Chasing purpose through nursing

For Noe Garcia, choosing the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program at South Texas College was never just about entering the medical field, it was also about stepping into a version of himself he always hoped to become. 

Garcia, a second-generation college student from Rio Grande City, said his passion for nursing began in high school when a dual credit course brought him to STC’s Nursing and Allied Health Campus, now Health Science Professions. 

“They took us on a tour, and I saw everyone in scrubs,” he said. “I remember thinking, ‘Yeah, this is what I want to do.’” 

Despite not having any family members in health care,  his parents work in education, and his extended family includes lawyers and professors, García always felt drawn to emergency situations and the challenge of saving lives. 

“I was never around hospitals or medicine growing up,” he said. “But I always wanted to know how to help during an accident or crisis. I wanted to be useful.” 

Garcia is currently completing Level 3 of the nursing program and is expected to graduate in May 2026. His final year will include a capstone rotation where students shadow a nurse for three 12-hour shifts, fully immersing themselves in real hospital environments.  

“I’m really excited for that part,” he said. “It’s one thing to learn in class, but it’s another to be hands-on.” 

Garcia’s motivation comes from within. 

“I want to be remembered,” he said. “I want to push myself to be the best version of myself. If there’s something I want, I’m going to work for it.” 

Outside the classroom, Garcia has taken strong leadership roles. He serves as president of the Student Government Association (SGA) at the Health Science Professions Campus and works as a tutor in the STC Center for Learning Excellence (CLE), helping fellow students break down complicated nursing concepts. 

“I love seeing that moment when someone finally understands,” he said. “It’s like the light switches on.” 

He believes campus involvement is essential, especially for nursing majors.  

“Students always tell me they don’t have time,” he said. “But there’s always time. You just need better organization. These events help you relax and get your mind off the pressure.”  

Recently, Garcia was hired as a nurse extern at Valley Regional Medical Center, a paid, learning role where nursing students work alongside hospital staff to gain real-world clinical experience before graduating.  

“It’s a huge opportunity,” he said. “I’m really grateful.” 

After graduation, Garcia hopes to work in the emergency department at McAllen Medical Center. 

“I like the chaos,” he said. “It’s an organized mess where everyone knows what to do. That’s where I belong.”

For more information on STC’s our  Nursing programs, visit southtexascollege.edu/academics/nursing/.