Student Experience: Ira Thomas

“Being able to pursue my dreams and passions with other people that had that same feeling was a great experience. It also helped that I had great professors that saw my efforts and helped me reach my goals and keep challenging and pushing me beyond my limits.

“My advice to students taking classes in the program would be to find out and know exactly what you want to do in the industry from the start. Meandering through school is a waste of time and money if you're not focused fully on what it is you want to do. You'll end up unhappy with anything you create if you do that.

“And always set goals for yourself to keep track of the progress you're making and don't get discouraged if you feel like you're only making a little progress because whether it's two steps or five, progress is progress. And finally, be passionate about whatever it is you do. Showing how passionate you are about your career goes a long way with how people remember you and how much of an impression you make on new acquaintances in the future.“


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Anthony "Rusty" Stogner

Student, University of Texas-Pan American
“I loved my experience at Dallas College — I had nothing but great teachers and courses there. “I got a great background in graphic design in the Computer Graphics program — from Photoshop to 3-D design to Web-based knowledge.”
Digital Art and Design
Rebekah Gonzalez

Rebekah Gonzalez

Video Technology Student
“A lot of my creative inspiration comes from moments where I feel lost or uncertain. I turn to art to process those feelings. It helps me make sense of things I don’t fully understand yet.”
Video Technology
Dianna Zaragoza

Dianna Zaragoza

Freelance writer and stay-at-home mom
“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.”
Creative Writing
Photo of Deah N. Mitchell

Deah N. Mitchell

Assistant to the Director of Alumni Relations and Programming, SMU Owner, Nicole Berry Events
“In the beginning, I was hesitant because I didn’t want the courses to be too easy — I wanted to actually get something out of them. But once I realized my online courses were really challenging, I kept going back for more.”
Communications
Ira Thomas
Ira Thomas
CGI Artist

Digital Art and Design
School of Creative Arts, Entertainment and Design
Updated May 21, 2026