06/17/2026
At 18, Tara Pratt was balancing motherhood and school while building a future for her daughter. 30 years later, she has broken generational curses and is here at Dallas College helping students overcome similar obstacles to achieve their own educational goals. Learn more about this outstanding alumna below.
What led to where you are now at Dallas College?
“I was a student at Mountain View from 1994 to 1997, and my experience here opened the door to continuing my education. I became a mother at 18 during my senior year of high school. While many of my classmates were focused on prom and graduation, I was thinking about diapers, formula and how to provide for my daughter.
“That experience required me to mature quickly, but I remained determined to succeed. Despite the challenges, I graduated on time with honors. My time at Mountain View gave me the foundation and confidence to pursue higher education and ultimately build a career dedicated to helping students.”
What other higher education credentials have you earned?
“I earned a bachelor’s degree in mass communications with an emphasis in journalism and a master’s degree in postsecondary and adult education from Capella University. I also completed 32 doctoral credit hours.”
Tell us about your career at Dallas College and your current role.
“My career at Dallas College began as an English tutor. From there, I became an English literature instructor with Upward Bound and later served as an adjunct developmental writing instructor.
“Eventually, I joined the Learning Commons in 2023. While my earlier work focused primarily on library services, my current role centers on testing and tutoring support. Throughout my career, I have worked directly with students, and that continues to be the most rewarding part of what I do.”
How did your experience as a student at Mountain View prepare you to serve students today?
“I remember what it felt like to need help as a student. At the time, I wasn’t aware of the tutoring services available, and there was often a stigma attached to seeking academic support. Many students believed that asking for help meant they weren’t smart.
“I returned to Dallas College because I wanted to give back. Throughout my life, teachers and mentors encouraged me, and I understand that not everyone has that support system. I consider myself a generational cycle-breaker in my family. By pursuing higher education and creating opportunities for myself, I helped establish a different path for future generations.
“Today, my younger cousins are attending college, and my children have seen firsthand what education can make possible. One of my proudest moments came when my son graduated from Mountain View in 2022. He will be continuing his education at the University of North Texas at Dallas this fall. Seeing that full-circle journey has been incredibly meaningful.”
