(HARLINGEN) – Harlingen native Daniel Reyes is a Welding Technology student at Texas State Technical College. He expects to earn his third associate degree this semester.

His other associate degrees were earned in Auto Collision Technology and Automotive Technology in 2015 and 2016, respectively.

When the 26-year-old isn’t in the classroom, he is an active member of several TSTC student organizations, such as Advanced Leadership Academy, Intramural Sports Club, SkillsUSA, Veteran Students Alliance Club and Catholic Campus Ministries. Reyes is also the SGA senator for the Industrial Manufacturing division.

What are your plans after graduation?

After I graduate this spring, I hope to get a job in the automotive industry and gain some experience in my field and save money to open a business. Eventually I want to return to TSTC to get an associate degree in Business Management Technology.

What’s your dream job?

My dream is to open a business in Harlingen that will include automotive and welding services.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC?

My greatest accomplishment is, honestly, getting this far and being able to earn multiple degrees. For me, school is fun and I love learning the skills I need to be successful one day. My goal is to leave TSTC as well-rounded as possible in my field.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

The greatest lesson I have learned may sound cliche, but it’s to never give up. Life has a way of knocking you down sometimes. For me, I never had enough money to eat, so I would literally go days without food. But thanks to the TSTC Student Center food pantry, I was able to pick myself up each time and keep pushing forward and working toward my goals.

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

The people who have had the greatest influence on my success are Library Technician Gamaliel Sauceda, New Student Orientation Coordinator Larissa Moreno and Student Life Coordinator Belinda Palomino. Each one of these people has touched my life in different ways with encouragement, advice and support.

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

My advice for future TSTC students is that when you take your first step into TSTC, choose a major you are passionate about and focus on everything the instructors are teaching you because all of it is going to lead to a successful career someday.