Erika Alvarado graduated from Northeast Texas Community College (NTCC) in 2021 with an Associate of Social Work. Looking back, she says NTCC was more than just the place where she started college—it was where she found lifelong friendships and professors who truly believed in her.
One professor who made a lasting impact was Carmen Shurtleff. Erika credits her encouragement, guidance, and willingness to help as a big part of her success. She is also thankful for the many other professors at NTCC who invested in her, supported her, and helped prepare her for the future.
After graduating from NTCC, Erika transferred to East Texas A&M University, where she earned her Bachelor of Social Work in 2023 and her Master of Social Work in 2024. Today, she serves as a Licensed Social Worker with the Texas Department of State Health Services. She is passionate about supporting children with special health care needs. In her role, she works closely with individuals and families, helping them access the resources they require.
Outside of her career, Erika enjoys spending time with her husband and their two children, a daughter and a son. She is grateful for where her journey began and knows that the education, encouragement, and support she received at NTCC helped make her career possible. Erika hopes her story encourages other students to believe in themselves, take advantage of the support around them, and never give up on their goals.
