(WACO) — Education may be the key to creating a better life for oneself, but for Texas State Technical College student Taylor Dudik, it’s also the opportunity to create a better life for others.
Dudik is a second-semester Instrumentation Technology student who plans to use her degree as a way to support her five-year-old daughter and stay involved in various philanthropic activities.
Dudik finds time in her busy schedule to volunteer with the Heart of Texas Region MHMR Center in Waco, as well as fostering animals through Gray Mutts Rescue and Sanctuary in Clifton and running T&B Doggie Haven in Aquilla.
“I wish I could do more. This degree and the job that will follow are going to allow me to help and do more,” Dudik said. “It will allow me to give money and have more time to donate. I love helping people; it just makes me happy.”
Dudik’s life can be hectic at times, but she is determined to set an example for her daughter.
“I’m a single mom, and I want my daughter to see me as an example of ‘girl power,’” Dudik said. “I want her to see that you can go out and do anything you want, and for her to always have those values of helping people, no matter what.”
Dudik’s giving attitude made an impression on her instructors and subsequently helped her get to know one of her neighbors.
“Taylor and I found out we live on the same road in the first few days of class,” said Linda Martin, TSTC senior instructor of Instrumentation, Computer Controls and Robotics. “Even in my first impression, she came off as very happy to be there and focused and just an open person, which will help her big-time in the field.”
Martin and Dudik both encourage women to enter the instrumentation field and take advantage of the financial opportunities that can follow.
“For a woman who is not afraid to get outdoors and get to work, you can provide for yourself. Especially for single mothers, it’s great because you can provide for your family and have insurance and be able to thrive on your own,” Martin said.
Dudik was pleasantly surprised to have a female instructor and to see other women in her classes. She thoroughly supports anyone who has an interest in the field.
“If you’re a girl, you can do anything you feel like. And don’t be embarrassed or ashamed — just do it,” Dudik said. “Don’t be scared to put some boots on, get your safety glasses, get your hard hat, and let’s go!”
Dudik plans to graduate in spring 2019 with an Associate of Applied Science degree.
Registration for fall classes at TSTC is underway. For more information, visit tstc.edu.
