One of Valeria Hurtado-Gonzalez’s earliest childhood memories is being terrified by a shot during a routine doctor’s visit. Recently, she learned to give vaccines as part of her Medical Assistant program at Renton Technical College.

“I used to be scared of needles when I was little,” she said. “Now I’m studying this field, and I’m not afraid anymore.”  

Valeria has overcome more fears and found greater confidence as an RTC student and Renton Promise Scholar.

 “Financials are what keep so many people from being able to get the education they want to pursue,” Valeria said. “Renton Promise means you don’t have to worry about that.”

Her connection to RTC began in high school, when she visited the campus and imagined herself at the college. She later worked as a paid intern in the RTC Library, where staff encouraged her and helped her feel at home.

“RTC has so many amazing programs,” she said. “They made me feel like I belong here. Everybody is so helpful, it’s amazing. If you need anything, there are always resources.”

When her high school counselor told her about Renton Promise, it made her goals more achievable.  A 2025 graduate of Renton High School, she qualified for Renton Promise, which provides up to full tuition and fees for Renton School District graduates.

The initial two-year state funding was winding down, so she was in limbo for a bit. Fortunately, partnerships with the City of Renton and the Washington State Opportunity Scholarship provided funding to open the doors for more Renton Promise scholars, including Valeria. The program will further expand with a $250,000 grant from Boeing.

Valeria knew she wanted to work in a medical field where she could help people. Her high school classmate, Liliana Urias, had graduated from the Medical Assistant program and recommended it to her.

At RTC, Valeria found a supportive community and a learning environment where she could thrive. She excelled academically while working part-time at a restaurant and navigating a change in her living situation, often commuting nearly two hours by bus to campus.

Always a hard worker, she accepted a position at the college’s Financial Aid Office to replace her restaurant shift. It eases her commute and allows her more time to study and see her friends.

“I’m passionate about this career, and you just can’t give up,” she said. “When I saw my grades, I was super proud of myself.”

Valeria has faced struggles in her personal life and with her family, which only increased her motivation.

“My life hasn’t been perfect, but what has helped me push through everything is that I want to create a life for myself,” she said. “Coming here is helping me grow and gain the confidence that I can do this on my own. The support of the school, the support of my friends, helps keep me going.”