Samuel Arguelles had excellent role models and grew up witnessing the importance of higher education. Unfortunately, that provides no guarantee.
“I am a second-generation college student; however, I lost my parents at a very young age and have been trying so hard to make them proud,” Arguellas said.
His parents passed away from different forms of cancer, his dad while working on a PhD and his mom while working on her master’s. Their passing changed the course of Arguellas’ life.
In his early 30s, he was living in Mercedes, married and unemployed. Often, people don’t know how to change the direction where they are headed. But Arguelles has a friend who changed directions with the help of Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement.
Based in Mercedes, where Arguellas lives, VIDA has helped scores of Rio Grande Valley residents find their way out of underemployment and unemployment and into high-demand jobs, through education. Nearly 30 years ago, leaders of Valley Interfaith and the business community came together to create a program designed for this demographic, knowing that while financial assistance is critical, it must come with mental and emotional support. VIDA offers individual and group counseling, educating participants about study skills, stress relief, resume building, and a number of other topics that can prevent roadblocks along their way to graduation and fruitful careers.
Arguellas applied and was accepted by VIDA in the summer of 2022. He enrolled in the Radiologic Technology Program at South Texas College last fall.
“Money was always a big challenge,” Arguellas said. “I was not able to afford schooling. VIDA is helping me, not only financially but in many other ways, such as how to manage my time and setting clear priorities.”
On the Right Track
Arguellas said he now has a routine and structure, both of which have helped him stay on the right track. And that’s not all.
“I have made many friends in my program,” he said, “and I have many goals I look forward to meeting.”
Graduation and a promising career are within sight, scheduled for Summer 2024.
“I’m very thankful for VIDA,” Arguellas said. “VIDA is making the impossible possible. Once I graduate and get a job, I’ll be able to do thing I wasn’t able to before. Without the help of VIDA, I wouldn’t be where I am now.”
While most of his goals center around his career, Arguellas sees a bright future personally, as well.
“One thing I’m looking forward to is starting a family,” he shared.
Arguellas will always carry his parents with him. With VIDA’s help, he is back on the track they prepared for him.