Building Something New

Building Something New: A Journey of Growth, Determination, and Second Chances

Sometimes the strongest futures are built one step, one decision, and one opportunity at a time.

Starting over isn’t always easy—but sometimes it leads to something stronger than before.

For Carteret Community College student Amanda Hellersperk, that fresh start became the foundation for a future she once only hoped for.

“Recovery gave me a second chance—education is helping me build the life I once only hoped for.”

A New Beginning

Before stepping into the classroom, Amanda was focused on rebuilding her life.

For years, she struggled with addiction—five to six years that tested her strength, her stability, and her future. Today, she proudly shares that she is three years sober, a milestone that represents not just recovery, but resilience.

But the road forward wasn’t simple.

“During that time, I faced significant challenges, including navigating legal issues while trying to rebuild my life,” she said.

Even as she worked to regain stability, the future still felt uncertain.

That changed when she made a decision—one that would shape everything that followed.

“After getting sober, I knew I wanted a better future for myself and my family, and education felt like the first step toward that change.”

Taking the First Step

Amanda’s journey to Carteret Community College began with a connection that would open new doors.

She met NCWorks Re-entry Case Manager Liz Hubbard just before graduating from rehab, at a moment when she knew she wanted something more.

“I knew I wanted to do something better for my life and my family,” she said.

Through the NCWorks Re-entry and WIOA programs, Amanda found the support she needed to move forward.

These programs didn’t just offer guidance—they removed real barriers.

“The NCWorks Re-entry and WIOA Programs have truly made a huge difference for me by covering my tuition and books each semester, which removed a big financial stress,” she shared.

With that support, Amanda was able to focus on what mattered most: her education, her growth, and her future.

Finding Strength Through Education

At Carteret Community College, Amanda found more than a program—she found direction.

Enrolled in the Business Administration program, she began building a foundation for the future she envisioned.

“I chose the Business Program because I want to build a strong foundation and eventually run my own business,” she said.

Through her coursework, she developed real-world skills in budgeting, accounting, and business operations—tools she plans to carry into her future career in real estate.

“My favorite part has been learning skills I can actually apply,” she said.

 

But the transformation went beyond academics.

“Carteret has helped me grow both personally and professionally by building my confidence and showing me that I’m capable of reaching my goals.”

That growth is reflected in her success:

• Vice President’s List (multiple semesters)
• Certificate in Business Administration–Management with Honors
• On track to graduate May 2026

Still, Amanda is most proud of something deeper.

“I’m most proud of staying consistent and making it this far,” she said.

Balancing It All

Amanda’s journey is not defined by one achievement—it’s defined by everything she manages at once.

Today, she is working two jobs, finishing the final stretch of her associate’s degree, and planning her wedding—all while continuing to grow and move forward.

“I’ve had to balance school, two jobs, and personal responsibilities while staying focused,” she said.

It hasn’t been easy.

But she’s learned to push through—even when it felt overwhelming.

“I stayed committed and kept going, even when it wasn’t easy.”

That determination has shaped not only her work ethic, but her outlook on life.

“Education has given me a clearer vision for my future and the confidence to pursue my goals.”

Support That Makes the Difference

Behind Amanda’s success is a strong support system—one that helped turn possibility into reality.

At Carteret Community College, she found advisors, instructors, and Re-entry Program staff who were invested in her journey.

“The support I receive from my advisor and everyone with the Re-entry Program has made a big impact on my success,” she said.

Faculty like Mr. Rob Harris also played a key role.

“He was always quick to respond and made learning engaging and interesting,” she shared.

For Amanda, those relationships mattered.

“They’ve helped me stay focused, keep moving forward, and believe in myself.”

Looking Ahead

Amanda’s future is no longer uncertain.

It’s intentional.

Her goals are clear:

• Earn her real estate license
• Complete her bachelor’s degree in business
• One day own her own real estate company

She hopes to use what she’s learned to help others feel confident and supported when making important decisions—especially during moments that can shape their lives.

“I want to help people feel confident and supported,” she said.

More Than a Second Chance

Amanda’s story is a reminder that transformation doesn’t happen overnight.

It happens through consistency, support, and the willingness to keep going—even when the path isn’t easy.

Her message to others is simple, but powerful:

“Don’t be afraid to start over and believe in yourself, because it’s never too late to change your life and build a better future.”

At Carteret Community College, that belief is more than a message—it’s a reality.

Because when students like Amanda have the right people in their corner,
they don’t just start over.

They build something better.

For more information about NCWorks or WIOA please visit our website at carteret.edu.