'Nothing but good experiences'
Student of the Week: Stefany Garza
“South Texas College is an excellent college. I really recommend you choose this school for the quality of the teaching combined with the relaxed and friendly atmosphere.”
Stefany Marie Garza’s journey to becoming a surgeon began at South Texas College (STC). And for good reason.
“STC is a great school with so much to offer,” said Garza, who is on her way to completing a trio of allied health programs before moving on to medical school. “It is affordable, close to home, and has knowledgeable instructors and many programs to choose from.”
Born in Harlingen and raised in Weslaco, Garza was home schooled during high school and graduated from the STC Patient Care Technician Program in the fall of 2019. A year later, she enrolled in the Vocational Nursing Program. She is now working on completing the Associate Degree Nursing Program, plans to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing at a university, and hopes to attend medical school.
“During the past three years at STC, I have had nothing but good experiences,” Garza said. “Every single instructor has been respectful, professional, filled the class with positivity, and showed dedication to ensuring our success as students. I have also made some great friends along the way.”
At South Texas College, Garza has set herself up for a successful career in healthcare. The college’s Vocational Nursing Program, for example, prepares students for careers as licensed vocational nurses, which pays an average annual salary of approximately $48,000 in the region, according to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Meanwhile, registered nurses are earning an average annual wage that is approximately 50 percent higher. And nearly 90 percent of South Texas College nursing students pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) needed to be certified as a registered nurse.
“I chose STC because a lot of my family members and friends attended there and they all recommended this school to me,” said Garza, who conceded the coursework can be challenging.
“When I am feeling stressed and overwhelmed, I take a minute and remember why I am doing this,” Garza explained. “My journey to become a surgeon will be long and testing, but ultimately one of the most rewarding things I will ever do. I will use all of my hard-earned expertise to help people lead better and fuller lives, as well as improving the surgical profession for generations of patients to come.
“South Texas College is an excellent college,” she added. “I really recommend you choose this school for the quality of the teaching combined with the relaxed and friendly atmosphere.”