A calling born in the pediatric wing
Student of the Week: Stacey Garcia
I chose STC because I wanted to stay close to my family. I had also heard really good things about the nursing program, so it felt like the right place for me.
After watching healthcare professionals care for her younger brother during a difficult medical journey, South Texas College student Stacey Garcia discovered a passion for helping others and set her sights on a future in pediatric nursing.
The 20-year-old is now pursuing a path toward earning her associate degree in Nursing, hoping to one day provide the same compassion and care that helped her family through one of its most difficult times.
“Spending four months in the hospital with my brother changed everything for me,” she said. “I saw how the nurses cared for him and the other patients, and that’s what made me want to go into nursing. I love kids, and I want to help make them feel better.”
The Mission native initially dreamed of becoming a lawyer, but everything changed during her senior year of high school when her younger brother, then 2 years old, faced a serious medical condition that required extensive care.
When he was released from the hospital, Garcia’s path became clear. After graduating high school, she enrolled at STC and began taking the prerequisite courses needed to apply to the college’s Nursing program.
“I chose STC because I wanted to stay close to my family,” she said. “I had also heard really good things about the nursing program, so it felt like the right place for me.”
Though the journey has not been easy, Garcia said the experience has taught her patience and perseverance.
“The classes are not easy, 100%,” she said. “But I want to finish. I know it’s something I must push through because I want to help people.”
Since 2024, Garcia has also worked as a student worker with Student Activities and Wellness at the Health Science Professions campus, helping organize biweekly events that give healthcare students an opportunity to relieve stress and recharge.
“It has been so good. I love what I do here,” she said. “I enjoy helping students and being part of something that supports them. It has been an incredible experience.”
Beyond her work-study role, Garcia is actively involved in the Student Government Association and Student Leadership Academy, experiences she said have helped her build friendships and feel more connected to campus life.
“I love making friends and talking to people,” she said. “That’s basically what I get to do every day, and it’s one of my favorite parts about being at STC.”
Through her involvement, Garcia said she has built meaningful relationships that have helped shape her academic path and future goals.
Now, Garcia plans to apply to STC’s Vocational Nursing program as a stepping stone toward the Associate Degree Nursing program and eventually a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, all with the goal of one day working as a pediatric nurse.
“Through the relationships I’ve built here, I’ve learned that the Vocational Nursing program feels like the right path for me,” she said. “I’m excited for what’s ahead. I see myself being here for a long time and continuing to grow alongside this community.”