When it comes to surmounting barriers to higher education, Alyssa Soto of Pharr could be a first-place hurdler. In her mid-30s, Soto is a single mother of three children, ages 8, 9 and 14. Prior to 2022, she had been a stay-at-home mom for 10 years.
When her circumstances changed, Soto realized she needed to pursue a degree; she chose nursing and gained acceptance to South Texas College in the fall of 2022. During the registration process, Soto’s STC advisor told her about the Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement.
For nearly 30 years, VIDA has worked with residents across the Rio Grande Valley, providing resources to help them rise out of unemployment and underemployment and into careers in high-demand, high-paying fields. The resources VIDA provides include financial assistance with tuition, books, uniforms and equipment, as well as individual and group counseling. During the participants’ counseling sessions, they focus on stress and time management, budgeting, study skills, resume building, interviewing skills and other related topics.
Soto applied to VIDA and was accepted. She started the Associate Degree in Nursing Program at STC in Spring 2023. That’s when she started surmounting barriers that may have thwarted her goals, if not for VIDA.
“Returning to college after a long break was difficult, especially with the new technology and the need to relearn effective study habits,” Soto said. “Additionally, managing my schoolwork while being the sole caregiver for my children was incredibly stressful. I often found myself doubting my abilities, not only as a student but also as a mother and a future nurse.”
Soto pays homage to San Juanita Sanchez, senior career counselor at VIDA.
“Her encouragement motivated me to persevere through tough times and helped me regain my confidence,” Sota shared. “Mrs. Sanchez has been a significant source of inspiration; her support has had a lasting impact on my journey. I will forever be thankful for her guidance.”
Soto graduates with her ADN this month. Once she takes — and passes — her national certification test, Soto plans to work in a Level I Trauma Center. Her goals do not end there. Soto will continue overcoming barriers until she becomes a family nurse practitioner, which requires a bachelor’s and a master’s degree.
Soto prepared a message of thanks to VIDA:
Thank you, VIDA, for helping me along the path to my future career. Your support has not only transformed my life but also the lives of my children. I also want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Sanchez. Your kind words and encouragement have made a world of difference during times when I questioned my decision to continue. It’s been a challenging journey, and I will always appreciate your support.