Finding Purpose Through Psychology
Student of the Week: Harmony Yanez
“When I was 14, my sister unexpectedly passed away. She always wanted to help people, and now I feel called to do the same. Her dreams live on through me.”
At just 20 years old, Harmony Yanez is preparing to graduate this spring with her associate degree in Psychology from South Texas College, a journey deeply inspired by her late sister Victoria.
“When I was 14, my sister unexpectedly passed away. She was 20 and studying Psychology at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV),” Yanez said. “She always wanted to help people, and now I feel called to do the same.”
Motivated by her sister’s legacy and her own experiences with depression and anxiety, Yanez has channeled her grief into purpose. After graduating from high school, she chose STC for its welcoming atmosphere and close community.
“I was only 17 and wanted to stay close to home. STC felt safe and supportive,” she said. “The transition was smooth and the advising staff was kind and helpful. I used resources like the tutoring center to succeed.”
One professor who left a lasting impact was Blake Armstrong, Ph.D., a Psychology instructor known for his engaging teaching methods and dedication to students.
“Dr. Armstrong opened my eyes to so many things about the world. He made sure we understood the course and truly cared,” Yanez said.
Now nearing graduation, Yanez reflects on how far she’s come from navigating grief to becoming a first-generation college graduate.
“My parents didn’t go to college, so I’m proud to be the first in my family to graduate,” she said. “My sister’s dreams live on through me.”
Outside of class, Yanez has attended Psychology Club meetings and used her time at STC to grow personally and academically.
She plans to transfer this fall to pursue a bachelor’s in Psychology and eventually a master’s degree in Human Resources Management.
“I love working with people and want to support others in a professional setting,” she said. “Being in business while also helping people just feels like the right path.”
When life gets tough, Yanez reminds herself of a quote she’s held onto since childhood: “Success is not a destination, but the result of embracing life’s circumstances.”
Her advice to other students - “Don’t let setbacks define you. There’s always something greater ahead if you keep going,” she said.
As Yanez looks to the future, her story stands as a reminder that purpose can be found in the most difficult of circumstances and that resilience, paired with passion, can lead to meaningful change.
For more information on STC’s Psychology program, visit https://www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/psychology/.