CFCC student blends artistic vision with business potential
Driven by his passion for art and entrepreneurship, Bryce Lyons set out to find a community where his artistic and business aspirations could flourish.
Intrigued by Wilmington’s reputation as the “Hollywood of the East,” he saw an opportunity to merge his creative talents with business potential. This realization led him to pursue CFCC. He saw the college not only as an educational opportunity but a launching pad that could help him hone and expand his business in a vibrant and supportive community.
ARTISTIC ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Bryce operates Beast Out Entertainment, a venture specializing in marketing and creative services, including videography, photography, and music. However, he soon realized mastering his artistic abilities was only one part of the equation.
Running a successful business also demands an understanding of its other facets, such as accounting and taxes. This revelation drove Bryce to seek a formal education in business fundamentals.
“I delved into practicing my craft, but early on, I realized that there are a lot of things that go into success,” commented Bryce. “I am amazed at how much my instructors teach in each business class. I am grateful that I can learn this at CFCC and not have to figure it out on my own.”
MAXIMIZING RESOURCES
At CFCC, Bryce has uncovered a wealth of resources that play a crucial role in his success. In addition to academic support, he has received emotional support through CFCC Counseling and Coastal Horizons, which offer free mental health counseling services to students in collaboration with CFCC.
Bryce has also benefited from CFCC’s Food Pantry . And most recently, he was able to overcome transportation obstacles with the help of free bus passes .
“I’m blown away by some of the things that Cape Fear does for students,” Bryce said. “The faculty or the counselors offering drinks and hot chocolate and things like that. Those little things make me feel welcome and like I belong.”
CFCC SMALL BUSINESS CENTER
Another valuable resource that Bryce has tapped into is CFCC’s Small Business Center. During a complimentary consultation with Jerry Coleman, CFCC’s Senior Director of Business & Industry, Bryce received beneficial insights on licensing and permitting as well comprehensive business plan template.
“I sat down with Mr. Coleman, and he gave me a business plan template to fill out,” Bryce shared. “Planning your business can be daunting. He gave me good guidance and good advice.”
FOSTERING GROWTH AND CREATIVITY
These resources have not only supported Bryce in his educational journey but have also played a role in his personal and professional development. Inspired by his experiences, Bryce founded the CFCC Student Filmmakers Club, envisioning a platform where members could freely exchange ideas and concepts in a non-judgmental atmosphere. The club serves as a safe space for students to refine their ideas through mutual engagement and teamwork.
“Cape Fear Community College is one of the best schools I’ve attended,” noted Bryce. “With all of the support and resources available at CFCC, I feel like I have grown tremendously as a person. I’m able to apply what I’ve learned.”
For those considering studying at CFCC, Bryce encourages students to find their passion and keep going. “CFCC is there to help. Use the resources, and don’t give up.”
To learn more about CFCC’s Business Administration program, visit cfcc.edu/business-administration .
