The Power of Starting Here: Reese Reynolds's Hill College Experience

  Ashlee Ferguson
  Wednesday, October 28, 2026 4:14 PM
  Academics, General Events

Burleson, TX

For Reese Reynolds, choosing Hill College was a decision that changed the course of her future. After initially planning to enter the workforce straight out of high school, Reese discovered that college could be an affordable and achievable option thanks to the Burleson Opportunity Fund scholarship. 

Already taking dual credit courses through Hill College, Reese saw an opportunity to complete her core classes, save money, and build a foundation for her future. What began as a practical financial decision quickly became a transformative experience. 

“I went from being hesitant about going to college at all to realizing I was fully capable of succeeding,” Reese said. “The supportive atmosphere made that transition so much easier.” 

As a student on Hill College’s Burleson campus, Reese appreciated the smaller class sizes and the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with her professors. One instructor, in particular, left a lasting impression: Mei-Ying Lin. Through Lin’s Business Computer Applications course, Reese developed skills she continues to use today, including confidence in Microsoft Excel. 

“There's no way I’d be as confident in Excel today without what I learned in her class,” Reese said. 

After completing her core coursework at Hill College, Reese transferred to Tarleton State University, where she is now a senior pursuing a degree in Computer Information Systems and Cybersecurity. She currently works as a personal assistant and billing manager for a gym and plans to transition into the information technology field after graduation. 

Reese credits Hill College with helping her have a strong academic foundation and how to take the next step toward her career goals. Her decision to attend Hill also paid off beyond her initial expectations, as Tarleton awarded her a scholarship specifically for transferring from Hill College. 

One of Reese’s proudest accomplishments has been speaking at the Burleson Opportunity Fund breakfast. The scholarship that once made college possible for her became an opportunity to give back by sharing her story and encouraging others to pursue their education. 

“I'm most proud of being asked to speak at the Burleson Opportunity Fund breakfast,” Reese said. “That scholarship kickstarted my entire college journey, so it meant the world to give back and share my experience.” 

Along the way, Reese encountered doubts from friends who questioned whether attending community college was the right choice. Today, she sees her experience as proof that starting at a community college can be a smart investment in the future. 

“It was the best choice I ever made,” Reese said. “I received a quality education, and I'm graduating without any debt!” 

For Reese, the value of her Hill College experience extends beyond the classroom. It opened doors to a career in technology that she once thought was out of reach and showed those around her that higher education does not have to come with overwhelming financial burdens. 

Her advice to prospective students is simple: take the opportunity. 

“Go for it! I will always advocate for community college,” Reese said. “Hill gives you the space to figure out what you want to do without a massive price tag.” 

As Reese prepares to graduate from Tarleton State University and begin the next chapter of her career, she carries with her the confidence, skills, and appreciation for education that began at Hill College. 

Her story is a reminder that sometimes the first step toward a successful future is simply giving yourself the chance to try.