Dedicated to Healing and Helping Others
Since she was a young child, Arely Hernandez has respected those in the medical profession. “I always looked up to nurses and admired how they helped people feel better,” said Arely. “This, along with my curiosity into how the human body works, is what drove me to pursue a career in healthcare.”
As a senior at Copper Hills High School in West Jordan, Utah, Arely balances her academic responsibilities with her interests outside the classroom, which include playing softball, spending time with friends, and navigating the path toward becoming a surgical technician.
“I first learned about SLCC’s surgical technology program while I was studying to get certified as a nursing assistant through my school district’s academy for technology careers,” said Arely. “Surgical tech sounded like the perfect field for me. Then I heard about how Metallica was giving scholarships to surg tech students, I thought that was pretty cool. So, I applied! When I found out that I had been awarded the scholarship, I was so incredibly grateful to be able to focus 100 percent on my studies without worrying about finances. This has also been a huge help for my parents and has been a weight lifted off their shoulders.”
Arely is one of 11 high school students in the early enrollment program awarded the Metallica Scholars Initiative scholarship. Students in early enrollment classes do not qualify for federal financial aid. The Metallica Scholars Initiative scholarship helps students who take early enrollment classes at SLCC and those who take the traditional college path pay for tuition, school fees, and the tools needed to complete the surgical technology degree program.
“The surgical tech program is rigorous and time consuming but it’s teaching me a lot and I’m excited to jump into the field. After graduation, I plan to work in the trauma unit and in day surgery. My long-term goal is to continue my education to eventually become a physician’s assistant.”
In May 2024, Arely will be graduating from high school. Then, in January 2025, she will earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Surgical Technology from SLCC.
“It feels good to know that in less than a year after I graduate high school, I’ll be graduating from SLCC as well!” said Arely. “I would like to personally thank Metallica for giving me a chance to pursue what I want to do in my life and for believing in me and in my future.”