Midland College Graduate Pursues a Career in TeachingJuly 28, 2020

Thomas Ramos began his educational journey at Midland College (MC). He grew up with family ties to coaching and teaching and has always envisioned pursuing the same career. Now living out those aspirations, he is putting his degree to good use.

"Midland College has been my second home," Ramos said. "I learned about MC from my parents when I was growing up. I attended Kids' College as a child and worked for Kids' College as a teacher. I have always stayed connected."

Ramos graduated from Stanton High School in 2011 and started at MC that same year. He graduated with an Associate of Arts in General Studies in 2014, and then attended the University of Texas of the Permian Basin (UTPB), where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology in 2018.

Ramos said that his parents were influential in his path to college: "My parents encouraged me to go to college and fixed it in my mind that continuing my education was important."

For Ramos, attending college was a growing experience.

"College matured me,” he said.  “I became a lot more resourceful and independent.

“It was essential for me to set goals and establish a game plan to meet them.  I discovered that it was important to know the faculty in my program major.  They became the foundation for a professional network that helped me along the way."

Ramos always thought of moving to Dallas or San Antonio once he graduated from college, but family and opportunity kept him here. He has now begun his career as a Physical Education (PE) teacher at De Zavala Elementary.

"I wanted to go straight into coaching, but I love what I am doing," Ramos said. "I love watching my students learn and begin to believe in their abilities."

Pursuing a master’s degree and a high school or college coaching position is still a future goal. Currently, in his spare time, Ramos enjoys volunteering to coach basketball at the YMCA and soccer for the Midland Soccer Association (MSA).

MC Director of Athletics Forrest Allen got Ramos involved tracking statistics for volleyball and basketball games. Allen served as a mentor to him during his time at Midland College.

"I've known Thomas and his parents for over two decades,” Allen said.  “Thomas has always been a very respectful, honest young man with a tremendous work ethic.  It's no surprise to see his diligence pay off. It's great to see him now as a college graduate and a professional educator. I know his entire family is very, very proud!"

Ramos said that MC helped prepare him to further his education: "MC is a great starting point for students. My time there created a foundation that set me on the path for success."

His counsel to middle and high school students considering college is to "seek out information about college and scholarships. Get more involved in your community and the clubs in high school that can help you learn leadership skills."

Thomas Ramos' advice to college students is simple: "Don't be scared; venture out and try new things. College is a challenge, but it's a good challenge. Don't give up on yourself. You have to keep going and roll with the good times and the bad times. Always keep the goal in mind and remember why you started."