Redefining his future through nursing

South Texas College student Diego Rosales is just weeks away from earning his Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and becoming a registered nurse, a career path he said has transformed his life.

“At one point, I didn’t know what I was going to do with my life,” Rosales said. “But with each exam and each semester, I’ve felt more accomplished. Nursing helped me change my life and how I see my future.”

After graduating from high school, the 24-year-old McAllen native was originally on track to earn a bachelor’s degree in biology, but the COVID-19 pandemic changed his plans and led him to STC’s Vocational Nursing program.

“I originally planned to pursue Biology because I enjoyed science, but when the pandemic happened, I took a break,” he said. “After returning to school, I realized nursing would allow me to enter the workforce more quickly.”

After earning his Vocational Nursing certificate in December 2024, Rosales continued into the Associate Degree in Nursing program through the LVN-RN transitional track at STC.

“What made me choose the transitional track was the safety net,” he said. “After one year, I became a licensed vocational nurse and was ready to start working.”

Now in the ADN program, Rosales said he feels more confident and capable.

“I feel more knowledgeable and capable,” he said. “I understand patient assessments better, including why we assess and how to prevent deterioration. That’s when I felt confident I had made the right decision.”

Since August 2025, Rosales has worked at STC’s Center for Learning Excellence as a tutor, guiding both vocational nursing and ADN students.

“I tutor all VN levels and almost all ADN levels since I graduate soon,” he said. “I try to guide students and help them avoid the mistakes I made. Since I was just in their shoes recently, I understand where confusion happens. Sometimes faculty understand the material so well that they don’t see where students get stuck. I can relate better.”

He also credits STC for helping him grow both academically and personally.

“I’m grateful for the tutoring center. It’s given me a job, but more than that, it’s helped me connect with so many students on the same journey,” he said. “I’ve met so many people, and even just walking down the hall, people say hi. It’s built a community.”

After graduation, he plans to apply to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at STC, with the goal of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).

“After earning my BSN, I’ll need at least one year of ICU experience before applying to CRNA school. The more experience, the better,” he said. “CRNA programs are very competitive. If accepted, it’s a three-year doctoral program.”

Beyond career advancement, Rosales said he is motivated by the opportunity to give back to his family and pursue a career he has grown to love.

“I’m excited to start working and give back to my support system, especially my mom and my sister,” he said. “I’d love to buy my mom a new car. Her car is very worn down and I have a nice one thanks to her.”