Getting a boost toward a lifelong dream: Meaghan Robbins is ready to teach elementary school

From a young age, Meaghan Robbins has wanted to be a teacher. But in the years after she graduated from high school, life happened. She has worked as a medical assistant at Atrium Health for 16 years while raising her three children. However, when her children became adults, she decided it was time to go back to school. She did so at Central Piedmont, completing her Associate in Arts degree in teacher preparation with a helping hand from the NC Boost program.

A native of Waxhaw, North Carolina, Meaghan began looking into college options alongside her daughter. She ultimately chose Central Piedmont for its affordability and flexible nature. While working full-time, she completed all her classes online. 

"After I got off work, I would do schoolwork,” she said.

Having been out of school for nearly two decades, she was a bit apprehensive about becoming a student again. Plus, online learning was new to her. But once she got acclimated, she found the Central Piedmont community supportive.

“The staff has been very helpful,” she said. “If you have any questions and they don’t know it, they’ll find somebody that does.”

Among the support she received was through NC Boost, a North Carolina Community College System initiative. It helps eligible North Carolina residents early in their studies earn credentials faster and move into careers that align with the state’s workforce goals. The program includes financial support, coaching and exclusive activities and events.

Central Piedmont was one of the first eight community colleges to take part in NC Boost when it kicked off in fall 2025, meaning Meaghan was in the initial group of students. She received an email informing her that she might be eligible. She applied and was accepted, soon discovering the support extended far beyond the classroom.

Meaghan notes that the webinars and classes she attended covered diverse topics ranging from how to file taxes to personal development and improving study habits.

“It's been very eye-opening, and I know I learned more about myself being in that program,” Meaghan said. “It really makes you focus on yourself, what you want and where you want to go.”

Outside of occasional mandatory in-person meetings, Meaghan received much of her NC Boost coaching online, meeting once or twice a month. As a result, she could still focus on her full-time job, and the NC Boost team also constantly kept her informed about new classes or seminars that she might find of interest.

Meaghan completed her associate degree in summer 2026 and now plans to earn her bachelor’s from Appalachian State University, focusing on K-6 education.

In addition to working full-time, Meaghan helps care for her mother, who has dementia, and spends time with her grandchild. But despite a very full schedule with many people relying on her, she is making education a priority.

“You're never too old to go back to school and achieve your dreams,” she said.

With her work ethic, compassion and commitment to self-improvement, those dreams are now finally within reach.