Radiologic Technology graduate embarks on health care journey

Inspired by her childhood fascination with X-rays, one of South Texas College’s most recent graduates, Alyssa Alaniz, reflects on the rigorous, yet rewarding journey that has prepared her for a future in Radiologic Technology, with dreams of making a significant impact on patient care.

“I’m excited to be able to say that I can take part in saving a patient’s life,” said the 21-year-old. “I consider myself a quiet person and I knew that direct patient care might be overwhelming for me. However, as a radiologic technologist, I can play a crucial role in detecting and assessing pathologies early on. I can support patients from behind the scenes, and that’s a significant responsibility I take to heart.”

Alaniz chose to pursue her education at STC after graduating from Edcouch-Elsa Early College High School in 2022 with an associate degree in Interdisciplinary Studies through the college’s Dual Credit program.

After exploring other schools in the region and across the state, she realized that attending STC would be the smartest and most affordable option to help accelerate her academic goals.

“I have been a student at STC since my freshman year and knew it was the best school for me,” said Alaniz. “Being a dual credit student and earning my associate degree allowed me to go straight into the program without wasting any time. Now, I get to start my career early in life.”

Fascinated by diagnostic imaging since childhood, Alaniz chose the field early on. Now, as she graduates from the two-year program, she aspires to work as a cardiac catheterization lab technologist, a highly skilled type of radiologic technologist tasked with assisting in procedures related to the cardiovascular system, including the heart and blood vessels.

“I remember being so intrigued by taking x-rays when I was growing up, and once I started researching all the different modalities you can expand your knowledge into, I was captivated,” she explained.

Alaniz also mentioned intervention radiology and radiation therapy as other avenues she would like to explore.

“Many people think we just press a button and a clear image comes out, but it’s more than that,” she added. “We need to know everything about the body and train our eyes to search for what’s needed. We’re the eyes of the doctor. From these images, pathologies or tumors can be discovered. Our work can be life-changing.”

As the first in her family to dedicate her life to health care, Alaniz is now preparing to take her national certification examination and is excited to enter the workforce and grateful to STC for giving her the best chance to start a successful and rewarding career.

“I want to thank STC for my future, essentially. The attentive and knowledgeable instructors, along with the advanced resources we have at our fingertips, are amazing. Here at STC, we were able to practice with advanced technology, some of which I haven’t even seen at some hospitals in the area,” she said. “I’m just truly grateful for this amazing education.”