Jennifer Campbell spent years working as an elementary school teacher in Washington, D.C. But, when she moved back to her home state of North Carolina and began working at a community college, a spark for higher education was ignited. 

Now, as she graduates with a doctoral degree in Community College Leadership, she hopes to become a resource for future community college students. 

The following Q&A has been edited for length and clarity. 

Meet Jennifer: 

Hometown: Greensboro, N.C. 

Area of study: Ed. D. in Community College Leadership

Research focus: Community college students who are single mothers and earn their degrees.

Why did you choose a career in education? 

I started my career as an elementary school teacher. It wasn’t until I relocated to North Carolina that I stumbled upon higher education, and I’m so glad that I did. It was here that I found my passion is helping college students in any way that I can. I love to see them succeed and become the best version of themselves.

Why did you choose your specific area of study? 

I chose to get my doctorate in Community College Leadership as I was working at a community college. It was my first job in higher education. That experience allowed me to become passionate about working with students in higher education. When an opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree came to me, I went for it.

Tell us about an experience you had with the College of Education that had the biggest impact on you.

While being a student within the College of Education, I was able to be a Belk Center Fellow for two years back-to-back and travel to participate in some of the largest conferences for higher education and community colleges. I attended the League for Innovation Conference last year and, prior to that, I attended the Achieving the Dream Conference. I had a seat at the table and it impacted my career in so many ways and it’s all due to the NC State College of Education. 

What’s next for you after graduation?

I began my career in the North Carolina Community College System working in the call center at Guilford Technical Community College, advanced my career as an academic advisor at Davidson Davie Community College and now serve as lead advisor for TRIO talent search at Davidson Davie. I see for my future a lead role in student services and or TRIO. Eventually I’d like to become a dean or a vice president. 

How has the College of Education prepared you for this next step?

The College of Education has prepared me for the next step with rigorous courses, fantastic well-developed instructors and experiences that I never imagined, including traveling and attending conferences, mentorship and beyond.