Gator Bites

S1: E29 | More Than a Degree: The LSCO Graduate Experience

In this special graduation edition of Gator Bites, LSCO graduates Zoey Royer, HeavenLeigh Hughes, Lucia Liu, and Reid Burman reflect on the experiences that shaped their college journey and prepared them for what comes next. From balancing jobs, leadership roles and demanding coursework to finding friendship, confidence and community, these students share honest conversations about growth, perseverance and discovering new passions along the way. They discuss how LSCO helped them develop professional skills, leadership experience and the support systems that made a lasting impact on their lives. As commencement approaches, the group looks ahead to transfer plans, future careers and the goals they hope to accomplish in the years ahead while carrying their orange pride with them into the future. About Lamar State College Orange: Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) [https://www.lsco.edu/] is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System [https://www.tsus.edu/], LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

S1: E28 | Beyond the Books: How PTK Builds Leaders

In this episode of Gator Bites, we’re diving into Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for two-year college students, and a powerful force for student success at Lamar State College Orange. Host Daniel McLemore sits down with PTK faculty advisors Jessica Williams and Byron Lumpkin to explore how the Alpha Nu Gamma chapter is helping students grow beyond the classroom. From leadership development and community service to scholarships and national recognition, PTK offers opportunities that extend far beyond academics. Whether you’re a student considering joining or just curious about what PTK really offers, this conversation highlights how finding the right community can transform your entire college experience. About Lamar State College Orange: Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) [https://www.lsco.edu/] is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System [https://www.tsus.edu/], LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

S1: E27 | Why FAME Works: Education, Experience, and Opportunity

In this episode of Gator Bites, we’re spotlighting the FAME internship program and how it’s redefining what it means to be career-ready. Recorded during National Apprenticeship Week, this conversation explores how students can earn a degree while gaining real-world experience through direct partnerships with industry. Host Daniel McLemore is joined by Sean McFarland, Dereck Cloeren, and FAME student Mason Pruett to break down how the program works and why it’s becoming a game-changer for workforce development in Southeast Texas. From paid, hands-on training to mentorship from experienced professionals, FAME offers a clear pathway from the classroom to a full-time career. Whether you're a student unsure where to start or an employer looking for skilled talent, this episode highlights how education and industry can work together to build the future workforce. About Lamar State College Orange: Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) [https://www.lsco.edu/] is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System [https://www.tsus.edu/], LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

S1: E26 | Earn While You Learn: Inside the Dow Apprenticeship

In this episode of Gator Bites, we celebrate ahead of National Apprenticeship Week with a deep dive into the Dow Apprenticeship Program and its impact on students and the Southeast Texas workforce. Host Daniel McLemore is joined by Dow representatives Larry Spears and Milton Briggs, along with LSCO student Gabriel Torres, to discuss how apprenticeships allow students to earn while they learn, gain real-world experience, and build lasting careers. From classroom concepts to hands-on application in the field, this conversation highlights the power of industry partnerships and how programs like this are creating opportunities that don’t just change careers, they change lives and communities. About Lamar State College Orange: Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) [https://www.lsco.edu/] is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System [https://www.tsus.edu/], LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.

S1: E25 | Inside Gatorama: LSCO’s Biggest Campus Event

In this special episode of Gator Bites, hosts Zoey Royer and Reid Burman take the podcast on the move at Gatorama, one of Lamar State College Orange’s most exciting campus events. From student organizations and ambassadors to community partners like DuGood Credit Union, this episode captures real conversations happening across campus. Hear firsthand what students love about being a Gator, why getting involved matters, and how events like Gatorama bring the LSCO community together. About Lamar State College Orange: Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) [https://www.lsco.edu/] is a two-year, state-supported institution located on the banks of the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. As part of the Texas State University System [https://www.tsus.edu/], LSCO is committed to transforming lives and communities through the continual pursuit of academic, professional, and personal excellence. Serving more than 5,500 students, the College offers associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields, providing new and unique opportunities for growth and success. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and innovation, LSCO serves a diverse student population, including a high percentage of first-generation college students. Through strong community partnerships, dedicated faculty and staff, and innovative student support services, LSCO is the bridge connecting those it serves to a bright, Orange future.