Student and Alumni Stories

General Studies

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Learn about how our students' and alumni's experiences at Navarro College have impacted their career objectives.

 

 

Micheal Heiskell

After graduating from Frost High School, Mike Heiskell enrolled at Navarro College.  During his two years at Navarro, he was active in numerous campus activities and organizations, and was voted Mr. NJC by his classmates.  He transferred to Baylor University where he earned at Bachelors degree and then completed his law degree from Baylor Law School. 

He served as Assistant District attorney for Galveston County and Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas before entering private practice in Fort Worth.  He was named “Lawyer of the Year” by the Tarrant County Black Bar Association and has been named a “Super Lawyer” by Texas Monthly magazine every year since 2003. 

In 2015 Heiskell was inducted into the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association Hall of Fame. Navarro College is honored to count Mr. Heiskell among its many success stories.   

 

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Lee Ann Kelley

Lee Kelley is excited to serve as a contract counselor at Allison and Associates. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate and is also working toward becoming a Registered Play Therapist. She earned a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Texas at San Antonio in 2019 and her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of North Texas in 2011. She has over four years of experience as an investigator with Child Protective Services, which motivated her to pursue a counseling degree.

Lee has worked in a variety of settings providing counseling to a diverse group of clients. She has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families with issues related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-esteem, grief and loss, trauma, substance use, parenting, divorce, and mental illness, such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Most recently, Lee served as a case manager on an assertive community treatment team for adult clients with mental illness, teaching coping skills and providing crisis management. Her other experience includes providing counseling to adolescents attending Boerne ISD schools, co-facilitating psychoeducational groups for adolescents involved in the juvenile justice system, and working with children and teens with special needs.

Lee’s personal theoretical framework is Gestalt therapy, which emphasizes that the whole of anything is greater than its parts. This approach encourages clients to focus on the present and understand what is happening in their lives. Lee uses a variety of interventions including mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, and strength-based strategies. Lee supports and empowers people to achieve self-awareness and reach their therapeutic goals.

In her downtime, Lee loves listening to music, watching horror movies, and trying out new vegan dishes. 

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Precious Cephus

Precious Cephus, former Navarro College Financial Aid Success Coach, is one of the special members of the campus community, having spent time at Navarro as a student before becoming a staff member. She has been employed with Navarro College for almost 30 years. She started her journey in the Office of Residence Life as an Administrative Assistant. Then for the next 12 years, she split her time working in two departments as a Residence Life Area Coordinator and Financial Aid Accounting Clerk. Eventually, she transferred to the Financial Aid Department working her way up from specialist and counselor to success coach. Her love, dedication, and commitment to the College while building strong lasting connections to students is what makes her a treasured employee.

A Corsicana native, Precious attended Corsicana High School and graduated in 1989 before she began her studies at Navarro College. She obtained her associate's degree from NC in 1992 and her bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University-Commerce in 2012. 

Precious has been active outside the campus community for over 20 years. On the weekends, she keeps herself busy taking care of developmentally challenged adults at a group home, seeing them complete challenging tasks and learning new things which she finds rewarding. For several years, Precious served as the sponsor and chaperone of both gospel and choir groups through NC's club, Chosen Ministries.  Since 2006, she has also worked as a Test Coordinator for ACT and continues to administer ACT Tests on a bi-monthly basis.

In her spare time, she enjoys reading, listening to gospel and R&B music, and couponing.  

Favorite Navarro College Memory: Being a dogsitter of NC mascot, Beau V. while he was in her office. 

Favorite Bible Verse: "Cast all your worries upon him because he cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7

Updated: February 2021

 

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Rev. Dairy Johnson, Sr.

As Coordinator of Student Success for the College, Dairy Johnson is responsible for preparing students to transition into the next level of their educational journey. He also serves as the student advisor for recipients of the Opening Doors to Success scholarship which is awarded to first generation college students. For the past eight years, Johnson has served as the chairperson for the College's annual Martin Luther King Jr. scholarship program. He enjoys working closely with students to foster relationships and create meaningful ways for them to connect with the College.

A 1972 Navarro alumnus, Johnson's work experience includes nearly twenty years in higher education with 14 of those years as an Assistant Vice President of Student Services/ Community Liaison. Prior to his work at Navarro College, he served as a publishing editor of The Examiner for the Corsicana Daily Sun newspaper (24 years) and was the pastor of Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church (35 years).

Johnson was one of the first students to earn an associate's degree in the College's new Printing Technology program. Around that time, he decided to pursue religious studies and went to Faith Evangelical Seminary where he received a B.A. in Religion. For graduate studies, he enrolled at the Grand Canyon University in Christian Studies and at the Graduate National Missionary Baptist Congress of Christian Workers.

Describing himself and his journey through life, Johnson offered a simple summary in the form of a quote from Maya Angelou: 'Nothing will work, unless you do.'

Accolades: Member of Corsicana NAACP President, Currently Vice Chairman of the Board Community Service Inc., 2020 Community Service - Board President, 2018-2020, Community Service Inc. - Board Member Vice President (Private), 2016, Legend Award - Chosen Ministries Navarro College, 2011, Paraprofessional of the Year & Navarro College Outstanding Employee Award, 2008, Religious Hall of Fame – Elite News Award, 2007, and Community Service Award Texas Coalition of Black Democrat of Texas, 1998-99.

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James Mbewe

Web Applications Developer
Texas A&M University San Antonio, TX

Ever since I was a child, education was important to me. Unfortunately, circumstances prevented me from finishing high school, so the thought of going to college seemed daunting. Nevertheless, I was determined to learn!

My interest in computers began when I first set foot in a computer lab at Navarro College. It was my first time to ever sit in front of a computer and learn the basics on how to use it. Soon after, I had my first computer programming class. It was a challenging class, because I had no prior knowledge of computer programming and how it all works.

With the help of my host family, advisors, and instructors at Navarro, I was able to get my Associates Degree and move on to get my Computer Science Degree from The University of Texas at Tyler. The educational foundation I received at Navarro helped me succeed in pursuing my degree and career as a software developer.

I currently work as an Enterprise Web Application Developer at Texas A&M University in San Antonio. My primary role is to create frontend and backend software that interacts with enterprise applications such as Banner, develop new modules for the university mobile app, and web applications for the university library.

Updated: February 2021

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Patricia Daniels

I graduated from Navarro College in 2009. I cannot put into words the impact that the faculty and administrators from Navarro had on my life! I am certain that I would not be where I am and doing what I love doing without them! Navarro is where my story began! It is where the foundation was laid for me to move on to Texas A&M University-Commerce to graduate with my Bachelor’s Degree in Education and then on to Lamar University to obtain my Master’s Degree in School Counseling. The care and attention that was poured into me at Navarro shaped and molded me for a future in a career that I am certain I was born to do. I am an educator! I can remember so many people at Navarro that encouraged me, picked me up, and dusted me off when I thought I could not do it. Navarro is where I received scholarships to help me continue my education. I had never received a scholarship before and to think that someone had entrusted me with his or her money pushed me to make sure that I did not let him or her regret the decision to award me a scholarship!

The lessons that I learned at Navarro will forever be a part of who I am. I am currently a counselor in the Corsicana Independent School District. I started my counseling career at CHS. I graduated a senior class from CHS. I made it point to speak with the seniors about the jewel that we have right here in Corsicana. Navarro College is accessible to them! We took trips to Navarro to tour the campus and to meet the faculty. I could always count on Dr. Stringer to meet with them, talk with them, and to watch out for them. We would stop by the Financial Aid Department and Precious Cephus would make sure that they knew she was available to help them in any way possible! We would visit the counseling center where we were met by Mrs. Hailey and Mr. Johnson and they would reassure them that they would not just be there but would be there for them. My students are my babies and I do not leave them in just anyone’s care but I am confident that the Navarro faculty and administrators will take great care of them. When you go to Navarro you are family and I am humbled to be a part of the Navarro family!        

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Tim Betts

Tim Betts, a 1996 NC graduate who earned his Master's Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Texas in Arlington celebrates his 13th year working for the Corsicana Independent School District. Mr. Betts taught for eight years at Fannin Elementary and served an additional three years as an Assistant Principal at Carroll Elementary before he became the principal of Jose Antonio Navarro Elementary School in 2018.

For Tim Betts, education is more than a career. It's a means to teaching students life skills that will help them become responsible members of society, long after they've left the classroom. Now in his second year as principal at Jose Antonio Navarro Elementary school,  Betts is just as inspired as he was on day one - and it shows. During his administration as principal, he rebuilt the face of the elementary school and increased enrollment. He was also named Best of the Best for Elementary Principal by Corsicana Daily Sun. 

Betts has always been driven to succeed. While at Navarro College, he remained on the Dean's and President's List during all four semesters, he was voted Vice President of the United Christian Fellowship by his peers, and was first runner-up for Mr. Navarro 1996. He represented for the class of 1996 by giving a commencement speech. 

Betts started his education career as a public school liasion for Hill Country MHMR. In 1998, when he started working at the local residential treatment center, he devised an unique education plan that proved successful to the center's program for young students. "The model I used to integrate corrections and education at Corsicana Residential Treatment Center became the norm throughout the state of Texas within the Texas Youth Commission (TYC) and later the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD)."  He was also one of the four captains of the Corsicana Residential Treatment Center’s STAR Team (Strategic Tactics Against Unrest) under Gwan Hawthorne and Brad Richardson.

Betts graduated from Navarro College with an associate's degree, received his bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University-Commerce and his master's from University of Texas in Arlington. Betts currently serves on the board for the Salvation Army (local). He has received numerous awards and recognitions for his outstanding work in the ISD and in the Corsicana community. 

Betts and his wife, Tara have been married for 17 years and they have three children.

Updated: February 2021

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Anthony Mullins, '19

Anthony is a first generation college graduate.

“I come from a family where no one has finished college. I will be the first! I am very thankful to have this opportunity to attend college. I originally went back to school because I have always dreamed of having a bachelors degree. l Iove the staff at Navarro College-Midlothian! Dr. Bentley, Professor Toon, and Professor Crandell were instrumental in my educational path at Navarro. I do not know where I would be without them as mentors and educators. They are exceptional instructors! Erika Roland has been extremely helpful in plotting my courses for my degree plan. Dean Featherston even created a CHEM 1412 class because I needed it to graduate on time and they did not have one!”

Background: He is a 38-year-old, happily married father of five amazing kids: Lilly, Maddy, Everyn, Tyken, and Kaylen. His wife is in nursing school so their lives are super busy!

Lives in: Midlothian, Texas

Future Plans: Has been accepted to TCU, SMU, and UTA. He will be attending UTA in the fall pursuing an Aerospace Engineering degree where he has the majority of his school covered in scholarships.

Accolades: Only missed 1 day of class (due to daughter being sick), Phi Theta Kappa member, Hosted study groups at his house, 4.0 GPA, and Church camp youth leader.

 

Updated: April 2022

 

 

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Jackson Embers, '21

“I originally wanted to be a doctor and was planning to attend a university in San Antonio, but after some complications, both my mom and Dad (who are separated) told me on the same day within minutes of each other that maybe I should check out Navarro college. My Mom had gotten her start here and my dad lives in Corsicana. So within a month, I packed my things and moved to my dad’s house in Corsicana. I truly felt God wanted me here, and everything has worked out very well.

My professors have made a huge impact on me, from classes to even my personal life. Professor Hawk who has taught me in Physics 1 and 2, as well as Engineering Statics, has helped me determine where I feel like I am supposed to be and all of my teachers are always there for me when I need them. I have had the opportunity to talk with Professor Hawk about my future and even start on a career similar to where he started. I truly enjoy my classes and getting to know my professors which helped me determine if I was on the correct path. I have been fortunate to have my professors' experiences to guide me. I am also in the Bowling League which puts me around great people and also allows me to destress for classes and tests and so much more.

I have been accepted to the Engineering program at Texas A&M and plan on moving to College Station. After I receive my Master’s degree in Engineering, I would like to get in the field to save up money and eventually teach Calculus at a High school.”

Extracurricular: I participate in my local church band every Sunday morning and Thursday evening for practice. I play Bass Guitar and also get the chance to teach some guitar lessons throughout the week. My hobbies are playing guitar, golf, and bowling so I am thankful I get to do most of that each week.

 

Updated: May 2021

 

 

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Anna Hollingsworth '21

“I am from Bardwell which is super small and right outside Ennis, Texas. I am a Dual Credit student at Corsicana High School and have been attending Navarro College classes since my freshman year. I became a Navarro College student because of all the amazing opportunities the college has to offer.

This experience has been one of the greatest experiences of my life so far. I am so grateful to Navarro College, because I would not be where I am or who I am today without this college. For my intended degree at my four university, I already have half of the credits needed to earn the degree when I begin in Fall 2021 and that would not be possible without Navarro. I have become so much more confident and more dedicated to my education through this experience. The professors, the classes, and the other students throughout my four years with Navarro College have taught me that it is normal to struggle and ask for help because we all ARE going through a shared experienced. So, the kind of impact Navarro College made on me is an ever- lasting one of gratitude and humility.

I plan to go to University of Texas at San Antonio to major in psychology and either minor or double major in biology; however, this might change because they have a specific major/program for those who want to go into pre-med, which is what I want to do (I want to be a psychiatrist).

I think my favorite parts of Navarro has been studying, which I know sounds boring, but I have had some of the best time studying with friends. Actually, in one of my classes, all of the students would stay in the lab during lecture break and go up to the chalk board and quiz each other on test material. It was so much fun especially trying to spell and pronounce some of the words. It was extremely helpful! I definitely recommend trying it if possible. Shout out to the people in that class and the professor for letting us do that.

I am graduating from Navarro a month before my Corsicana High School in June. I am planning to graduate from UTSA in 2025; however, I am going in with 61 credits, so I may graduate sooner.

Updated: May 2021

 

 

 

 

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Abdul Aziz Singhateh, '21

“I am from a low-income family, and as a kid I always knew that for me to be successful in life, I have to put extra effort in. I am passionate about helping others because I believe it only makes me better. I want to make the world a better place for everyone and without education I will not be able do this. My goal is to make the less privileged ones feel they have a role to play in this world and to show all the kids in different parts of the world they are intelligent, they have talents, and they should chase their dreams regardless of the obstacles they face in life. I came to Navarro College because of its academic atmosphere, the diversity of the student body, its unique clubs and organizations, the amazing teachers in the school, and affordability of the school.

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Erica Banks

I am a proud alumna of Navarro College. I am currently a Ph.D. Candidate in the Department of Sociology at Northwestern University. My dissertation focuses on the experiences of Black women who have been incarcerated. I particularly focus on examining their financial stability and economic mobility over their lifetime, particularly in the years and decades after they have been released from prison. I am about one year away from completing my dissertation. Upon receiving my Ph.D., I plan to begin my career as a university professor.

My years at Navarro College were highly influential, and they laid the foundation for my academic journey. In fact, the most memorable part about my time at Navarro College was the immense support and encouragement I received from various professors such as Professor Laurie Robertstad, Professor Rita O’Brien, Professor Lisa Dillman, Professor Dan Nesmith, Professor Beverly Pearson, and Dr. Tommy Stringer. In 2010, I graduated Summa Cum Laude with my Associate of Arts in General Studies from Navarro College. I was also a recipient of the M.C. and Mattie Graduate Caston Scholarship, which played a significant role in my ability to complete my undergraduate studies.

Upon graduating from Navarro College, I attended the University of Texas at Austin. Given my passion for studying social issues, Black history, and doing empirical research, I decided to major in Sociology and minor in African and African Diaspora Studies. In 2012, I graduated with High Honors and Special Honors from the University of Texas at Austin with my Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. However, my journey did not end there. Because I had such a strong passion for empirical research, academic writing, teaching higher education, and traveling, I left Texas to pursue my graduate studies.

After I graduated from the University of Texas at Austin, I moved to New York City to pursue my Master of Arts degree. It was at New York University that I ultimately found my “academic calling” so to speak. I began to take a strong interest in research on racial inequality, gender inequality, incarceration, and prisoner reentry. In 2015, I graduated from New York University with my Master of Arts in Humanities and Social Thought. That same year, I moved to Chicago to begin my doctoral degree in the Department of Sociology at Northwestern University. Now that I am nearing the end of my academic journey with my Ph.D. in Sociology in sight, I cannot help but to think about how far I have come. Because of my background as a Black woman, a first-generation college graduate, and a college student from a low-income family, my academic journey came with countless obstacles. Fortunately, the continued support and encouragement I received from the Navarro College community helped me to persevere. It is my hope that my story will inspire Black students from similar backgrounds to aim high and never give up on pursuing their goals.

Updated: February 2021

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Amanda Jordan, an Austin, Texas native graduated from John H. Reagan High School in May of 2002. Following in the steps of her oldest sister Angela, she attended Navarro College in the Fall of 2002. As a student, Amanda worked at the Cook Education Center Planetarium. While juggling her academics and work study position, she found time to serve as a Student Ambassador and Dawg Diplomat. She also was a Resident Advisor and often assisted the Navarro College Student Government Association and Habitats for Humanity.  

After Amanda earned her associate's degree in Elementary Education from Navarro College in 2005, she worked as an Area Coordinator in Residence Life Department for four years. She met her husband, Tramaine, back in 2003 while they were both attending school at Navarro (college sweethearts). They've been married for 14 years and are parents of three children (ages 8, 10, 12).  

Amanda went back to school to finish her education. In May of 2020, she was rehired at Navarro College as an Advisor for the Carl Perkins CTE Success Center. In August of 2020, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Learning and Technology from Texas A&M University – Commerce. She was a Scholar on the President’s List for maintaining a 4.0 GPA. 

Amanda has recently been accepted into the TAMUC master’s degree program. She is preparing to earn her Master’s Degree in Higher Education. Her career goal is to teach College History or Speech Communications.  

"My experience at Navarro College has been an amazing story, that is my beautiful reality. Navarro College is my second home, and I will never forget the friendships created and the experiences learned here. I have acquired so many valuable life and social skills while being a student and an employee. The traditions, diversity and the culture of this institution is like no other. As I walk down the halls and through campus. I am honored to share my memories and to see the growth of this establishment. Never forget where you came from, I am proud to be an Alumni of Navarro College!”  

In her spare time, Amanda enjoys spending time with her family. She is passionate about her ministry, assisting others, cooking, crocheting, crafting, gardening, and listening to jazz music. Amanda’s motto in life is to, “Always stay humble, smile and keep God’s love in your heart.”

Updated:  February 2021

 

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Alkali Barry began his studies at Navarro College in 2007 and received an Associates of Science in Summer 2009. As an international student from the Gambia, Navarro College provided the perfect college experience for him. The small class size promoted relationship building with students, instructors, and mentors that have helped to push Alkali towards a success during and after his time at NC. Likewise, Alkali was the recipient of the Pa Sarr Scholarship, which is awarded on an annual basis to students who demonstrate academic achievement and are from the Gambia.

After completing studies at Navarro, Alkali transferred to The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA), where he completed a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering Cum Laude in May 2016. During his time at UTA, he participated in the National Science Foundation funded International Research Experience for Students in Valencia, Spain and also obtained a highly coveted internship at Structural Solutions Inc. in Fort Worth, Texas.

For the past several years, Alkali worked as a Design Engineer, Project Engineer and Assistant Project Manager for a medium size civil engineering firm, LBYD. Inc.. He gained substantial expertise in structural steel connection designs and miscellaneous metals. 

Currently, Alkali is the Engineering Manager for Providential Metals, a steel fabricator in Alabama. In the future, he hopes to start his own consulting firm that focuses on structural engineering.  Alkali and his beautiful wife reside in Birmingham, AL.

Updated: February 2021

 

 

 

 

 

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James Gooden III

Hailed by the Dallas Morning News as “a great talent with wonderful stage presence and potential,” James Gooden, III returns to the performance stage after a brief hiatus to re-establish himself as a performer in demand for his rich, warm vocal tone, world class musicianship, and commanding stage persona. 

His appearances include the Houston Symphony, Fort Worth Opera, Dallas Opera, Southwest Lyric Opera, Opera in the Heights, the Dallas Symphony, The Texas Gilbert and Sullivan Society, and the Denton Light Opera Company. James performed many roles, including Bartolo (The Bartered Bride), Henry Davis (Street Scene), Frank (Die Fledermaus), The Pirate King (Pirates of Penzance), and Le Dancaire (Carmen). Musical Theatre roles include Joe (Show Boat), Jim (Big River), and Rapunzel’s Prince (Into the Woods). Recent solo works include Handel’s Messiah, Verdi Requiem, and Mozart’s Coronation Mass. 

James has also been fortunate enough to perform internationally as an R&B vocalist with Luther Vandross and Al Jarreau. 

With a servant's heart, James has devoted both time and talent to multiple causes, including serving on the board of Race Relations and Diversity with the National Crisis Response Team and is currently preparing for a benefit production of Fats Waller's musical "Ain't Misbehavin." 

This award winning Corsicana, Texas native attended Navarro College, studying under the Great David Timmerman. 

"My time at Navarro was… Magical! Within the Fine Arts building during my time there, I made both lifelong friends and began to create fantastic art whether it be theater of musical theater or Opera. Many individuals overlook the true gem known as Navarro. Each day was a new challenge. I recall being tasked to arrange the school song. Without hesitation, I said NO PROBLEM, and 48 hours (and not a lot of sleep) later, it was complete. At Navarro, your dreams were nurtured and molded carefully with great instruction. In fact, the instructors did such a great job, when I went to The University of North Texas, my musicianship was on par with some of the graduate students! I absolutely loved my journey at Navarro. It truly helped make me the musician and person that I am today. "

James also attended the University of North Texas. He has received training from world renowned performers and instructors, including Madeline Saunders, David Sundquist, Gerard Souzay, and Grant Williams. James currently lives in Houston Texas with his wife and two children.

 

Ashley Dowd Garcini, '07

Ashley received her Associate’s degree from Navarro College in 2007 and transferred to University of North Texas (UNT). After UNT graduation, she attended Airline Transport Professionals to receive all of her pilot ratings. Ashley previously worked six years at an airline, ExpressJet where she met her husband and fellow pilot, Carlos Garcini. In January of 2017, Ashley was hired at her current airline, Frontier Airlines, where she’s a First Officer on the Airbus 320. Both Ashley and her husband live in Colorado and look forward to the day they can move back to Texas.

“I literally share my positive experience about the impact Navarro College had on me any chance I get with co-workers looking for advice for their college-bound kids.

My favorite memory was 8 am on Monday morning in Mr. Dan Nesmith’s history class. It was my very first day and he came in, intimidating as ever, and specifically singled me out (since I had my textbook on my desk) and asked “how much did that book cost?” I answered “116 dollars.” He yelled, “A HUNDRED AND SIXTEEN DOLLARS??! You would think if I spent $116 on a book I would actually read it!!” That night and every night for his class I actually read the book I paid $116 for and managed to get my very first college A.

My reason for attending Navarro College was financial based. It was on the heels of my brother being seriously injured and my family couldn’t help me the way they initially wanted to financially with my higher education without causing a serious strain on them. I worked in town at Cotton Patch Café and was able to pay out of pocket for NC.

I tell everyone this is the best move financially and mentally. When I first walked through the doors at Navarro College I wanted to be a professional photographer. Today I’m an airline pilot. I changed my mind many times through the years and didn’t suffer financially for changing my mind. I was able to focus on the basics while at Navarro and had all of my credits transfer. I was able to complete my bachelor’s in four years with the help of good advisors and because I didn’t have extra erroneous classes. I feel if i had attended a larger school it would have been more difficult to change my mind due to the extra expense of extra classes.”

“Specifically, my time there wouldn’t have been the same without the influence of Dan Nesmith and Dr. Laurie Robertstad. They truly have a passion for teaching and I majored in History at the University of North Texas due to the inspiration Professor Nesmith had on me. The biggest thanks I have though is to Dr. Tommy Stringer and the rest of the MC and Mattie Caston Scholarship Committee. Receiving that scholarship was life changing and allowed me to fulfill my dreams.”

 

Updated: February 2020

 

 

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