(HARLINGEN) – Brandy Garza is a Dental Hygiene student at Texas State Technical College. This is the 46-year-old’s first time back at the college since pursuing her academic courses in 1995.

Garza already holds a bachelor’s degree in hotel and restaurant management. She worked in the hospitality industry for 17 years. An immune deficiency diagnosis forced her to take a leave and make her health a priority, but she is now getting a second chance at a new career.

The Harlingen native holds a 3.4 grade-point average and is active with Student Government Association and the Veteran Students Alliance Club paying homage to her father who is a retired Marine and her brother and sister-in-law who are active Marines.

What are your plans after graduation?

After I graduate I will focus all of my efforts on gaining more experience as a registered dental hygienist in a dental office or community clinic.

What’s your dream job?

I chose a career in dental hygiene because it allows me to provide a valuable service to my community, especially children, elderly and the disabled. I will also have the flexibility to better balance my career and personal life.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC?

My greatest accomplishment has been being able to use my life experience to motivate my classmates, especially the younger students just starting out. However, I’ve learned a lot from them as well.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

I have learned that kindness matters. I have found that even the smallest expression of kindness can have an enormous impact on others. It does not take much to be kind. So I practice every day to be kinder and to make a difference in someone’s life.

Who at TSTC has influenced your success the most?

My dad, who is a Building Construction Technology student at TSTC, has definitely been the biggest influence. Since graduating from the University of Houston in 1997, I have not been back in a classroom. I was apprehensive about going back to school but seeing how much my 65-year-old father enjoyed it and how well he was doing in his classes, I saw I had nothing to fear. He and my mother continue to encourage me and it is their never ending support that gets me through my toughest challenges.

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

I want to advice students to find the thing they love to do with all of their hearts because then every day will be a gift. And, if they have not found their passion then make it a mission to find it. The joy it brings will spill over into all aspects of their lives.