Aspiring to give back through health care
Student of the Week: Krystal Villarreal
I chose STC after I witnessed how genuine and helpful the professors are with their students, I could see how passionate they are about the profession, which correlated with my passion and beliefs into the field of Physical Therapy.
Krystal Villarreal, 26, is on a mission to become a Physical Therapist Assistant, driven by her personal experiences and a desire to give back to her community.
Villarreal’s decision to pursue this career path was inspired by her own journey through physical therapy after undergoing Anterior Cruciate Ligament surgery. She was moved by the care and dedication of her therapists, recognizing the importance of muscular strength and flexibility in everyday life.
"It was a tough surgery, but I wouldn't have managed to do it without my therapist after undergoing ACL surgery," Villarreal shared.
Villarreal found herself drawn to the passion and dedication of the professors at STC. Their commitment to preparing students for real-world scenarios and involvement in modern medical technology resonated deeply with her aspirations.
"I chose STC because after my introduction to physical therapy class, I could see how genuine and helpful the professors are with their students. I could see how passionate they are about the profession, which correlated with my passion and beliefs into this profession " Villarreal explained.
Villarreal is proud to continue her family's educational legacy. With two older sisters who have graduated from STC and pursued successful careers in health care, Villarreal is determined to make her mark in the field of physical therapy.
"My end goal is to become a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant and hopefully in the near future, I continue to further my education by applying to a bridge program as a Doctorate of Physical Therapy in Galveston," Villarreal stated.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Villarreal is actively involved in the PTA Club, advocating for the profession through volunteer events like Challenged Sportsmen of America, where she helps disabled veterans across the U.S.
She finds motivation in her parents, who have been unwavering supporters of her dreams. Their encouragement drives her to work hard and strive for excellence in everything she does.
"My mother and father are my biggest motivators. It is because of them I have been able to decide on a career path that will help me contribute positively to my RGV community," Villarreal expressed.
With graduation set for May 2025, she looks forward to her first clinical rotation, eager to apply her knowledge and skills in outpatient physical therapy rehabilitation.