Spotlight: Isaias Medellin

Isaias Medellin graduated from high school in 2013, earned an associate’s degree in criminal justice in 2017 and then joined the United States Army. After five years of service, he was a young man searching for direction. 

“My time in the Army took a toll on my body,” he explains. “I spent long hours working on tanks and weapon systems—when I got out, I was ready for something completely different.” 

In 2023 the Texas native relocated to Sioux Falls, where he shares custody of his six-year-old daughter, Amelia. 

“Everything I do is for Amelia. I want to make her proud and be a good example,” says the devoted dad. 

His desire to build a better life led him to USF’s radiologic technology program, drawn by its blend of health care, science and technology.

“A friend told me about rad tech and it sounded so interesting,” he shares. “When I saw USF offered the program, it felt like the right fit. I decided to go for it.” 

Despite initial worries about returning to the classroom, Isaias found a welcoming community at USF. 

“People at USF are so helpful and friendly. The curriculum is tough but the faculty is amazing,” he says. “People here want you to succeed.” 

That guidance includes helping Isaias secure a work-study position in USF’s information technology department as he prepares his application for the final two years of his bachelor’s degree. He is hoping to land a coveted spot at an accredited school of radiologic technology through Avera Health or the Sanford USD Medical Center. 

The process is competitive – but Isaias is ready for the challenge. 

“With hard work I can achieve anything,” he says. “I plan to keep learning and moving forward to make the most of every opportunity.”