College of The Albemarle has presented me with more opportunities than I could have ever imagined.  I started here in 2014 after being laid off for the first time in my life.  Truthfully, I am not sure how I found the courage to return to school after nearly 18 years, but I was encouraged because I have never met a group more committed to the success of students.  I have had the opportunity to represent the college both as Student Ambassador and President of our Honors Society, Phi Theta Kappa, since January 2015.  Since October of 2014, I have also been a member of the Community Relations Commission of Pasquotank County, and I have served as Secretary since May 2015.  Having a chance to work amongst the great people of our business department on the Elizabeth City campus has been a true learning experience, as well.  I have already earned enough credits for two associates degrees here at the College of The Albemarle, and I will be completing my associate’s degree in nursing in May 2017.   It would be a pleasure to represent this college far beyond northeastern North Carolina as the recipient of the Academic Excellence Award.