Dallas College

Student Experience: Dianna Zaragoza

"My full–time job is motherhood right now — I have four children ages 6 to 11. My goal is to get my doctorate eventually and work in education as a teacher or maybe an administrator — something that involves a lot of writing. Other than my family, writing is my passion. I’ve written three complete screenplays, one of which is actually readable, and I hope to do more creative work in the future as well.

"I work part time for the Mesquite Independent School District and as a freelance writer for the website Associated Content, a blog site.

"Taking online courses allows me to maximize time with my family and children. It helps me to manage my time so that I can be more flexible and be with my children more. The flexibility is the best thing. I’ve only had to come in to campus for tests. And even though I don’t live that far away, the cost of gas these days is a major factor in my decision to take courses online. Distance learning works for my budget and for my schedule."

Dianna Zaragoza is earning an associate degree through online courses offered by Eastfield College.


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Levi Palmer

Levi Palmer

Co-founder and Designer, palmer//harding private label
“The best part of my experience there was the incredibly knowledgeable and encouraging faculty, as well as the amazing location that El Centro provided. My education here has provided me with the necessary foundation of skills and knowledge in the fashion industry, which I use on a daily basis today.”
Fashion
Nolan Brett

Nolan Brett

Mastering Engineer, Crystal Clear Sound
“It’s really invaluable to be able to learn from professionals who are a part of the industry. I also really like that it’s an accredited institution of higher learning, not a fly-by-night group of people trying to make a buck.”
Commercial Music
Lindsay Weatherread

Lindsay Weatherread

Fashion Stylist and Designer L. Weatherread Design
“The program has small classes and is very hands-on. When I left El Centro and talked to people in the industry who had gone to other schools, I found that I had learned way more than most of them. Pattern making and sewing are definitely a big strength at El Centro.”
Fashion
Jerry Dean

Jerry Dean

District Manager, Aramark Higher Education
“The experience at El Centro helped establish my career as an executive chef. Now I work in food service administration, where I have the ability to impact the culinary experience of thousands.”
Culinary and Pastry Arts
Dianna Zaragoza
Dianna Zaragoza
Freelance writer and stay-at-home mom
Creative Writing
School of Creative Arts, Entertainment and Design
Updated September 22, 2026