(HARLINGEN, Texas) – When Casandra Mendiola was a child, most children her age wanted to watch cartoons on Saturday mornings. Not her. She wanted to cook.

Fast-forward to today. Mendiola now credits the Culinary Arts degree she received in 2009 from Texas State Technical College with helping her gain the knowledge, leadership and skills needed for her new position with IDEA Public Schools as a culinary supervisor.

Mendiola said she chose to attend TSTC because of the Culinary Arts program’s excellent reputation, as well as the fact that the campus was close to home.

“TSTC has a great culinary arts reputation, and the smaller class sizes made it easier to focus.”

Her passion for cuisine was something she gravitated to when she was very young, and eventually she decided to make it her career.

“When a child wakes up on Saturday mornings to cook, as opposed to watching cartoons, it only makes sense that you follow your knack for cooking,” she said. “I decided I couldn’t set aside my love for food, or making it, and wanted it to become part of my everyday life.”

Her time at TSTC not only cultivated her expertise in culinary arts, but it also equipped her well for life outside the classroom.

“Hands-on learning was a daily practice that gave us real-world experiences,” she said. “From the local community events to the on-campus weekly luncheons, TSTC was able to give me a feel for the demand of the field.”

The hands-on experience will come in handy when she begins her new position with IDEA Public Schools.

“I’ll help contribute to the creation and implementation of kitchen training, menu creations and recipes for the schools,” she said. “My areas are Texas and Louisiana, but I will be supervising additional states in the next few years.”

Throughout her collegiate journey, and next chapter, the common denominator in her life always has been and will be the importance of family.

“They’re my motivation. Everything I do is for them.”

To learn more about TSTC’s Culinary Arts program, visit tstc.edu/programs/CulinaryArts.

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Inspired to go to college by advice he received while in an unemployment line, Leo Guajardo studied aviation maintenance at Texas State Technical College and graduated in 2010. Now, his career as a TSTC instructor is helping the students he meets in the classroom make their own dreams come true.

“I had to do something different,” said the Freer native when discussing the beginning of his college journey. “I was laid off in 2008, and there was a man I met in the unemployment line who asked me, ‘What makes you different?’”

The question not only inspired Guajardo to enroll at TSTC, but also encouraged him to try a different career route as an aircraft airframe technician.

“I actually heard about TSTC through the workforce, and I needed to go into something that made me more marketable,” he said.

Ultimately it was a phone call from TSTC lead Aviation Maintenance instructor Tom Cross that changed his life.

“I maintained relationships with my instructors, and Mr. Cross called me about an opportunity in Harlingen,” he said. “They needed some help in the aircraft airframe toolroom, and I worked my way up from there to becoming a full-time instructor. He’s not only a colleague, but also my friend and mentor now.”

Currently Guajardo is an instructor for half the courses required to complete both the Aircraft Airframe Technology and Aircraft Powerplant Technology programs at TSTC. His success is measured not only by his accomplishments, but also by the accomplishments of his students.

“Having the ability to help other people succeed is so rewarding,” he said. “I see my face in the faces of my students, and I’m just so proud of them.”

Guajardo relishes the anecdotes that his former students tell him once they are well into their careers.

“I had a student use the airline miles he received from his job to fly to Germany to eat at a restaurant he saw on the Food Network,” he said. “He flew there to eat and flew right back the next day. I’m living vicariously through my students.”

Ely Cortina, a soon-to-be TSTC graduate, appreciates the impact that Guajardo has had on her time in college.

“He really knows how to connect with all his students,” she said. “We all come from different backgrounds, and our points of view reflect that. But Mr. Guajardo knows how to speak to us as individuals, not just as a classroom.”

The lessons Guajardo gives to his students extend far beyond the chapters in a book.

“During lectures, he also went over life skills that he believed would ensure our success not only as future employees, but also as functional citizens in our communities,” Cortina said. “He’s much more than an instructor; he’s an amazing mentor as well.”

While Guajardo has impacted the lives of his students, he also reiterated that his students have had a profound impact on him.

“I’m fighting alongside them all the way to the finish line,” he said. “We have small class sizes, and I get to know them and their families. It becomes a relationship that is so beneficial, and it truly is a support system that we build here.”

To learn more about programs at TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Motivated by a desire to serve his community, Justin Vasquez is currently nearing the end of his time as an Emergency Medical Services student at Texas State Technical College. The Harlingen native, who is set to graduate this semester, credits TSTC’s small class sizes as one of the main reasons he learned so much in the program.

Why did you decide on your particular program at TSTC?

I wanted to go into nursing initially, but my interests changed. In order to continue serving the community at a medical level, I decided to study for the Emergency Medical Services program and strive to become an emergency medical technician basic. Eventually I want to continue on to become a paramedic.

What motivated you to choose TSTC?

TSTC is a perfect campus for those looking for success at an affordable price. Also, the instructor-to-student ratio is small, which allows instructors to focus more on an individual student.

Who at TSTC has had the most influence on your success? 

My Emergency Medical Services instructors have been a major influence on my success in the program. They always encouraged me and assisted me with any problem I encountered, whether it was in class or out in the field.

What unique aspects about the program were available to you at TSTC?

The class sizes were small and hands-on. As a student, I was given the tools needed to learn skills that could save a life in the form of equipment that an emergency medical technician will use out in the field.

What is one of your favorite memories about the program?

One of my favorite memories was actually during the stay-at-home order. Our class had a video chat with our instructor to go over the material and get updated on the situation. Just as we were going to log off, we started sharing our experiences from the lockdown, and we all just started chatting like a big family.

Do you have any advice for future TSTC students? 

Ask for help when you need it. Whether it be from the instructor or another student, help will be there if you look for it and ask.

To learn more about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Many college students around Texas are experiencing the age-old question that comes prior to graduation: What now?

Texas State Technical College Director of Career Services Viviana Espinosa shed some light on how students can prepare to become top candidates for the next step in their career.

“I love seeing students transition into professionals in the workplace,” she said. “I enjoy listening to their success stories and that they got the job in their chosen field with the company they dreamed of working with.”

The steps to finding a new career all begin with the proper resume, something that Espinosa considers a very valuable asset.

“A resume is the most important tool a student can use to sell themselves to potential employers,” she reiterated. “It outlines their education, skills, experience and what they have to offer.”

There is no question that every interview comes with a case of jitters, but Espinosa said that when it comes to prepping for that big day, practice makes perfect.

“Practice with a friend, practice in front of a mirror, or even contact a local TSTC Career Services office to schedule a mock interview,” she said. “It is very important that students know their strengths, weaknesses, skills and abilities so that they may discuss them fluently in the interview.”

Building relationships with others in one’s field is also beneficial to somebody who is brand-new on the career market.

“Networking is very important and valuable,” she said. “It gives you the opportunity to build great relationships with a wide variety of people who may later prove beneficial in your job search process.”

As TSTC students round out their semesters and programs, Espinosa assures them that their education has equipped them for success in their next chapter.

“You’ve got this!” she said. “At this point, you’re ready. You have worked so hard to prepare yourself with the technical and soft skills you need to land your dream job. Now go, and do what you love!”

For more information about programs at TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – On Monday, May 4, Texas State Technical College was a little less lonely as some students made their way back to campus to finish lab hours required before they graduate.

The return to TSTC was authorized by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, which has identified career and technical education as one area of education that may continue under Gov. Abbott’s Executive Order No. GA-16. Following strict guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as the implementations set forth by the governor, TSTC was allowed to open its doors to students for the first time in seven weeks.

“It feels a little weird because it’s so quiet,” said Emergency Medical Technician student Justin Vasquez.

Vasquez, who is about to wrap up hours for the Emergency Medical Services program, expressed appreciation for how TSTC helped students adjust to continuing their education remotely.

“The virtual meetings with our instructors were awesome,” he said. “We were kept up to date not only on coursework, but also on potential returns to campus. The communication in general was maintained really well.”

Aviation maintenance instructor Leo Guajardo shared the eagerness students are experiencing as they get back to work.

“My students are excited to get back into a rhythm,” he said. “The team and I are ready to make mechanics.”

Several protocols were put into place to ensure that students and instructors were able to get back to learning in a safe environment.

“They’re disinfecting everything before and after we use them,” said Vasquez. “The labs that we’re doing are primarily solo, but the fact that they got us back on campus with all the safety guidelines is amazing.”

The anticipation to get back to campus wasn’t only felt by TSTC students.

“I love my job,” said Guajardo. “I am ready to get to work.”

To learn more about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Jaime Romo is not your average physics instructor. With a background in bioengineering and astronomy, his livelihood includes bringing stellar learning straight into the classroom at Texas State Technical College.

“I have always been curious about nature,” he said. “I wanted to know how things work and why things work. This initially led me down my path to my interest in physics.”

While that interest was initially sparked by curiosity about his surroundings, it was lending a helping hand to those around him that ultimately guided his path to education.

“I realized that I found it easy to help my former classmates when they were struggling with something,” he said. “I genuinely enjoyed their feedback when they mentioned the clarity of my explanations to them; it was during these moments that I knew teaching would be perfect for me, especially in higher education.”

While his journey with TSTC only began one year ago, the 27-year-old reiterated that he already feels embraced by his new higher-education family.

“I was always shy and kept to myself, but the faculty and staff at TSTC are so heartwarming,” he said. “They welcomed me to their team with open arms, and since then I’ve met many interesting people who have given me the courage to be the best I can at what I do.”

Romo believes that instructors are some of the most vital keys in providing the gift of education.

“We are the foundation of knowledge for potential learners,” he said. “I find so much satisfaction in instilling just a bit of curiosity to people so that they can go on and experience nature through a different point of view.”

Outside the classroom, Romo enjoys staying active. The competitive nature of playing soccer is one of his biggest passions.

“It’s so exhilarating to take the field,” he said. “I am so focused on what’s going on between those white lines that it feels like I teleport to a completely different world that is worry-free, and I only have one goal: to win.”

To learn more about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Licensed professional counselor Angela Dunn makes it her mission to help Texas State Technical College students whenever and wherever the need arises.

Serving both the Fort Bend County and Harlingen campuses, Dunn aims to provide mental health counseling, programming and awareness to students. In helping to deal with our new normal, she discussed a few beneficial strategies that people can use to cope with social distancing.

“I have a heart for helping, and I love seeing that spark that happens when a student finds their passion and life falls into place,” she said. “I enjoy the process of self-discovery and watching someone learn to love and accept themselves.”

Currently, we are all adjusting to a new normal.

“Things are so uncertain right now, but one of the easiest things we can control is our schedule,” she said. “Having a sense of control can lower your anxiety levels, and knowing what to expect from day to day can lower your stress. Set a schedule where you wake up at the same time every day and go to sleep at the same time every evening.”

This advice also is great for parents to help children whose school schedules have been disrupted.

“Children crave predictability, and having a set schedule will make them feel more comfortable during this time.”

While an essential part of social distancing is making sure we stay inside and away from others, it is important that we step outside safely for a few moments when we can.

“Sunlight helps us in two ways,” she said. “We absorb vitamin D from the sun, which boosts our mood levels. Sunlight also helps regulate our melatonin production, which is a naturally occurring hormone in the body that plays a role in sleep. Take a walk outside, open a window, sit on your back porch or take your pet for a walk.”

Above all else, social distancing practices have made utilizing new technology optimal during this time.

“Use (social media) to connect with friends and family,” she said. “Try to check on someone every day. It is OK to feel lonely during this time. Many people feel the same way that you do. Reaching out and talking about your feelings or asking how others are feeling will make you feel better.”

For more information on Texas State Technical College, go to tstc.edu.

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Inspired by her mother, who was a nurse case manager, Natalie Hudson-Rapp knew as a teenager that she wanted to work in health care. Texas State Technical College’s affordability and Health Information Technology program enticed the Colorado native to further her education. Along that journey, she achieved many accomplishments, including wrapping up her time at TSTC in an exceptional way.

“If someone had told me two years ago that I would be graduating with honors, I would have said they were crazy!” she said. “If they had told me that I would be president of the local chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society, I would tell them they were insane.”

Hudson-Rapp’s time at TSTC has not only well-equipped her for the future, it has also given her the chance to expand her leadership before this chapter of her life comes to an end.

 What motivated you to choose TSTC?

 I chose TSTC because it allowed me to return to school without breaking the bank.

 Who at TSTC has had the most influence on your success?

 My instructor Ana Gonzales. She has been my sounding board when I needed to vent. She has pushed me to my fullest potential because she believed in me. She let me cry in her classroom when I was so stressed that I thought I would break. Mrs. Gonzales not only did this for me, but she is willing to embrace all her students this way. She is part of what makes the Health Information Technology program successful and great.

 What are some unique aspects of the program at TSTC?

 I was drawn by the smaller size of the college. I am a hands-on learner, and the prospect of being able to apply what I am learning in a real-world setting was appealing.

 What is one of your favorite memories about the program?

 My favorite memories include my group of the most amazing ladies that have now become friends. We all entered the program at the same time, but it wasn’t until three semesters in that we really clicked. We have supported each other through school and personal issues. I would not have made it without them.

 Do you have any advice for future TSTC students?

 Get involved on campus. Take advantage of all the resources that are available, such as tutoring and the library.

To learn more about programs and extracurricular organizations at TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Ely Monalisa Cortina is ready to bring girl power to the male-dominated field of aviation. The Brownsville native knew that Texas State Technical College was the right college for her after a tour in high school introduced her to aviation maintenance, and it was in that moment that she fell in love with the complexities of an aircraft.

Cortina graduated from TSTC in December 2019 with associate degrees in Aircraft Airframe Technology and Aircraft Powerplant Technology.

The 21-year-old is not only well-equipped for her new career intellectually, but she also has the determination needed to help her take flight.

“There is nothing that can stop that girl,” said aviation maintenance instructor Leo Guajardo. “There is nothing that will get in her way to achieve what she wants, and I was so glad to have her in my class.”

Cortina discussed her time at TSTC, her new career, and even offered some words of advice for potential students who may walk in her footsteps.

Why did you decide to study aviation maintenance? 

I decided on the aviation maintenance program because I’ve always found myself to be attracted to mechanical work. I’ve always enjoyed taking an object apart, learning how it functions and then putting it back together. Plus, who doesn’t think an aircraft is cool?

What motivated you to choose TSTC?

During my senior year of high school, I was able to take a tour of the campus and the programs offered. The aviation maintenance program caught my attention as soon as I walked into the hangar. I knew at that moment TSTC was the right school for me.

Who at TSTC has had the most influence on your success? 

The person who influenced me the most would be my instructor Leo Guajardo. As a female entering a male-dominant field, he reassured me that my success is possible and there are no limitations as to how far I will go in this career. He is a well-rounded instructor who doesn’t mind taking the extra time to help a student understand a subject they are having trouble with, both in the book and hands-on work.

Talk a little bit about your new role. 

My new role will be at the Laughlin Air Force Base in Del Rio.  It will include engine work and structural work on the Beechcraft T-6 aircraft they use to train military personnel.

How has TSTC prepared you for this career? 

TSTC has prepared me by challenging my critical-thinking skills. I enjoyed how the college provided us with different types of aircraft and engines to prepare us for the real world as much as possible.

Do you have a favorite memory at TSTC? 

I have many favorite memories. Although one that has always stood out was when I was taught how to start a Cessna 175 aircraft during one of our class lectures. Hearing any aircraft always rekindles my love of aviation.

Do you have any advice for future TSTC students? 

My advice would be to push through all the difficult days you will come by. Never lose sight of the finish line; you will be happy with the person you will become. All the knowledge and experience you will acquire will guarantee your success in whatever company you choose to work for.

To learn more about Aircraft Airframe Technology and Aircraft Powerplant Technology at TSTC, visit tstc.edu.