GOLDSBORO, N.C. – Carmen Del Cid Garcia has always believed in the power of education. Now, as she prepares to graduate from Wayne Community College with an associate degree in Business Administration, her journey is an inspiring testament to perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of lifelong learning.
A wife, mother of two, full-time employee at Mount Olive Family Medicine Center, and church secretary, Del Cid somehow still finds time to thrive as a full-time student. Her journey with Wayne Community College (WCC) began in 2008, when she earned her certified nursing assistant credential. Nearly two decades later, she is now completing her business degree—a goal that has been years in the making.
“I had never stopped coming to school, but that’s when I decided to start taking more classes,” said Del Cid, referring to her renewed commitment after her husband graduated from the same program in 2023.
WCC’s Business Administration program offers a range of educational tracks, including an associate in applied science degree, diploma, and multiple certificates. Designed for flexibility, the program can be completed through in-person, online, or hybrid classes. Graduates also have the opportunity to transfer to the University of Mount Olive to pursue a four-year business degree.
Del Cid says she’s appreciated the program’s wide-ranging curriculum, which includes courses in microeconomics, marketing, small business management, and bookkeeping. “I never thought there was so much in business to learn about,” she said. “That’s something that I like so much about business; it’s not about one thing. It’s so broad.”
Small class sizes at WCC have provided the individualized attention Del Cid needed to succeed while managing her busy life. “If you have a teacher who cares so much for you to succeed, I think that’s what shows you sometimes that it is worth it,” she said. “Knowing that somebody is believing in me and there to support me is just fantastic.”
After graduating in May, Del Cid plans to continue her education at East Carolina University to pursue both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business. Her long-term goal is to work in human resources within the healthcare field—a perfect blend of her passion for helping others and her professional experience.
“I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it and that nothing is impossible,” Carmen shared. “One thing I always tell my kids is that it’s not about how long it takes. You have to finish what you start.”
As she nears the end of a decades-long academic journey, Del Cid hopes her story will inspire others to pursue their goals—no matter the obstacles. “I want to be a good example that if you decide to do something, you can do it and be successful,” she said.
Looking back, she credits Wayne Community College for playing a vital role in her achievements. “The people at Wayne Community College have always found a way to help me,” Del Cid said. “They made me feel like I could do it.”
To learn more about WCC’s Business Administration program, visit waynecc.edu or contact Business and Accounting Department Chair Erin LeGrand at [email protected] or 919-739-6880.
