20 years later, John Iglehart pursues a UNT BAAS
Life rarely follows a straight path, and Oklahoma native John Iglehart’s story is a testament to perseverance and rediscovery. Now living in Louisiana and working as an Assistant Manager at Cinemark, John is preparing to advance to Senior Assistant Manager—a role that requires additional education and development. This aspiration led him to the University of North Texas (UNT) and its Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences (BAAS) program.
Rediscovering Higher Education
Back in 2002, Iglehart began his higher education journey but paused after two years when life took him in a different direction. The idea of returning to school always lingered, but it wasn’t until January 2022 that the opportunity felt right. Learning about Cinemark’s tuition assistance partnership with UNT, Iglehart was motivated to give college another try. UNT’s 100% online BAAS program, with its flexibility and the ability to transfer up to 90 previous credits, made the decision a clear choice.
Focusing on concentrations in Consumer Behavior, Lean Distribution Processes, and Social Wellness & Community, Iglehart has discovered a renewed passion for learning. The Lean Distribution Processes track even aligns with his professional goals, offering a pathway to certification in Lean Six Sigma.
Leadership and Career Aspirations
As the first in his family to attend (and likely graduate) college, Iglehart has embraced leadership roles, serving as both a Student Ambassador and a Senator for the College of Applied & Collaborative Studies. These roles allow him to represent online students and contribute to program improvements.
Looking ahead, his goals are evolving. While he enjoys the human resources aspect of his current role, he’s exploring a future in teaching, recognizing a need for more male representation in education. A master’s degree and teaching certification are on the horizon, alongside aspirations to contribute to Cinemark at the corporate level.
Lessons in Resilience
Returning to school after nearly two decades hasn’t been without its challenges. Starting cautiously with two classes, Inglehart faced setbacks, including failing his first course. However, he adapted, established a routine, and learned to navigate the demands of condensed eight-week courses.
His advice is simple: “If you get the chance – and you can get your education – whether you graduated 2 years or 20 years ago – GO FOR IT! ” On track to graduate in May 2025, John Iglehart is proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams and build a brighter future.