STC enriches life experience for RT student
Student of the Week: Michelle Leon
Michelle Leon believes that a college experience mirrors what happens in real life. You should always be prepared to grow and learn from both, she said.
Originally attending South Texas College in 2011, Michelle left college due to personal reasons but returned in 2018. Now she is currently pursuing her degree in Respiratory Therapy, and plans to graduate this May.
“STC was a great way to start my college experience,” Michelle said. “It is great economically, and it’s close to home so I knew I was getting a great education for a price I was able to pay while still spending time with my family.”
While at STC, Michelle says she has become part of the Respiratory Therapy Club on campus. She also currently serves as a historian for the Student Government Association as well as the Student Leadership Academy, and is a student representative for the campus Truth Initiative seeking to make STC entirely smoke free.
“STC has helped me build my resume, and has allowed me to continue my education while giving back to my community,” Michelle said. “Sacrifice was needed to improve myself, and it made me consider how how to help others while reinforcing my views in medicine.”
“STC has helped me build my resume, and has allowed me to continue my education while giving back to my community."
Graduates of the Respiratory Therapy Program at South Texas College earn an Associate of Applied Science degree. The program is five semesters in length and combines classroom, laboratory and clinical education experiences.
The program prepares students with the knowledge and skills that will gain them successful employment as a licensed respiratory therapist.
“As a message to my peers, I would encourage them to find that spark that will enlighten their views while attending college. Keep an open mind,” Michelle said. “If you have a need to ask a question, you should ask. If you feel a certain subject was particularly great, then you should follow that passion.
“It’s the same in your career as it is in college, you should always be prepared to grow and learn from your education as well as your life experience,” she said.