[Clinton, N.C.] – As Sampson Community College’s (SCC) Spring 2024 commencement continues to approach, the College looks to highlight graduating Foundation scholars—students who have received one or more scholarships from the SCC Foundation. One of those individuals is Stefany Serrano, a General Occupational Technology student who recently received the SCC Ambassador scholarship for 2023-24.
Graduating from Clinton High School in June 2022, Serrano began at SCC in the Fall. Her decision to attend the College was greatly influenced by her brother, Stephen, who also pursued an associate degree at SCC before transferring to NC State. Serrano mentioned that her brother’s advice was “extremely helpful” in cementing her decision to enroll.
She explained, “Stephen recommended SCC to me after talking with him about my future education plans. He suggested starting with an associate degree, which could also include later transferring to a university to pursue a bachelor’s degree. I am thankful to both him and my mom for their help, cheering me on my journey to further my education, and taking care of me through any obstacle that I have faced.”
Serving as a SCC Student Ambassador for 2023-2024, Serrano voiced that her mission has been to help “create greater community engagement and support at SCC by organizing events, promoting student initiatives, and serving as a connection between the student body and the college administration.” Remarking that she felt “honored” to be elected, Serrano expressed her appreciation for the opportunity and to the scholarships that followed.
She stated, “I felt excited when I learned I was elected a Student Ambassador, imagining the opportunities to represent my peers, encourage connections, and contribute positively to the school community. I am also extremely grateful for the scholarship that I have been awarded. It has been helpful for stopping stress over my financial situation and motivated me to work harder towards my education. I am thankful to have a wonderful opportunity like this.”
Established in 2010 by the Foundation, the College’s Ambassador Scholarship Program provides selected individuals with funding for the upcoming Fall and Spring semesters that can be applied towards tuition, fees, supplies, and books. Upon appointment, student ambassadors also become “the face of SCC,” assisting with college-sponsored events throughout the year.
In addition to her ambassadorship, Serrano has also held the titles of President/Treasurer of the Psychology Club and a work-study student with Student Services— assisting others at the front-desk with questions about the College. She is also highly involved with her local church, teaching dance lessons to students for the past six years.
Serrano plans to graduate from SCC in May 2024 with her Associate in General Occupational Technology, planning to transfer to obtain her Bachelors in Business Administration. Inspired by the work she does in Student Services, her ultimate goal is to assist others through a similar admissions or services position.
“I enjoy the work I currently do at Student Services, and I am motivated to help others in the same way,” Serrano expressed. “My future goal is to secure a position similar to what admissions does and help others the way they do.”
When asked who she’d like to thank, Serrano expressed her gratitude towards her supportive friends whose “names would be a lengthy list” and to the Student Services/Financial Aid teams at SCC that she has had the privilege of serving alongside as a work-study student.
“It has been the best experience to learn so much and gain skills from them,” she said of Student Services/Financial Aid. “They have all been so kind with all their help and creating an environment where I feel comfortable. Their support has been invaluable in creating an ease and belonging area for me to be in.”
Serrano also wished to thank one of her first instructors, Sarah Burgin, Arts & Sciences Instructor, who truly made her feel “comfortable and supported” during her beginning semester; and Dr. Marvin Rondon, Dean of Student Services, who gave her sound advice and served as “an inspiration” for improving her future goals.
Overall, Serrano voiced that she would strongly suggest attending SCC to other prospective students, so they can “go anywhere they set their minds to.” Not only has it taught her to take risks and step out of her comfort zone, but has led her to various opportunities for educational and personal growth— opportunities she wouldn’t have discovered without SCC.
“Attending SCC has been the best experience in helping me understand my goals and plans,” Serrano closed. “Before coming here, I thought there was a limit to what I could do, but I now realize that I can reach higher to achieve my goals. When I graduated from high school, I was uncertain about the education path I wanted to pursue. The advice I received here at SCC after many discussions with the staff made me realize I have choices available. My response will remain firm: this College is unquestionably worth it.”
Sampson CC is very proud of Stefany for her accomplishments at the College thus far. The Foundation is glad to have welcomed her as a Student Ambassador for the 2023-2024 academic year and looks forward to seeing all she will continue to do throughout her education.
The deadline to apply for scholarships is April 15. Over 100 opportunities are available with just one application. Apply today at www.sampsoncc.edu/scholarships.
For more information about the SCC Foundation, visit www.sampsoncc.edu/foundation.
About Sampson Community College: Sampson Community College is a member of the North Carolina Community College System, located in Clinton, NC in Sampson County. The college offers many programs to include two-year degrees, college transfer, continuing education and workforce development options and early college education. SCC is committed to the principles of equal educational and employment opportunities for all.
