Texas Border Business
HARLINGEN, Texas – November has been a busy time for the Student Recruitment department at Texas State Technical College, and prospective students from area high schools are learning what makes TSTC an exceptional institution.
One recent visit was by Porter Early College High School in Brownsville. Some 150 seniors were greeted by six TSTC recruiters and other team members to visit with program instructors to learn more about the curricula.
Students visited programs such as Auto Collision and Management Technology, Automotive Technology, Biomedical Equipment Technology, Dental Hygiene, HVAC Technology, Nursing, and Surgical Technology, as well as some of the college’s online options, including Cybersecurity, Drafting and Design, and Health Information Technology.
Additionally, presentations by TSTC’s Advocacy and Resource Center, Career Services, Enrollment Services, and Student Housing reflected important resources that are available to those who decide to enroll.
Augustin Cardenas, one of the high school students, was excited to tour the Nursing and Surgical Technology programs.
“I enjoyed observing the instruments that both programs showed us,” he said. “Each program also explained what to expect in those work environments. I appreciated that they treated us nicely as well.”
Lesly Valles, another student, said TSTC’s Dental Hygiene program caught her interest.
“I have always wanted to be a dentist,” she said. “If I chose this pathway, it would be a great starting point to get there. I was introduced to the health care field through the dual enrollment pathway at my high school.”
Daniel Martinez, a Porter Early College High School auto collision teacher, said TSTC is a great option because the technical programs are offered locally.
“I enjoyed seeing the college students perform many of the hands-on activities,” he said. “The lab time and the training equipment in each of the programs also intrigued me.”
Marivela Vela, a counselor at the high school, said she was fascinated by the presentations in each program.
“The students were amazed when they learned about the job duties for each program,” she said. “The program directors explained their respective profession is rewarding for those who it appeals to. There is a high demand, with a great-paying salary, and you work your way up the career ladder.”
Janet Alfaro, coordinator of Student Recruitment for TSTC’s Harlingen campus, said the increase in recruitment tours demonstrates that secondary schools are noticing the importance of the industry-relevant technical programs offered at TSTC.
“TSTC is the first college that many of the students have applied to,” she said. “Although they have other institutions to review, we set the bar high through our program visits and perspectives from current students who shared their insight.”
Registration for TSTC’s spring semester is underway. For more information, visit tstc.edu.
