As a Sampson Early College graduate, Vanessa Garcia recalls her first day of class in August of 2007. “Our class was the 3^rd cohort since the Early College program began in 2005. As one can imagine, it is a big transition going from middle school to not only high school, but to college as well. I was nervous about finding my classes on campus.”

The Sampson Early College program is an opportunity for students to earn their high school diploma in 5 years, in addition to an Associate degree. Within those 5 years, Vanessa earned her high school diploma, Associate of Science and Associate of Arts degrees. “Sampson Community College helped prepare me to further my education” adds Garcia. “I was able to save time and money by going through the Early College program. When I transferred to a 4-year University, I transferred with at least 60 credit hours and jumped to junior status my first semester.”

“I loved my professors and the people I encountered throughout the years at SCC. To this day, I try to keep in touch with Marvin Rondon, the Early College Liaison/Evening Director. He was a large part of my success at SCC and was able to get me on course with my classes. In a way, he was my mentor” smiles Garcia.

“I love to share my story with others of how SCC has impacted my life. To the current or future student, I would say: Dear Student, this is the time to grab a hold of great education. If you want to save money, have small classes, and want professors and staff that care, Sampson Community College will benefit you. No matter your path, SCC is the place to begin.”

Congratulations Vanessa on being the fourth 50^th Anniversary highlight and thank you for sharing your story. For more information about Sampson Community College, visit http://www.sampsoncc.edu or call 910-592-8081, Sampson Community College, “Begin Here, Go Anywhere”.