As the school year draws to a close, it can feel a bit daunting to reminisce on how much changes from one semester to the next. Between midterms and projects, to countless events and meetings, the day-to-day life of an average student is often nothing less than hectic. However, in the time that can feel lost to the constant grind of school and extracurriculars, so much is gained in terms of character, personal experience, and perspective.

For Luz Mendoza, this sentiment translates especially well to her experience as a mom, wife, and aspiring nurse. Having always had a love for the medical field, she has been incredibly intentional in finding balance with her academic and familial responsibilities. Rather than letting one area of life get in the way of the other, figuring out how to best manage her time has made it possible to get everything done.

After being out of school for six years, Luz began her college career at Texas State University, and felt inspired to pursue nursing knowing that her daughter would be able to say “my mommy saves lives.” However, she had a hard time meeting people due to how large her class sizes were, all containing two to three-hundred other students. In feeling that she didn’t have many people to go to for help, as well as struggling to reach her professors, it became clear that she needed to find a new learning environment. This led her to TLU, where she is now a second-semester (J2) nursing student. Since making this step, she has felt the support necessary for finding success:

“My biggest resources are my professors. Anytime I have had the need to take time for my daughter, I have been able to communicate what is going on with them, and they have always been understanding.”

If there is anything the school could do to improve her experience (as well as those of other parents), she’d recommend a study space with an open area for the children of students to run and play. Aside from being disciplined with both her daily schedule and studying, Luz is adamant about taking breaks and making time for herself and her family as often as possible:

“Nursing is a different world. But, like I mentioned previously, time management is key. Study, study, study, but also take time for yourself to unwind.”

Weekends are always reserved for reducing stress and enjoying the company of her loved ones. On days where she needs more time to get work done, she waits for her eight-year-old daughter to get to bed. With the help and support of her husband and mother, getting through each semester has become easier. Additionally, she says “summertime is full family time,” with the months off from school providing the space to flourish in her role as a mother. As a result, she can return for the fall semester feeling strong, motivated, and content.

Despite how tiring one would imagine it’d be to juggle such responsibilities, Luz says that motherhood has only pushed her to be better: “Every time I see my daughter, I am reminded of who I am doing it for.” When looking back at her first semester, she would tell herself to have patience with the process. To other parents wanting to pursue a degree, she believes that the opportunities which await them far outweigh the stress they expect to endure. Even if you’ve been out of school for some time, there is never a bad time to work towards something you feel passionate about.

When I first met and worked with Luz during my freshman year, I found her to be such a kind and welcoming presence at TLU. Additionally, her dedication, attention to detail, and work ethic have led her to be an incredibly successful student. She has all of the skills and character traits you would seek in a healthcare provider, and she makes it abundantly clear that this career path is for anyone (at any stage in life) who seeks to challenge themselves and improve the lives of others. I’m so appreciative of her time and willingness to be included in this series, and applaud her for the progress she’s made toward bringing her dreams to fruition.