Student Stories

Meet Ndianor Gbandala, an international student from Monrovia, Liberia. Not only is she a Central Piedmont Medical Laboratory student; she is also one of your May’24 graduation speakers. She chose Central Piedmont because of its welcoming atmosphere and convenient downtown Charlotte location. This provides easy access to essential services and fosters a supportive community for international students to thrive and feel at home.

Influenced early on by her father's pharmacy career, Ndianor's interest in the sciences was ignited further by a microbiology class at Central Piedmont, guiding her toward a degree in Medical Laboratory Technology. "The role of laboratory professionals in healthcare drew me in; I saw a way to directly impact patient outcomes through science," she notes.

Ndianor's time at Central Piedmont has been transformative. She treasures the supportive learning environment, the mentorship from dedicated faculty, and the friendships that have nurtured her personally and professionally. "The combination of a supportive community, enriching experiences, and quality education has made my time at Central Piedmont truly rewarding," she shares.

With her degree, Ndianor aims to become a Medical Laboratory Technician within a hospital setting, contributing to diagnosing and treating diseases. She is also set on furthering her education and advancing in her field. Her advice to future students? "Embrace every learning opportunity, seek help when needed, and always be open to new experiences. Central Piedmont provides a platform for growth and self-discovery; use it well."

As Ndianor prepares to address her peers as the 10 am graduation speaker, she reflects on her academic and personal growth at Central Piedmont: "This college has not only helped me fine-tune my career path but also equipped me with the confidence to face future challenges in healthcare." Her narrative underscores the transformative impact of dedicated educational pursuits and active community engagement.

At 38, Rachael Helms has transitioned from a career in performing arts to pursuing Fire Protection at Central Piedmont Community College. With a previous degree in Exercise Science from UNC Charlotte, Rachael was drawn to Central Piedmont for its unique Fire and Social Behavior class, aligning with her interests in disaster psychology and public safety.

Her journey into the world of emergency services marks a significant pivot from her earlier career in the performing arts, where she excelled in gymnastics, cheerleading, aerial arts, and even circus arts. Her background has undoubtedly prepared her for the physical demands of fire service. “If you need someone to scale a wall, suspend like Spider-Man for a high angle rescue, or fit into small spaces, I'm your girl,” says Rachael! 

Rachael appreciates the real-world experience her professors bring to the classroom, blending technical and social insights that enhance her effectiveness in crisis situations. Her ambition is to excel as a Fire Engineer, leveraging her diverse skills to serve and protect the community.

She encourages other Central Piedmont students to pursue their highest ambitions fearlessly. "Set lofty goals, surround yourself with knowledgeable peers, and dive into learning experiences," advises Rachael. Her journey illustrates how continuous learning and adaptability are key in transforming personal strengths into professional excellence.

Monisha Pirela,a 34-year-old student at Central Piedmont Community College from New Bern, NC, is pursuing an Associate in Arts degree. She chose Central Piedmont for its proximity, easing her commute and allowing her to balance school with other commitments. Monisha is an active participant in campus life, having served on the Student Equity Council, NC Global Scholars of Distinction, and Phi Theta Kappa. She is also the recipient of several scholarships, including the 2023 Charlotte Pride Champion of Pride, Benjamin A. Gilman, Truist Honors, and Levine Scholarship.

Her academic focus combines architecture with political science, aiming to impact societal structures both locally and globally. Monisha aspires to work for the U.S. State Department and to consult on sustainable housing projects internationally. Central Piedmont has played an important role in her education, particularly through possibilities such as studying abroad, which Monisha did not think was an option for non-traditional community college students. "Thanks to the unwavering support of the Global Learning Department, I am grateful to have had the opportunity to study abroad at the University of Roehampton in London this year," she said.

Additionally, Monisha is a recognized poet and spoken word artist and interns with the U.S. Department of State, enhancing her understanding of cultural diplomacy. Recently, she was named a semifinalist for the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation’s Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship, and has been accepted to UNC Charlotte’s Honors Art+Architecture program. Monisha’s journey reflects her dedication to education and her commitment to making a meaningful societal impact.

Will Thames, a 22-year-old from Charlotte, NC, shares his inspiring journey at Central Piedmont! Will highlights his aspirations and the role Central Piedmont has played in his educational and personal growth. As a Myers Park High School graduate, Will chose Central Piedmont to pave his path toward a future in radio broadcasting and music, drawn by the college's diverse course offerings and the prospect of transferring to Appalachian State University.

Will's passion for music, particularly piano, has been a guiding light in his life since the age of 5. Inspired by legends like Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles, he dreams of carving out a career in radio broadcasting and becoming a professional musician. "What I want to do with my degree is pursue a career in radio broadcasting," Will shares.

Despite not yet being involved in clubs or organizations at Central Piedmont, Will's dedication to his studies and music speaks volumes. His advice to future students is profound yet simple: "Come with an open mind and to learn new and exciting things. It will go a long way toward your future." He believes firmly that the foundation for a bright future starts with the opportunities grasped today.

Will's encounter with Stevie Wonder nine years ago in Charlotte remains a pivotal moment in his life, fueling his ambition to follow in the footsteps of his idols. His admiration for other blind musicians, especially Matthew Whitaker, underscores a deep connection to artists who've navigated similar challenges, highlighting the unique and shared experiences that bind them.

Sarah Blair, a student from Valencia, California, found their calling in Simulation and Game Development at Central Piedmont. After high school, faced with mental health challenges, Sarah chose Central Piedmont for its local, supportive environment. Their journey wasn't smooth, but Sarah was determined to return back to college in 2020 to seek a community that could help her find her way.

Transitioning from a potential veterinary career to embracing a passion for art and technology, Sarah is now the President of Diversity in Games, engaged in clubs like IGDA Academic and Delta Alpha Pi, showcasing leadership and advocacy for inclusivity in gaming. "I knew I loved video games and animation," Sarah says, "and when I heard about the SGD department, I was hooked!”

Facing adversity, including time in a community shelter, Sarah found resilience and hope in their studies. "Being a student at Central Piedmont was my hope for a better future,” they share, highlighting the role education played in their recovery and self-discovery.

With aspirations to work in game writing and 3D modeling, Sarah aims to challenge industry norms and advocate for mental health awareness and disability rights. "I want to push social standards for people like me," they assert!
Sarah's advice to future students is poignant: "Central Piedmont has so much to offer, but you have to seek it out. Don't be afraid to try new things." Besides academics, Sarah pursues hobbies like language learning and embroidery, enriching their skill set and preparing for a multifaceted career.