Mega Doctor News
By Selene Rodriguez
Only weeks away from commencement, South Texas College student Hilda Guerrero is nearing the finish line of a journey defined by dedication and sacrifice, including a daily commute of more than an hour each way from Brownsville to McAllen, all to receive the best education and training in Respiratory Therapy (RT).
Inspired by her father and brother, both respiratory therapists, the 23-year-old took a leap of faith when she decided to enroll in the program two years ago and now, she’s ready to carry that legacy forward and step into the workforce.
“I always knew I wanted to pursue a career in health care, but I wasn’t sure if respiratory therapy was the right path for me at first,” she said. “Thanks to STC and the incredible hands-on training we receive, where every skill is taught through real, practical experience, I’ve been able to truly envision myself in this field.”
Guerrero credits her passion for helping others to her father, who, after studying medicine in Mexico, became a respiratory therapist in the United States and later returned to practice in Mexico, where respiratory therapy is in high demand.
Her brother also followed in their father’s footsteps and encouraged Guerrero to enroll at STC, having heard from professionals in the field that the college offers cutting-edge technology, advanced equipment and dedicated instructors who are committed to student success.
“Commuting from Brownsville to McAllen every day was a big sacrifice and a tough decision to make back in 2023, but it turned out to be the best one I could have made,” she said. “When I first started, I was really shy and timid, I mostly kept to myself. But over time, I’ve stepped out of my shell and truly built confidence in my skills. Now, during clinicals, I can clearly see how far I’ve come.”
Initially drawn to working with infants and children, Guerrero now has her sights set on the emergency room and Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Through her college experience, she’s had rewarding opportunities to care for those in critical need, experiences that have fueled her passion for making a difference where it matters most.
“As an RT, you can work in many areas, so yes, initially, I wanted to work in labor and delivery or the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU),” she said. “But now, I’m excited to pursue opportunities with critical care patients and be there for them and their families. I’ve already learned so much and made a difference as a student, I can only imagine how much more I’ll grow as a respiratory therapist.”
Set to graduate this May, she hopes to enter the workforce soon and is considering a job offer from Laredo, where her brother currently resides.
Laredo Medical Center, University Medical Center (UMC) in Lubbock and Valley Baptist Medical Center in Harlingen are among the facilities that frequently recruit STC students even before graduation, some offering sign-on bonuses of up to $25,000.
“I’m most excited to get out there and help people – help moms, dads, grandparents and children breathe better,” she said. “I’d also love to continue my education and earn a bachelor’s degree so that maybe one day, I can teach. At this point, anything feels possible.”
Grateful for the unwavering support of her parents, Guerrero feels ready to take on the next chapter of her journey.
“I owe so much to my parents, they made sure I had food, clean clothes and everything I needed so I could make the long commute and focus entirely on school,” she said. “And to my instructors at STC, thank you for giving me a home away from home and for always believing in me. The teachers here don’t just educate, they uplift, inspire and push us to be our best. Every mile I drove to get here was worth it.”
For more information on STC’s Respiratory Therapy program or other health care programs offered, visit nah.southtexascollege.edu or call 956-872-3100.
