Inspired by sports and a passion for coaching the next generation

Joseph Salinas, 19, is pursuing an associate degree in Kinesiology at South Texas College, driven by a lifelong passion for sports and a desire to help others achieve their athletic potential.

"I was originally going into culinary arts, but when I discovered STC's Kinesiology program during an advising session, I knew it was the right choice for me."

His interest in sports started early, influenced by his father's lessons in self-defense.

"I’ve always been fascinated by how athletes perform at such a high level," Salinas said. "I want to reach that level myself and help others do the same."

Salinas hopes to graduate in the next couple of years, aiming to become a physical education (PE) coach at the elementary or high school level.

"I want to do something meaningful with my life and make a difference, especially now that physical education is being removed from many school curriculums," he explained.

STC has already had a significant impact on Salinas, helping him transition from the structured environment of high school to the more challenging world of college.

"In high school, they pamper you a lot, but in college, you're facing the real world," Salinas said.

Salinas is also motivated by a personal project that he shares with his twin brother, who is studying Graphic Arts at STC.

"We’ve been working on creating a comic universe together. It’s been a dream of ours for years, and we’re figuring out how to bring it to life, maybe even through animation," he said.

Looking ahead, Salinas plans to take Anatomy and Physiology classes to deepen his understanding of the human body, all while balancing his studies with work experience through STC's work study program.

Salinas is determined to succeed, both for himself and for the students he hopes to inspire in the future.

"I’m my own motivator," he said. "I want to do something with my life, and STC is helping me get there."

For more information on STC’s Kinesiology program and other opportunities, visit southtexascollege.edu or to register go to southtexascollege.edu/register.

Registration is ongoing. Classes begin August 26.