Tag Archives: Student Spotlight

Student Spotlight: Shania Johnson 🌟

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Headshot of Shania JohnsonShania Johnson, a first-generation college student from Charlotte, NC, embodies resilience and determination.

After graduating from Garinger High School in 2020, she attended UNC Greensboro. Despite an impressive start, she faced mental health struggles and the unexpected passing of her father.

Realizing she needed a change, Shania returned to Charlotte and enrolled at Central Piedmont in Spring 2023.

🌟 Highlights:

  • Peer Mentor: In TRIO Student Support Services (TRIO-SSS), Shania built meaningful relationships and grew personally.
  • Academic Success: Graduated with an Associate in Arts in psychology, with aspirations to eliminate stigmas around mental health therapy in minority communities.

💬 Her Journey: “Attending Central Piedmont helped me understand that everyone’s path is different, and that doesn’t lessen your personal accomplishments,” Shania shared.

This fall, Shania will start her social work degree at UNC Charlotte. 🎓🌟

🚒 Stage to Safety: Rachael Helms’ Fire Protection Journey

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📍 Program: Fire Protection
🎓 Previous Education: B.A. in Exercise Science, UNC CharlotteRachael Helms headshot in fire suit and helmet

At 38, Rachael Helms has made a remarkable transition from a performing arts career to pursuing a Fire Protection degree at Central Piedmont. Her unique interest in the psychological aspects of disaster response drew her to our standout Fire and Social Behavior class, blending her passions for public safety and disaster psychology.

🤸 Background in Performing Arts:

  • Formerly a gymnast, cheerleader, and aerial artist, including circus arts.
  • Rachael’s diverse background has seamlessly translated into the physical prowess necessary for demanding emergency services.

🚒 From Arts to Emergency Services:

Rachael’s career pivot is not just a change in profession but a reinvention of her skill set to meet the rigorous 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,” Rachael proudly claims.

🏛️ Academic and Career Ambitions:

  • Rachael values the real-world experience her professors bring, merging technical knowledge with critical social insights.
  • She aims to excel as a Fire Engineer, using her skills to impact and protect the community significantly.

✨ Rachael’s Message to Fellow Students:

“Set lofty goals, surround yourself with knowledgeable peers, and dive into learning experiences,” she advises. Rachael embodies the spirit of continuous learning and adaptability, turning personal strengths into professional excellence.

Rachael’s story is a testament to the diverse pathways at Central Piedmont and the profound personal and professional growth that comes with pursuing one’s passions.