Amanda Mendez—the 2023 Alumni Achievement Award Winner for South University, Austin—has been a student in three South University programs. “Ever since I first attended South University, every faculty and staff member was great at supporting me, and taking the time to help me invest in my career path,” says Amanda. “They take the time to get to know you and how they can help you.”
Amanda’s professional focus has always been healthcare, and she came to South University already having significant experience in the field. Her time in healthcare has included 16 years of experience as a licensed* medical massage therapist and medical massage practitioner. She is also a Clinically Certified* Medical Assistant and Non-Certified Radiologic Technician. (To prepare for and enter these roles, Amanda acquired training and experience outside of South University.)
“I have helped so many clients and patients to improve posture, pain, and increase longevity,” she says. “I have worked for many chiropractors, doctors, surgeons, surgical centers, and professional athletic teams. I have a strong passion to help rehabilitate and work with patients.”
Building on her past healthcare experience, Amanda earned a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management and a Master of Healthcare Administration from South University, Austin, finishing both programs in 2018. In addition to her work with patients, Amanda has worked in training, auditing, and operations management within an urgent care setting. Most recently, Amanda returned to South University, Austin to earn her Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) degree in 2023. During the PTA program, Amanda found the clinicals useful in previewing what being a PTA entails. Today, she is confident that what she has learned will help her continue growing her healthcare career.
“Helping those who have suffered from injuries, pre/post surgeries, pain, and some diseases (like rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, lymphedema, etc.) has been such a great way of giving back to many who are seeking to have some relief,” she shares. “I have and will continue to learn more how to advance my skills and help so many more through all my training.”
While in the PTA program, Amanda was a student worker who supported much of the program’s faculty and staff. Amanda also served as the program liaison to the Texas Physical Therapist Association, Capital Area District. In this role, Amanda helped plan student events and fundraisers to raise money for the organization—drawing on much of the knowledge she learned during her healthcare administration master’s degree program.
Going forward, Amanda plans to remain connected to South University as a way to give back for all that she has gained as a student. “Attending South University has helped me to connect with many alumni and increase my love for education,” she says. “I am hoping to be a mentor for our current students and future alumni to help guide them through their educational journey.”
We congratulate Amanda on all she’s done so far in her career and education, including being the 2023 Alumni Achievement Award winner for South University, Austin!
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*It is up to each student to review the national and state licensure requirements for licensure, as well as the eligibility criteria to sit for licensure exams. South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. Outside agencies control the requirements for taking and passing certification/licensing exams and are subject to change without notice to South University.
Testimonials have been provided by students/alumni in their own words and without coercion. South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.
