Agustin Halac

We are delighted to introduce our Alumni & Friends community to alumnus Agustin Halac who earned an Associate of Arts degree in 2016 and a Bachelor of Science in Education in 2018. A veteran of the Marines and currently working on his doctoral degree, he now serves as Early Childhood Education Professor and Early Childhood Education Program Manager at Broward College.

Agustin, where did you grow up and what motivated you to attend Broward College?

I was born in Anaheim California, but at the age of 2, my family moved to Argentina. When I was 4 years old, we returned to the US and settled in Hollywood, Florida. My mother was a Pre-K teacher and so I would go to school with her - I still remember not speaking any English and having to look to my teacher for help playing with my classmates. What motivated me to attend Broward College was that I was fresh out of the Marine Corps and I needed something to help me transition back into the civilian world - Broward College helped me find what I wanted to do and give me a new career. 

Can you tell us about one or two moments that stand out about your time at the College?

The first moment that stands out to me is my bachelors graduation day. I was with all of my friends and family, and it was a moment I never thought I'd be able to achieve. I

The second moment is the Mock Interview Event that the Teacher Education Pathway hold for every cohort of student teachers. It was there that I interviewed with Croissant Park Elementary and they decided to take a chance on me. From there I became the Autism Coach, and as a direct result of that, I transitioned into my current role. I owe Principal Allison so much for giving me the opportunity to put into practice the skills I learned in the program.

Did you have any favorite professors or people at the College who were important to you as a student?

I have a special place in my heart for a few of them: Prof. Kelly Walker, for seeing potential in me and recommending I apply for the University of Miami's Early Childhood Special Education Program. Prof. Santiago, for taking chances and doing so much in her very first semester. Dr. Juan Ospina, for showing us that classroom management can be fun.

Were there any particular resources at the college that were important to you when you were a student?

I loved using the library for studying, my classmates for support, and my professors for the instruction.

Were you a scholarship recipient as a student? If so, how did that assist you?

I was not a scholarship recipient, but I am proud of the steps that Broward College has taken at both the institutional and program levels to secure scholarships, grants and vouchers for students so that their financial burden is lightened. For example, Dr. Molina has done a wonderful job at securing grants so that our Bachelors students are able to secure 30 days of a study course for the teacher certification exams, and a voucher once they complete the course.

Where did you go after Broward College? What was your path? How did what you learn at the College prepare you for your path?

After Broward College, I went straight into my Master's degree with the University of Miami while working as a first-year Special Education Teacher. I then became an Autism Coach and team leader of the ESE Department at my school. I then joined the Broward College family.

What do you wish other people knew about Broward College, something you think is a best kept secret or a something that makes our college standout among other institutions?

We have the best tuition, the most caring professors and the most resources to help you succeed. With the Teacher Education Pathway, we are constantly looking at improving our practices and removing filters from the student's path towards graduation.