When it comes to higher education and the road to success, Michael Williams ’77 knows all about it.
While at Texas Wesleyan, he made the most of his undergraduate experience by getting involved. The former Student Government Association president worked on The Rambler staff, belonged to Lambda Chi Alpha, and was Mr. TWC – to name a few.
After earning his bachelor’s degree in biology at Texas Wesleyan, he went on to earn a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) from the University of North Texas Health Science Center (UNTHSC), a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from Ross University; a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) from Duke University, and a master's degree in healthcare management from Harvard University.
His most recent success was being chosen as the interim president of one of his alma maters, UNTHSC.
“Don’t take for granted a single day of the time you have on campus and are in a learning environment,” Williams said. “For many people, it’s the only time they will have that experience.
“Learning is a lifelong experience and a lifelong endeavor. To get a really good start at the college level is to have an understanding and respect for the opportunity you’ve been given. Don’t take it for granted.”
“Learn how to work on a team,” he said. “I think it’s hugely important for people who want to be successful in the future to be able to collaborate and work with other people.”
“There’s so much education to be had outside the classroom,” Williams said. “I think it’s a positive thing to learn how to lead groups of people and how to get involved with groups of people.
“There’s some molding that goes on during your college years both in and outside of the classroom. If all you’re doing is sitting in the classroom and you’re not involved in other activities to enhance your educational experience, you’re missing out.”