Tucked away in a 6-by-8 office space in Main 235 you will find Project Student Excellence Assistant Director Rita Beck. Though the room might be small, those who have visited Beck’s office usually agree that she has the best seat in the house, overlooking the mall area and bookstore.

Beck, however, has little time to enjoy the view. While working full-time advising students on class schedules and their academic achievements, she still manages to find time to continue her own academic success.
           
“I am a lifetime student,” Beck, says with a laugh.  “Since kindergarten, I’ve only missed one semester in my life and that was for maternity leave.”
           
This dedicated student is also a dedicated mother and wife.  Being a mother of two and wife takes enough time in itself. “I am grateful enough to have a husband that is patient and understanding of my career goals.”
           
This longtime student came to OLLU for one main reason -- class size.  While in high school, Rita attended college prep classes over the summer at The University of Texas at San Antonio.  She was immediately intimidated by how the classes were being held in auditoriums.  This really helped her make the decision to attend OLLU.  Who would have thought that 17 years later she would still be calling OLLU her second home?
           
Born and raised in San Antonio, she has spent more than half of her life working towards her dreams. She began by earning her B.A. in human sciences and continuing on to earn her masters, also in human sciences.  She is currently working on her second master’s in education and school counseling and if all goes as planned she will graduate in the fall. 
           
For now, the PSE director will continue with her passion of helping others stay on track just like she has and advising them how to balance life and education. 
           
“Finding time to get things done is challenging but the rewards are much greater,” she said.