When 23-year-old Kenneth Campbell came to Wake Tech in 2012, it was his second time around. He had earned EMT certification at Wake Tech in 2009, but when an EMS job didn’t work out as planned, he decided to return to pursue a degree. Kenneth enrolled in classes and immersed himself in the college community. He joined the Student Government Association, the Disciplinary Grievance Review Committee, among other campus organizations. He also got involved in student activity planning and served as a leader for New Student Orientation.

Kenneth says it was challenging to keep up with a rigorous class schedule, a part-time job, and stay involved in campus life – but also rewarding. He credits Wake Tech with helping him bring his goals into focus. “Wake Tech gave me a community of friends – students, faculty, and staff – who have made me a smarter and stronger leader. I decided that I want to use what I’ve learned to help people, through public service.”

Kenneth’s interest in serving the community solidified when he was invited to represent Wake Tech in Washington, D.C. Dr. Scott Ralls, President of the NC Community College System, asked Kenneth to attend a meeting with congressional staffers, college system presidents from across the country, and workforce policy organizations. The trip, he says, was life changing: “To get the chance to tell a national audience about what Wake Tech offers was huge for me. It made me realize I want to help others in the same way the people of Wake Tech helped me.”

Kenneth graduated in May 2014 with an Associate in Arts degree and transferred to North Carolina Central University, where he is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications. Kenneth and his family are extremely proud of what he has accomplished. Kenneth says he plans to use everything he has learned at Wake Tech in the years ahead.