From Financial Worries to Future Physician: Kassandra’s Journey at SPC

Even the most driven and active high school students worry about the costs associated with pursuing higher education. Kassandra Benavides was no exception. 

While attending East Central High School, Kassandra was involved in extracurricular activities, including the National Honor Society, playing trumpet in the school’s mariachi band, and participating in Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA).  

Despite her accomplishments and dedication, the financial burden of a college education weighed heavily on her mind. 

“I was worried about how I would balance working enough hours to pay for school while maintaining my grades,” said Kassandra. 

That changed when she learned she was eligible to have 100% of her tuition and fees covered through AlamoPROMISE. 

For Kassandra, the program represented more than financial support. It provided a pathway to higher education and the confidence to pursue her goals without hesitation. 

“Beyond the incredible financial opportunity, I knew the Alamo Colleges would provide the academic foundation I needed to advance my knowledge and excel in my dream career,” said Kassandra. 

Now in her second semester at St. Philip’s College (SPC), Kassandra is pursuing an Associate of Science in Biology as the first step toward her ultimate goal of becoming an anesthesiologist. In her first semester, she earned a perfect 4.0 GPA while also staying involved on campus. 

Her interest in healthcare began long before college. In high school, Kassandra earned her pharmacy technician certification, gaining firsthand experience in the medical field and strengthening her passion for patient care. 

Kassandra’s long-term goal is not only to succeed in the medical profession but also to help increase representation in the specialized field of anesthesiology. 

“As a Hispanic woman, I am motivated to bridge that gap and bring more diversity to the profession, ensuring that the medical community reflects the patients it serves,” said Kassandra. 

With AlamoPROMISE's support, Kassie has been able to focus on both her academics and her involvement on campus. She currently serves as a peer mentor in the First Year Experience (FYE) program, helping new students navigate college life and connect with valuable campus resources. 

The program played a key role in helping her adjust to college during her first year. 

“The FYE Program has helped me tremendously by providing essential resources to navigate my first year of college,” said Kassandra. “I found the program so impactful that I now serve as an FYE Peer Mentor, where I get to help other students find their footing just like I did.” 

Kassandra first learned about the program when she and her family visited the Center for Advocacy and Student Empowerment (CASE) building to ask about accommodations and resources that could help first-year students succeed. 

During the February Alamo Colleges District (ACD) Board of Trustees Meeting, Kassandra was recognized as the February 2026 AlamoPROMISE Student of the Month. St. Philip’s College President Dr. Adena Williams Loston highlighted Kassandra’s academic achievements and commitment to supporting other students. 

“Kassandra embodies the very best of what St. Philip’s College represents — academic excellence, community engagement, and our heart for service,” said Dr. Loston. 

At the board meeting, Kassandra was joined by many of the people who have supported her throughout her journey, including her parents, sisters, grandparents, peer mentors, and her supervisor. 

“To the leadership of the Alamo Colleges District and the incredible faculty and staff at St. Philip’s College, thank you,” Kassie said during the meeting. “Not just for this recognition, but for fostering an environment where students like me can truly thrive.” 

She also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people who have supported her along the way. 

“Most importantly, I want to dedicate a special thank you to my family and friends. I wouldn’t be standing here without your unwavering love and the sacrifices you’ve made to see me succeed,” she said. “You are my foundation, my loudest cheerleaders, and my constant reminders of why I work so hard. This recognition belongs to all of us.” 

After completing her studies at St. Philip’s College, Kassie plans to transfer to The University of Texas at San Antonio. From there, she hopes to attend UT Health San Antonio to earn her medical degree and specialize in anesthesiology. 

Reflecting on her journey so far, Kassie describes her experience at the Alamo Colleges as incredibly rewarding.  

“The combination of a supportive community, accessible resources, and high-quality education has made my time here a wonderful experience,” she said. “I feel well prepared for the rigors of medical school thanks to the foundation I’ve built at the Alamo Colleges.” 

With determination, passion, and a strong support system behind her, Kassie is already building the future she once imagined and moving one step closer to serving her community as a physician.