Rolando Torres, 20, is pursuing an associate degree in Cybersecurity at South Texas College, protecting more than systems – he’s building a future for his family.
“Cybersecurity stood out to me because I used to create websites for extra money,” he said. “But then I realized how important cybersecurity was, especially after my family went through multiple cyberattacks.”
Originally interested in computer science, Torres shifted his focus to Cybersecurity when he learned about STC’s program through a friend who had already graduated and now works in Dallas, finding success in the field.
His friend not only introduced him to the program, but also supported him with class advice along the way.
Torres expects to graduate next year and is currently balancing full-time work and school. He works as a dietary aide at McAllen Heart Hospital, where he prepares and serves food to patients with care and compassion.
“I like making the patients feel at home,” he said. “Even though they’re in the hospital, I want them to have that extra comfort.”
Motivated by his family, Torres said his biggest goal is to help his parents retire sooner rather than later.
“We didn’t grow up with much,” he said. “So now, I just want to give back and make sure they never have to worry again.”
It hasn’t always been easy for Torres opened up about an earlier college experience in Austin that didn’t go as planned. For a while, he didn’t believe college was for him, but coming to STC changed his perspective.
“STC helped me realize I can do it. That I can reach my full potential,” he said. “I learned I was in my own way.
For Torres, STC has been a family affair. His older brother graduated from STC and is now getting his master’s degree in Social Work. His other brother is currently studying at STC and his younger sister is graduating from high school this year.
“I guess we’re an STC family now,” he laughed.
After graduating, Torres hopes to work in cybersecurity for either a hospital or a major telecommunications company like AT&T. He’s also open to continuing his education if the opportunity arises.
“Before, I never thought I’d be in college again,” he said. “Now, I know nothing is impossible.”
For more information on STC’s Cybersecurity program, visit https://www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/cybersecurity/.
