(HARLINGEN) – Carlos is a student at Texas State Technical College. He recently graduated with an associate degree in Computer Systems Management Technology and is now pursuing his second associate degree in Mechatronics Technology.

When the 20-year-old is not studying, you can find him working at TSTC Housing as a community assistant. He also serves as Vice President of the South Texas Migrant Association.

The Harlingen native is the first in his family to graduate from college. Obregon said as a migrant he traveled a lot and keeping up with school was a challenge, so he never expected college to be in his future. However, now that he is pursuing his second degree, he said he hopes to inspire his two younger brothers to follow in his footsteps.

What are your plans after graduation? After I graduate I want to start my own business. I want to open a computer shop here in the Valley doing maintenance and repair. And hopefully in the near future I’ll continue on to pursue a bachelor’s degree.

What is your dream job? My dream is to own a business. That is what I’ve been working toward. I want to make a decent living and show that hard work pays off.

What has been your greatest accomplishment? My greatest accomplishment was graduating from college. I’ve seen my parents work very hard and they always encouraged my five brothers and I to get an education so we could live a different life than the one I grew up living.. I can actually say I did it.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life? I’ve learned that nothing is too big to accomplish. Growing up I felt with my life, college was not in reach, but I pushed through and finished. If you continue to move forward, you eventually get your reward.

What TSTC person has influenced your success the most? My biggest influence was my former College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) adviser Daisy Avalos. She was by side since my first day at TSTC. She helped me submit all my paperwork to get into my program and gave me advice when times got tough. She was my confidant.

What advice do you have for future TSTC students? I want to tell students to always remember not to give up. Success is there, you just have to go for it.