For Zachary D., coming to Austin Community College District (ACC) wasn’t just about getting a degree—it was about following a dream.
“When I was 21, I joined the Navy and was in for 5 years. I moved to Austin and started working as a medical assistant at an urgent care [facility]. Within one year, I joined the Radio-Television-Film (RTF) program at ACC.”
The 27-year-old started in ACC in spring 2023. While he originally saw the RTF program as a stepping stone, it became the launching point for his passion.
“I originally started as a transfer student to transfer to the University of Texas at Austin. After starting the film program here, I fell in love with how hands-on everything was and decided to stay.”
This experience has allowed Zachary to immerse himself with other students and put those creative skills to the test.
“Working in a creative field allows you to work with so many other amazing people and see the world, and art, from so many different ways. Making my first short film was honestly a blast, as is any time I’m on set. It’s one of the fastest ways to get to know someone and to be their friend!”
For Zachary, timing and opportunity aligned. His Veterans Affairs benefits made college possible, and ACC’s immersive RTF program gave him the creative space to thrive.
“I could pay for college and get money back from it. It was time to start being me.”
His story captures the spirit of It’s Your Time—ACC’s campaign celebrating students who are stepping up, betting on themselves, and building their future on their own terms.
“I’ve wanted to be involved with film since I was a kid, and so being able to find a place that allows me to fulfill that dream is amazing.”
Now Zachary has his sights set on the big screen.
“I’m trying to direct a feature film. I know that’s a huge undertaking but it’s what I want to do, so what’s stopping me?”
It’s Your Time to start this fall at ACC. For more information, visit austincc.edu/fall. For more information on the RTF program, visit austincc.edu/rtf.