(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Wanting to follow in her mother’s footsteps, Miranda Perez is ready to become a nurse. The compassion and caring that she witnessed her mother give to her patients inspired her to complete her certificate in Vocational Nursing at Texas State Technical College. Later, she hopes to obtain her Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing.

The Brownsville native knows that TSTC will equip her well for her career.

 Why did you decide to pursue this field?

I decided to pursue vocational nursing because I have always wanted to be able to help people. Growing up and watching my mom spread joy and love to her patients while helping them feel better made me want to be a nurse just like her. I am excited to be able to help patients not only feel healthier, but also happier.

Can you speak about your experience with TSTC?

My experience with TSTC has been amazing! I loved the instructors in my program. They helped us in every way possible and made sure we all knew they were there to help us become safe and knowledgeable nurses. Each morning they would greet us and say, “Good morning, future nurses!” And it never failed to make my day.

How has TSTC helped prepare you for your career?

TSTC, along with our program director, Ms. Sauceda, made it possible for me to prepare for my career by placing our cohort in amazing clinical sites. The hands-on experience allowed us to participate in providing care to patients using the knowledge we had gained throughout the year.

What has been your greatest sense of accomplishment to date?

My biggest accomplishment has been completing my certificate in Vocational Nursing during a pandemic and being able to make my family proud.

What words of advice would you give to others who are about to start their journey at TSTC?

My advice is to pick a program you are going to love. It might be trying and demand a lot of your time and attention, but don’t give up! The instructors will help every way they can by making themselves accessible. TSTC offers so much that helps you throughout your program. It will all be worth it in the end!

To learn more about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.