Student Success Profile – Diana Mitchell

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Diana Mitchell is a Biology major at Texas State Technical College. The 23-year-old expects to earn her associate degree in Summer 2019.

The Harlingen native is also active on campus as a work-study employee with the biology department, a member of the TSTC Student Leadership Academy and, most recently, as founder and president of the Biology Club. Under her leadership, the club has partnered with TerraCycle for a recycling drive and with the Pizzeria for a fundraiser.

Mitchell has also recently begun volunteering and job shadowing at a local veterinary clinic.

What are your plans after graduation?

After I graduate I plan on transferring to Texas A&M University – Kingsville to pursue a bachelor’s degree in animal science and pre-veterinary medicine.

What’s your dream job?

My dream job is to become a veterinarian. I’ve always loved animals and have always had pets. Caring for them and ensuring they’re healthy is my passion.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC?

My greatest accomplishments have been maintaining A’s and B’s and starting the Biology Club. It has taught me leadership and communication skills I may not have otherwise received if I wasn’t an active student on campus.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

The greatest lessons I have learned are to do what you’re passionate about, don’t compare yourself to others because everyone’s path is different and don’t dwell on your mistakes, instead learn from them.

Who at TSTC has had the greatest influence on your success?

First, there’s my number one supporter and fan, my mother Sanjuanita Quintanilla; she is a custodial worker at TSTC’s Learning Resource Center. She is my everything. Next, my instructors, but especially biology and anatomy and physiology instructor and club advisor Jena Campbell. She has a wealth of knowledge and is one of the people pushing me to continue my education, and last, but not least, my supervisor and academic English program maintenance specialist Alma Garcia, for teaching the value of work ethic.

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

My advice for future TSTC students is to take advantage of what TSTC has to offer in your own backyard, and take school seriously. I didn’t when I was younger, and I regret it. So find a passion and stick with it.