The second oldest of five girls, Marisol Munoz has always felt, and embraced, the responsibility to serve as a role model to her younger sisters. When she graduated from the Academy of Health Science Professions in La Joya ISD, Munoz felt the true weight of that responsibility.
Daughter of immigrant parents. First-generation college student. The pressure was on.
In high school, Munoz completed training as a certified nurse assistant and a medical assistant, taking full advantage of these opportunities. At the age of 17, she worked part time as a CNA at a McAllen nursing home.
Graduating among the top 10 in her class, Munoz then accepted a medical-assistant position at DHR Health in the Oncology Department.
“My parents’ hard work has always motivated me to work hard and make sure all their sacrifices were worth it,” Munoz said. “Caring for others has always been one of my dreams — since I was little — so I knew that being a nurse was going to fulfill my dreams.”
Taking the Next Step
Munoz applied to the Associate Degree in Nursing Program at South Texas College and was accepted. She started the program in Spring 2023.
Munoz heard about the Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement and submitted her application. For nearly 30 years, VIDA has changed the lives of Rio Grande Valley residents by helping them earn often-elusive degrees and licenses in high-demand, high-paying industries. Financial assistance with tuition, books, equipment, uniforms and more is critical to the individuals VIDA serves. Yet, the mandatory individual and group counseling and the opportunities to participate in community service projects have proven to be equally imperative in overcoming the challenges of higher education.
VIDA accepted Munoz, and in the fall of 2023, she began reaping the benefits they provide.
“Once I started the nursing program, I stopped working, making school my priority,” Munoz said. “VIDA has helped me cover all of my extra costs for school, allowing me the liberty to not work and to be a full-time student, considering my dad is the only provider in my household.” She continues to work as a CNA during the summer months.
A Brighter Future
Munoz will graduate in December, adding another title: first-generation college graduate.
“After graduation, I see myself being a nurse, working at a local hospital, and helping my community receive the proper care they need,” Munoz said. “I want to work at a hospital as a Labor and Delivery nurse or as a hospice nurse. I also want to continue my education and obtain my BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) and later become a DON (director of nursing).”
Fulfilling the dream of a little girl, Munoz clearly recognizes the impact of VIDA in making this happen.
“VIDA has granted me an opportunity to succeed as a student and as a community member,” she said.