Texas Border Business
By Veronica Salinas
South Texas College is proud to announce Bethany Martinez as its 2025 Work Study of the Year recipient, recognizing her commitment to the college as a work-study employee and dedication to her peers’ success.
Work Study of the Year recipients are selected based on their dedication, professionalism and a positive attitude in their roles as student workers. They balance academics and work responsibilities while consistently going above and beyond to support their departments and fellow students.
“Getting this award makes me really proud,” she said. “I wasn’t expecting it at all. It was a complete surprise. My supervisors told me after I had won that they nominated me. Knowing they believed in me enough to submit that nomination without telling me, really touched me.”
Martinez works at the Student Financial Services Department at the Mid-Valley campus, assisting students in completing their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
“Bethany has become an expert in filling out the FAFSA application,” said Financial Aid Specialist and Martinez’s Supervisor Menisa Vega. “Her knowledge has helped us lead students in the right direction, making her trustworthy and dependable. She is a highly professional and honest individual.”
At just 19-years-old, her commitment to excellence, strong work ethic and willingness to lend a helping hand make her a standout example of the impact student employees have on campus.
“Bethany is always very cheerful and has a great work ethic,” said Vega. “She is always willing to answer any questions students and parents have with patience and care. She is always showing empathy to make them feel comfortable.”
Martinez shared that she intentionally chose a work-study position as her first job after hearing many positive experiences from other students at STC. She was drawn to the idea of working on campus in a supportive environment where student success is a priority.
“I heard a lot of great things about work-study positions like the flexibility and the numerous opportunities that are available through the program,” she said.
Martinez shared that one of the most meaningful aspects of her work-study position has been assisting students and their families through the FAFSA application process.
She explained that many of the parents she works with primarily speak Spanish and she takes extra care to ensure they feel comfortable and understood. By guiding them step-by-step, she is not only helping them complete an important task, but also building trust and confidence.
Through this experience, Martinez says she has developed greater patience, empathy and a deeper appreciation for the challenges many families face when navigating financial aid.
“I empathize a lot with our students,” she said. “I understand how overwhelming the process can be for them. Over time, I’ve developed a lot of patience and compassion for their situations. Helping them navigate something so important is one of the most rewarding parts of my job.”
Receiving this award has shifted Martinez’s expectations for the future, giving her a renewed sense of confidence and motivation. Being recognized as Work-Study Student of the Year showed her that her efforts, dedication and work ethic do not go unnoticed.
It has inspired her to set higher goals for herself both academically, professionally and to pursue future opportunities with greater self-assurance.
“This award has allowed me to realize I can do anything. It has also empowered me to keep pushing forward and to continue growing in everything I do,” said Martinez.
Martinez encourages fellow students to apply for work-study positions and highlights how these roles offer valuable on-campus experience, skill-building opportunities and connections with faculty and staff. She believes that work-study is a great way to balance earning and learning while staying involved.
“Absolutely, go for it,” Martinez said. “It’s been such an amazing experience. The people I work with are incredible and the job itself has been so rewarding. Work-study jobs are also great starter jobs for students who have just graduated high school and are starting their college journey.”
