theWarrior Spring 2011 Edition

TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY CENTRAL TEXAS • SPRING 2O11 • BOOK ONE, CHAPTER ONE

INSPIRING STORIES FROM

life’s next chapter

A NEW CAMPUS EMERGES FROM STRONG COMMUNITY

AND MILITARY ROOTS

OPPORTUNITIES SOAR FOR AN A&M-CENTRAL TEXAS AVIATION STUDENT

PROPELLING

possibilities

WELC MEWe are one of the newest universities in our state and nation, and we are pleased that you are interested in us. Our Central Texas roots are deep, and our evolution has been in process for more than twenty years. We are the culmination of a collective vision, a dream shared by many, that upper-level and graduate study would someday be accessible to all Central Texans through a regional, public institution of higher education. In May 2009, by action of the Governor and the Legislature of the State of Texas, Texas A&M University-Central Texas was approved as the tenth university in The Texas A&M University System. It now serves a wonderfully diverse population across an equally diverse and expansive geographic area, and it is committed to making a difference in the lives of all its students.

Our constant inspiration, and the source of our Warrior name, is the many thousands of men and women in uniform who have served and protected this nation with pride, courage, and unwavering determination. Those characteristics were also continuously evident in the community and educational leaders who pursued the vision that has now become A&M-Central Texas. They are characteristics we hope to instill and nurture in our students; they are cornerstones for the character of a university built on both excellence and inclusion. On an August morning in 2010 when ground was broken for our permanent campus, we saw before us only the rolling land, the tree-covered hills, and the blue Texas sky, but we all shared the dream that will become our students’ reality for decades to come. Because we knew, and had always known, that the future of our region, of our state, and of our nation would reside in our students.

Guided by the talent and dedication of an exceptional faculty and staff, the current pathways to more than fifty undergraduate and graduate degrees at TAMU-CT will continue to expand and to diversify as our students are both challenged and supported by opportunities to enrich their lives inside and outside the classroom. We know the challenges faced by many of them, perhaps most of them, in their pursuit of a college education. We often marvel at their determination and their perseverance. Each year during our commencement ceremonies, the A&M-Central Texas community celebrates the accomplishments of the graduating class, and we rededicate ourselves to creating a quality learning environment where every student matters and where every educational aspiration is valued.

It is truly an exciting time to be a Warrior, and to know that when you receive your baccalaureate or master’s degree, you will have also participated in the building of a new university. Because our success, like that of all quality institutions of higher learning, will be ultimately measured by the success of our students. Our reputation will be built upon their achievements in the classroom, in the world of work and professions, in their service to community, and in the fulfillment of their dreams and aspirations. I can’t imagine a vision more worthy of our passionate commitment, or an environment more appealing to future students whose presence will be valued and whose success will be celebrated.

We invite you to join us! Open the next chapter of your life as a TAMU-CT Warrior!

Marc A. Nigliazzo, PhDInaugural President

WELC ME

GROUND BREAKINGhistorical reflections and aspirations for the future

of A&M-Central Texas as ground is broken on the first building

PROPELLING POSSIBILITIESa student’s story of childhood dreams realized and careerambitions taking flight

PRESIDENT’S WELCOME 2

STUDENT BODY PRESIDENT’S WELCOME 4

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT 5

STORIES FROMLIFE’S NEXT CHAPTERintrospective stories of struggle and triumph in degree completion

17 STUDENT AFFAIRS

19 POSTSCRIPT

CANDID CAMPUS moments, memories, and milestones

— photos from the past year at A&M-Central Texas

• P A G E 4

Texas A&M University–Central Texas is fortunate to have the most broadly diverse campus within The Texas A&M University System. Many students enroll to receive the advantages of a high quality education; some have kids, part-time or full time jobs, and some even both. Many are active military or dependants seeking to enhance their positions in life. We all have unique stories and paths that led us here; to share in the pursuit of excellence and the passion and rewards of a higher education.

A new chapter in my life began by returning to school last year to honor a promise I made to my late mother. Education was very important to her and it is in her name that I strive to persevere and improve myself daily as a man. I am currently seeking a degree in criminal justice and minor in sociology. Upon graduating, I would like to pursue a graduate degree in higher education with an emphasis on governmental relations. As your elected student leader, I will strive to facilitate relationships between the faculty, staff, and student body. I will seek to make your student government association an influential body with a firm foundation of communication to assess problems, make positive improvements, and coordinate changes. My philosophy is founded on the belief that student government should be a proactive group which promotes student activities and is a forum that student organizations can come to for assistance, encouragement, and support.

During my tenure, I will ensure unity through diversity and serve as the student voice to the faculty and administration. I will inform, educate, represent, and deliver the ideas, opinions, and concerns of the student body within the scope of the student government association. I will help form lasting bonds of collaboration with the members of our community and serve you with honor, integrity, and an eye for the future. Together we can make this an incredible year. As Sam Vijay Kumar said, “Today I am what I am because of my yesterday’s choices. And where I shall be tomorrow, Will be decided today.”

So I ask you, “What’s your story? Where will you be tomorrow?”

BLEED BLUE!

Clarence EnochsStudent Body President, 2010–2011

student VOICE

faculty SPOTLIGHT

Name: Deborah Crowder, PhD

Assistant Professor of Curriculum & Instruction

Education: BA Bible, Howard Payne University

MEd C&I, Tarleton State University

PhD C&I, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi

Received the first PhD in Curriculum & Instruction at A&M-Corpus Christi

I knew I wanted to be in this career when…

I don’t think I can truly finish this statement. It seems that I have

spent a lifetime getting to this place in my career. One thing led to

another…That taking life day by day is what got me here. I cannot

give you a moment that I knew this is where I was headed. All I can

tell you is I know this is where I am supposed to be.

What is your favorite quote or inspirational saying?

This is hard because my favorite quote changes day by day; really

mood by mood. Today my favorite quote is: “The head thinks, the

hands labor, but it’s the heart that laughs.” —Liz Curtis Higgs. I would

like to add that is the realization of all three in life that keeps me going.

I think, I work, and I laugh!

10. Impact the future of the U.S. through educating students

9. Show people their past doesn’t have to dictate their future

8. Help each student to see his or her value7. Open minds to the reality that the world is a very big place

and worthy of exploration6. Encourage people to go further than they dreamed possible

5. Make a difference in the face of my community4. Show students knowledge is power3. Teach skills that will improve the student’s future opportunities

2. Infect those around me with a desire to learn1. Change a life (I started out wanting to change others

— found it changed mine)

REASONS TO BECOME AN EDUCATOR

• P A G E 6

the unseasonably crisp morning of August 26, 2010, Texas Governor Rick Perry, A&M System officials, Central Texas community members, City officials, and Fort Hood representatives broke ground on the first building of the new Texas A&M University-Central Texas campus.

Excitement spread throughout the crowd as the Fort Hood Brass Quintet band played revelry and a 1st Cavalry horse emerged from the distance. The mounted officer presented Dr. Marc A. Nigliazzo, Inaugural President, Texas A&M University-Central Texas, with a shovel to begin the ceremonial groundbreaking. The shovel symbolized the historical and unwavering partnership between The Texas A&M University System and the U.S. Army. The future home of the ‘Warriors’ has been a dream for many, and that dream was finally coming to fruition as guests watched gold tipped shovels disappear into the ground on the new land.

“It is a big day for Central Texas, as we welcome this new educational opportunity that will and can change lives,” Perry said that Thursday morning. “I am here today to break ground on a new facility for the Texas A&M University- Central Texas campus and join in starting a new chapter in the life of this great town. The facility that will take shape on this piece of ground will be a tangible reminder of our state’s continued commitment to education.” Perry signed senate bill 629 establishing A&M-Central Texas as a stand-alone institution on May 27, 2009.

Joining Perry in delivering remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony was Congressman John Carter, District 31, and Senator Troy Fraser, District 24. The passion for this university was evident in the smiles that spread across their faces and the heartfelt words they spoke.

“This has been a community effort,” said Carter. “The Fort Hood community has also been united in this cause and it shows! We don’t send just the best fighting men to the field but we also send the most educated men to the field.”

Senator Fraser also approached the podium and shared his feelings on this celebratory day, “We are here today with my proudest accomplishment since I have been in office. The gift of higher education is the best gift I can give to this community. This gift also recognizes our commitment to Fort Hood...and the commitment these brave men and women have made in making the ultimate sacrifice, to defend our country.”

Morris Foster, Chairman of The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents, presided over the ceremony and greeted the Central Texas audience with a warm, “Howdy” as he spoke that morning. Foster said, “This groundbreaking today really goes to the bottom of my heart in terms of what it’s going to do for the people in this area and what it’s going to do for the military. We really have the opportunity, with this new university, to educate people before who really haven’t been able to travel the distances needed to travel and likewise to be able to afford the cost associated with it.” He continues, “This university’s going to provide high quality education for this area at a reasonable cost.”

Education is the great equalizer. I pledge to you that we will concentrate more on what goes on inside these buildings than we will the buildings themselves.”

— Dr. Michael D. McKinney Chancellor, The Texas A&M University System

P A G E 7 •

Also delivering remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony were Dr. Michael McKinney, Chancellor, The Texas A&M University System; Dr. Marc Nigliazzo, Inaugural President of A&M-Central Texas; Dr. Tracy Teaff, Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs, A&M-Central Texas; Representative Jimmie Don Aycock; and Timothy Hancock, Mayor of Killeen.

The speakers left their own unique mark on the ceremony and it was evident that this university was birthed in the hearts and spirit of the community. These special speeches truly highlighted the significance of this extraordinary groundbreaking in Central Texas.

“One of the unique things about this university is that it will be different,” exclaimed Representative Aycock as he approached the podium. “We will design something that will be new and exciting. It will partner with businesses and schools and as a result, it will become something broader. Another unique aspect of this university is that many of the students that come here are not your traditional students, these students are generally older and wiser. Education is a priority in their lives.”

Dr. Teaff also shared a profound moment with the crowd and stage party, “I don’t think there are many times when you can get a group of Legislators and Higher Ed officials close together talking about one common thing that brings so much emotion out, that means so much.” She continued, “That really speaks to how important this day is in the life of this community and in the lives of the people that have worked so hard for today. It is very gratifying to be involved in it and we thank all of you.”

A&M-Central Texas had the privilege of having Mayor Timothy Hancock speak at their color and mascot reveal ceremony in January of 2010 and once again he provided his sincere remarks at the groundbreaking.

“You can’t walk on the water until you get out of the boat and I think we have finally gotten out of the boat here,” said Hancock. “It is not often that one gets to participate in a project that will touch the lives of so many in the future. For us, in this region, this is that project. This is truly the place where opportunities will be created for present and future generations…To all who want a better life, I say don’t sit around and wait for someone to give it to you…Now is the time, this is the place, come and get it!”

The Department of Student Affairs at A&M-Central Texas collected items from students, faculty, staff, and community members to put into a time capsule; preserving a piece of time for future generations to enjoy. The cap to the time capsule was presented to Dr. Nigliazzo by Student Government Association President, Clarence Enochs, at the ceremony.

“I have the unique and distinct pleasure to present the top of the time capsule which will reflect the dreams of this occasion and hopes for the future. This will link us in kinship and brotherhood in 50 years when they open the time capsule and learn about the paths that we took,” Enochs said during the presentation. The capsule will be placed within the walls of the new building, to be opened again in 2060.

Last but not least, before the ground was broken, Dr. Nigliazzo addressed the audience and gave his remarks about this momentous day.

“I got goose bumps coming over the hill this morning,” said Nigliazzo. “I got goose bumps because I could see this tent, and because I could see this tent I thought: imagine what that building is going to look like. Not just because it’s a building, but because of what it will represent. This building will be a beacon on this hill. It will constantly send a message about education, the opportunity for education, and the rewards for education.”

The 10a.m. groundbreaking ceremony for the first A&M-Central Texas building took place on 662 acres of land that was transferred from the U.S. Army to The A&M System on September 4, 2009. The $40 million, 103,000-square-foot building will be comprised of classroom space, a lecture hall, student services, enrollment services, administrative offices, support services, and a campus bookstore. University officials anticipate that construction of the new facility will be complete in the spring of 2012. It was designed by Good Fulton and Farrell and will be built by Austin Commercial.

This special day had so many unique meanings to so many different people. No matter what the personal emotion the ceremony evoked, a universal truth remains; education is opportunity and opportunity is alive as A&M-Central Texas begins to build a foundation for ‘Life’s Next Chapter.’

For construction updates + more information about the new building, visit TAMUCT.org/NewCampus.

• P A G E 8

FEATURED ABOVETOP LEFT Dr. Marc A. Nigliazzo was presented with a shovel from the 1st Cavalry Division’s Horse Detachment representing our strong partnership with Fort Hood.

TOP RIGHT Architectural rendering of the new building’s Northern exterior.

CENTER GROUP From left to right: Mr. Steve Newberry, TAMU-CT Division Director; Dr. Tracy Teaff, TAMU-CT Provost; Mr. Clarence Enochs, TAMU-CT Student Body President; Major General William F. Grimsley, Ft. Hood Deputy Commanding General; Mr. Cresencio Davila, Texas A&M System Student Regent; Dr. Richard A. Box, Texas A&M System Regent; Mr. Phil Adams, Texas A&M System Regent; Representative Jimmie Don Aycock; Governor Rick Perry; Senator Troy Fraser; Congressman John Carter; Mr. Morris E. Foster, Chairman of The Texas A&M System Board of Regents; Mr. Timothy L. Hancock, Mayor of Killeen; Dr. Jeffery Kirk, TAMU-CT Division Director; Dr. Michael D. McKinney, Chancellor of The Texas A&M System; and Dr. Marc A. Nigliazzo, TAMU-CT President.

P A G E 9 •

is like a bookwith many different

chapters. Some tell of tragedy, others of triumph. Some chapters are dull and ordinary, others intense and exciting. The key to being a

success in life is to never stop on a difficult page, to never

quit on a tough chapter. Warriors have the courage to

keep turning the pages because they know a better

chapter lies ahead.” —Anonymous

We asked our students to share their unique journeys with us as they

write ‘Life’s Next Chapter’ at A&M-Central Texas. Sit back, relax,

and enjoy their stories of inspiration.

After graduating from Temple High School in 1996 I attended Baylor University to follow my dream of being a teacher. Realizing that my heart wasn’t in it and experiencing life’s journey, I decided not to go to college. I worked full time and eventually moved from Waco back to Temple with my parents. After several years, I decided to attend Temple College where I received my Associates Degree in General Business in 2000. That same year, I also married my high school sweetheart. In 2005, we were blessed with our daughter Kelsie. Kelsie is a special child who has cerebral palsy and suffers from a seizure disorder.

After the birth of my daughter, I began working for Belton ISD in the Technology Department and learned many new things that challenged me daily. Although I enjoyed my job, I was not completely set on doing it forever. In the early spring of 2009 I decided I wanted to go back to school and finish my Bachelor’s degree. While working full time, raising a family, holding positions in a local PTA, and initiating my daughter on the Ketogenic Diet for her seizures, I knew I needed to find a program where I could take online courses. I researched several universities in the area as well as online education programs, but couldn’t settle on any particular one. I remember sitting on my bed one night as a commercial came on for Texas A&M University-Central Texas. The next morning I started the

C H A P T E R O N E b y

Becky Olson

• P A G E 1 0

application process, spoke with an advisor who reviewed my completed transcripts, and before I knew it I had my very own degree plan. Once I got the news that I was accepted as a student at TAMU-CT, I was so excited! I knew I had really done this all on my own. I applied to the school, did my own financial aid applications, and initiated all of my appointments with advisors; I was determined to get my bachelor’s degree this time. So, I took on a smaller workload and attempted 3 classes in the spring to see how well I could juggle all my responsibilities while going to school. I quickly learned that I could successfully balance everything going on in my life and excel in the classroom as well. That summer I confidently began taking a total of 4 classes and maintained the new work load throughout this past fall semester as well.

I will tell you that the pages in my life don’t all fit together. It may not flow like a well-written novel but it makes sense to me and I feel great for all that I have accomplished. I currently have 11 classes remaining and am classified as a senior, working towards a Bachelor’s Degree of Applied Arts and Sciences in Business Occupations. I plan on graduating in the Spring of 2012. After receiving my degree my initial plans are to get my teaching certificate and then see what doors open for me at my current employer. I have loved being a part of the Texas A&M University-Central Texas family and am proud to be a Warrior. I can’t wait to see what life’s next chapter has in store for me.

C H A P T E R T W O b y

Jonathan WaddyI have been battling the No. 1 killer of the human race all my life — heart disease. In addition, I also suffer from severe scoliosis, which is a 50 degree curve in my spine. These two medical conditions combined make my life extremely challenging on many levels.

My cardiac history really begins at my birth, when the doctors told my parents that I might not live past the age of one. Surpassing their doubts, by the time I was five years old I was strong enough to undergo a procedure replacing my damaged mitral valve, along with re-implanting an important artery. The children’s hospital of Philadelphia and Dr. Norwood truly saved my life. The recovery was tough and I will never forget how hard it was to just take a few steps. This was also the last time I would see my mother alive. Before she passed, she helped nurse me back to health in that hospital.

Life after the surgery was filled with medication and hospital visits. Every 2–3 months I was in the hospital doing test after test, blood work, surgeries, adjustments on medications, and you name it I was getting it done to me. I lived at the hospital. I began to know the medical staff like they were family and I was able to cope with my condition as much as possible. I think my positive attitude helped my family and I get through it.

Recovery was always tough. At 14, I had to learn how to walk again, wait for the nerves to re-route along the spine (the most painful part), wear a body cast for six months, take crazy amounts of pain meds, receive home schooling, and basically remain a prisoner in my house for a year. By the age of 17, after all of the recovery procedures, I was finally ready to receive my GED and walk at my gradation.

In 2005, I decided to go back to school and study business at Central Texas College. Unfortunately, by the end of the fall 2008 semester my heart rhythms had become so irregular that I had to have an Implantable Cardioverter

Defibrillator (ICD) implanted in my chest. The ICD helped deliver a shock whenever my heart rose above 255 bpm and paced my heart whenever it dropped below 40 bpm. The device changed my life, but by December 2008 I was in need of a more sophisticated version. As a result, this meant another surgery. A soon as I healed from the second ICD surgery, I went in on February 2009 to undergo another heart surgery, all the while still enrolled at CTC. So despite a cracked chest with titanium rings holding it together, I miraculously found time to study and keep up with my course work. My recovery was going well until yet another set back. In March 2009, I was admitted through the emergency room and once again my life was spared. During the summer of the same year, I had another surgery on my defibrillator for added hardware and was doing very well. At this point, my heart was under control for the most part but my back was next. Looking into possible solutions for my scoliosis condition, doctors suggested not to have my entire spine fused to a rod. So instead we decided to combat the pain with injections every 6–8 weeks, heavy pain medications, sleeping aids, muscle relaxers, and many other pain relievers. Although this helps, the pain is still outrageous.

All in all, I came to Killeen to start my own family and make a better life for myself. Today, I have an Associate’s degree from CTC and I chose A&M-Central Texas to further my education. I’m so proud to say that I’m a student of this university after all I’ve been through to get here. I’m studying to get my Bachelor of Administration in Management and I plan on obtaining my MBA in the future.

Instead of living in a hospital everyday, being a father and going to school is the ‘normal’ life I know now. I am currently raising four children, going in for check ups, and fulfilling my dreams by attending this university. I will never give up on my dream of obtaining three degrees. I hope that my story will help motivate students to never give up no matter what, because life is going to test us all. Some harder than others, but if you really want it there is no excuse why you can’t get it.

C H A P T E R T H R E E b y

Kayla FlewellingMany young adults believe that going to a college is a walk in the park, which includes tons of partying, fun, and little class work. I was unfortunately one of those naïve college students and I quickly realized how wrong I was.

My Mom and Dad never went to College, so I am the first one in the family to take the big step into the world of expensive universities and the intimidating ‘student loan’. I wanted to be like the rest of my classmates who had applied to big name schools and planned on moving away from home after high school.

Instead I decided to stay closer to home and save money to transfer into a bigger university later. So, I applied to Central Texas College (CTC) and received a letter of acceptance and scholarship offer.

While attending CTC, I immediately put my ‘saving money plan’ into action. I began working full time as a Student Engineering and Office Automations Clerk with the United States Army Operational Test Command Center on West Fort Hood. Before I knew it, two years had gone by and I was able to pay for my entire Associate’s degree without a single student loan! At the same time, I was watching my friends have a blast while they were off at big universities and I was still living at home and attending a community college. It seemed my ‘college experience’ completely paled in comparison to the opportunities my friends were experiencing. I was desperate to get away from home and to be enrolled in what I perceived as a ‘real university’.

P.S.Kayla’s Inspiring ChapterContinues in the PostscriptSection on Page 19

CONNECT AND CONTRIBUTE TO OUR

CAMPUS PHOTO STORY ONLINE AT

FLICKR.COM/TAMUCT

• P A G E 1 4

“When I was younger, I remember looking up at the huge planes soaring over my head, and feeling a sense of longing. I knew that not everyone had the skill to fly, and I wanted to be a part of that elite group,” said Ryan. “I knew at that moment I would do anything to fulfill my dream of becoming a pilot.”

Immediately following high school, Ryan sought after his dream of becoming an aviator and began his journey at Central Texas College. After completing the first two years of the aviation program he transferred over to Texas A&M University-Central Texas and was on his way to completing a 4-year Bachelor of Science in Aviation degree. Ryan was drawn to the curriculum at A&M-Central Texas because he felt at ease with the seamless transfer from CTC and he knew the professors in the program would offer a high-quality education with tons of real life experience. Ryan enjoyed the broad spectrum of topics that were covered in his courses and felt like he learned a well-rounded base of knowledge. All of

Since he was able to walk, Ryan Hulon always knew he was born to fly. At the age of 8, Ryan daydreamed of flying through the clouds in his own aircraft. He would gaze into the sky with amazement at ‘The Wings Over Houston’ air show while his grandfather told stories about flying on different aircraft in the Army. It was at this time that Ryan’s passion for aviation was ignited.

P A G E 1 5 •

the courses fueled his passion and made him even more excited to begin his aviation career. Ryan said, “One of the things I look forward to most about this career is that even if I have 20,000 flight hours under my belt, I can still be learning something new everyday. There’s always something to improve and you’re always growing as a aviator.”

Now with only a few credits left and at the brink of receiving his degree, Ryan describes what it feels like to be the pilot in the sky he once envisioned, “When I’m flying, I feel fee. I feel like a very knowledgeable pilot who earned his spot in the sky. Every time I climb into a plane I think to myself, I’m about to do what many people can only dream of doing, just as I once did 14 years ago. The feeling of success and accomplishment after fulfilling a childhood dream is truly indescribable. From the day I went to that air show in Houston I knew I wanted to be able to fly a plane and do it for the rest of my life. Having my degree and commercial pilot’s license will be a dream come true but to be receiving it from A&M-Central Texas is icing on the cake.”

His family members always gave Ryan gifts of airplanes

and aviation related memorabilia throughout the years. His passion was obvious to anyone who knew him.

“My grandfather, who graduated from Texas A&M in 1952 with a Mechanical Engineering degree, was known as a huge pack rat and took pride in all of his things. Once he heard about my accomplishments at TAMU-CT, he was so proud that he gave me his A&M class ring as a gesture. This was a huge honor for me and I never take it off.”

Upon completion of his degree, Ryan will work towards becoming a flight instructor in the Killeen area. He then aspires to get a job with a regional airline and go wherever the wind takes him.

Ryan encourages anyone who had a dream like his to “Go for it. It’s a very liberating feeling to know you’ve accomplished something that has been years and years in the making. All your hopes and dreams can come to reality and you finally realize, this is what I am going to do for the rest of my life and I am going to love every bit of it! ”

Ryan Hulon’s childhood dream literally took flight. What an accomplishment for a young boy who’s grandfather once told stories of aviation, and now as a young man, will have an A&M ring and stories of his own to pass down for generations to come.

An Aviation Student’s Soaring Story of Inspiration and Childhood Dreams Realized

• P A G E 1 6

Texas A&M University-Central Texas (TAMU-CT) offers the only public-assisted four-year aviation program in Texas. Centrally located in Killeen, A&M-Central Texas’ Bachelor of Science in Aviation degree provides students a well-rounded curriculum with strong conceptual foundations in aviation science and management. A&M-Central Texas offers junior, senior, and graduate level courses where students can specialize in becoming a Professional Pilot or in Aviation Management. To ensure a seamless transfer from community colleges to upper-level work at A&M-Central Texas, prior lower-level core and aviation courses can be transferred into TAMU-CT without a loss of credits.

Students receive many hands-on opportunities within the aviation program at A&M-Central Texas including field trips and exciting experiments. Some of the field trips include tours of the Austin Bergstrom Air Traffic Control Center, Gray Army Air Traffic Control Center, tour of Austin Army National Guard Blackhawk Facility, and the

Killeen-Fort Hood Regional Airport. Students also conduct memorable experiments including ‘The Rocket Project’, which allows students to launch homemade rockets and fosters the fundamentals of instruction. Students within the program are often offered internships within several aviation programs and major airline carriers.

The program emphasizes the importance of hands-on learning and real world experiences, which in turn, equips A&M-Central Texas graduates with the tools necessary to propel them into successful careers. Some of the university’s past graduates can be found flying jets for the United States Navy and major commercial airlines, as well as serving in roles like Airport Operations Supervisors and Airfield Managers.

For more information, buzz over to TAMUCT.org/Aviation

Every time I climb into a plane I think to myself,

I’m about to do what many people can only dream of doing.”

about THE AVIATION PROGRAM

P A G E 1 7 •

student FOCUSED

ACADEMIC SUPPORT PROGRAMS

Tutoring (face-to-face and online), disability support services, study guides, testing, and other various workshops are offered through Academic Support Programs. This program administers the Writing Proficiency Exam on specified dates for students who need to complete their writing proficiency requirements. Our premier workshop for students is the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Workshop, which is offered each semester to assist students in adequately preparing for the exam. Students requesting academic accommodations are required to register with Academic Support Programs to receive academic accommodations.

Student Affairs enriches the quality of campus life by providing innovative student-centered programs and learning experiences that foster service, diversity, and integrity. Students have the opportunity to engage socially, professionally, and academically to enhance lifelong learning. To achieve our mission, Student Affairs provides outstanding programs and services for students in the following areas:

DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRSPhotographed above, from left to right:

STEFANIE GOODINGAdministrative Assistant

BRANDON GRIGGS Director

DIANA CORIMSKIStudent Activities Coordinator

CINDY GUZMANCareer Services Coordinator

• P A G E 1 8

CAREER SERVICES

Career Services at Texas A&M University-Central Texas assists students in establishing long-range career goals and provides assistance with job-search strategies. Students may use our services at any time during their academic experience or up to one year after graduation for: career consulting/assessment, job search assistance, local and national full and part-time job listings, career information library, a computer-based interactive career guidance system, career-related workshops with professional speakers, mock job interviews, business etiquette dinners/luncheons, one-on-one resume and cover letter assistance, WARRIORLink online job search system, career fairs, etc.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

Participation in organizations, activities, and events adds an important dimension to the college experience. In addition to making friends and interacting with others, students have the opportunity to develop leadership skills. Students may participate in a variety of recognized organizations, including academically focused groups, honor societies, and special interest associations. Sponsorship for special activities, conferences, and speakers is available through the Office of Student Activities. There are many campus-wide activities during the year: Annual Welcome Back Picnic, health and wellness clinics and workshops, Distinguished Leadership and Service Awards, service and volunteer opportunities, etc. Students at Texas A&M University-Central Texas are eligible to use the Recreational Sports facilities at Central Texas College; a valid TAMU-CT ID card is required to use this facility. Students wishing to participate in intramural, local or city league competitions may secure sponsorship for Texas A&M University-Central Texas teams by contacting the Office of Student Activities.

FOR MORE INFORMATION,PLEASE CONTACT US:

PHONE 254.519.5721EMAIL [email protected] TAMUCT.org/StudentAffairs

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is published biannually by the Texas A&M University-Central Texas Department of Marketing + Public Relations, 1901 S. Clear Creek Road, Killeen, Texas 76549.

Randy McCauleyDirector of Marketing + Public Relations,Publication Art + Creative Director

Alison RexCommunications Specialist,Publication Editor

Contributing PhotographersRonald BlackmanTony CooperJeremy Enlow

theWarrior • Book One, Chapter One©2011 Texas A&M University-Central TexasAll rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

K A Y L A ’ S I N S P I R I N G S T O R Y C O N T I N U E S . . .

So, for a year and a half I applied as a transfer student into a bigger university, and finally I got my acceptance letter. I was going to study Psychology and couldn’t wait to start. As my parents helped move me into my dorm room, reality started to hit me. I was really going to have to be an independent woman responsible enough to live, study, and work on my own, hours away from home. I started to feel immediately overwhelmed.

The studies were much harder than I expected and there were about 300 people in most of my classes. I instantly missed the more intimate class size of 25 students that I was more accustomed to. I began to feel suffocated and missed being home. The stress of the demanding workload and exhausting social life started taking its toll.

Instead of gaining the typical ‘Freshmen 15’, I did the complete opposite and lost a lot of weight, drastically. I began to forget to take care of myself and fell behind in my classes. I just couldn’t seem to keep up with the pace of my peers and as a result my health quickly deteriorated. While going to school full time and also working, I couldn’t seem to catch my breath and get back on track. Once the semester ended, it was clear that I needed to focus on getting healthy before attempting to survive another semester.

My dreams were crushed and my mental health was at its lowest. I honestly couldn’t believe that I was leaving a college that I loved so much. I didn’t think that there was anything else for me to do. I thought my academic career was over and that I should give up my dreams of helping people who suffer the way I do from a mental health disease. I felt defeated and I was now back where I started living at home trying to pick up the pieces of my life.

I’ll never forget the day I woke up and felt hopeful. This is the day I saved myself. I opened the Sunday paper and saw an article that read, ‘Board Members had approved the change of Tarleton-Central Texas to A&M-Central Texas.’ My heart skipped a beat and I felt a fire inside me to finish what I started and go after my dreams once again. Luckily, I was still able to apply though Central Texas College as a transfer student, and I was accepted as a student at A&M-Central Texas. This new opportunity allowed me to be at home with my parents and get healthy again. I was going to be given a second chance and I couldn’t be more excited!

It has been a year and a half, and my health is back to 100%. Although my dream of moving far from home and attending a large university didn’t exactly work out, I feel that things happen for a reason. I am a Warrior, and I was so proud to be able to walk across the stage at Commencement this past December and receive my bachelor’s degree. This degree means so much to me; an accomplishment I have spent the past five years fighting for and is now mine forever. I realized that I didn’t have to be miles away from home, sitting in large classrooms, to find a home at a university. Turns out it was right here in Killeen all along.

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