(HARLINGEN, Texas) – For more than 260 graduates from Texas State Technical College’s Harlingen campus, the sounds of friends and families cheering and applauding reflected the soul of the ceremony.
The proud graduates walked the stage and received their long-awaited certificates of completion or associate degrees at TSTC’s Spring 2023 Commencement held May 2 at the South Padre Island Convention Center in South Padre Island.
Amanda Posada, provost at TSTC’s Harlingen campus, congratulated the graduates and told them that they embody the heart of TSTC.
“The skills and training you learned at TSTC have equipped you for a successful and lucrative career,” she said. “Whether you plan to enter the Texas workforce or continue your education, you are prepared for success, and TSTC will continue to champion you into your next journey.”
Nadia Garcia, an Edinburg native, graduated with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Dental Hygiene. Her interest in the dental field from a young age led her to TSTC.
“It’s a great accomplishment to graduate after I overcame obstacles,” she said. “I’ll definitely miss the friendships that I developed with my classmates and mentors.”
U.S. Army veteran Alan Mancilla, of Harlingen, graduated with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Building Construction Technology.
“I’m grateful for my education, thanks to the skills and knowledge I learned from my lead instructor Mr. (Hector) Rosa,” he said. “There were many times when I showed him blueprints about projects I worked on. He was kind to suggest ideas about how I could expand on them. As for a job, there are companies that have demonstrated an interest. I’m looking forward to seeing which one will have the best offer.”
Eusebio Nava, of San Juan, graduated with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Electrical Lineworker and Management Technology. He said he valued his program instructors’ teaching methods.
“The lectures were straightforward, and they never had any discrepancies,” he said. “I had a great learning experience. I plan to celebrate with my family, and then I’ll begin my search to find a job.”
Tameka Sosa, of Harlingen, graduated with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Emergency Medical Services. She said it feels surreal to graduate.
“I’m proud of myself because I didn’t think I would have made it this far,” she said. “Now I graduated from TSTC. As for my family, I appreciate each of them who supported me. They motivated me and supported my ambitions to become a paramedic.”
Registration for the fall semester is underway. For more information, visit tstc.edu.
