A Second Chance.
A New Vision.

Aralyn Grantham’s Journey at Carteret 

Through Carteret Community College’s Adult High School program and Basic Skills Plus opportunity, Aralyn Grantham is proving that it’s never too late to finish your diploma—and start building your future at the same time

At just 17 years old, Aralyn Grantham is showing that a setback can become a powerful turning point.

Originally a student at West Carteret High School, Aralyn faced challenges that left her behind in her coursework. For many students, that moment can feel discouraging. For Aralyn, it became the moment she chose a different path forward.

Encouraged by her high school counselor, she enrolled in Carteret Community College’s Adult High School / College and Career Readiness program, a supportive pathway designed to help students complete their high school education while preparing for what comes next.

“She made it clear to me that quitting was not an option,” Aralyn said. “Everyone deserves a second chance.”

More Than a Second Chance

What Aralyn found at Carteret was more than just a way to finish her diploma—it was an opportunity to move forward.

Through a unique program called Basic Skills Plus, students like Aralyn can take college-level or workforce training courses while still completing their high school requirements.

This means students don’t have to wait to start their future—they can begin building it now.

 While working on courses like Math, English, Biology, and History, Aralyn was able to enroll in Photography 110, a college-level class that aligns with her career interests.

“Taking a photography class while being behind in high school has been beyond inspiring,” she shared. “It takes away any disappointment I had in myself and gives me something I truly look forward to.”

Programs like Basic Skills Plus are designed to remove barriers and create opportunity. Eligible students can take approved college or continuing education courses, with tuition waived, making it more accessible to explore career pathways while completing a diploma.

Discovering Confidence Through Opportunity

For Aralyn, photography quickly became more than just a class—it became a source of confidence, motivation, and direction.

Through hands-on learning, she gained technical photography skills while also developing important life skills like time management, organization, and balancing responsibilities.

 “I’ve learned how to handle more work and believe in myself more,” she said.

Being able to pursue something she is passionate about while completing her high school requirements changed her perspective entirely.

“With an amazing professor and class, I feel very confident pursuing photography,” she said.

Support Every Step of the Way

A strong support system has been key to Aralyn’s success.

From program staff like Mr. Matthews, Ms. Lopez, Mrs. Vinskus, and Mr. Adrick, to her teachers Ms. Rice, Ms. Ackert, and Ms. Deitzler, Aralyn found encouragement, guidance, and belief in her potential.

“They have all been amazing guides,” she said.

That level of support is at the heart of Carteret’s College and Career Readiness programs—meeting students where they are and helping them move forward with confidence.

Overcoming Challenges and Growing Stronger

Aralyn’s journey has not been without obstacles. She faced personal challenges and struggled with attendance at times, but with determination and support, she found her footing.

“Motivation can be hard,” she said. “But you have to remember—you owe it to yourself to give everything your all.”

What she is most proud of is not just her academic progress, but how much she has grown as a person.

“I’m most proud of the character changes I’ve made,” she shared. “I’ve grown in many ways.”

Building a Future That Inspires

Aralyn’s goals don’t stop with earning her diploma.

After completing the Adult High School program, she plans to continue her education at Carteret Community College, pursuing both photography and marine biology. She also plans to earn a photography certificate and explore underwater photography through diving courses.

By the time she graduates, she will already be building the skills and experience needed for the career she envisions.

A Message to Future Students

For anyone who may feel unsure about returning to school or completing their diploma, Aralyn offers this advice:

“Please go get your diploma. Everyone owes it to themselves to give everything their all.”

She also wants others to know that Carteret is a place where support, opportunity, and encouragement are always available.

“Once you begin your journey here, you will feel more uplifted and inspired than you imagine,” she said. “The staff are wonderful, the campus is beautiful, and the opportunities to improve yourself are endless.”

Aralyn Grantham’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to start again—and that with programs like Basic Skills Plus, students don’t just catch up… they move ahead.

At Carteret Community College, a second chance can become the beginning of something even greater.