Aaron Kempster is a former US Marine who has become involved in many Central Piedmont organizations. In addition to being Vice President of the Human Services Club and Vice President and Co-founder of the Human Services Honors Society, he is a member of Phi Theta Kappa as well as a Student Ambassador.

In the midst of the pandemic, Aaron decided he wanted to pursue higher education. As a non-traditional student, he chose Central Piedmont for its wide variety of programs and affordable tuition. When Aaron realized he wanted to attend college, he was heavily reliant on social and mental health workers during a mental health crisis. As a result of this crisis, he decided to get into a field where he could make a difference in the lives of others. Aaron decided to pursue an associate degree in Applied Science in Human Services Technology, Developmental Disabilities, and Addiction and Recovery Studies.
“I have enjoyed my interactions with the faculty and staff at the college. I am learning from professionals who have more than 100 years of combined experience in different parts of the human services field,” Aarons explains. It is Kempster’s goal to continue his education, eventually earning a master’s degree in social work. He hopes to become a counselor after obtaining his education.

Aaron has overcome many obstacles throughout his life and is a phenomenal student. Since he was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at a very young age, he has always had to work ten times harder than other students. “I went from being a kid who wouldn’t be able to read, write, or ride a bike to becoming a Marine Veteran and a 4.0 student. Having been given the right conditions, anything is possible, and Central Piedmont has provided me with a great deal of support and opportunities,” says Aaron.

Advice to future Central Piedmont students: “Create good relationships with your professors and get active within the college. There are so many diverse opportunities afforded whether it be jobs, scholarships, clubs, volunteering, or honors societies. You get from college what you put into it and there are a ton of opportunities at Central Piedmont.”