Building a Career in Banking: Jack Davis’s Journey from Baseball to Banking
Jack Davis's journey at East Texas A&M University set the stage for the hands-on experience he's now gaining through his Summer Internship with Legacy Ag ACA.
Davis began by pivoting from athletics to academics, as he shifted his focus from collegiate baseball to building a career in business. After earning his associate's degree in general business, Jack was introduced to ETAMU's College of Business through former Dean Scott Wheeler. That introduction led him to the university's innovative Banking Program, which led to opportunities that would shape the next phase of his academic and professional path.
Jack enrolled at ETAMU in Fall 2024 and is on track to graduate in Spring 2026. Under the guidance of Christopher Burns, Director of the Banking Program, he found his footing and began building the knowledge and connections that would shape his path in the banking industry. That foundation is already paying off because this summer, Jack has completed a paid internship with Legacy Ag ACA, where he gained hands-on experience across multiple departments, including lending, credit, loan administration, and marketing.
“Working at Legacy Ag ACA has been an incredible learning experience,” he said. “My knowledge of lending has increased substantially to where I could transition into farm credit as a loan officer in the future. My favorite part would have to be the people—they are personable, incredibly smart, and work so well together. All I try to be is a sponge around every single worker at Legacy.”
Jack credits ETAMU's College of Business for preparing him to thrive in such an environment.
“The banking board prepares what they want the banking graduates to know and understand, so by the time they graduate, they have the basic understanding of community banking,” he explained. “This knowledge has allowed me to transition into my internship seamlessly.”
His experience at ETAMU extends beyond the classroom. Jack recalls memorable moments in the banking program with Director Christopher Burns and classmate and fraternity brother Issac Nicholson, as well as impactful classes with Dr. Alex Williams and Dr. Scott Sewell. Equally transformative has been Jack's involvement in Sigma Chi. The fraternity's brotherhood—and the support of ETAMU alumni like Larry McGill, Larry Sullivan, Zackery Burgin, and John Chopel—provided both camaraderie and professional mentorship.
When asked what advice he would give to current and future students, Jack emphasized the value of relationships.
“Develop the professional and personal relationships with our professors,” he said. “One conversation with our professors could land any student with a successful career. You are always one call, one email, or one conversation away from making something happen. Build your relationships and connections now.”
He also encourages students to take advantage of ETAMU's unique Banking Program.
“The banks involved in the program have helped support and develop the material for students looking to pursue community banking,” he explained. “They are offering part-time jobs, internships, and training opportunities to keep East Texas people in East Texas. The program builds an outline of community banking knowledge so you can integrate yourself immediately into the field.”
Above all, Jack urges students to get involved.
“Whether it be Greek life, student organizations, or departments within ETAMU, being involved will help grow your professional connections and make your college experience more enjoyable,” he said.
From the baseball field to the banking world, Jack Davis's story is a powerful reminder of how ETAMU's resources, dedicated faculty, and supportive community can transform ambition into opportunity—and set students up for lasting success.