09/21/2026
This week, we celebrate National Surgical Technologist Week and recognize the success of our Surgical Technology alumni and the life-changing impact of San Jacinto College's Surgical Technology Program.
For alumna Anaraly Hinojosa, pursuing a career in surgical technology started with a desire for a hands-on healthcare profession where she could be part of a team and directly contribute to patient care. As a young mother of two working full-time while completing the program, she balanced many responsibilities while remaining committed to her goal.
With the support of dedicated faculty, Anaraly was able to focus on completing her education and building a future in healthcare. Through classroom instruction, hands-on labs, and clinical rotations, she gained the technical skills, confidence, and professionalism needed to succeed in the operating room.
One of her most memorable experiences occurred during her first semester clinical rotation when she nearly fainted during a surgical procedure. Her instructor, Brittany Riddle helped her recover, reassured her that she wasn't the first student to experience that situation, and encouraged her to get back into the OR and try again. That moment became a powerful lesson in resilience and taught her not to let a difficult or embarrassing experience define her.
Today, Anaraly is a successful surgical technologist who mentors students during their clinical experiences, offering the same encouragement she once received. She challenges students to ask questions, practice often, try different setups, learn from mistakes, and embrace every opportunity to grow.
She also emphasizes the importance of teamwork in the operating room.
"Everyone in the OR needs each other," Anaraly said. "Being helpful and courteous to nurses, surgical technologists, surgeons, and the anesthesia team creates a positive environment that benefits everyone, especially our patients."
Reflecting on her journey, Anaraly understands the benefit of overcoming challenges.
"The program can be challenging, but it prepares you for a career that is rewarding in so many ways,” she said. “You're going to have hard days, but you're also going to have moments where you realize, 'I'm really doing this.' Those moments make it worth it."
We are proud to celebrate alumni like Anaraly and the exceptional surgical technologists who make a difference every day through their skill, compassion, and commitment to patient care.
