, and care, and I’m excited to continue bridging social science and real-world impact in my future work. As for longer-term goals, I am looking to relocate to Charlotte, North Carolina for a banking job. In my first year as an analyst, I want to increase my communication skills and find my place within the bank.

My Skills

Tools & Metrics

Proficient in the use of the following platforms:

Nexidia, Banker Performance, Power BI, Tableau

Leadership & Skills Application

Co-Director of AddRan Ambassadors; Phi Mu Epsilon Iota former executive member; Sociology Department Peer Advisor; John V. Roach Honors College Peer Mentor

Core Competencies

Data collection; Data analysis; Project management; Client relations

Interests

Economic thought, social determinants of health, sociology of health

My Projects

Class Website Project

This webpage is an example of a simple website I created using HTML and CSS for my class WRIT 40363.

Skills used: HTML, CSS, Flexbox

This is a photo of Zoo research presentation

Sociological Research in Social Construction of Zoos

As part of the Sociology Department's Introduction to Human-Animal Relationships class, I performed a study at the Fort Worth Zoo about the impact of age on zoo experiences. This research was then presented at the inaugural ASRAC conference hosted by the AddRan College of Liberal Arts.

Skills used: Research, data collection, ethnography, field study, design thinking

This is a photo of the Spring Sociology Reception itinerary

2024-25 Academic School Year Jim Henley Award Recipient

Each year The Department of Sociology & Anthropology selects one sociology student for giving their time to the field of sociology. I received this award after executing research in partnership with the Office of Student Success to conduct focus groups learning about the experiences of first-year and second-year college students.

Skills used: Focus groups, project proposal, academic advising, communication

Contact me

The best way to access me is through my email. I typically respond within 24 business hours if not sooner. My email is a.m.valdes@tcu.edu

This is a photo of Ava Valdes at the beach