BASOL degree 'full speed ahead'
Student of the Week: Michael Banks
“My motivation to succeed is quite simple, I have two amazing daughters that I always try to set an example for. If that’s not enough motivation, I was recently married and my wife has always made education a very important priority in her life, and now she is motivating me to do the same.”
Michael Banks approaches education the same way he has approached his career in federal law enforcement for the last 30 years – full speed ahead.
Entering STC in the fall of 2019, Michael is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Leadership.
Drawing upon the strength of family, and his experience in the military and with the federal government, Michael says his degree will allow him to continue advancing within his career, as well as make him more knowledgeable in a leadership role.
“I researched numerous colleges and felt STC offered the most opportunities and avenues to complete my degree, while working around my job schedule,” Michael said. “From my first interaction with Mrs. Maricruz Hinojosa, with College Connections, I knew that I made the right choice in STC. She went above and beyond to help ease my worries and fears.
“You see I had completed my Associates degree many years before, and I was very nervous about returning to college,” he said. “Mrs. Hinojosa, paired me up with Mrs. Alejandra Garcia a Student Success specialist, who has been by my side throughout my time here at STC. The instructors/professors have also been great and always available.”
The Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Leadership is the first competency-based bachelor's degree from a Texas public institution that enables students to receive college credit for courses they have already taken and developed through work and life.
The degree focuses on skills that will help prepare students for a position of leadership in business, government, non-profit, or educational organizations. The upper division courses enable students to solve real-world business problems and demonstrate new skills through a final project that will be part of their portfolio for future opportunities.
“I would tell my peers, do not stop, set your educational goals and do not let anything or anyone prevent you from achieving them,” Michael said. “Take advantage of school staff, their success and yours are tied together and they really do want to see you succeed.
“My motivation to succeed is quite simple, I have two amazing daughters that I always try to set an example for,” he said. “If that’s not enough motivation, I was recently married and my wife has always made education a very important priority in her life, and now she is motivating me to do the same.”