Midland College Salutatorian Biak Tin Mang's journey epitomizes the American dream. Roughly 15 years ago, he immigrated to the United States from Myanmar (formerly Burma). One of his initial challenges was acclimating to American culture and learning English.
According to a Midland College news release, Mang's family first settled in Fort Worth before moving west to Midland. He began learning English in kindergarten at a local elementary school. A highlight of the Invocation at Midland College’s commencement ceremony was his speech at the graduation ceremony for Early College High School at Midland College. Mang will now head to the University of Texas in Austin to pursue a mechanical engineering degree.
"At ECHS at Midland College (ECHS@MC), I was able to become a person who strives to be the best at everything I do," Mang said. "The rigorous coursework made me adapt to high standards that were expected by the high school teachers and Midland College professors."
Mang’s coursework as an ECHS@MC student included an accelerated high school curriculum, which is typical of every student on campus, according to the news release. It didn’t take long for Midland College professors to notice Mang, who graduated with an Associate of Science degree.
"Mr. Mang spoke no English when he entered public school," John Anderson, Midland College Chemistry professor, said. "Today, he speaks flawless English, as if he was native born. This shows his ability to take on new challenges and handle adversity with ease. He will easily adapt to life at the University of Texas and hold his own in the engineering program there. In addition, he has an outgoing personality and is well liked, respected and regarded as a leader by his fellow students."
According to the news release, Mang was a member of the ECHS@MC National Honor Society, a member of the Midland College Chemistry Club, and attends the Midland Senthang Christian Church. He chose UT because he hopes to study abroad and receive funds for research.