Texas Border Business
By Veronica Salinas
For South Texas College student Irania Juarez, returning to college was more than just a goal, it was a promise to herself and her family.
At 30-years-old, Juarez is pursuing her Associate of Arts in Teaching at STC’s Mid-Valley Campus with dreams of becoming a bilingual elementary teacher.
“I’ve wanted to be a teacher since I was small,” she said. “I used to line up my dolls and give them homework. I would help my classmates with their lessons and even family when they needed help with schoolwork. Teaching has always been a part of who I am.”
Her journey back to higher education began unexpectedly after seeing an ad for STC’s JagReconnect program on social media, a moment that she now considers life changing.
JagReconnect was designed to help students who paused their education, get back on track with tuition debt payoff, one-on-one support, flexible program options and wraparound resources.
Originally from Mexico, Juarez faced many challenges growing up, including learning English as a second language. However, she remembers her third grade teacher having the biggest impact on her.
“She was patient and kind when I struggled with English,” she said. “She never gave up on me and made me want to be that kind of teacher for other students who are learning and finding their voice.”
Juarez first attended college years ago, but stepped away due to financial hardship.
I wanted to continue, but I couldn’t afford it,” she said. “I told myself I would come back one day. When I finally enrolled at STC it felt like I was keeping a promise I made to my younger self.”
Now back in school, Juarez is thriving. She is not only excelling academically, but also making her mark as a student leader. She serves as a member of the Student Leadership Academy and president of the Student Government Association after previously holding the position of secretary. She even founded the Education Club where she also serves as the president.
“I decided to run for president because I love helping students and being involved,” she said. “It gives me a chance to give back and also keeps me accountable. To be an officer you have to maintain a certain GPA and that pushes me to do my best.”
Outside of school, Juarez works part time as a server and manages a busy schedule filled with classes, leadership responsibilities and family commitments.
“It was definitely hard at first,” she said. “I used to get overwhelmed trying to balance everything, but now I’ve found my rhythm. I’m proud that I can handle it all because it shows how far I’ve come.”
Her biggest motivation comes from her family, especially her parents who moved to the states from Mexico to give her a better life.
“I’m so close to graduating, and I want to make my family proud,” she said. “My parents left everything behind so I could have a future. Every time I feel tired or doubt myself, I remind myself that I’m doing this for them, for their sacrifices and for the dreams they had for me.”
Set to graduate in spring 2026, Juarez says her favorite part of being at STC is the sense of belonging and connection she’s found among students and staff.
“My favorite part about STC is the people,” she said. “Everyone here is so welcoming and I’ve met so many amazing classmates and mentors who inspire me. I love sharing information about STC with others and helping them see all the resources and support available. It feels like being part of a big family that wants you to succeed.”
As Juarez continues her journey, her message to others, especially those thinking about returning to college is simple.
“Your age should never hold you back,” she said. “Life doesn’t have an expiration date on your goals. It doesn’t matter how long it takes, as long as you finish. Every step you take is progress. You owe it to yourself to keep going.”
For more information on STC’s Education program, visit: https://www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/education/.
For more information STC JagReconnect, visit https://www.southtexascollege.edu/jagreconnect/.
Information source: STC
