Midland College alumnae Hena Patel and Elizabeth Whitten exemplify the diverse paths students can take to achieve their career goals. Both women earned associate degrees from Midland College (MC) and graduated as Honors students, yet their backgrounds and educational journeys differ significantly.
Hena Patel, who moved from India to Midland at age six, overcame language barriers early in her education. By high school, she excelled in math and attended Early College High School at MC, graduating with an Associate of Science degree in 2021. "Math just always came easy for me," Patel noted. Her passion for science grew during her time at MC, where she engaged in research projects and participated in the Midland Chemistry Club. She also held leadership roles in the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
Patel continued her studies at the University of North Texas, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 2023. She then worked at Alcon in Fort Worth before pursuing a Master’s of Science degree at the University of North Texas Health Science Center.
Elizabeth Whitten's journey included attending multiple institutions before settling at MC. Originally from New Deal, Texas, she initially studied performing arts in Los Angeles but returned to Texas due to family obligations. After facing personal challenges and relocating several times with her husband Joseph, Whitten resumed her education at MC while working as a teaching associate with Midland ISD.
In 2023, Whitten completed an Associate of Arts degree in Teaching and now teaches third grade reading and social studies at MISD. She is furthering her education through Sul Ross State University's online program while balancing family life.
Both Patel and Whitten credit Midland College with helping them discover their skills and pursue their career aspirations.