Mega Doctor News
By Veronica Salinas
From food science to medicine, Donna native and South Texas College alumnus Abishai Cazarez is proving that it is never too late to change course.
This fall, he will begin the Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program at Chamberlain University in Chicago, carrying with him the lessons, support and sense of community he found at STC.
After earning a bachelor’s degree in Food Science and Technology, with a concentration in Food Diversity from Texas A&M University in College Station, Cazarez moved to Dallas and launched a successful career in food safety and quality control with various food and drink companies in the area.
Despite achieving professional success and building a stable career in the food and beverage industry, Cazarez felt a persistent sense of unfulfillment, realizing that his work didn’t allow him, personally, to make a meaningful impact on people.
“It was rewarding to know that everything I learned in my undergrad was valuable, but I didn’t feel like I was truly making an impact on people’s lives,” he said. “That’s what ultimately inspired me to change paths.”
In 2023, he moved back home to pursue prerequisite courses for Physicians Assistant (PA) school at STC. Alongside his studies, Cazarez worked as a medical scribe in the intensive care unit (ICU) at South Texas Health System hospitals on weekends while also pursuing a master’s degree in Health Science, with a concentration in Nutrition from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.
It was during this time, that Cazarez discovered Supplemental Instruction (SI), a program where trained peer leaders help students succeed in difficult courses at STC. After attending SI sessions, he was encouraged to apply to become an SI leader.
“Being a leader was one of the best jobs I’ve ever had,” he said. The leadership was supportive, the people I worked with were outstanding and the opportunity to give back to my community made it especially meaningful.”
As an SI leader, Cazarez discovered a passion for teaching and mentoring.
“Being an SI Leader showed me how much I enjoyed teaching and working with students,” he said. “When a supervisor mentioned how students looked up to me and appreciated my sessions, that’s when it hit me that I was making a real difference.”
He credits STC Biology faculty member Courtney Galle, Ph.D., for supporting his academic career transition.
“Dr. Galle was one of the first people I confided in when I decided to change careers,” he said. “She was incredibly supportive and became a true role model for me. I firmly believe that one of the reasons I was accepted into PA school was because of the master’s program at UTRGV she encouraged me to pursue. I’m very grateful to her.”
The application process for PA school was challenging, but his persistence paid off.
“Becoming a PA gives me the best of both worlds because I can practice medicine, diagnose and educate,” he said. “My experience at STC was a big part of my interviews. It prepared me to educate not only in a clinical setting, but in a classroom as well, and I believe that makes you a stronger provider.”
Reflecting on his time at STC, Cazarez said the college provided both academic strength and a welcoming environment.
“STC gave me a real sense of community,” he said. “Everything felt more personal and it had the comfort and warmth of home.”
Looking ahead, Cazarez is enthusiastic about embarking on the next chapter of his journey, embracing the chance to learn, grow and apply his skills to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
“I’m excited to step into the role I’ve been aspiring to,” he said. “Being in a larger city, I look forward to learning and applying my experiences and background to give back. Ultimately, I hope to return to the Rio Grande Valley and make an even greater impact in my community.”
Information source: STC
