Student Spotlight: Jade Payton
Meet Jade Payton, a true hometown girl born and raised in Wilmington. Making waves in her academic journey, Jade has embarked on a dual enrollment path at Southeast Area Technical High School (Sea-Tech) and CFCC. She achieved the impressive feat of completing all her high school credits and is now fully focused on her degree program in medical assisting.
What makes this year even more special for Jade is her anticipation of not one but two commencement ceremonies – one with her Sea-Tech classmates in the spring and another with her Medical Assisting cohort scheduled for August.
Jade has fully embraced the college vibe, immersing herself in the experience and making the most of every moment. Involvement with Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) has introduced Jade to a diverse group of incredibly cool individuals who she credits with helping her grow and thrive in her academic pursuits.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO ENROLL AT SEA-TECH?
It’s more career-based. Emphasis is placed on when you graduate, you’re going to have a career. You’re going to be able to work when you graduate. If you ever wanted to take a gap year, you could just jump into the workforce during that time. Plus, if you decide to transfer, you won’t lose your hard-earned credits, and you still graduate with your degree. I found this aspect really appealing.
Also, I appreciated the student-driven approach. Students have a bigger say in the school’s happenings, and it made us feel like we’re still in control. It felt like their voices truly mattered. I was impressed that students were responsible for selecting all the furniture in the school.
WHAT DREW YOU TO THE MEDICAL ASSISTANT PROGRAM?
I was actually torn between two choices: enrolling in either the medical assistant program or diving into cybersecurity. As I contemplated it, I thought, “If I have a medical interest, why not kickstart it now?” I realized that pursuing a program I could complete in just two years made perfect sense, especially if I ultimately wanted a career in the medical field.
So, I decided to opt for the medical assistant program, as it offered a head start. Those two years now will save me time down the road. If I ever decide to stop there, I can, but my plan is to go to PA (Physician Assistant) school. This choice gives me valuable clinical hours that I won’t have to wait to earn when I apply for PA school.
WHERE WOULD YOU WANT TO GO?
It’d be really cool if I could get into Chapel Hills’ PA program.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE AT CFCC.
I’m currently serving as the Vice President of Leadership in PTK, and it’s been a blast. I’ve had the chance to connect with a lot of amazing people and take advantage of numerous opportunities, from organizing events to attending conferences.
I also recently became a part of SGA, and I can’t wait to see what exciting things they have in store. I’m making an effort to get involved with the Nixon Center as well because I really appreciate the atmosphere they create and the diversity of clubs they offer here. Not to mention, I’m a fan of the downtown food scene. I’m determined to make the most of my time while I’m here!
HOW HAS CAPE FEAR PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR NEXT STEP?
My professors have really helped me get ready for university life. I’ve been lucky to have some awesome professors who’ve been super supportive and guided me in the right direction.
Now, I’ve got a clear plan in mind. I’m all about majoring in biological science with a side of math, which I think is pretty cool.
The best part is, when I graduate, I’ll have a certification in addition to my degree, giving me a leg up. I’ve already knocked out two years of coursework, which will come in handy when I transfer.
Dealing with college applications and transfers can be a real headache, but they’ve got our backs. Well, they’re here to help with the transfer process, scholarships, and making sure we’ve got all the resources we need to reach our goals.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE CONSIDERING STUDYING AT CFCC?
There’s something here for everyone. I’ve noticed that community colleges often carry an unfair stigma. I had a friend who hesitated to apply here because she thought her mom would be disappointed.
But let me tell you, Cape Fear is a fantastic school, and I don’t think many people fully appreciate that. Our nursing program is top-notch and among the best in the state. I’d say go for it. CFCC has something to offer you.
