By Alexandra Macia
Special from UTPB
HEB Partner 37-year-old Franco Alaniz is graduating with a degree in communications from UTPB, seven years after receiving his associate degree!
From Mission, Texas, Alaniz was introduced to UTPB through the HEB You Program!
“It had been seven years since I finished my associate degree and I needed to get familiar with an academic environment again. When I found out about HEB You I knew I had an opportunity to refamiliarize myself with the expectations and course load of the college environment,” said Alaniz.
The Program allowed HEB employees (or Partners) to come on campus for seven weeks to take two noncredit courses at UTPB. The partners were paid to take Interpersonal Communication and Retail Math.
Alaniz says his experience in the program prepared him for the courses at UTPB and helped him decide to receive his bachelor’s degree. He was looking to grow professionally and eager to be the first male in his family to graduate college!
“I started researching my options and I found UTPB and the Falcon Free Program. I could not turn down a chance to get my degree online and have my tuition paid for,” said Alaniz.
Alaniz took his courses online. The flexibility of online courses allowed him to work and go to school full-time.
“Classes have challenged me in a way that has helped my academic and professional growth,” said Alaniz.
Post-graduation, Alaniz plans to utilize his communications degree to expand his role within HEB.
“We have a diverse group of Partners, vendors, and customers and learning how to communicate effectively will help me be a more effective, impactful, and inspiring leader,” said Alaniz.
“It’s never too late to pursue a higher education. Programs like Falcon Free and HEB You can help you make a positive change.”
