As a Midland College graduate, Andrew "Andy" Reyes returned to teach in a community college environment — a full-circle moment where the student becomes the mentor.
Reyes' Mexican immigrant grandparents raised him in Andrews, the college said in a release about the hiring. After graduating from Andrews High School in 2006, Reyes enrolled at Midland College.
Since his time at Midland, he has received a master's degree in Athletic Training, licensure in athletic training, and board certification, the college said. Another highlight of his work included internships over two summers with the Dallas Cowboys.
In the fall of 2019, Reyes began his position as the head athletic trainer for South Plains College in Levelland, the release said. After all of his work and dedication, Reyes was happy to return to a familiar atmosphere.
"I'm really just a guy from West Texas," Reyes said in the release. "I was born and raised here, and after having lived in the metroplex for a while, I'm glad to be back in West Texas."
Reyes oversees the training and needs of three sports at South Plains in his new position, including basketball, track, and rodeo.
"It felt like the right thing for my career when I landed the job at South Plains College," Reyes said in the release. "If it wasn't for a community college, I wouldn't be where I am today."
Midland College Athletic Director Forrest Allen spoke of Reyes' time at the college in glowing terms.
"From the moment Andy came to the Midland College campus up to now, he demonstrated a level of maturity, attention to details and a base of knowledge that is uncommon," Allen said in the release.
He also saw the promise in Reyes' future, adding, "It was clear to us that he would be a success story for his family and would be an alumnus we could point to as representative of what is possible for all of our students."
As Reyes enjoys his continued successes, he wants his students to make the most of their time at community colleges like Midland and South Plains.
"A community college is the best bang for your buck," Reyes said in the release. "The professors are approachable, and I encourage my students to build relationships with their professors. I tell my students to get the most out of the time that they're here. Community colleges are a special place."