It’s always a special feeling returning to campus, but my recent trip to Tarleton State University offered something more than just nostalgia. As a proud Tarleton alumni and the owner of 360 Impressions—a company specializing in direct mail marketing, consulting, and printing—I am always looking for where the next generation of industry talent is being forged.
I recently toured “The Source” at Tarleton, and I left truly impressed by the operation they run. It’s not just a service department; it is a hub of practical education where students are learning the exact skills they need to thrive in the professional world.
Here is a look inside my visit, the services The Source provides, and why hands-on student development is critical for the future of our industry.
Meeting the Team Behind The Source
During my visit, I had the pleasure of meeting Lexi Wood, Kaylynn Leggett, and Martina Breedlove. These individuals walked me through the daily operations of The Source, explaining how they support Tarleton students, faculty, staff, and campus organizations.
We discussed everything from file management to client expectations. It was clear immediately that this team takes pride in their work. They aren’t just hitting “print”—they are managing a complex service environment that requires attention to detail and strong communication skills.
Professional Services on Campus
The Source functions as a fully operational print and production center for the Tarleton community. They provide a wide range of professional services that rival off-campus commercial printers.
Their capabilities include:
- Color and Black & White Printing: Handling high-volume document needs for academic and administrative purposes.
- Marketing Materials: Producing flyers, brochures, and other collateral essential for campus events and organizations.
- Large-Format Items: creating posters and banners that help visualize the Tarleton spirit across campus.
- Promotional Pieces: Helping student groups brand themselves effectively.
- Finishing Services: Providing the final professional touches like binding and lamination.
With fast turnaround times and a commitment to quality, The Source serves as a valuable operational resource. But beyond the output, the process itself is where the real value lies.
Real-World Skills for Future Professionals
What stood out most to me was the educational value this department provides for the students working there. In a classroom, you learn theory. In a production environment like The Source, you learn execution.
Students working here are gaining workforce-ready skills that are difficult to teach in a lecture hall. They are navigating real-world business scenarios daily, including:
- Customer Consultation: Learning to listen to a client’s needs and translate them into a deliverable product.
- Production Workflow: Understanding that a deadline isn’t a suggestion and managing the steps required to hit it.
- File Setup and Standards: Mastering the technical requirements for print readiness.
- Quality Control: developing the eye to catch errors before a job leaves the shop.
- Project Coordination: Juggling multiple jobs and priorities simultaneously.
These skills translate directly into careers in marketing, printing, operations, branding, and business services. Employers today aren’t just looking for degrees; they are looking for competence. The students at The Source are building that competence every single shift.
Bridging the Gap Between Campus and Career
Through my work in direct mail marketing, print consulting, and production strategy at 360 Impressions, I see daily how valuable hands-on experience is. When we hire, we look for individuals who understand the pressure of a deadline and the importance of a clean final product.
The students working in The Source are gaining practical knowledge that employers actively look for—experience that goes beyond classroom theory and into real execution. This type of applied learning builds confidence, strengthens problem-solving ability, and develops professional communication skills that will serve these students long after graduation.
It also introduces them to industries they may not have previously considered. Many students might not realize that print production, brand implementation, and customer experience strategy are viable, lucrative career paths. Places like The Source open those doors.
A Commitment to Student Success
I want to extend a special thank you to Dr. Ortega, Vice President of Student Engagement, for introducing me to The Source team and for her continued leadership in creating real-world learning opportunities for Tarleton students. I am grateful for the time she spent with me during my visit (she is also pictured in the tour photo!).
As both an alumni and a business owner, it was inspiring to see Tarleton investing in workforce-ready education and hands-on student development. The Source is not only serving the campus—it is helping build the next generation of professionals.
Thank you to Lexi, Kaylynn, and Martina for taking the time to share your work and experiences. You represent Tarleton incredibly well, and I am honored to help highlight the important work happening in your department. Tarleton continues to lead by preparing students for success beyond the classroom, and it was an honor to see that mission in action.
If you’re a business looking to make a lasting impact through innovative and professional branding solutions, look no further than 360 Impressions. Our dedicated team is equipped to bring your vision to life with creativity and precision. Whether you need design services, promotional materials, or customized products, 360 Impressions is ready to partner with you to achieve your goals.
