Motivation can be derived from a variety of sources. Maritza Hernandez didn’t need to look far to find hers. A single mother, she merely looked at her daughter to gain motivation, determined to provide her with a better future.
Already earning a steady income as a private-duty nurse, Hernandez knew that she needed to further her education to open the doors of opportunity in her field.
“I first heard about the VIDA program while attending South Texas College. Intrigued by the support it offered, I decided to apply,” Hernandez said.
VIDA is the Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement. With headquarters in Mercedes, VIDA works with residents across the Rio Grande Valley, providing comprehensive services to help their participants earn a degree or certificate in a high-demand, high-paying field. While financial assistance is a critical component of these services, most VIDA participants and graduates rave about the intangible benefits they receive, including individual and group counseling covering topics like budgeting, stress and time management, and study skills. VIDA also provides participants with opportunities to volunteer at a wide range of community events, encouraging them to live with an attitude of gratitude and service.
VIDA accepted Hernandez, who lived in McAllen at the time, into the program in June 2023.
“This was a pivotal moment for me as I enrolled in the Associate Degree Nursing Program,” she said.
In February, STC released a statement about its ADN Program. “Amid the nation’s increasing demand for skilled health care professionals, South Texas College’s Associate Degree in Nursing Program continues to set the standard for nursing education, leading the state of Texas, among schools that graduated over 200 students, with a 98.14 percent passing rate on the 2024 National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN),” it read, in part. “With the national NCLEX average at 88 percent in 2023, and the state average at 92 percent, STC’s performance significantly exceeds expectations.”
The journey, Hernandez said, was not without obstacles. She now had to balance her classes and study time with being a single parent. Going back to school after 20 years presented additional challenges, as did the financial strain. With her eyes fixed on her primary motivation — her daughter — Hernandez remained steadfast.
“VIDA was a tremendous help in navigating these difficulties,” Hernandez explained. “They provided support for tuition, books, software expenses, uniforms and shoes. The group mentoring sessions were particularly valuable, allowing me to engage with others and build my confidence. Through these sessions, I felt a renewed sense of purpose and connection to my community.”
Hernandez graduated in December 2024 with her ADN and subsequently passed the NCLEX-RN. She now holds the title of registered nurse. She accepted a job at Laredo Medical Center and is now earning over $42 an hour. Hernandez has already set her sights on her next goal.
“My ultimate goal is to become a nurse practitioner, specializing in psychology and family practice.” This specialty, she explained, will allow her to combine her passion for health care with a desire to support mental well-being.
As she reflects on the doors that have opened for her, Hernandez feels a strong sense of gratitude.
“I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to VIDA for their financial and counseling assistance,” she said. “Their support has been crucial in helping me achieve my educational goals and regain my confidence. Thank you, VIDA, for believing in me and empowering me to transform my aspirations into reality.”
There are more doors awaiting her.
“I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead,” Hernandez shared. “With the foundation I’m building now, I hope to make a meaningful impact in the health-care field and inspire my daughter to pursue her dreams, just as I am pursuing mine.”
Hernandez’ daughter served as her motivation. Now, she hopes to return the favor.
To learn more about VIDA, visit vidacareers.org.
Members of the VIDA team contributed to this article.