Thirst for knowledge turns to hunger for hamburgers 

When she was studying at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Matilde Villarreal met her two best friends, Jasmine Gonzalez and Josue Arrellanes. Together, they formed a Whataburger tradition that got them through the most difficult moments of their college journey. 

The three friends went together like Honey Butter, Chicken, and Biscuits. Their program coordinator even called them The Trio because they were always together. 

When things got tough, they leaned on each other. During one summer session in 2018, on top of their heavy courseload, both Matilde and Josue had family members in the hospital. The Trio decided to start meeting at a coffee shop in nearby Pharr, Texas to study. 

“We’d camp out there for hours,” Matilde said, “typing away, sharing ideas, and cheering each other on through the mental fog.” 

As nighttime approached and their stomachs reminded them they’d worked through dinner, the glowing Whataburger sign across the street was a beacon — signaling a place where they could finally relax and tame their hunger. 

“Crossing the street to Whataburger became our reset button,” Matilde said. “We’d settle into a booth, order our favorite meals, and let the stress melt away.” 

Now, every trip to Whataburger transports Matilde back to those nights. 

“The shared fries, the deep conversations,” she said, “and the reassurance that no matter how hectic life gets, the simplest moments, shared in the right company, can mean everything.” 

“Thank you, Whataburger, for being there 24/7 and for being part of some of the most meaningful memories of my life.”