[Clinton, N.C.] – Callie Dakota Simmons is a current student in Sampson Community College’s (SCC) Associate of Arts (A.A.) program. Beginning as a Career & College Promise (CCP) student in 2023, she’s now on track to graduate in May with her degree—becoming the first in her family to do so.

A graduate of Clinton High School, Simmons first enrolled at SCC in January of 2023 through the CCP program, before transitioning to a full-time A.A. student in August 2023. Though she was nervous at first to step on a collegiate campus, the support Simmons received helped make her transition from online to in-person classes at SCC seamless.

She remarked, “SCC is very welcoming. They welcome you as if you’re family and everyone on campus is very friendly. My experience has taught me that I can do great things and to never give up. I have learned I am capable of doing whatever I put my mind to.”

Serving as a tutor at SCC in her free time, Simmons is also the first in her family to attend a higher educational institution. Considered a ‘first-generation’ college student, she expressed both her pride and honor at having the opportunity to attend SCC and graduate with her degree in May.

“It makes me proud to be able to say that I am a first-generation college student,” Simmons shared. Being able to continue my education has been a privilege. I am beyond grateful that I have the opportunity to pursue my dreams and to be able to experience college.”

When asked who she’d like to thank, Simmons expressed her gratitude to both her grandmother and best friend, Cameron Langston for motivating and guiding her throughout her educational journey. She also expressed her gratitude to Sarah Burgin, Arts & Sciences Instructor at SCC, who has served as both her psychology instructor and advisor.

Simmons stated, “Ms. Sarah Burgin has helped me greatly. She is a kind and amazing person and professor. Ms. Burgin will always go the extra mile to ensure you’re receiving the best of the best. She has made SCC feel like home because of how helpful and welcoming she has been. I will always remember the professor at SCC who made college not seem so hard.”

In the future, Simmons plans to continue her education and become a medical sonographer. Looking back, she stated that she would highly recommend SCC to other students looking to pursue a two-year degree. Not only is the campus welcoming, Simmons explained, but the faculty and staff truly treat each student as if they’re “family.”

“Attending SCC has been worth it,” she closed. “These two years have helped me to come out of my comfort zone and have allowed me to express myself. I have enjoyed my time here at SCC. I wouldn’t have had my experience to be any other way.”

For more information about Career & College Promise or the Associate of Arts program, visit sampsoncc.edu/ccp or sampsoncc.edu/college-transfer

About Sampson Community College:  Sampson Community College is a member of the North Carolina Community College System, located in Clinton, NC in Sampson County. The college offers many programs to include two-year degrees, college transfer, continuing education and workforce development options and early college education. SCC is committed to the principles of equal educational and employment opportunities for all.