A person standing in front of a bank building.
Colton secured the position while still a student at ETAMU. | Photo courtesy of the College of Business

COB Banking Student Secures Role at American National Bank of Texas

  • By Yazan Kakish
    • Management, Marketing, & Management Science

Colton Smith, a student in the BBA in Banking program at East Texas A&M University, has accepted a Financial Associate position with American National Bank of Texas (ANBTX) while continuing his studies. Beginning his academic journey at the College of Business at ETAMU in Fall 2024, Colton is set to graduate in Winter 2026.

A native of the region, Colton first learned about ETAMU's new banking program through a conversation with Maranda Spencer — now his manager at ANBTX — who encouraged him to enroll and offered an opportunity to work at the bank while he completed his degree. In his role as Financial Associate, Colton manages new account openings for individual and business customers and helps prepare clients for the loan application process.

“Joining the banking program helped me learn the ins and outs of how banks operate on a deeper level,” Colton said, noting that classroom learning translated quickly to on-the-job skills he uses every day. He credits the program's industry-aligned curriculum and faculty support — particularly the advocacy of Christopher Burns — with helping him secure scholarships, design an effective course schedule, and connect with local banks for employment opportunities.

Campus life and student organizations also shaped Colton's experience. He points to rushing Sigma Chi and the friendships that followed as important parts of his college journey, including memorable moments such as the banking program tailgate. Balancing full-time work and a full course load taught him perseverance and a practical understanding of the profession.

To fellow and prospective students, Colton offers practical advice saying, “Be prepared to be able to apply a lot of the concepts you learned in classes in the industry.” He also recommends the banking program to undecided majors, adding that “bankers are a very tight-knit community” with strong local opportunities and clear pathways for career growth.

Colton expressed gratitude for the chance to work while studying, saying he is thankful for the opportunity and the tools ETAMU has provided as he builds a career in banking and truly transforms lives.