Carteret Graduate
Thrives at UNC

A Proven Transfer Pathway: Christian’s C-STEP Journey to UNC–Chapel Hill

Christian’s transfer from Carteret Community College to UNC–Chapel Hill showcases how C-STEP creates real opportunities for student success beyond graduation.

For many students, the dream of attending a highly competitive university can feel out of reach. For Christian, a Spring 2025 graduate of Carteret Community College, that dream became reality through focus, persistence, and the Carolina Student Transfer Excellence Program (C-STEP).

Now in his second semester at UNC–Chapel Hill, Christian is thriving—proof of what is possible when opportunity meets preparation and when a community college continues to invest in student success beyond graduation.

Laying the Foundation at Carteret

When Christian first enrolled at Carteret Community College, his goal was clear: build a strong academic foundation and create a competitive pathway to a top-tier university. With aspirations of attending a top 14 law school, he chose economics as his starting major, drawn to its analytical focus and alignment with law school preparation.

“I wanted to be intentional from the beginning,” Christian shared. “My goal was to put myself in the strongest academic position possible.”

That intentionality guided every academic decision he made at Carteret, ensuring each course aligned with his long-term goals.

Discovering C-STEP and a Clear Path Forward

Through independent research, Christian discovered the Carolina Student Transfer Excellence Program (C-STEP)—a partnership designed to support high-achieving community college students in their transition to UNC–Chapel Hill.

Learning that C-STEP offered guaranteed admission to UNC’s College of Arts and Sciences upon completion of an associate degree was a pivotal moment.

“At first, it sounded almost too good to be true,” he said. “But I immediately recognized how significant the opportunity was.”

From that point on, Christian knew that successfully following the C-STEP plan could change the trajectory of his education—and his life.

Support, Mentorship, and Moments That Made It Real

One of the most impactful aspects of C-STEP was the individualized support Christian received throughout his time at Carteret. Dedicated advising, joint academic planning, and access to UNC resources helped him stay focused and confident.

He credits Professor Bochnovic with having a particularly meaningful impact on his journey.

“His guidance and belief in me gave me the confidence to execute the academic plan we created,” Christian said. “Even now that I’m at UNC, his continued support still means the world to me.”

C-STEP campus visits and invitation-only events further reinforced Christian’s sense of belonging at UNC. One visit stands out in particular.

“The first C-STEP trip after I was accepted was emotional,” he shared. “I had visited UNC as a kid, but I never thought becoming a UNC student was realistic until that moment.”

Thriving After Transfer

Now in his second semester at UNC–Chapel Hill, Christian credits Carteret Community College with preparing him for the academic rigor and fast-paced environment of a highly competitive university.

“Carteret helped me develop discipline, time management, and accountability,” he said. “Those skills are essential at UNC.”

Since transferring, Christian has refined his academic focus, realizing that finance more closely aligns with how he thinks and what he wants to pursue long term—confirming both the strength of his preparation and the flexibility of his educational pathway.

Looking Ahead and Giving Back

Christian’s long-term goals extend well beyond the classroom. He plans to continue growing his day-trading and social media brand, ChristianTradesLive, expand into real estate, and eventually open a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center.

Transferring to UNC plays a critical role in that vision by providing academic rigor, professional credibility, and access to a high-level professional network.

Just as important to Christian is giving back.

“I want to represent Carteret by showing that community college students can succeed at highly competitive institutions,” he said. “There are multiple paths to the same goal.”

He hopes to mentor future students who may not be ready or able to attend UNC directly out of high school, helping them see community college as a powerful and strategic starting point.

A Partnership That Extends Beyond Graduation

Christian’s success reflects Carteret Community College’s commitment to student achievement at every stage—from enrollment and transfer to continued success beyond graduation. Through programs like C-STEP, Carteret proudly celebrates students as they excel at institutions like UNC–Chapel Hill.

From Carteret to Carolina, Christian’s journey demonstrates the power of preparation, partnership, and perseverance—and the lasting impact of a community college that believes in its students.

Interested in learning more about our C-Step program?
Contact Clay Bochnovic at claytona2771@carteret.edu or visit carteret.edu