Dallas College

Student Experience: Sarah Martinez

“I can't remember specific classes or teachers, but I do remember an overwhelming sense of pride and confidence from all the instructors that taught in this program. I knew I was learning from true industry leaders with passion and firsthand knowledge of what they were teaching. It definitely made me develop a yearning to be an expert of my very own in this amazing industry.

“This program definitely made me feel inclusive and opens its doors to all walks of life to an industry that otherwise I would have never experienced or found on my own. I love hospitality because your experience matters here and is valuable, continues to keep human interaction as the basis of its foundation.

“I would tell people going through the program to take risks and try as many positions in this field. You never know when you may find your niche.“

Sarah Martinez earned her associate in Travel, Exposition and Meeting Management from Richland in 2009. She then went on to earn her bachelor's in General Business from the University of North Texas. Currently, Sarah is the Director of Rooms at Hilton Dallas/Park Cities.


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Isaac Juarez

Isaac Juarez

Ascender student
“Ascender has helped me come out of my shell, be more active on campus, and step outside my comfort zone. It has also allowed me to build meaningful connections and find inspiration. Through this journey, I have come to see my friends as my family.”
Business
Icela Robles

Icela Robles

Realtor Sandyland Estates Home Builders
“In the classes, I learned basically everything I needed to know to work in the real estate business: ethics, laws, guidelines, about the Texas Real Estate Commission — really, all that the business entails — through the Real Estate program.”
Real Estate
Gina Becerra

Gina Becerra

Program Services Assistant Workforce Training
“I was nervous when I first started, but I soon felt comfortable and more confident in myself thanks to the instructors and staff in the BOSS program. They inspired me to try harder and to believe in myself. I feel prepared and ready for what comes my way, and I also know that there are people out there who truly care about me and others like me who want to get ahead in life.”
Business
Gilberto Tellez

Gilberto Tellez

Manager Fernando’s Mexican Cuisine
“The best and most important thing is the knowledge I learned in Richland’s program. I’ve learned things that I know I will use someday in my career. I’ve learned a lot of things that I’ll be able to put into practice.”
International Business and Trade
Sarah Martinez
Sarah Martinez
Hilton Dallas/Park Cities
Business and Management
School of Business, Hospitality and Global Trade
Updated September 4, 2026