Big dreams and an unstoppable drive

Taylor Rains has big dreams and an unstoppable drive to make it as a successful entrepreneur, which led her to South Texas College’s Business Administration program. 

With the college’s affordability and program flexibility, Rains is well on her way to becoming a first-generation graduate. She expects to graduate with an associate degree within the next couple of years.  

“My educational journey at South Texas College has helped me dive deeper into the business world,” said Rains. “And I’ve found a unique twist to get me started.” 

Rains has found her current business aspirations in shoe design, meticulously hand-painting each pair of shoes, ranging in style, with a creative touch. To expand her ventures, she has also added vintage T-shirts.  

Rains said her retail offering resonates with her personal style.  

“My appreciation for aesthetics and designs is what inspires me,” she said. “I really like working with Nike shoes, but I love all styles and unique textures.”   She added, however, that her academics takes center stage. 

 “I’m working hard to grow my business, but having been raised by a single mother who did not have the opportunity to earn a bachelor degree,  I recognize the transformative power of education,” said Rains. “I’m determined to achieve what she couldn’t. I made a commitment to education for her.”   

Outside of the classroom and the entrepreneurial world, Rains is also active in STC’s Intramural Sports, giving her the chance to pursue her passion for flag football. 

“From the beginning, every program within Student Activities resonated with me,” she said. “Flag football has always been a love of mine, and the moment I met the team, I knew I was in the right place.”  

Rains said STC is a testament to how transformative a community college can be.  

 "STC has given me the opportunity to dedicate myself to making a lasting, positive impact on the college community, by dedicating myself to not only personal growth, but also Student Activities,” she explained. “I thrive on working with people, so being in this environment helps me do just that. STC has given me a sense of pride.”