Father and Son Fulfill Aggie Dream Together Through Mays’ Flex Online Marketing Program

Austin Lynch ’26

“Attending Texas A&M University has been a lifelong dream of mine. Growing up in Tennessee as a die-hard Aggie fan, I have vivid memories of maroon-and-white gifts from family in Texas. When my sister was deciding on colleges, we visited the campus and I remember standing in awe of the Bonfire Memorial. I even got to catch a ‘touchdown pass’ from my cousin on Kyle Field. Today, I am proud to say I’m no longer just a fan — I am the loudest and proudest member of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Class of 2026, through the Flex Online MS Marketing program. Even more exciting? I’m sharing this journey with my dad. For me, this program is about chasing dreams, advancing my expertise, and gaining credibility as the owner of High Beam Marketing.

I discovered the program after years of searching the Mays website for a flexible option. When I realized I could finally be an Aggie myself, I couldn’t wait to tell my parents. My dad, already a frequent collaborator with my marketing agency through his own businesses, saw it as a great opportunity to strengthen his skillset as well. The prestige of the program, combined with the power of the Aggie Network, made it an easy choice for both of us. So far, the program has been nothing short of rewarding. The coursework is highly collaborative, fostering deeper relationships with classmates and even opportunities to support one another professionally.

A standout moment was traveling to College Station for a program-sponsored tailgate, and taking my 3-year-old son to his first Aggie football game. Sharing that with our family was unforgettable.

My dad and I have both found that balancing the roles of business owner, dad, husband, and student has been challenging, but the flexibility of the program has made it possible.”

Dan Lynch ’26

“I was supposed to finish my college degree in Geology in the ’80s at Texas A&M, but due to the college being overly full, I wasn’t able to at that time. It’s always been a burr in the saddle for me. When Austin mentioned the Flex Online program, it got me thinking. I asked him what he thought about me applying as well — he was ultimately into it.

While deciding whether to apply or not, my wife, Kim, and I went on a trip to Spain. We arrived at our hotel early and decided to have breakfast in the buffet while waiting on our room. We sat at a table near a couple about our age, clearly American, and I noticed a ring on his hand — an Aggie Ring. Kim and I laughed — there was my sign. When I returned home, I applied and was accepted.

Like Austin, I’m enjoying the program very much. We’re 32 years different in age, but I’ve always believed in continuing to learn. Today, I run several small businesses and lead a nonprofit, and I have already applied what I’m learning into my work.

I’m looking forward to the rest of the program and ultimately walking across the stage with my son when we graduate. And of course, we’re both counting down the hours until we can order and obtain our Aggie Rings — that will be a trip for the ages! We’ve already been in discussions with others in our cohort about celebrating our rings together.”

About the Flex Online Master of Science in Marketing Program

Duration: 2 years
Credit Hours: 36
Academic Overview: The program develops leaders with advanced data-driven marketing skills through a quantitative-focused curriculum that trains students to translate data analysis into strategic marketing decisions that respond to an evolving industry landscape. Students gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge marketing tools, concepts, and techniques, preparing them to drive impactful B2B and B2C marketing and leverage data for a competitive edge.