(HARLINGEN) – Melissa Lerma is a Surgical Technology student at Texas State Technical College and will receive her associate degree Summer 2018. She already has an associate degree from TSTC in Biology, which she earned in 2016.

The 20-year-old is also active on campus and with her church. Despite her demanding class schedule, she volunteers with her church delivering food and hosting food drives, in addition to fundraising with the TSTC Surgical Technology Club in order to attend the Association of Surgical Technologists annual conference.  She is currently the club’s secretary.

The Weslaco native said she has always been fascinated with the human anatomy and how it works so she is glad that TSTC had just the right program for her.

What are your plans after graduation?

My goal is to get hired at a Valley hospital before even graduating and being able to start my career. I will also continue my education to become a Certified Surgical First Assistant and a Licensed Surgical Assistant.

What’s your dream job?

My dream job is to become a Licensed Surgical Assistant and be the surgeon second hand in the operating room.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC?

My greatest accomplishments while at TSTC were earning my first associate degree in Biology and being admitted into the Surgical Technology program. It’s very competitive and I was one of only 19 who got accepted.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

The greatest lesson I have learned is to always have a positive attitude. I can honestly say that when I started looking at things positively and ignoring negativity, my life changed for the better.

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

My Psychology Instructor Frank Coronado is the person who helped me see life from a different perspective. I was unsure of my path or passion before his class, but then I had an ‘aha’ moment and I started being more positive, getting A’s in my classes, building  stronger relationships and finding my passion.

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

My advice for future TSTC students is to always maintain a positive and good attitude, look on the bright side of things and never give up.

(HARLINGEN) – Myra Deleon, a coordinator for the department of Workforce Training and Continuing Education, has been a part of the Texas State Technical College team for 16 years and it is her devotion, compassion and will to lend a helping hand that has earned her the honor of being named December’s Employee Spotlight.

“Receiving this award was a big surprise for me. I was not expecting it,” she said. “I’m truly honored and thankful. It’s a great feeling to know that the work I do is appreciated and makes a difference. It encourages me to keep doing what I’m doing.”

Before becoming a full-time employee at TSTC, Deleon was a student at the college pursuing an associate degree to become an administrative assistant and a work study in the continuing education department.

“I arrived at TSTC and never left,” Deleon said with a laugh. “This college has become my second home and family. I love it here.”

After graduating in 2001, she accepted a job offer at the college as a department secretary for continuing education. She also served as a proctor and manager for the testing center, before returning to her initial department as an administrative assistant, a project manager and most recently a coordinator.

“TSTC has been a journey and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for me here,” she said.

The San Benito native said she hopes to continue growing the department. She aims to create more programs to give students and employers more training options.

“My goal is to continue working closely with my team in strengthening our department, making our programs stronger while making a positive impact in students’ lives,” she added.

It is this enthusiasm for her work and TSTC’s students that her colleagues say set her apart.

“Myra has been a faithful team member to the continuing education department for more than a decade,” said one comment printed on her employee spotlight certificate.

Another read, “She is always willing to help her teammates and always looking for ways to not only improve our department’s productivity, but to also build a nurturing environment and bring our team members together.”

Lastly, “She has such a compassionate heart towards our students, fellow co-workers and everyone she interacts with. She is always smiling and making people laugh while still getting her job done. She is an amazing team member.”

Deleon said she works hard for TSTC because it works hard for her.

“As employees, TSTC gives us so many opportunities,” she said. “From supporting our educational goals to giving us room to grow, TSTC is there encouraging us every step of the way.”

In the spring, Deleon is set to attend Wayland University through TSTC’s University Center, to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.

Deleon said she would like to give a big thank you not only to her colleagues for the nomination, but to her husband, who is also a TSTC alumnus and her two daughters for always supporting her.

(HARLINGEN) – The Humanities and Arts Department at Texas State Technical College recently hosted local authors and poets, many from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, at writing forums open to students, faculty, staff and the community.

Authors and poets who participated in the forums were: San Benito Writers Forum members Enriqueta Ramos, Beto Conde and TSTC Physics Instructor Jose Alvarez, UTRGV Professor of Creative Writing Dr. Elvia Ardalani, UTRGV Professor Emeritus in History Dr. Manuel Medrano, UTRGV Professor of Communications Dr. William Strong.

The forums were in conjunction with the Texas Writers Exhibit, which has been at the TSTC J. Gilbert Leal Learning Resource Center for the past month, thanks in part to a $1,000 grant from Humanities Texas.

This was the exhibit’s first time in the Rio Grande Valley and focused on the vitality and breadth of creative writing in Texas from the mid-twentieth century to the turn of the twenty-first century to present day.

“We’re grateful to have had the opportunity to celebrate the humanities and arts with our students and the community,” said Dr. Richard Kirk, TSTC social and behavioral science and humanities professor. “This exhibit brought awareness to the transcultural contributions made to Texas literature.”

(HARLINGEN) – Joseph Garza is a double major at Texas State Technical College. The San Benito native is pursuing associate degrees in Digital Media Design and Computer Science.

The 20-year-old expects to graduate in December from Computer Science and in Fall 2018 from Digital Media Design.

In addition to his academics, Garza is a member of the Pool Sharks Club and the Veteran Students Alliance Club. He also volunteers at his church and holds a part-time job to pay for school.

What are your plans after graduation?

After I graduate I plan on continuing my education either at TSTC for an associate degree in Business Management Technology or for a bachelor’s degree in one of my selected fields. I also hope to intern or work for my cousin’s advertising company.

What’s your dream job?

My dream job is to work for Apple. I hope one day to manage their user interface sector.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC?

My greatest accomplishment while at TSTC has been becoming more active on campus, meeting new people and building great relationships.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

There is one thing I have learned and always carry with me. Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple, once said, “Stay young and stay foolish.” Whenever I begin to feel overwhelmed or stressed, I remember that I have to make sure my life remains fun.

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

I have to give props to several people: first and foremost Victor and Blanca Garza, my parents; John White, my composition instructor; Dr. Richard Kirk, my world religion instructor; and Edith Romero, my best friend. All of these people remind me every day why I’m here and are always supportive. I also tend to put others before me, and they make sure I think about myself even if it is only every once in a while.

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

The advice I have for future and present TSTC students is to plan out what you’re going to do. Don’t procrastinate. Also, don’t stress out too much. It’s important to have fun.

(HARLINGEN) – Four 2017 Texas State Technical College Chancellor’s Excellence Award recipients based in Harlingen were honored this week with a luncheon hosted by TSTC Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer Mike Reeser.

“Today we celebrate you,” Reeser told the honorees. “It is your proven leadership and character that have earned you this honor. You are the best of the best at TSTC.”

During the luncheon, several TSTC administrators and past Chancellor’s Excellence Award recipients celebrated the awardees: Wind Energy Technology Instructor Juan Alferez, Building Maintenance Supervisor Roberto Chapa, Vice President of Enrollment Services Dr. Christine Stuart-Carruthers and Veteran Program Officer Jose Villegas.

The four were recognized earlier in the year for their achievements at the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development Awards Dinner and Celebration in Austin, joining the legacy of more than 200 TSTC recipients.

“I am in ‘aww’ to be in your presence,” said Harlingen Interim Provost Rick Herrera. “And I take this time not only to congratulate you, but also to commend you on your hard work and success.”

Chancellor’s Excellence Award recipients are chosen based on nominations from colleagues, as well as their character, hard work, and dedication to the college and its students.

Reeser mentioned that this award represents leadership and the respect colleagues have for each other, regardless of position or title.

“This award has meaning because it’s given to a person of great character,” said Reeser. “And when a person of great character sets out to do something, you get greatness and a habit of excellence.”

Herrera and Reeser went on to thank all recipients, past and present, for their continued commitment to the college.

“Each and every one of our recipients embodies and exemplifies TSTC’s mission,” said Herrera. “We appreciate everything they do for our college and our students. They’ve applied excellence in all they do.”

Reeser has made it a priority to host honoree luncheons at every TSTC campus to share with attendees the significance of the award and its importance to the college.

This year there were 14 TSTC Chancellor’s Excellence Award recipients statewide.

Reeser closed the luncheon on this note: “On behalf of the TSTC administration, faculty, staff and students, we thank you with all of our hearts. Keep up the great work, and I am honored to be on the same team as you.”

(HARLINGEN) – Texas State Technical College hosted its annual Veterans Day Celebration on Friday to honor those who serve in the United States Armed Forces.

TSTC’s Veterans Day Celebration is an annual tradition to give back and celebrate veterans and the service they have given.

TSTC Veteran Program Officer Jose Villegas said that as an Army veteran himself he knows firsthand how honored he feels when someone thanks him for his service or shows their appreciation.

“I feel a sense of pride when I know that veterans are getting support from their community,” Villegas said. “It’s a big deal and I want other veterans to feel this. A simple thank you and an acknowledgment goes a long way.”

Hector Yanez, TSTC vice president of Instructional Support, opened the ceremony with a few words of appreciation.

“It is my pleasure to be in the presence of those servicemen and servicewomen who serve or have served,” he said. “It takes courage and sacrifice from you and your families for what you do for our country.”

He described the ceremony as a tribute to remind veterans that they are always remembered.

Continuing with tradition, a local veteran was invited to be the guest speaker.

Pedro Saldana, Army veteran and South Texas Veteran Education Coordinator for the Texas Veterans Commission, addressed TSTC’s veteran faculty, staff and students and offered some advice.

“We need to help our veterans,” he said.

He went on to explain that the biggest support veterans can have will come from their families.

“Without the support of our families, we wouldn’t have been able to complete the battles that we faced,” he said. “Even when we return home, the war is still not over.”

Saldana also thanked TSTC for the various ways the college is helping veterans.

TSTC serves nearly 200 veterans in Harlingen and more than 700 statewide.

“Without the type of help our veterans receive at TSTC, they would not be able to continue their education,” said Saldana. “It is through everyone’s support, care and help that they can continue their mission of an education.”

The ceremony also included the presentation and retiring of colors; a flag-folding presentation by the Harlingen High School South Air Force Junior ROTC; a tribute to prisoners of war and missing in action by the American Legion 15^th District drill team; and a lunch catered by TSTC alumnus Frank Macias, owner of Frankie Flav’z in Harlingen.

“It is an honor to be invited back to my alma mater for such a special occasion,” said Macias. “This is the least I can do for those who protect our freedoms. I want them to know they are not forgotten.”

The ceremony concluded with special recognition for those who contributed to the event and with last words from Yanez.

“Thank you again for your service and sacrifice,” said Yanez. “God bless you, God bless your families, God bless our troops and God bless America.”

(HARLINGEN) – Driving down the south side of Harlingen on a chilly October Saturday morning, it was easy to spot Texas State Technical College student leaders working to beautify the city during National Make a Difference Day.

At least 180 students joined forces with Keep Harlingen Beautiful, City of Harlingen Parks and Recreation, Coakley Middle School and Marine Military Academy to plant flowers and shrubs along 12 canal banks.

TSTC Coordinator of Student Life Belinda Palomino said this project has been the largest in scale they have done to date and she is proud of the outcome.

“For the lack of better terms, my students killed it,” she said. “I’m so proud of their commitment and dedication to getting this project done.”

From start to finish, the project took four hours — with a minor glitch that was solved with some teamwork.

“The truck our pavers were on got a flat tire, but thanks to the collaboration by city employees and our volunteers we were able to continue our project and beautify the community for its residents,” said Palomino.

The project was valued at more than $47,000 with volunteer hours accounting for $8,800, saving the city some money.

“It is so great getting to work with students who are so committed to their community,” said Palomino. “I’m grateful to each and every one of them.”

TSTC Student Government President Isela Rodriguez was one of the team leaders for the project. She said what made the project even more worthwhile was the support they were receiving from the community.

“People were honking and yelling ‘good job’ and stopping by to compliment our work and show their support,” she said. “Even Harlingen City Commissioner Victor Leal stopped to talk to us. The positive feedback we got was encouraging.”

Harlingen Mayor Chris Boswell also addressed the group and showed his support and appreciation for the project and everyone’s hard work.

Rodriguez went on to say that the day was exciting and she is thankful to everyone who came out to work alongside them to make National Make a Difference Day a success and make a difference in the community.

In a survey taken by the student volunteers, it was evident they shared Rodriguez’s sentiment and agreed that this project gave the residents of Harlingen a cleaner environment, increased the value of the community and made people happier.

“The success of this project was a group effort,” said Rodriguez. “It was a mission impossible, but we made it possible.”

National Make a Difference Day was also honored with community service events at TSTC’s 10 other campuses statewide.

For more information on TSTC and its programs, visit tstc.edu.

(HARLINGEN) – Working full time to pay for school and being a part-time student has been a challenge for Texas State Technical College Culinary Arts student Oliver Diaz, yet he still holds a 3.0 grade-point average.

The 22-year-old, Mercedes native said as a child and even now he is fascinated by the culinary world and combined with his love for food, he knew TSTC’s Culinary Arts program was the right fit for him.

What are your plans after graduation?

After I graduate with my associate degree I plan on returning to TSTC to pursue Business Management Technology.

What’s your dream job?

My dream job is to open a restaurant/catering business. It’s a long way from my original dream of becoming an architect, but I’m excited for my future in the culinary industry, it’s where I’m meant to be.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC?

My greatest accomplishment was simply starting college to pursue a degree. After high school I worked immediately to help my parents and save money for college. I liked working so much that college wasn’t even in the picture, but with encouragement from my girlfriend, here I am.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

The greatest lessons I have learned are patience and endurance. Patience because I know as a part-time student it’s going to take me longer to finish and endurance to keep going.

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

My girlfriend and TSTC student and Orientation Student Leader Yajaira Gonzalez is my greatest influence. If it wasn’t for her I wouldn’t be here. I admire her for all of her success and it makes me want to become a better person for her. She pushes me to keep going and is my support.

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

My advice for future TSTC students is to not fall under pressure, be patient and stay focused.

(HARLINGEN) – Jose Luis Barajas got up from his interview chair excited and nervous, yet confident about how well it all went during his on-site interview at Texas State Technical College’s Industry Job Fair.

The Biomedical Equipment Technology student will graduate with his associate degree in December and had the opportunity to interview with Baylor White and Scott Health, the largest not-for-profit health care system in Texas and the largest in the United States, for a Biomedical Technician position he has his eye on.

“The job fair has been a great opportunity for me and many others to visit and interview with recruiters we may never get to speak with otherwise,” said Barajas. “I’m really interested in Baylor White and Scott and I was told I would be recommended for the job, so I’m keeping my fingers crossed.”

Barajas was one of more than 400 TSTC students and alumni who attended the job fair hosted by TSTC’s Talent Management and Career Services department.

TSTC Director of Talent Management and Career Services Viviana Espinosa said the main goal of the event is to help students network and learn about potential employers and job opportunities in an informal setting that helps to ease nerves and anxiety.

“We want our students and graduates to build their confidence when speaking with employers,” said Espinosa. “Ultimately, the more confidence they gain the better they’ll do in interviews and the sooner they’ll start their careers.”

Espinosa added that there were several job offers made at the event with many employers staying after to tour the programs and continue speaking with students.

At least 40 employers such as Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas, Cleaver-Brooks Sales and Service, Koenig and Bauer, Air Force Civilian Service, Texas Instruments, SpawGlass and Valley Baptist Medical Center were on hand to speak with students and alumni about job opportunities, accept resumes and conduct on-site interviews.

Christian Robertson, a human resource partner with Plastipak Packaging Inc., a global producer of plastic containers, said although the goal of the event is to help students, it also helps him tremendously as an employer.

“It’s difficult finding skilled employees and here at TSTC I know I’ll find highly-qualified students or graduates to hire,” said Robertson. “They have the desirable skill set we need for our company and we’re ready to hire.”

Espinosa said overall, the job fair was a success with a lot of positive feedback from students and employers alike.

“Employers were very impressed with our students,” she said. “Many will even be returning for our spring job fair, other recruitment events and program tours. This is exciting for us and for our students.”

TSTC will host its second Industry Job Fair on April 5 next year.

For more information on student, alumni and industry services offered by TSTC’s Talent Management and Career Services, call 956-364-4940.