(HARLINGEN) – The Surgical Technology faculty at Texas State Technical College are preparing to recruit its newest cohorts for its Fall 2017 class.

Beginning January 26, through April, the Surgical Technology department chair and instructors will be hosting information sessions for those interested in applying to the program.

Not too long ago, TSTC graduate Letty Ayala found herself sitting in a session waiting to see what it would take to further her career as a surgical assistant.

The 41-year-old first graduated from TSTC in 1996 with a certificate in Surgical Technology. She returned to advance her education and pursue an associate degree, which was not yet offered when she was first enrolled in the program. She earned the second degree in Fall 2016.

“I always wanted to do something in the medical field, but I didn’t want to be in school for too long,” said Ayala. “That’s where TSTC came in. I was able to finish my degree quickly and get to work.”

The Brownsville native joined the ranks of nurses who assist doctors in surgeries more than 20 years ago, and continues to live out her dream of working in the medical field. She currently works at Valley Baptist Medical Center Brownsville as a Surgical First Assistant.

“I know it’s cheesy and sounds cliché, but I love my job,” said Ayala. “I get to help people feel better, and get them get back to their daily lives. There’s no better feeling.”

Ayala advises those showing interest in the program or those who are ready to apply to remember that pursuing this career means putting in long hours of work, studying and putting patients’ feelings first, but in the end it is all worth it.

“The program is challenging and at times emotions will run high and you will feel like giving up, but don’t,” said Ayala. “TSTC’s Surgical Technology faculty is there for you every step of the way. They prepare you for all situations and challenges through hands-on training. They want nothing more but for you to succeed.”

Surgical Technology Department Chair Robert Sanchez said the program has high expectations for the students they accept into the program. Out of the hundreds of applicants, only 20 students get accepted per class.

“This is a rigorous program. It’s not for the light-hearted,” said Sanchez. “Yet, it is also a very rewarding career.”

Program expectations range from having the ability to work under stress, possessing ability to anticipate patients’ and surgeons’ needs to having physical stamina and emotional stability.

“This is definitely a program for someone with a huge interest in the medical profession,” said Sanchez. “This is a specialized field that is fast paced, but in demand.”

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics employment of surgical technologists is expected to grow 15 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for other occupations.

“I’m proud to say we place nearly 100 percent of our graduates into good paying jobs once they graduate and pass their National Certifying Exam,” said Sanchez.

Graduates from Surgical Technology who become Certified Surgical Technologists can expect to find employment in hospitals, mainly operating and delivery rooms, clinics, surgical centers and in offices of physicians or dentists who perform outpatient surgery.

Surgical Technology is a six-semester program. Upon completion students will earn an Associate of Science degree.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs upon the recommendation of the Accreditation Review Council of Education in Surgical technology and Surgical Assisting.

To learn more about the program, you are encouraged to attend one of the information sessions to be held January 26. February 16, March 9, March 30 and April 20 at the Eddie Lucio building room 119 at 3 p.m. Or, for more information call 956-364-4805, or visit tstc.edu.