Leadership, service and big dreams

At 26 years old, Joel Fuentes is already setting his sights far beyond the classroom. Fuentes is completing his first semester in the South Texas College Vocational Nursing program while serving as class president. 

Fuentes entered the Vocational Nursing program in August and quickly discovered the intensity of nursing education. While the semester moved fast and came with challenges, he said the experience reinforced his passion for the medical field. 

“I don’t see myself doing anything else,” Fuentes said. “This is exactly where I’m meant to be.” 

His interest in health care began at a young age, but became more personal toward the end of high school when his grandmother became seriously ill. Being present during her care strengthened his desire to help others through nursing. That motivation later evolved into a long-term goal of becoming a neurosurgeon. 

Fuentes said he chose the nursing pathway as a foundation for building strong patient relationships, something he believes is essential in medicine. 

“Nurses care for patients at their most vulnerable moments,” he said. “That connection matters, and it’s something I want to carry with me throughout my career.” 

In addition to coursework, Fuentes was elected class president, a role that requires him to act as a liaison between students, faculty and administration. He regularly assists classmates by answering questions, guiding them to campus resources and communicating concerns to faculty members when needed. 

“I like helping people,” Fuentes said. “If someone needs support, I want them to feel like they’re not alone.” 

Fuentes credits STC for providing accessible pathways to higher education, particularly during a challenging time for his family. 

After his mother suffered a stroke three years ago, financial considerations became a major factor in his college decision. 

“South Texas College made it possible for me to pursue my education without overwhelming financial stress,” he said. “The support here goes above and beyond.” 

He also noted opportunities within the nursing program that allow students to gain hands-on experience while earning income through a newly established apprenticeship program, an option that wasn’t not always available in the past. 

Fuentes plans to continue his education by earning an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), followed by a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at STC before attending medical school. 

While he hopes to complete a residency training in California, his long-term vision includes providing medical care in South America, where access to specialized health care is limited. 

“There are places where patients wait hours for emergency care,” Fuentes said. “I want to help reduce those health disparities.” 

A first-generation college student, Fuentes said he hopes his journey encourages others to pursue education in whatever form best fits their goals. 

As he prepares for the next level of nursing education, Fuentes remains focused on leadership, service and lifelong learning qualities that continue to define his experience at STC.