Alumni Spotlight: Holton T. Mills

Photo: Holton Mills poses in front of Millican Hall at the University of Central Florida campus for his graduation.

Name: Holton T. Mills

Title and Company: Community Engagement and Partnerships specialist at Addition Financial Credit Union

Degree pursued at Seminole State: Associate of Arts (A.A.), 2015-2017

What factors played into you deciding to attend Seminole State College?

The top factors that played into my decision to start my collegiate career at Seminole State was the neighborhood and community feel the campus gave off as well as the smaller class sizes. 

Seminole State gave me an opportunity to feel comfortable asking questions in class and form relationships with professors. Being able to have a one-on-one connection with my professors was extremely beneficial to me. 

What were your steps after leaving Seminole State? 

After receiving my A.A., I continued my education at the University of Central Florida. During my last year at UCF, I interned in the Community Engagement and Partnerships department at Addition Financial Credit Union. Fortunately, that internship transitioned into a full-time position upon graduation.

How did your time spent at Seminole State help prepare you for where you are now?

One of the most important things that I received from my experience at Seminole State is time management. During my time there, I worked part-time at the School Board of Seminole County Public Schools in the Office of Communications and Community Involvement. Having to balance both school and work wasn’t something I appreciated at the moment. However, reflecting on that experience I’m thankful Seminole State offered an abundance of class options so I was able to manage both. Time management and managing a calendar is essential in my current area of work. 

Who or what class was your greatest influence at Seminole State College?

I have nothing but great things to say about the faculty and staff that I interacted with during my time at Seminole State. The individuals that had the greatest influence on me were my advisors at the Oviedo campus. During my last semester, I was the passenger in a serious car accident. The advising staff went above and beyond to help me and make sure I didn’t have to withdraw from any of my courses or delay my graduation.

What advice do you have for current or prospective Seminole State students?

My advice would be to enjoy every moment and have an open mind to new experiences. While you’re in college you will learn just as much outside of the classroom as you do inside of one. There’s no question that the material learned from the courses and course work are valuable, but equally important are the life lessons imparted by the college experience as a whole. Some examples of what I learned outside of the classroom are networking, time management, dedication and responsibility. All of which I use in my everyday life both in my professional and personal life. 

What do you like to do for fun?

For fun I like to work out, take classes at my cycle studio, check out new restaurants in town and hang out with my roommate’s puppy!