(HARLINGEN) – George Ganze is an Agricultural Technology student at Texas State Technical College. The 55- year-old expects to graduate with his associate degree Spring 2019.

The Rosebud, Texas native currently holds a perfect 4.0 grade-point average and volunteers with the TSTC Veteran Students Alliance Club.

Ganze served four years in the Marines and was deployed to serve in Desert Shield and Desert Storm and is also a retired San Diego County, California deputy sheriff.

What are your plans after graduation?

After I graduate I plan on returning to Waco, where I have some land, and start a farming/cattle business. This is a new career for me and it will supplement my retirement and carry me through the rest of my life.

What’s your dream job?

My dream is to own a business. I was born and raised in Texas where farming and ranching is a big part of life and it’s time to make something of the land that I own.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC?

My greatest accomplishment while at TSTC is being placed on the Chancellor’s Honor Roll and being recognized for maintaining high grades. The last time I was in a classroom was in 1981, so this is a huge accomplishment for me.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

At my age I’ve learned many lessons, but the ones that have stuck with me are: you never quit learning or experiencing new things, be sure to take life one day at a time, meet new people, always laugh and be happy.

Who at TSTC has had an influence on your success?

The person who has had the greatest influence on my success is my Agricultural Technology instructor Sammy Gavito. When I came down from Waco he was the first person I met here at TSTC. He’s a great man and has been my guidance and support throughout the program.

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

My advice to future TSTC students is to take advantage of everything TSTC has to offer. This has been a great program and college for me and I highly recommend it.