Student Stories

Explore our Student Stories to discover the unique and inspiring journeys of Central Piedmont Community College students. Each narrative showcases how individuals have overcome challenges and achieved success.

Jae Taylor

Jae Taylor is an emergency medical sciences student with a passion for helping others and uplifting communities through paramedicine. Originally from Boston, Jae moved to Charlotte to be with family and pursue an education at Central Piedmont.  

When choosing a school to begin their journey in emergency medicine, Jae took time to carefully research their options. With family already in Charlotte, Jae looked into local colleges and found that Central Piedmont stood out.  

The strong connection between Central Piedmont and Mecklenburg County Emergency Medical Services caught Jae’s attention. Jae admired the agency’s reputation and the doors it opens for students. After seeing the program’s great outcomes for public safety graduates, Jae knew Central Piedmont was the right place to take the next step. 

“I noticed [Mecklenburg County] Medic has opened its doors to help support and teach students at Central Piedmont, which results in a good relationship between those who are still learning and those who are working in the profession,” Jae said. “Everybody comes together to help serve the community.” 

While earning their degree, Jae received the Merancas Technical Career Scholarship, which supports students in hands-on fields that lead directly to the work force. Beyond the classroom, Jae applies their training through clinicals and ride-alongs with Mecklenburg County first responders. These real-world experiences teach Jae how to support people during some of their hardest moments. 

One instructor, John Cooper, made a lasting impact on Jae’s journey. His experience in emergency medical science helped Jae build valuable skills and grow confident in their career path. His open and welcoming teaching style continues to inspire Jae.  

“I’m in a program where there are very experienced professors and instructors that I feel confident will help me grow the most in my career path,” Jae said.  

I would love to have a lifelong career of helping people on their worst days. Jae Taylor

Future Plans

Jae is on track to graduate in December 2026 and plans to start serving the community right away. With a goal to work in community paramedicine, Jae hopes to help people who struggle to access quality healthcare. Jae believes diversity in the first responder field is essential. Representation can help address the unique healthcare needs of different communities. 

“I would love to have a lifelong career of helping people on their worst days,” Jae said. “It’s very important for the community to feel supported and have first responders to address their needs, and I hope to have a career where I can impact the community in that way.”  

In the future, Jae hopes to return home to Boston and give back to the community that raised them. Whether in Charlotte or Boston, Jae’s mission stays the same: make medicine more accessible to everyone, no matter the challenges they face. With determination and heart, Jae is on a path to make a real difference—and Central Piedmont is just the beginning.  

Learn More about Jae's Experience

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