For Anthony Evora, the path to a new career started at a moment of uncertainty. It turned into an opportunity to build something lasting for his family.
An Austin native, husband, and father of three, Anthony enrolled at Austin Community College District (ACC) in fall 2022 after being furloughed from his job at Alamo Drafthouse in the wake of COVID-19.
“It was right after COVID, and I had been furloughed from my server job, as many places had. Being a father of two at the time, I made the decision that it was an opportunity to search for a new career path.”
He chose ACC’s Medical Radiologic Technology program for its strong reputation, affordability, and the stability the field could offer.
“Healthcare is a field that won’t be easily laid off, furloughed, or replaced.”
From the start, Anthony took full advantage of the support systems available that helped him stay focused and move forward.
“I applied for Capital IDEA, used the food pantry available, the food distribution, tutoring, and libraries.”
He completed his degree in summer 2024, but what stands out most from his time at ACC goes beyond the classroom.
“My favorite part would have to be the friends I made along the way. We still keep in touch even with some who have moved out of state.”
Throughout it all, faculty and staff played a critical role in his success.
“I felt all the staff really invested in me and pushed for our success. Michelle Hamilton has been a lot of support.”
He also points to hands-on learning opportunities, including attending a radiology convention, as key moments that reinforced he was on the right path.
Today, Anthony is continuing to build on that foundation. He has expanded his skills in CT imaging and is preparing to pursue a bachelor’s degree in radiologic technology.
“It will help set up another push forward in my career to support and take care of my family and show them that being in school isn’t a bad thing. If we don’t keep taking the next steps, we will always stay where we are.”
Looking back, he says the decision to return to school was one of the most important he’s made and encourages others to take that same step.
“I would say do it! The days are long, but the years are short. I’ve already been out for almost as long as I was in, and it feels like I just got into the radiology program. It was definitely the right move, and even though my family motivated me a lot, I wish I had gotten this foundation laid way before.”
His advice is simple but practical:
“Apply to everything you can. You would be surprised at the assistance you can receive.”
For more information about the Radiology program, visit austincc.edu/radiology.