On Sunday, Canales will earn a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership, a milestone he never thought possible.

Born and raised in Donna, Texas, Canales left high school early to support his family, working in the hospitality industry for over a decade. Though he earned a General Education Development (GED) certificate in 2009, he believed college was out of reach.

“I am not a traditional student, I had to get out into the workforce from a young age to help support my family, so college was never a thought in my mind,” Canales explained. “For over 10 years, I worked in the hospitality industry, but after the pandemic hit I realized I had no job security, life could change at any instance.” 

 As the world shut down, with his job on the line, Canales decided it was time to make a change. 

 “I felt like college was not an option for me, I didn’t think I was smart enough for it,” Canales shared. “Despite my reservations, I decided I needed to try something different. The thought of attending college scared me and I didn’t know where to start. The only thing that was clear to me was the fear of failing, but I also feared staying stuck in the same place with no opportunities to grow.”

 Taking a leap of faith, Canales decided to start his educational journey taking baby steps by attempting to earn a certificate in commercial cooking. Empowered by Culinary Arts faculty, Canales received his certificate and shortly after, his Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts in 2023.

 “I had no idea what I was getting myself into when I first started, but the Culinary Arts department felt like home,” explained the 36-year-old. “Before I knew it, I finished the program and along the way I worked with incredible faculty members like Chef Ruben Lemus, Rachel Brown, Ph.D. and Sandra Espinoza who pushed and encouraged me to continue my studies. They believed in me. Because of instructors like them, I am about to graduate with my bachelor's degree, a milestone I never thought was possible. 

With newfound confidence and academic success, Canales enrolled in STC’s Bachelor of Organizational Leadership program. Embracing the opportunities the college offered, he became an active member of the Student Government Association and the National Society of Leadership and Success STC Chapter. Canales also pursued scholarship opportunities like Training Experience About Meat (TEAM), representing STC for a first-ever meat grading competition. 

 STC Biology Department Instructor and TEAM Mentor Sandra Espinoza praised Canales’ determination and growth. Emphasizing the positive impact Canales has made while at the college.

 “Nicolas is the first in his family to pursue a college degree and he is constantly encouraging not only his family to try new things, but encouraging his classmates through his inclusive and positive nature,” Espinoza expressed. “We’ve seen Nicolas embrace every challenge and demonstrate what it means to step out of your comfort zone to achieve greatness.”

Canales is set to walk across the stage alongside more than 2,700 STC graduates at the Bert Ogden Arena during STC’s fall commencement ceremonies. As he reflects on his journey to the commencement stage, Canales hopes to inspire and encourage anyone hesitant to pursue their dreams. 

“Looking back at young Nicolas, I would tell him that life gets better and that his support system will grow larger than he could have ever imagined,” Canales expressed. “I took a chance on myself despite not knowing how to navigate college or if I had what it took to succeed. Because of STC, I’ve grown academically and personally, gaining the confidence and tools to excel no matter where life takes me. I jumped into school scared and anxious about the outcome, but it’s during those moments of fear and uncertainty that you grow the most and here I am to prove that there are a lot of rewards waiting for you, if you just try.” 

 Born and raised in Weslaco, Pequeño said she was shaped by the sacrifices her parents made for her and her siblings. Watching her parents work tirelessly to make ends meet, she gained a deep understanding of the financial hardships many face. However, it wasn’t until her grandmother was diagnosed with cancer that Pequeño’s life took a pivotal turn.

 “Growing up, my parents both worked hard to provide for my siblings and I. It wasn’t until I got older that I realized how much they struggled and how they could have greatly benefited from resources if they knew about them,” Pequeño stated. “The turning point for me was after high school. My grandmother's health began to decline after a shocking cancer diagnosis. I have always been close to my grandparents because they both battled health issues. I wanted to be there for them so instead of going to college full-time, I became something like a caretaker for them.”

 Graduating from World Scholars Academy in Edinburg in 2012, Pequeño knew she wanted to enter an impactful career and pursued a degree in nursing. After attempting to navigate her first year in college, Pequeño quickly realized that nursing was not the rift fit for her. 

 “I didn’t know what I wanted to study and I didn’t have time to think about it because of challenges in my personal life,” Pequeño explained. “I struggled with balancing student life and being a caregiver. There was a point in time where I even lost my financial aid because I was in a tough spot, but my heart was set on trying a career that helps others, so I chose nursing. Despite almost losing everything that I cared for because it all begin to feel out of my reach, I didn’t lose my drive for wanting to be helping a hand. I did some nursing classes, but quickly realized it wasn’t for me.”

Discouraged and struggling to find direction, Pequeño took a step back and eventually returned to school in 2016. She enrolled in social work classes and discovered her true passion for sociology and social justice.

 “I started to get discouraged because time continued to pass and I found myself in the same place with no answer to my future, until I took a social work class. It all became so clear to me that this would be my calling,” Pequeño said. “I explored social work and sociology classes and I was inspired by the power that those disciplines have to make real change in people’s lives.”

 Excited to explore this newly illuminated path, Pequeño dove into the Applied and Clinical Sociology program and fully embraced her new academic path. Her involvement in the college’s social work, sociology and psychology clubs, as well as the Student Leadership Academy and student government, deepened her commitment to being successful. Her efforts leading her to the acceptance of her scholarly research which explores students with housing insecurity at the Applied and Clinical Sociology 2024 conference.

 “I started off as a lost student, just wanting to help others, but thanks to the guidance of professors like Jenny Chamberlain and Noel Ysasi, I realized how impactful being involved in school could be for shaping my professional and personal development,” Pequeño shared. “Through my academic cooperative course with Jenny Chamberlain, I worked on a research project focused on students experiencing housing insecurity, which resonated deeply with me.”

 Bringing her full circle, Pequeño discovered parallels between her own upbringing and the struggles faced by many students today. She was surprised to learn about the extensive resources South Texas College offers to students in need, such as the food pantry and partnerships with local nonprofit organizations.

“I realized that students who struggle, especially those who take on caretaker roles like I did or have no resources at all, have access to help they just need someone to help them navigate the services available,” Pequeño said. “My dream is to be that person for others. I want to be their advocate, their safe refuge and the helping hand they need to get through difficult times, just like what I needed growing up.

Walking the commencement stage with a deep sense of clarity and purpose, Pequeño said it was her experiences and education at STC that have equipped her to continue her journey of social advocacy for vulnerable communities.

“I feel more certain than ever about my path. The professors at STC have empowered me and I hope to make them proud by continuing my education and fighting for those who need it most,” Pequeño expressed. “Without STC, none of this would have been possible and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to continue my studies and my story because the rest is still unwritten.”

For more information on STC’s Sociology Program visit, https://www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/sociology/.

Two brothers, Joseph and Daniel Kamel are Texas’ first two brewmasters to receive their certificate in professional brewing with STC. The duo who are also known for owning and operating Brewsome Brewery on N. 10th St., in McAllen, TX have made them entrepreneurs at the same time. Though the two have their bachelors in the opposite field, Joseph with a B.A. in Economics and M.B.A. in Business Administration and Daniel with a B.A. in Marketing say it helps run the business side of things.  

“None of which prepared me for brewing except obviously the administrative part for accounting and bookkeeping but not for the scientific or mathematical part of brewery,” shares Joseph. “It was just a completely random experiment and we wanted to make better beer.”  

That random experiment came from their father who noticed local craft breweries popping up and said they should look into opening one up. That’s when Daniel started the scientific madness of brewing beer in their garage three years ago.  

The beginning of the apprenticeship program started in 2019 when Mission’s 5X5 Brewery Co. were looking to expand in finding professional brewers. That’s when the need for trained individuals was asked about by approaching Dr. Plummer.  

“5X5 wanted to expand their production and couldn’t find trained professionals,” said Dr. Plummer.  

Talks on developing a new apprenticeship program between Dr. Plummer, Dr. Margo and Texas Workforce Labor Commissioner, Julian Alvarez III made it a reality.  

We looked into it and made it happen,” said Dr. Margo. “It was just a matter of funding, and we had our commissioner Julian Alvarez who really helped kick off this program.”  

The grant proposals were competitive throughout the state, but with the help of Alvarez, Desi Holmes with the Texas Workforce Commission Director of Apprenticeship and STC’s team under Dr. Virgina Champion were able to enroll students like the Kamel brothers into a rigorous program.  

"This is not just a certification as a professional brewer, but this is a department of labor journeymen credential that they are receiving,” said Dr. Margo.  

STC’s Brewery apprenticeship program typically takes a year to complete, but with the ongoing pandemic, the brothers finished in two. The program itself did take a higher level of mathematical and science skills with courses like Malting Biochemistry, Sensory Science, Engineering in Milling and Malt Handling, Brewhouse Calculations, Engineering in Fermentation and others needed. 

“Now that we finished the program, we know what to do with our beer and are very pleased with the final product,” said Daniel.  

With South Texas College adding this new apprenticeship to their list of other certification offerings, Julian Alvarez credits the college for being the forefront of training.  

“We’re excited to see this apprenticeship program actually completed and verifies and confirms that we’ve expanded the apprenticeship model to other fields,” said Alvarez referencing I.T., Health and now Brewery. “South Texas College has always been in the forefront of training and regardless of what the training was, STC has always been in front of that.”  

The Kamel brothers’ parents were in attendance as well as City of McAllen Mayor, Javier Villalobos; District 5 McAllen Commissioner, Seby Haddad; Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa Office Representative, Jorge Castillo; Kristy Caviness, TWC Employer Engagement and Community Outreach Manager; Dr. Rodney Rodriguez, RGV FOCUS Executive Director; Dr. Virginia Champion, STC Executive Director for Resource Development Management; Dr. Rachel Sale, STC Dean of Distanced Education; Kim Moore, STC IAM Project Training Specialist; STC Board of Trustee Paul R. Rodriguez and STC President, Dr. Ricardo J. Solis.  

The Kamel brothers are grateful for STC’s staff, and their time and the funds needed to kick start the program.  

“South Texas College is very proud in being able to address the needs of the workforce and most importantly provide innovative results and opportunities for our students,” said Dr. Solis.  

Whether serving in the line of duty – or going for her college degree – Leal is always sure to channel Cezar’s most incisive piece of canine wisdom: “Don’t be afraid to bare your teeth.”

An 11-year Marine Corps veteran with three Iraq tours under her belt, Leal is no stranger to determination. She’d parlay that calm confidence into a career as a Mission police officer, doggedly serving her community alongside her K-9 partner. And this winter, after a decade of chipping away at her studies, Leal will finally graduate with a hard-won Associate in Law Enforcement.

“I’m excited,” beams Leal. “It’s been 10 years coming.”

But the persistent veteran is not resting on her laurels. Shortly after graduation, she’ll get straight to work in South Texas College’s Bachelor in Organizational Leadership program.

“In my immediate family, I’m going to be the first one to ever graduate from college,” says the cadet with the can-do attitude.

Leal’s story started in the Service as a fueler, working for the “Exxon of the Marine Corps.” The recruit kept missions on the move by managing fuel and support equipment crucial for aircraft, tanks and boats.

In Iraq, she concentrated on convoy security, yet after volunteering for her third deployment, Leal realized she missed her family – particularly her young nieces and parents. By 2009, it was finally time to come home to the Valley after more than a decade of dedication to her country. Says Leal, “It gave me more than I gave it. Everything I have in life stemmed from my time in the military.”

Qualified by her experience and bolstered by encouragement from her police officer brother, she managed to identify her ideal career in short order.

“I kind of fell into the job,” says Leal. Her sister-in-law introduced her to the police chief, and he gave her the chance she’d been hoping for: “I got out of the Marine Corps, and two weeks later, I started the police academy.”

A highlight of Leal’s time on the force has been working with the K-9 unit and her partner, Cezar. At an intimidating 90 pounds, the German Shepard was a very aggressive dog that several handlers had failed to tame.

“He was actually on his last chance with me and on the verge of being put down,” says Leal, who refused to give up on the pugnacious pup. Her fool-proof dog training secret? Always having a pocket full of bacon to encourage her K-9 companion to comply. With time and training, the relationship grew, and Leal found that working with Cezar was soothing after returning home from a war zone: “I was the only handler that he never bit.”

The Corporal remembers well a drug bust in 2015 when Cezar saved the day. On a search, Cezar sat in front of a barn and stared at the locked door, absolutely refusing to budge. When officers brought equipment to force an entry, Leal started sweating. What if her partner had been mistaken?

But she needn’t have worried. Cezar’s super-sharp sense of smell sussed out what reporters called a “smorgasbord” of marijuana, along with a cache of meth, cocaine, 10,000 prescription pills, over $25,000 in cash, and two stolen weapons.

“I’ve had bigger busts in the past, but this one was so meaningful due to the fact that the guy was slick for years and never got caught,” remembers Leal. “Cezar was the deciding factor, and I was so proud of him.”

The crime-fighting canine passed away in 2019, after spending his final days with his devoted handler. “The unit was empty, and my best friend wasn’t there anymore,” remembers Leal. She is proud now to supervise the K-9 unit, offering support to officers and their “super-smart” canine partners.

One thing Cezar was known for was his bite: when immobilizing a dangerous, armed suspect, he would not let go. It’s the kind of grit that inspired Leal to never give up on her dreams, no matter the challenges… even when it came to particularly hard math classes. It helped that her boss – Police Chief Robert Dominguez – and her father never stopped encouraging her to return to school.

Though she didn’t consider herself to be college material, Leal knew it was time to further her career. Luckily for the field-tested officer, her police academy training counted toward STC credit, so by the time she enrolled, she was already halfway through her requirements. And thanks to her military benefits, tuition would be the one aspect of college that wouldn’t be challenging.

“Hey, you’re paying me to get educated, and I’m going to make more money at my work,” says Leal, who applied her GI Bill benefits to her South Texas College program. “It’s free money, dude. And then, you’re getting educated. You can’t beat it!”

For Leal, South Texas College’s reputation as a supportive, veteran-friendly institution preceded it. So, when she met a warm welcome on her first trip to the Office of Student Veteran Affairs, it was hardly a surprise.

“The VA department at STC is spot on,” says Leal. “They are awesome.”

In fact, STC has been awarded the gold for Military Friendly, ranking in the top 10 schools nationwide in veteran service. The College is renowned for providing open-door access and high-touch support for veterans, with custom services ranging from priority registration to waived admission application fees and special military scholarships.

For Leal, there is only one thing better than the fantastic veteran support she receives at STC: the courses themselves. “A lot of these classes have situational case studies, and it’s really good to further your career,” says the December grad. “It really expands your mind on how to do the job.”

College wasn’t easy, but the officer was determined to tackle her courses one bite at a time. While math represented both her biggest struggle and proudest achievement, her schedule also presented a challenge. Obligated to take a graveyard shift every three months, Leal would leave work at six in the morning, only to be due at school by 10 a.m. So, when she found the flexibility to persist through STC’s distance learning offerings, she never looked back.

“I love online school,” says the grad-to-be. “When I have my days off, I can work on my homework on my own. It’s perfect.”

That’s why Leal is ultra-excited not just to graduate but also to keep on being a Jaguar. “I’m a supervisor, and I want to expand my mind,” says Leal, who can’t wait for the online Bachelor in Organizational Leadership program this spring. “In that bachelor’s degree program, it will teach me as a leader.”

As someone who has seen it all, Leal knows that there is nowhere else she would rather be than STC. “I like the way the online courses are set up,” she says. “The school feels like home.”

Down the road, Leal hopes to put her real-world experience as a police officer to work as a criminal lawyer. Earning her bachelor’s is the next step on her journey to law school, but for right now, she’s earned a celebration.

“If I could give any advice, it’s don’t give up,” says Leal. “It feels amazing when you finish.”

The biggest struggle was just to try, she said.

Initially returning to school in the summer of 2015, Idalia said she began slowly, taking one class at a time to test herself, but gathered her courage and opted to go full-time in order to pursue a Bachelor of Applied Technology in Technology Management.

Now through years of experience, Idalia says she has come to believe that culture, values, and a vision for success are tailored to a belief system, and hopes to leave a message for women her age to never stop dreaming.

“My college perspective has been to follow your heart and dreams and never doubt yourself. It is possible no matter what age you are,” Idalia said. “For me the biggest struggle was to try, but once I had one foot in, there was no turning back for me only because I really enjoyed it. My motivation is to strive for success and knowing that all the hard work will pay off soon.

“To accomplish goals in life, one must not give up,” she said. “Dreams do come true.”

Idalia will be among the thousands of students who will be receiving their degrees this week.

South Texas College will be holding its fall 2020 commencement virtually on Dec. 12. Students were asked earlier in the fall to begin submitting personal messages and photos, which will then be put on a web slide printed with the student’s name, degree, field of study, and honors.

STC will also share social media videos of faculty congratulating graduates leading up to the virtual ceremony. Students were also sent an email informing them of their marching order, along with specific instructions on how to access the link, and upload their photo and messages to their individual graduate slide.

“We are very pleased to have the opportunity to offer our students a virtual graduation ceremony and wish all graduates the best in their future endeavors,” said Cindy Blanco, Director of Student Records and Registrar at South Texas College. “We know this a dream come true for our students and despite COVID-19, STC made every effort to make this as celebratory as possible for them in honor of all of their sacrifices and achievements.”

The full-time international student and parent found her way from Monterrey, Mexico to McAllen in 2011. Facing an intimidating language barrier, Quintero hesitated to advance her education before being convinced by friends to join them at South Texas College.

The first day, she admits, was scary – even for a dauntless wife and mother of three adolescent boys. But surrounded by the support of STC’s established international community, she knew she’d found a school that spoke her language.

“Speaking and writing in English have been a challenge for me,” says Quintero. “Besides, I [had] stopped studying a long time ago, so I had some difficulties when I decided to start my Associate.
.. but I do my best every day.”

Quintero’s best was good enough to garner a 4.0 cumulative GPA in South Texas College’s Technology Management bachelor’s program, plus a nomination for Student of the Week. She’ll graduate in December with her second STC degree: a Bachelor of Applied Technology in Technology Management. And while she has maintained her grace and humility in overcoming her second-language struggles, she confesses that her tribulations – in class and at home – have fueled her confidence.

“In the beginning, handling time between family and college was difficult, but I established a schedule,” says the international inspiration.

Tech-savvy and motivated to learn new things, Quintero represents a growing contingent of international students succeeding in a second language. And while South Texas College’s location makes it an attractive destination for international learners, it’s the dedicated support – like faculty members who do more than just “talk the talk” – that sets STC apart.

“My composition teachers help me to improve my writing skills, and all my professors motivated me,” says Quintero. “I appreciated every opportunity to learn new things or old ones differently.”

“Olga is a great example of an international student,” says STC Technology Management Instructor Dr. Ricardo Conje. “Despite so many challenges of living and studying in a new country … she conquered them all with flying colors due to her strong determination, dedication, and desire to succeed.”

For Quintero, completing college is about more than just proving herself and uplifting her family. With the language barrier successfully shattered, the mom is on a mission to launch a career in the flourishing field of Technology Management. With a bold foundation in higher education, she’s determined to reach her goal – and break through an even bigger barrier.

“In a competitive world society, women should increase their knowledge to gain equality in the labor market,” says Quintero. “I want to have a career in this field [and] I am sure that this program will provide me with the tools and skills required to do it.”

Technology Management is part of a surging sector in South Texas that includes management analysts, risk management specialists and logistics professionals. STC’s bachelor’s degree program brings the fundamentals of managing a business together with high-tech strategies to prepare grads for in-demand careers paying $75,000 and more. It’s a field with a future – and an ideal application for a managing mom’s versatile skill set.

“I am interested in the role that managers have in organizations and communities,” says Quintero. “Obtaining a degree in technology management will enable me to look for a position in a large corporation and make a difference.”

Quintero is expecting her hard-won double degree to spark a South Texas College tradition in her family: “I hope that my children can also have the opportunity to study in this institution.
” But for now, she’s not giving them the third degree… She’s saving that for herself.

Brimming with ambition and confidence from her time at STC, Quintero plans to pursue a third college degree – a door-opening Master of Business Administration – at a regional four-year university. It’s an aggressive target for a busy parent, but there’s at least one person apart from the Quintero brood that sees it happening.

“I know that her educational aspiration doesn't stop here at South Texas College,” says Dr. Conje. “It is indeed an honor to be a part of Olga's academic journey and I’m so proud of what she had accomplished so far.”

For the future MBA, the feeling is mutual. After reinventing herself academically and professionally with the support of her South Texas College family, Quintero doesn’t hesitate to recommend her pathway to other international students.

“STC is an excellent choice because it offers affordable courses and a flexible schedule,” she concludes. “Besides, STC has excellent advisors who guide me through my class choices.”

Learn more about South Texas College’s Bachelor of Technology and Science programs at bachelors.southtexascollege.edu. 

Perla Sandoval had to take a leap of faith to further her career and life fulfillment. She had worked in the same industry for more than a decade and wanted to advance her prospects. It took a big decision.

“I had been in the legal field for 11 years, and I worked for an attorney, and I was his assistant in court, which meant that we would generally be in court by 8:00, 8:30. So he didn’t want to work with me as far as my class times, so I had to make a choice. It was either going to be school or I was going to continue there. I knew if I continued without a degree, I would have no more advancement.”

Now Perla is set to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership. She’s learned countless skills to help her take the next step in life.

“I had been in the workforce for 30 years, and I just decided, “Okay, I’m going to take a hickey financially to do this.”

Sandoval pointed toward personal satisfaction as one of the main reasons she decided to return to a classroom for the first time since graduating high school in 1977.

“You have to sometimes realize ‘You know what? You should have self-fulfillment versus the money.”

Since Perla had been away from classrooms for decades, she did have more than just schoolwork to grapple with. STC helped her bridge the technological gap.

“I was very blessed because the people at the library and at the lab were incredible, incredible, incredible. Anytime I had an issue because the technology is so advanced, I always had an assistant. Anytime I didn’t understand, they were willing to help.”

The STC library meant a lot to Perla, some of her fondest memories as a student took place in the resource center.

“I don’t know how I would have managed if it wouldn’t have been for the library, because I did all my work at the library. I can tell you almost everybody’s name at the library, so much so that I wrote the director of the library and several others a thank you card.”

With her degree, she hopes to work for a nonprofit organization to serve a greater good.

“I would like to know that at the end of the day, I made a difference in somebody’s life. That’s what I’ll be looking at, a nonprofit or service organization because I think that’s very important.”

Holding a photo of her brother as she walked across the stage to receive her bachelor degree in Organizational Leadership on May 18, America said Kevin was a mentor who encouraged her to achieve her goals when he graduated from Southern Nazarene University in Oklahoma.

“I carry a photo of him whenever I receive a major accomplishment because him and I were extremely close. He was my best friend and my motivation,” America said. ‘Whenever I saw him walk across the stage at his own graduation, I remember he always let me know how important it was to keep moving forward.

“Today as I walked the stage, even though he couldn’t be here physically, I just wanted to carry my frame as I walked the stage so he could feel alive with me as I received my diploma,” America said.

America was among the record 3,749 graduates who received their degree in six ceremonies May 17-18. Ceremonies for 1,777 dual credit graduates took place on Friday May 17, and the ceremony for 1,972 traditional graduates took place on May 18.

“This is the day we honor you, our graduates. We are here to celebrate your graduation from South Texas College. All of us at STC, the Board of Trustees, our outstanding faculty, staff and administration all join me in extending this welcome,” STC President Dr. Shirley A. Reed told graduates.

“Graduating from a college or university is an honor few receive,” Dr. Reed said. “Many of you are the first in your family to earn a college degree. That dream and the desire to go to college is appreciated by all of us here.

“We were there to support you on your journey to graduation, and we all know that it wasn’t an easy journey. There were lots of trials and tribulations, but you persevered and you are here celebrating your graduation,” Dr. Reed said. “We are very proud of each and every one of you.”

STC awarded 137 bachelor degrees, 803 degrees from the Business, Public Safety, and Technology Division, 1,818 from Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, 543 from the Division of Math and Science, and 448 from Nursing and Allied Health.

Faces in the crowd:

Describing himself as the quintessential “go-to guy” for computer related issues, Luis Garcia said South Texas College took his natural ability and refined it into something he could use to market himself to business and industry in the real world.

Luis said he started at STC in the fall of 2016 and immediately sought out a degree that could supplement his experience in computer networking and PC repair. About halfway through his courses however, he realized that he had the requisites to begin an associate degree in Cybersecurity.

While at STC, Luis said he has received certification in computer network and repair, and is certified by the Computer Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) for installing, maintaining, customizing, and operating personal computers.

“After I graduate, I plan on applying for jobs that are actively looking for cybersecurity professionals, and in order to do that, I have to stand out from the crowd,” Luis said. “I believe I have the real world experience and the certifications to really make an impact in a big market here in the Valley.”

Alexis Longoria received her Associate of Arts in Teaching on May 18. After becoming a mother at the age of 19, Alexis says receiving her degree fulfills a promise she made to her family when she vowed to return to college once her son became older.

“South Texas College helped me become the person I am today with their flexible schedules,” Alexis said. “I could even attend classes at 5:30 in the morning before my day started, so it was very convenient. I am happy, and I know I will succeed in life thanks to STC.”

Eddie Torres completed his Bachelor of Applied Technology looks forward to his career working for the Educational Technologies department at South Texas College.

“I have finally finished school and I’m looking forward to a new beginning,” said Eddie. “As the first in my family to go to college, just being here was a challenge sometimes because I had no one to instruct me on those important first steps to get me started so that was the hardest part for me.”

After serving in the Army for 21 years, Guadalupe Bravo said he was able to attend South Texas College and receive his Electrician Assistant certification. Wearing a red stole at graduation along with other student veterans, Bravo said he utilized the college’s many resources to help succeed.

“I would encourage other veterans to think about coming to school,” Bravo said. “I will always recommend that veterans take advantage because it has helped me when I left combat.”

Raised in a household with 11 siblings, Sebastiana says college wasn’t much of a thought growing up.

“My mom never encouraged us to go to college,” said Sebastiana. “All she wanted for us was to be good and have a high paying job.”

While Sebastiana had all the intentions of being successful, she ran into some obstacles along the way.

“I got married really young and was a housewife taking care of my two kids,” explained Sebastiana. “I soon found myself in a divorce, leaving me lost, and trying to be a strong mother.”

Through all the pain Sebastiana endured, she says she found strength in herself to better her life.

“My divorce was a life-changing experience. I often found myself crying because I didn’t know what to do,” expressed Sebastiana. “I realized enrolling at STC would benefit me for the future.”

Sebastiana is now a full-time student at South Texas College and says she came out victorious after the struggles.

Sebastiana is pursuing a bachelors’ degree in technology management and is slated to graduate this May.

“I’m so excited that I will be graduating,” explained Sebastiana. “I am blessed that I have been able to finish my four years of college and be a good role model for my kids.”

The Bachelor of Applied Technology Degree (BAT) in Technology Management at STC will educate, train, and develop successful supervisors who will be prepared to utilize technology to create a competitive advantage for their business. Coursework is balanced between practical training and working with real-life projects. These projects enhance educational experiences as well as employment potential for students.

Technology Management Instructor at STC, Dr. Benito Garza, says the technology management is based on business.

“The technology management program at South Texas College has a strong business foundation,” said Garza. “This program trains students to be supervisors and managers. Hopefully, after they graduate, they move on to be a supervisor at that big time company.”

Sebastiana feels working in the business technology field is something she enjoys and would like to pursue as a career. She says it’s kept her in the winner’s circle.

“I used to work at Panasonic, and there we would work on shipments of electronics and we would have to do all the graphs and paper work. I really enjoyed it,” said Sebastiana.

Sebastiana says graduating with a degree will present her with many opportunities that she is excited about.

“The thing with this degree is, is that it’s a business degree,” expressed Sebastiana. “Nowadays, all these companies are working with computers. I feel like this degree will open many doors for me.”

Sebastiana says her time at STC has been the best and feels like the professors have all been excellent.

“My experience at STC has exceptional. All of my professors have been good to me,” expressed Sebastiana. “Whenever I ask a professor to help me, they are always glad to do so.”

Through it all, Sebastiana says the hard times were all worth it.

“In the end, life is all about fighting to stay on top. In May, I’m coming out on top.”