Sep 16, 2014

Sharing his story of through tenacity and hard work becoming the shortest player in the NFL, Houston Texan J.J. Moses encouraged College of the Mainland students and family members to pursue their dreams Sept. 13 during COM’s second annual Family Day.
 
During the action-packed event, students brought their children, spouses and parents to see what college was all about through mini-classes in science, history and psychology and lunch with faculty.

Attendees enjoyed face painting, moon bounces and balloon animals, while learning about how a family member’s support can make all the difference for a student pursuing their goals.
 
“Even if you’re the first in the family to go to college you can say, ‘It will start with me,’” said Vanessa Orallana, 22, of Galveston, a first-generation college student who attended the event with her husband and two children. “I have two little babies and I don’t have as much time. (J.J. Moses encouraged me) not to give up on my dreams.”