The Long Haul: STC Student Celebrates Hard-Won Graduation
· Texas Border Business

Esmeralda Hernandez, a 51-year-old from McAllen, is set to graduate from South Texas College this weekend, joining nearly 4,000 other students. Her journey has been challenging, marked by personal struggles including homelessness and food insecurity. Despite these obstacles, she persevered and earned her associate degree in Criminal Justice. Hernandez plans to continue her education this fall, pursuing a bachelor's degree in Organizational Leadership. She credits STC and the Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement (VIDA) for their support, which helped her overcome adversity. Hernandez aims to inspire others with her story, emphasizing that it’s never too late to pursue one's dreams.
AI summary · Source: Texas Border Business →


