Read about Alexandra Carter and her experience in College of The Albemarle’s (COA) dual enrollment program.
In May 2015, 18-year-old Alexandra Carter earned both her high school diploma and her Associate in Science from COA.
As a student at J.P. Knapp Early College High School in Currituck County, the Moyock resident entered the dual enrollment program at COA, pursuing her high school diploma and college credits simultaneously. She juggled the academic obligations of both programs so well, when she graduated from COA, Carter received acceptance letters to the engineering programs at Wake Forest University, Georgia Tech, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, North Carolina Wesleyan and Brigham Young University.
She chose Brigham Young University in Utah, which gave her a full scholarship. She is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering. But Carter’s dreams don’t end there.
She has mapped out her life plan that includes eventually earning her doctorate in chemical engineering and starting a medical nonprofit, which creates and distributes low-cost medical devices, such as pacemakers, prosthetics and wheelchairs. “Things that the normal family can’t readily afford,” Carter said.
Her strategy also includes an internship at a nonprofit. And she doesn’t plan to slow down as she approaches her retirement years. Eventually, she wants to become an engineering professor so she can teach a new generation about the subject she loves. She hopes to inspire other students to pursue their engineering degrees.
Although most 18-year-olds don’t have their futures charted out at such a young age, Carter said she thinks it’s important to set goals.
“One of the most awesome things about COA,” Carter said, “is that if you really want to make a mark at COA and are willing to do whatever you need to do, there are people there who will help you achieve.”
She once heard someone say, “If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for everything.” It’s a belief she took to heart.
Always one to make the most of her time, Carter capitalized on her stint as a student at J.P. Knapp. She was selected as the North Carolina State Parliamentarian for the Future Business Leaders of America and also served as a student representative on the Currituck County Board of Education. Any remaining time she filled by volunteering at the Albemarle Food Bank and the local animal shelter and working in nursing homes.
“Alexandra was involved in taking on leadership roles since she’s been here,” said Christine Kasten, J.P. Knapp counselor. “She’s just actively involved. When students are actively involved, it keeps them on track and organized and that’s part of her success.”
Not all of Carter’s COA credits will transfer to Brigham Young but she isn’t worried about having to re-take a few courses. She knows her COA education has prepared her well.
“The fundamentals will be the same,” Carter said. “COA and J.P. Knapp have not only prepared me for school, but they have prepared me for life.