It has been about two years since I graduated from college. I cannot believe that I am saying that. Did the time really go by that fast?

What I appreciated about living in Austin was that I was able to really get to know the community. Businesses would invite me to learn more about their products, I would get to try new foods at restaurants, and I just really felt connected to the great people who, just like me, are striving to do what they are passionate about in life. Now that I am in Dallas, I have been trying to do the same.

I was fortunate enough recently to get a call that I didn’t expect from Dallas County Community Colleges. I had already graduated and so I was initially confused when they invited me out to come tour their campuses. But in the spirit of getting to know my new city, I said yes.

What I realized in the process I wouldn’t have expected.

I had only run into community college when I needed to take in-between summer classes or wanted to get a credit out of the way for a fraction of the cost than at my normal university. What I didn’t realize though is that community college serves as so much more. When I toured the campuses, I realized that there were many people there who were already in the workplace and looking to keep growing their skills for either a promotion, personal benefit, or even a new job outside of one that they didn’t like. I realized that at Dallas Community College, students could receive an education at a fraction of the cost. If you’re in the slightest bit interested, I encourage y’all to look at the check out the program information and apply for admission and take a step toward achieving your goals! The fall semester already started, but Dallas Community Colleges have Flex Term and online classes that start all the time.

When I was there I actually took a syllabus home with me just out of curiosity.  I thought it would be fun if I told you my top 5 picks of classes that I would like to take someday. I am going to include the description of the classes too.

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Dani Austin Los Angeles8 Dani Austin Los Angeles13 Dani Austin Los Angeles4 Dani Austin Los Angeles5

Sweater: Free People // Shorts: Topshop //  Glasses: Nordstrom // Watch: Michele // Shoes: Andrew Stevens //

Time Management (8.0 Hrs)

The Time Management course shows you powerful time management techniques and strategies that you’ll use every day of your life. You’ll discover clever, easy-to-use time saving techniques and strategies to enable you to be more productive every day.

Tax Preparation (60.0 Hrs)

In this beginner tax preparer course, you will learn to prepare tax returns and research tax issues for most Form 1040 individual, non-business taxpayers; plus the basics of Schedule C/self-employed tax returns. Textbook included.

Portrait Photography (24.0 Hrs)

Explore various techniques for lighting, posing and photographing people in a studio setting. Topics include: camera formats, equipment, film, and filters and lenses. Also, the use of natural, stationary, flash and strobe lights. Expect weekly assignments and provide your own 35mm adjustable camera (Single Lens Reflex/SLR), lenses, film and processing.

Presentation and Public Speaking (9.0 Hrs)

Is public speaking anxiety holding you back from growth in your career or from participating in community, church, or social groups? In a fun, non-threatening environment enhance your presentation and public speaking skills from a public speaking expert and actor who incorporates both public speaking skills and acting skills to let your personality be the star. In this class you will learn techniques that will help you engage your audience and promote your message.

Dog Obedience (7.0 Hrs)

Dogs must be six months or older to participate. Learn techniques for teaching your dog to walk by your side, sit, come on command, stay in place, and have people approach them. Please bring dogs to the first night of class and bring written proof of rabies vaccination.

The reality is that community college is something that can ensure that you never stop learning, never stop developing, and never stop striving to better yourself in all stages of life.   

I hope it can teach me to tell Hazel to roll over too.

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Dallas County Community College District. The opinions and text are all mine.