Employee Spotlight: Arianna Johnson

Arianna Johnson, better known as AJ, has been with Cape Fear Community College for over two years. With a background as a college adviser through the NC State College Advising Corps, AJ now works as a coordinator for CFCC’s Career Academy, a program designed to introduce middle school students to various career paths and the skills needed to succeed in them. Her passion for positively impacting young lives is inspiring.

What year did you start working at CFCC, and what brought you here?

I began working at CFCC in May 2022. Before that, I served as a college adviser with the NC State College Advising Corps. I served students at Pender High School for two and a half years, during which time I built a collaborative partnership with CFCC.

As a college adviser, I spent a lot of time connecting with CFCC staff to provide support, resources, and assistance for my students at Pender High. I enjoyed working with the college and the staff as a college adviser, and I wanted to continue working with CFCC in some capacity once my service with the College Advising Corps ended.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

I think I have a pretty fun job. I get to connect with middle school students uniquely. I am passionate about higher education and youth development, and my position allows me to blend the two. I enjoy being present in middle school. Outside of providing career exploration opportunities for students, my favorite things to do with them are joining them in games in their gym classes and eating lunch with them in the cafeteria.

When you’re not working, what do you enjoy doing?

I enjoy spending time with friends and family, trying different ice cream places, and traveling. I have a cool internship opportunity that I’ve been a part of for five years now, allowing me to travel monthly nationwide. With that, I can visit many places I probably would not have visited on my own.

Who had the most significant influence on your education or career path?

I think all the students I served as a college adviser influenced my career trajectory. That position and the students made me realize that I wanted to continue working with youth in higher education.

What is something not many people know about you?

I played softball for about 12 years growing up. My off-season was only for about two months because I played in different leagues all year. I was able to play in five Dixie Youth World Series (placing in all of them and winning two championships). I have been the assistant softball coach for Pender High School for five seasons now.

Degrees, certificates, or professional organizations?

• B.S. Parks Recreation Tourism Management, North Carolina State University
• M.S. Youth Development Leadership, Clemson University
• M.S. Higher Education Administration, North Carolina Central University (2 more classes!)