Student Experience: Martha Merkson

“The most important thing I learned in my Dallas College education is how to build the foundation for becoming successful in the real estate industry as a salesperson, broker and an advocate for prospective buyers/sellers. Additionally, as an owner of real estate investment property, it is critical for me to understand taxation, homestead exemptions and my rights as a consumer as it relates to the real estate industry. 

“The best part of my Dallas College experience was having the opportunity to be taught by Theda Redwine. Her wealth of knowledge, years of experience and her ability to engage students was very interesting. She taught students in layman's terms related to all parties involved in real estate transactions, real estate law and other aspects of the real estate industry. This played an intricate part in my decision to obtain my real estate license. 

“As a certified mortgage banker (CMB), the Real Estate program prepared me for real-life work in the following areas: real estate law; the distinction between broker/salespersons, buyers/sellers and their roles; how to read and interpret contracts as well as review and understand the content of appraisals."

A senior audit officer at Citigroup, Martha Merkson reviews contracts for accuracy and validates documents for all parties to real estate transactions. As an investment property owner, she needs to understand and follow laws regarding evictions and tenant rights.

Merkson graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Business from Northwood University. She is also a graduate of the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) Graduate School of Mortgage Banking.


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Blanca Piña

Blanca Piña

Director of Human Resources Tuesday Morning, Inc.
“One of the most important decisions I pride myself with is earning an associate degree and certificate in Management. This was the foundation that provided me the opportunity to be competitive and have a successful career. Through education, I am living my dream.”
Business and Management
Israel Bazan

Israel Bazan

Costco Associate
“Even though I have spent 15 years working in retail in various leadership roles, the RMC program gave me new points of view and illustrated for me the reasons why many things are done.”
Business
Photo of Kianna Vaughn

Kianna, Vaughn

Human Resources
“My dream job is to work in HR for the Dallas Mavericks.”
Human Resources Management
Tondelaya Cannon

Tondelaya Cannon

Facility Specialist AT&T Communications Inc.
“Taking online classes has been a tremendous help to me in achieving my educational goals. I already had a full plate, but with online classes I am able to work on my assignments any time of the day. It gives me the freedom I need to be able to maintain my family life and my academic endeavors.”
Business and Management
Martha Merkson
Martha Merkson
Senior Audit Officer Citigroup

Real Estate
School of Business, Hospitality and Global Trade
Updated June 12, 2026