Empowered by dual education

With determination and a passion for education, South Texas College Dual Credit Program student Miranda Aleman said she’s looking forward to her final year in her associate degree program.

Slated to graduate from STC with an associate degree in May 2024, Aleman began as an interdisciplinary studies major, but recently changed to elementary education.

“I wasn’t completely sure what I wanted to do, but this year I took a child guidance class and we visited an elementary school and I really liked working with the little kids,” Aleman said. “So, I decided to study elementary education.”

Aleman, a junior at Mercedes High School, said although she was interested in dual credit when she first learned about the program, she was nervous to join because she was also adjusting to COVID-19 restrictions.

“I was a little nervous, but I ended up signing up for classes my sophomore year,” Aleman said. “That first semester was difficult for me and I was feeling lost. I remember I wanted to quit, but I talked to the counselors and they really helped me and put me back on track for my associate degree. Now I'm doing well and enjoying all my classes. You just have to manage yourself with your other activities and keep a balance. I think that's the best advice I can give – keep a balance.”

When it comes to extracurricular activities, Aleman has been involved in her high school’s student council, National Honor Society and the Talent Search program. She also recently found success competing in University Interscholastic League journalism contests in news writing, editorial writing and feature writing and even qualified for regional competition in San Antonio.

“This year, I earned third place in news writing at the first UIL meet I competed in,” Aleman said. “That gave me motivation to keep going, and I started practicing more and seeing results at UIL meets. I’ve earned sixth, third and first place at several writing events.”

As an STC dual credit student, Aleman takes both online and in-person classes. She said one highlight of her STC courses has been discovering her own learning style.

“I took a minimester class last summer for Education 1300 (Learning Framework) and I learned a lot from it,” Aleman said. “I was able to develop learning skills to use in the program, and personally, as well. The lessons I learned in that class, I have actually used in my everyday life.”

Looking ahead, Aleman said she’s excited about taking more education classes next fall. Notably the Introduction to the Teaching Profession and Introduction to Special Populations courses, where she will be introduced to the philosophies and practical knowledge of teaching and be given the opportunity to participate in field observations of classrooms in local public school districts.

“My counselor was telling me about certification programs, too,” Aleman said. “Now that I know what I want to do, hopefully I can get certified and start work-study.”

Aleman plans to continue her education and attend a university after graduation to earn a bachelor’s degree and apply for a master’s degree program to help her reach her ultimate career goals.

“I also want to study psychology, maybe as my minor, because I would like to become a counselor someday,” she said. “I want to find the right program where I’m able to do both.”

Aleman said the support of her family has been the driving force that keeps her striving toward her dreams.

“I'm a first-generation college student and I want to watch my parents see me accomplish what they didn't have the chance to do,” Aleman said. “My parents have always pushed me forward and that has really motivated me.”

And, she’s grateful that she was able to explore and confidently find her future career path at STC.

“I really look forward to graduation because I feel like all my hard work is going to be worth it at the end of the day,” Aleman said. “We have to work for what we want and I think a better education will get you where you want to be. Higher education can bring better opportunities for all of us.”