LU Senior Reflection: Donna Starnes

The most unforgettable memory for me here at Lamar University is when I received my GPA and realized that I am no longer an average student, but capable of graduating with Latin honors. I returned to college at 62-years-old and found Lamar University with the help of a friend. Dilley Independent School District, where I am employed, has a "Grow Our Own" program and gave me $10,000 to finish my degree. I had the money and I had the motivation, but never did I dream that this average student who gave up on college because of "college algebra" would be capable of earning such good grades. Every instructor was encouraging, helpful and very knowledgeable of their subject matter which made it such a positive experience for me.
 
Some of the unique experiences I have had while attending Lamar University online was meeting new friends from all over the state of Texas. Some classes required group projects and we ranged in age from 20 to 63, but it worked. I have truly enjoyed Dr. Ruth Stanley's classes especially COMM 4302. My husband, Royce, and my family have been encouraging throughout this entire journey. They sacrificed vacations, weekends, and home cooked meals because I had homework to do. Dr. Jadie and Rebecca Matthews were also very supportive as well as Dr. Clint and Gretchen McClain. The Dilley I.S.D. school board provided the funds for the program that helped me return to college and they kept track of my progress. I have worked at Dilley I.S.D. for 30 years and will return again this school with one exception, I am no longer a paraprofessional, but have been hired as a teacher. I can pack up my college textbooks and share what I have learned with high school students.
 
The advice I would give to returning and future Cardinals would be to work hard, keep in contact with your instructors and don't be afraid to ask questions. Anything is possible if you set your mind to it. I am an example that you are never too old to return to college and dreams do come true.
-Donna Starnes, communications
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