Originally from Fort Wayne, Indiana, Richard “Travis” White moved to Sarasota, Florida, when he was 11 years old, where he would graduate from Booker High School. A first-generation college student, he first enrolled at Hillsborough Community College (HCC) in 2019 to pursue a degree in computer science. After taking a break from his education, he returned to HCC in 2023 and re-joined the Student Veteran Organization (SVO) on the Brandon Campus with a federal work-study position.
Now, he shares his experience with other student veterans in the HCC community, with the hopes of inspiring them never to give up no matter how their journey unfolds.
After completing his associate degree at HCC, Travis plans to transfer to the University of Tampa with hopes of a career in coding or as a database manager.
What military branch did you enlist, and why did you make the decision to serve?
I enlisted in the Army at the age of 20 but did not ship out until I was 21. I wanted to make a difference in my life while doing something good and being a part of something much bigger than myself. When I joined, we were in the middle of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, and in my mind, our country needed as many people as possible in order to protect the country’s values and what we stand for here in America. The only way I knew I could make a difference and keep what we love about this country safe was to enlist in the armed forces. Both of my grandfathers served in the Air Force, which made my decision to enlist a bit easier considering how big of a deal it is to raise your right hand for this country.
What made you choose education after/during enlisting?
I chose education after my medical discharge to pursue a career to make a better life for myself and my family.
Why did you enroll at HCC?
For me, HCC was the best option for the path I had chosen.
How was your inclusion in the computer science program beneficial to you?
It promotes a positive learning environment that values diversity and encourages collaboration and teamwork.
Any valuable tips to those who may be considering computer science?
The computer science program fills up very quickly at the university level, making the criteria for getting accepted a little more difficult. Do not get discouraged. Do not worry about what others in the program are doing. Forge your own path; don’t follow the crowd. Make your forged path a desirable one that is attractive enough for others to follow. We only get one life, and this crazy world can easily find a way to choose your path for you if you allow it to do so.
What made you join the SVO, and how has it impacted you?
I joined the SVO to be close to student veterans and have a sense of community that the SVO brings. It can be difficult being my age. After eight years of service with the Army, I was medically discharged. Having to enter the college atmosphere after my career plans came to an end was difficult for me. The SVO made me realize that I was not alone, made me feel a little less anxious and gave me peace of mind.
What other clubs/organizations, if any, are you apart of?
I have been part of the SVO since I started here at HCC. I have been in a leadership role most of my time here. I spent a few semesters as the SVO vice president, and now I am the SVO club representative. I encourage students to get involved in student government and find a club that aligns with their goals. It allows a sense of community while they continue their education and move towards their future goals.
What HCC resources, if any, would you encourage students to use/look into?
I encourage students to take advantage of all on-campus events. I also encourage students to take advantage of the tutoring system here at HCC, both online and in person.
Do you have a favorite memory associated with HCC?
My favorite memories here at HCC would be those from the on-campus events that HCC Brandon Campus hosts. My best memory was probably the September 11 memorial event we held in 2023.
Do you have words of advice to prospective students with a negative perspective on community colleges?
We all have to start somewhere. It’s important that we do not focus on where we start but focus on the future and where you will be or what you will become. The present is temporary, and the future is what you make it out to be. Keep your eye on the prize, don’t get stuck on the present, and most importantly, be kind to yourself. Surround yourself with like-minded people who have similar goals. A lot can be said about an individual based on who that individual chooses to surround themselves with. Perception is everything to those who do not know you on a personal level. If you choose to surround yourself with dirt, you are without a doubt going to come out looking dirty.
Is there anyone from HCC you’d like to thank for their advice or help?
I would like to thank the HCC staff for always being available and choosing to do their best for the HCC community.
What would you like to pass down to those currently in the computer science program or to those considering going into the program?
Do not get discouraged, network with others who are entering the field and keep your eye on your goals.
How do you see yourself applying your experiences into your life during/after your educational journey?
I want to share my experiences with others, good or bad. I want others to know that they don’t need to experience certain things in life to get where they are going. They can learn from my mistakes. That way they do not have to make those same mistakes in order to accomplish their goals, whatever they may be. There are certain things in this life that I believe no one should have to experience. So, if I am able to speak about them, I will in a way that translates to others so that they can learn through me what I had to learn the hard way.
What is something you’d like to do to help future student veterans or veterans outside of education?
I want anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation as me, who may have had every intention of making 20 years out of their service but it was cut short due to whatever reason, to know that they are not alone and that there is a future for them outside of the military. Even when they are experiencing their darkest days, there is hope, and a community does exist with like-minded people. In order to find or even be able to see that, you have to hold your head high and keep moving forward, seeking out what it is that you are looking for, that purpose that you may seem to lack or cannot see due to whatever it is you have going on in your life or your head.