Monisha Pirela, a 34-year-old Central Piedmont Community College student 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 actively participates in campus life, serving 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 locally and globally. Monisha aspires to work for the U.S. State Department and consult on international sustainable housing projects. 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 commitment to making a meaningful societal impact.🏆