Next NC Scholarship renews Smith’s hope for career success at SCC

Grace Smith, a 28-year-old student at Southeastern Community College, qualified for the Next NC Scholarship, a financial aid program designed to support students from households with an annual income of $80,000 or less. Smith, who is working towards an associate’s degree in business administration, chose SCC for its proximity to her home and the availability of necessary classes. 

“So far, my experience has been great,” Smith said. “When I first got started, the options and paperwork were overwhelming, so I went to SCC and received help from a counselor. They were very friendly and helped me fill out all the necessary paperwork and made sure I understood when my classes were starting and their location. Everything since then has been easy.” 

Smith noted that the scholarship allowed her to focus more on her studies. She said that since all her expenses were covered, it made the “biggest difference” in her ability to focus on class assignments. While not in class, Smith works at the front desk at the Williamson Library on campus as a federal work study student. Because of the Next NC Scholarship, she can work less hours and put that time towards her class work. 

“When I found out I qualified for help, I was so excited. I never thought I’d be able to go back to school, and I feel really blessed,” she explained. “Personally, I would say that receiving the scholarship has greatly increased my opportunity to make achievements. Financially, there is no way I’d be answering these questions without the scholarship,” she said. 

Looking ahead, Smith plans to transition from physically demanding factory jobs to an office-style job that is more ergonomic and better paying. Smith said she is keeping her options open since business administration is a “good base” for many careers. After obtaining her associate’s degree, Smith plans to earn additional degrees if her career requires it.  

“To anyone thinking about coming to SCC, I would definitely recommend it. From what I’ve seen so far, the campus is full of events and clubs you can join.” Smith said. “There’s always something fun going on that’s family friendly. They have a daycare on campus that students can use for their kids, and they have free tutoring.”

For students who might not realize they qualify for financial aid like the Next NC Scholarship, there is no separate application for it. Once Smith’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) was submitted, her information was automatically submitted for Next NC Scholarship consideration. Because she met the qualifications, Smith did not pay anything out of pocket for her education.  

“For anyone who doubts that they’ll qualify for help, you won’t lose anything from trying. I didn’t think I would qualify because it’s been years since I graduated high school; my GPA was low, and yet I got it. If I can get support, then there’s a good chance you can, too,” Smith said. 

The Next NC Scholarship gave Smith hope for a fulfilling career, forging new friendships on campus and a sense of wonder about where she will end up in her career. She said she no longer feels stuck in a continuous loop, and she feels grateful for no educational financial burdens.  

Ready to be a part of the Rams family like Grace? Get started this spring for FREE through the Next NC Scholarship. Learn more by calling 910-788-6247.