Father, son find a future together at Central Texas College

July 5, 2026 - 23:22

For years, David Gable searched for something many people take for granted: a place to belong. After aging out of the foster care system without a permanent family, he finally found that sense of home in an unexpected place -- a college classroom alongside his biological father.

David, now a student at Central Texas College, spent much of his life moving between foster homes. He had little contact with his birth father, Mark Gable, who was also navigating his own struggles. But a few years ago, the two reconnected. Instead of just catching up over coffee, they decided to enroll in college together.

"It was a way to start over," David said. "We didn't have a history of doing things as a family, so we decided to build one from scratch."

Mark, who had never attended college before, admitted he was nervous. But walking onto campus with his son gave him a confidence he had never felt. They now share classes, study sessions, and even a few inside jokes about tough exams. Professors say the pair often sit side by side, taking notes and occasionally arguing over math problems.

For David, the experience has been transformative. He no longer feels like he is drifting. "I have a dad now, and we have a goal," he said. "That is more than I ever had."

The two are working toward associate degrees, with plans to transfer to a four-year university. Their story has become a quiet inspiration on campus, a reminder that family is not always about the past, but about the future you choose to build together.