Texas Border Business
By Selene Rodriguez
At just 19 years old, Ana Paola Martinez has already achieved a significant milestone in her career by securing a remarkable job opportunity in Washington, D.C., an accomplishment she credits to South Texas College, where she began her political science journey.
“I would not be where I am today without STC and their dual credit opportunities,” she said. “Earning my associate degree before graduating high school fast-tracked my education and career goals in ways I never imagined.”
Born and raised in McAllen, this first-generation college graduate recently began her role as a scheduler in the office of Congressman Henry Cuellar in the nation’s capital, where she manages the agenda, schedules meetings, serves as a point of contact and handles various other responsibilities.
At the same time, she is balancing her studies and is set to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science this upcoming May from St. Mary’s University.
“When I was a child, I would always say I wanted to be the Governor of Texas,” she shared. “Of course, now that I’m older, my aspirations have evolved, but the interest in political science has always been there.”
She explained that growing up in the border region of the Rio Grande Valley, a place where many political issues unfold, she was always aware of the importance of politics.
“Over time, I also developed an interest in human rights and advocacy,” she said. “Also, understanding how policy can impact different demographics, especially low-income Hispanic communities, has always been important to me. But it was at STC where I solidified my goal of helping the community through politics.”
During her senior year at Juan Diego Academy, Martinez launched her career with a Congressional Internship in Congressman Henry Cuellar’s Mission office.
After earning her associate degree from STC in Political Science in 2023, she relocated to San Antonio, where she continued her professional journey with another internship in the Congressman’s office.
“Those experiences, listening to the community, helping with their issues, and connecting them to the right resources really shaped my aspirations. It was incredibly rewarding to actively take part in assisting people,” she said. “When I saw the opportunity to move to the capital, leave Texas, and contribute on a much larger scale, I didn’t hesitate. Helping at a greater capacity is now my goal, and starting so young, I’m confident that the only way is up from here.”
Now settled in Washington, D.C., her next step is applying to law school, with Georgetown University as her top choice.
“I’m excited about what’s to come, practicing law and maybe in the future joining a personal injury firm,” she said. “Having seen the number of people in my community who need help, especially those from low-income backgrounds, where there are few willing to provide assistance, that’s definitely the path I want to take: being a helping hand for those who need it most.”
Reflecting on the essential role STC played in shaping her career, she emphasizes how it served as the true foundation for her success, encouraging other students to take advantage of the opportunities that can help them reach their fullest potential.
“STC’s guidance, which helped me improve my curriculum and supported me every step of the way, was key in securing my first internship,” she said. “Additionally, the quality of education was exceptional. Some of my earliest political science courses provided me with foundational knowledge and insights that I still rely on today. As a dual credit student, I made sure to take full advantage of everything STC had to offer. I’m deeply grateful for all of it.”
For more information on STC’s Criminal Justice program visit southtexascollege.edu/academics/criminal-justice/ or call 956-872-6724.
