COM Alumni News

Where Are They Now?

Tanieka Francis
Class of 2024, Natural Science

Tanieka Francis began her College of the Mainland (COM) journey at just 16 years old as a Collegiate High School student. Despite initial nerves, she quickly found her place and excelled—earning her associate degree in Natural Science in 2024, just two weeks before graduating high school.

“My experience at COM has been the best time of my life,” Francis said.

COM gave her the confidence and support she needed to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse practitioner. She received scholarships from the COM Foundation and emergency aid during a difficult time.

“COM goes above and beyond to be there for their students,” she adds. During the 2024–2025 academic year, Tanieka served as a presidential ambassador, giving campus tours, assisting with scholarship events and even visiting the Texas Capitol for Community College Day.

“COM’s programs put students in rooms they never thought they’d be in,” she says.

Now on her way to UTMB’s nursing program, Tanieka is committed to making a difference in trauma care.

“If I can make even a fraction of the impact on my patients’ lives that COM made on mine, I’ll know I’ve succeeded.”

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