HCC changes life of student, creates opportunity for future

Halifax Community College is definitely creating success. In January 2003, Rodrigo Martinez decided to enroll in the English as a Second Language Program at the college. Since the program was not being offered that semester, he was directed into the GED Program. All he wanted, at that time, was to improve his English. At the same time, he was dealing with a 26-year drug and alcohol addition. AA was not working for him, so he used the HCC classes as a way to distract himself from the urge to use drugs.

In 2004, Martinez started taking the classes seriously. His instructor continued to mention that he had a plan for Martinez. The plan included attaining a GED and enrolling in college. Each time he heard the plan he thought, “Going to college—this man must be crazy. I am not ready. He does not know what he’s talking about.”

By the end of July that year, though, Martinez received his GED and by August, he was enrolled in college. He completed his studies and this May, he graduated with an Associate in Arts degree. He plans to finish his degree at Elizabeth City State University and become a teacher. “I know now that I have a great future ahead of me,” he said.
 

“I know God has raised me up and given me His favor. The good outweighs the bad.”

HCC graduate Barbara Motley Smith was a nontraditional student when she attended the college. She was nontraditional in her determination and in her faith. In 2008, she earned a certificate in Advertising& Graphic Design/Computer Graphics and an Associate in Applied Science in Advertising & Graphic Design. In 2007, she earned a certificate in Interior Design/Computer-Aided, an Associate in Applied Science and a diploma in Interior Design. In 2006, she received a certificate in Interior Design.
Smith has worked in retail businesses and has owned three businesses. She has also worked as a teacher’s assistant at a university and has volunteered at various public schools. Although it has been difficult for Smith to finish her education due to family, health and job demands, she has persevered.

“I know God has raised me up and given me His favor. The good outweighs the bad,” said Smith.

A Phi Theta Kappa honor society member, an Ambassador and a student mentor, Smith has served as a minister at her church working with young women. She was also a scholarship recipient and spoke during the 2007 Scholarship Awards Ceremony to donors and guests.