Remind yourself that you WILL graduate

Ludivina Ozuna said she has found her inspiration and path toward a career she loves at South Texas College.

With most of her family in the medical field, the 48-year-old started her career in health care as an Emergency Medical Technician, but instantly knew she wanted more.

“All my family is in the medical field, so while I knew health care was for me, I didn’t know what to pursue, but after talking to friends and fellow students, I found biology,” said Ozona.

She went on to earn an associate degree in Biology in 2011 from STC and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Medical and Health Services Management, all while working at a local home health clinic.

In addition to her time at STC as a student, Ozuna also took upon herself to engage in campus life as a member of the softball intramural team and becoming a work study with STC Student Activity and Wellness.

“I sign up yearly for the softball team, it’s a stress reliever...a great escape,” she said. “As for working for STC, I never gave it much thought, until the idea was brought up to me. It’s been exciting getting to meet new students and being a part of the STC family at a different capacity.”

Ozuna said she is thankful for the great staff and faculty at STC who have helped her accomplish her goals.

“They have all been great, but there is one instructor that has stood out the most and that is my Medical Information Specialist Instructor Norma Longoria,” said Ozuna. “She takes the time to give us advice and for someone new like me, it made all of the difference.”

Ozuna has some advice herself for other prospective or current STC students, “Don’t give up.”

She said since beginning her journey at STC she has taken it one day at a time.

“Every day I remind myself of my goal and tell myself, ‘I will graduate, I will graduate,’” said Ozuna. “As I continue my path toward education, I hope I can inspire other students to also keep moving forward, no matter what.”