Gator Bites

Lamar State College Orange

4.2 (5)
Courses
Updated Weekly

‘Gator Bites’ gives an authentic, inside look into Lamar State College Orange, dedicated to elevating Gator voices, spotlighting campus life, and fostering meaningful conversations that connect, inform, and inspire the Gator community. Through engaging interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and real talk about college life, we aim to build a stronger, more connected campus culture.

4d ago

S2: E2 | From Student to Tilly: Isaiah’s Gator Story

What’s it really like to be the person behind Tilly the Gator? In this episode of Gator Bites, Elaina Forester sits down with LSCO student Isaiah Dumas to talk about how he found his place on campus, got involved with Student Government Association, and eventually stepped into the Tilly costume. Isaiah shares what brought him to LSCO, how getting involved helped him find a community, his experience advocating for fellow students through SGA, and what it’s like connecting with the community as Tilly. For Isaiah, being Tilly is more than wearing the costume. It’s about the passion and joy that comes from making kids smile. Whether you’re already involved on campus or still trying to find your place, Isaiah has one simple message: make new friends, get involved and enjoy your time in college. About Lamar State College Orange: Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) 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, 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.
Sep 23

S2: E1 | Here to Help: Inside LSCO’s Gator Food Pantry & Clothing Closet

What if the support you need to keep moving forward is already on campus? In this episode of Gator Bites, Elaina Forester sits down with Erin Tarver to talk about LSCO’s Gator Food Pantry and Clothing Closet. From food assistance and professional clothing to work boots and interview-ready outfits, these resources are here to help students meet everyday needs and take their next step toward their goals. Erin also shares how students and community members can volunteer, donate and access these resources, plus why sometimes a little help can go a long way. Whether you’re a student looking for support or someone who wants to give back, there’s a place for you at the Gator Food Pantry and Clothing Closet. About Lamar State College Orange: Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) 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, 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.
May 11

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) 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, 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.
May 4

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) 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, 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.
Apr 27

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) 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, 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.
Apr 20

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) 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, 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.
Apr 15

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) 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, 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.
Mar 31

S1: E24 | 16 Weeks to a Career: Inside LSCO's Operator Academy

In this episode of Gator Bites, we explore the Operator Academy at Lamar State College Orange, a fast-paced, hands-on training program designed to prepare students for careers in the petrochemical and industrial workforce. Host Daniel McLemore sits down with instructor Tony Bramlett and recent graduate Caeden Arceneaux to discuss how the 16-week academy works, the importance of safety and technical training, and the role industry partnerships play in shaping workforce programs. From lab simulations and real-world equipment to career readiness and confidence building, this conversation highlights how LSCO is helping meet one of the region’s most critical workforce needs. About Lamar State College Orange: Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) 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, 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.

4.2

out of 5

5 Ratings

‘Gator Bites’ gives an authentic, inside look into Lamar State College Orange, dedicated to elevating Gator voices, spotlighting campus life, and fostering meaningful conversations that connect, inform, and inspire the Gator community. Through engaging interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and real talk about college life, we aim to build a stronger, more connected campus culture.

Creator

Lamar State College Orange
Years Active

2025 - 2026
Episodes

31
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© 2026 Lamar State College Orange
Show Website

Gator Bites