Answering a calling in nursing

At just 20 years old, South Texas College student Valentín Reyna is already on a determined path toward a career in nursing, a goal rooted in both childhood admiration and meaningful family experiences.  

Reyna, who is currently completing his prerequisites for the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), says helping others has always been at the center of his life.  

“Ever since I was little, I was fascinated by doctors and nurses,” Reyna said. “As I grew up, I realized helping people was exactly what I wanted to do.”  

That calling deepened during his senior year of high school when his grandmother became seriously ill. Reyna’s firsthand experience watching nurses care for her reaffirmed his desire to join the field.  

“Seeing the compassion and skill they had, made me want to become a nurse even more,” he said. 

Reyna first learned about STC nursing pathways through college fairs at Roma High School. Representatives from the college shared information about the program, and he immediately felt drawn to the college’s supportive environment and accessible resources.  

He plans to apply to the program this coming May or June, once the new application cycle opens. He is currently preparing for the Health Education Systems Inc. (HESI) exam, an admissions requirement for prospective nursing students.  

“My plan next semester is to pass the HESI with the scores I need,” Reyna said. “That way, I can take the Introduction to Nursing course and move forward.”  

Reyna credits his discipline and time management for helping him stay on track. He dedicates long hours to studying and says that staying committed especially when coursework becomes demanding is essential for future nursing students.  

His motivation comes from the people closest to him, including his peers and parents, who continuously support his academic goals.  

“My mom always tells me, ‘If you don’t pass the first time, it’s not the end of the world.’ That keeps me going,” he said. “But I do hope to pass things the first time.”  

At home, Reyna will be a first-generation college graduate. He is proud to set an example for his immediate family and hopes to inspire younger relatives to pursue higher education.  

On campus, Reyna is an active member of the Student Leadership Academy (SLA) at the Starr County Campus.   

As an advanced member, he helps facilitate meetings, assist new students and support campus events. He credits SLA for building his confidence and giving him opportunities to grow as a leader.  

“I like being involved,” he said. “Helping plan events and supporting other students has made my experience even better.”  

Looking ahead, Reyna hopes to become either an intensive care unit (ICU) nurse or a neonatal nurse.  

“My dream job would be in the ICU or working with babies,” he said. “I want to make a difference where it matters most.”  

When asked what advice he would give himself as he moves into a new semester, Reyna shared a simple but powerful reminder.  

“Keep trying your best. You’re going to get through it.”