CFCC student veteran secures full ride to Johnson & Wales
After graduating from high school, Andreah Anderson initially enrolled at CFCC, but she soon felt a strong calling to serve in the U.S. Army. That’s when she decided to leave college and devote herself to military service.
FINDING COMFORT IN FAMILIARITY
However, Andreah’s military career was cut short by an injury. After serving four and a half years, she returned to Wilmington and decided to give college another shot. The prospect of attending a university was daunting for the mom of one. So, she gravitated toward CFCC, which felt more approachable and familiar.
This comfort was largely due to her existing connections with Rachel Cavanaugh, CFCC Financial Aid Senior Director, and Bob Philpot, the founder of CFCC’s Student Veterans Center. The presence of the Veterans Center played a significant role in her decision, offering a supportive environment that aided her transition from military to civilian life.
CHOOSING THE CHEF’S PATH
Andreah nurtured a passion for cooking long before her time in the army, where she even worked as a cook. This experience deepened her interest in culinary arts.
CFCC’s Culinary Arts program became another compelling reason for Andreah to return. Her background in cooking, combined with her knowledge of the program, solidified her decision to pursue her education at CFCC.
CELEBRITY ENCOUNTERS
Andreah’s journey through the CFCC program has been extraordinary. Under the guidance of exceptional instructors, Culinary Arts Program Director Jaime Chadwick and Culinary Arts Instructor Wendy Raubenheimer, she has honed her culinary skills.
Participation in the Pineapple Guild, a student club catering to culinary, baking and pastry arts, and hospitality management students, adds a fun layer to the curriculum. Through the Guild, Andreah was presented with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to interact with renowned chefs, including the likes of Bobby Flay and Emeril Lagasse, adding an unforgettable dimension to her learning experience.
LEADERSHIP, SERVICE AND PURPOSE
Maximizing her college experience, Andreah assumed the role of President of CFCC’s Student Veterans Organization (SVO). Additionally, she took on the responsibility of a student ambassador which deepened her connection with the college and provided her a platform to promote the benefits of CFCC.
“Separating from the military was hard because that was my career goal,” commented Andreah. “Cape Fear gave me purpose again. Being a part of the Student Veterans Organization and becoming an ambassador made me feel like I was in the uniform again. The honor and the commitment that I felt in the Army, Cape Fear gave it back to me.”
UNEXPECTED OPPORTUNITY
Although transferring to another institution wasn’t initially in her plans, when she learned about free application week , she saw an opportunity to explore it.
Andreah knew that if she pursued further education, it would be in culinary arts. Therefore, she applied to Johnson & Wales University, renowned for its culinary program. Within a few short weeks, she received a response that marked a new chapter in her journey: an acceptance letter accompanied by the offer of a transfer scholarship.
CULINARY TRIUMPH
Still taking in the reality, Andreah shared an excerpt from her acceptance letter.
“I am delighted to offer you admission to Johnson & Wales University’s Charlotte Campus. Your passion for the culinary industry and motivation for serving others is inspiring. We are confident you will be an asset to our Culinary Arts and Food & Beverage Industry Management program.”
Andreah is excited about the opportunity to further advance her passion in the culinary field.
“I don’t think I would be pursuing my bachelor’s without Cape Fear,” Andreah shared. “Cape Fear set me up for success and kept me motivated. Now, I want to motivate others by showing that you can go as far as you want to go.”
To learn more about CFCC’s Culinary Arts programs, visit cfcc.edu/culinary-arts/ .
