Graduate Spotlight: Michael Brown

Introducing our next outstanding grad spotlight, Michael Brown, graduating from CFCC’s Construction Management Technology program! During his time at CFCC, Michael fully immersed himself in campus life. He was president of the Alpha Chi Sigma Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa. He was a student ambassador. He also volunteered countless hours at Eden Village, a tiny home community in development for the chronically homeless. We’ll miss Michael around campus, but we’re confident that his future is bright and excited to see all he will accomplish.

Where are you from originally?

I grew up in Pennsylvania until 2021 when I moved to Wilmington with my family.

Why did you decide to enroll at CFCC? Why did it make sense to you?

I decided to enroll at CFCC after being accepted into Appalachian State and East Carolina. I looked at the pricing and wasn’t exactly sure where I wanted to go. After searching locally, I stumbled upon CFCC and found that tuition was amazingly affordable. I went to Cape Fear for two years at less than the cost of one semester at the other universities where I applied. Attending CFCC also allowed me to gain in-state tuition status and helped me decide that I wanted to pursue my bachelor’s degree, which I can do for far less with the 2-and-2 transfer program Cape Fear offers.

Can you tell us about your experience at CFCC?

CFCC helped me grow my academic and professional talents. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I enrolled, but CFCC blew my expectations away. The facilities and labs are top-of-the-line and exactly what you will find in the industry. For a “smaller” college, they have better equipment and tools than many four-year colleges. That is just the beginning of my experience.

I quickly engaged in many programs at the college, such as Phi Theta Kappa. Becoming an officer, then president, allowed me to meet so many amazing people and form new relationships that I would never have imagined. This opened my eyes to many different students and outlooks on life I never expected to find. I am constantly surrounded by students of all backgrounds and ages, which allowed me to gain a well-rounded look at the world around me.

While at CFCC, I became involved with many volunteer and service projects that helped me continue my education while providing real-world experience. I have had an amazing experience at CFCC and recommend this college to anyone looking for real-world experiences and preparation for their careers.

Did you have a favorite class?

My favorite class was Weatherization which was taught by John Wojciechowski. He is an amazing instructor and covered all of the parts of a home from the ground up. He offered hands-on labs and ensured every student learned how to complete the tasks taught that day. He takes all the program’s important information and breaks it down into detailed and easy-to-understand lessons. This class was the favorite of almost every fellow classmate because of how informative and hands-on it was. It began many students’ pathways to success in repairs and full renovations of their homes. Woj allowed me to put all the lessons into action and fully understand a building’s shell and interior finishes while also going above and beyond what is required by the code.

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan to transfer to East Carolina University with my associate’s degree and continue to complete my bachelor’s degree with CFCC’s two-and-two program.

What advice would you give someone considering studying at CFCC?

I would tell any students interested in CFCC that they should definitely become a Sea Devil! If possible, take in-person classes to gain more real-world experience and meet many amazing students and instructors. Being on campus at CFCC allows you to see how everyone else in your program is doing and find lifelong friendships at the same time.

Any final comments?

CFCC is an amazing college that can provide many opportunities and experiences that will better prepare you for your future.