Mega Doctor News
Victoria Aranda-Villafuerte has found her passion in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, a career path she never expected to pursue. Now in her second year at South Texas College, she’s preparing to graduate next May and is excited to start a career in a field where she can make a difference.
“I didn’t always know I wanted to be in the medical field,” Aranda-Villafuerte said. “I was on track to go to Texas A&M because my parents wanted me to follow in my brother’s footsteps in engineering. But I wasn’t sure about what I wanted to do, so I decided to stay close to home and explore other options.”
While studying at STC, a friend suggested radiology, and from there, Aranda-Villafuerte discovered ultrasound.
“I didn’t have any experience with ultrasound before,” she explained. “But I started watching videos and learning more about it, and I decided to give it a try. I liked it right away.”
Aranda-Villafuerte applied to the competitive sonography program at STC, and to her surprise, she was accepted on her first try. Now, as she prepares to graduate next year, she reflects on how challenging, but rewarding her journey has been.
“It’s definitely overwhelming at times,” Aranda-Villafuerte said. “There’s a lot to learn, and it can be scary at the beginning. But with support from my classmates and instructors, I’ve managed to keep up. We all help each other out and push through.”
Her favorite part of the program is the hands-on experience she gets at local hospitals.
“I love being in the hospital setting,” Aranda-Villafuerte shared. “I get to work with different patients and practice what I’ve learned. It’s amazing when patients trust me to help them, even though I’m still learning.”
Despite her busy schedule, Aranda-Villafuerte is grateful for the opportunity to stay close to home while pursuing her degree.
“I feel like I’m saving my parents money by staying local,” she said. “STC has allowed me to continue my education without having to leave the Valley.”
As she looks forward to graduating at 21, Aranda-Villafuerte sees herself continuing in the field of ultrasound, with hopes of specializing further through certifications in areas like obstetrics and vascular imaging.
“I see myself in this field for a while,” she said. “There’s always room to grow.”
With determination and a passion for helping others, Aranda-Villafuerte is on track to make her mark in the medical field.
For more information on STC’s programs visit, https://www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/health-sciences/