Finding His
Direction Early

How CCP Student Maxum Thayer Is Exploring His Future Through Carteret

Through Carteret CC’s CCP program, Maxum is gaining early insight, flexibility, and confidence as he explores his future in Information Technology

For many high school students, the future can feel far away — something to think about after graduation. But for Maxum Thayer, a student at West Carteret High School, that future is already taking shape thanks to Carteret Community College’s Career & College Promise (CCP) program.

Through CCP, Maxum is enrolled in college-level Information Technology courses, gaining experience, confidence, and clarity about his next steps — all while still in high school.

A Head Start With Purpose

What inspired Maxum to join the CCP program was simple, but powerful: opportunity.

“My inspiration to join the CCP program was the opportunity to get a head start with such little cost,” he shared.

That head start has made a real difference. By taking college courses early, Maxum has been able to explore different fields and better understand what truly interests him before officially entering college.

“Taking these classes while still in high school has helped me learn more about what I would like to do in the future,” he said. “I’m able to test different fields and see if they’re a good fit before I actually get to college.”

For students like Maxum, CCP removes the guesswork and pressure by allowing them to explore career paths early — saving both time and money in the long run.

A Different Kind of High School Experience

Maxum believes CCP has changed his high school experience in a positive way. While many students juggle packed schedules and tight deadlines, CCP has given him flexibility and control over how he manages his time.

“I feel that joining the CCP program has improved my high school experience compared to my counterparts,” he explained. “I’m able to complete my work in a timely manner that works for me.”

Taking online CCP courses has helped him balance school, work, and personal life with less stress. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, Maxum can plan ahead and structure his days in a way that fits his needs.

“Online CCP classes have actually helped with the balance,” he said. “I’m able to work more and spend more time with my loved ones. It’s also easier to plan days to complete college work on opposite days from regular school homework.”

That flexibility is one of the program’s biggest advantages — and a key reason students thrive.

Exploring IT and Building Real-World Skills

Through CCP, Maxum has been able to explore Information Technology earlier than most students his age.

“Thanks to CCP, I was able to get into IT and see if it’s the right fit for me,” he shared.

Beyond exploring career options, CCP has helped him build essential life skills — especially time management.

“The biggest advantage has been improving my time management and stress levels,” Maxum said.

These skills will serve him well no matter what path he chooses, whether in college, the workforce, or beyond.

Motivation, Interests, and Advice for Future Students

Outside of school, Maxum enjoys working out, spending time on his truck, and learning about the stock market and day trading — interests that reflect his curiosity, independence, and forward-thinking mindset.

When it comes to motivation, his parents play a central role.

“They inspire me to work hard toward my goals,” he said.

And when asked what advice he would give to other high school students considering CCP, his answer was direct and confident:

“Do it! It’s a great choice that will help you prepare and decide what you want to do in your future at a low cost.”

Discovering Direction — Before Graduation

Maxum Thayer’s story is a perfect example of what the Career & College Promise program is designed to do:
help students explore interests, build confidence, reduce stress, and discover direction early.

With the support of Carteret Community College, Maxum is learning that success doesn’t have to wait until after high school — it can begin right now.

And for students wondering what comes next, CCP proves that sometimes the best way to find your future is to start exploring it sooner.

For more information about our Career & College Promise (CCP)  program contact Kathy Bernstein for Carteret County Public School students. For Homeschool/Private School students Heather Robbins.