Focused on the Future

 

Ja’Naya George’s Radiography Journey

After graduating from Carteret’s Radiography Program in May 2026, Ja’Naya George is stepping confidently into a future in healthcare with determination, passion, and purpose.

For Ja’Naya George, earning her degree in radiography represents far more than completing a college program. It represents resilience, perseverance, and the determination to keep moving forward no matter the obstacles.

Originally from Havelock, North Carolina, Ja’Naya recently graduated from Carteret Community College’s Radiography Program and has already begun building her future in medical imaging after being hired as a student X-ray technician at CarolinaEast Medical Center. She plans to continue advancing her education by entering an MRI program in 2027 with the goal of becoming an MRI technologist.

“I knew from a young age that I wanted a college degree related to the medical field,” Ja’Naya shared.

That dream led her to Carteret Community College after researching radiography programs and searching for the right fit for her future.

Finding Opportunity Through Carteret and WIOA

Ja’Naya’s path into the program was not guaranteed at first. After applying early to the 2024–2026 Radiography Program, she was initially placed on the alternate list. Then, just weeks later, she received life-changing news that a seat had opened for her in the program.

But shortly after accepting her spot, unexpected financial challenges appeared.

“A family member wrecked my car, and I had to clean out my savings to get another vehicle because I needed something reliable to transport to school and clinicals,” she explained.

Despite the setbacks, Ja’Naya stayed focused on her future and found support through Carteret Community College’s Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program.

The program became a major source of stability during one of the busiest and most demanding seasons of her life.

“WIOA covered the cost of my education and books, allowing me to receive my full Pell Grant,” she said.

WIOA also helped reimburse mileage expenses for travel to clinical sites during her first semesters in the program, easing the financial pressure that often comes with healthcare training.

“This drastically took away the stress of having to work and allowed me to focus on my schoolwork instead of working to keep bills paid,” Ja’Naya shared.

The support extended beyond financial assistance. Through WIOA, Ja’Naya also received encouragement, career resources, and guidance that helped her stay motivated and focused on her goals.

“Yes, it has covered financial barriers for my training, and I receive emails about job opportunities through WIOA,” she explained.

Overcoming Challenges with Support and Determination

During her time in the Radiography Program, Ja’Naya faced several personal hardships that could have easily derailed her education.

Instead of facing those moments alone, Ja’Naya found encouragement from the faculty and staff around her.

“When I notified my program instructors and my WIOA advisor, they supported me throughout the process and told me to let them know if there was anything I needed,” she said.

She credits the Radiography faculty for creating a supportive learning environment that helped students feel encouraged throughout the program.

“My instructors in the Radiography Program have been extremely patient and caring throughout my time in the program,” Ja’Naya shared.

She also expressed gratitude for WIOA advisor Hedda Bunting, who played a major role in her success.

“She’s given me tools to be successful throughout the program, and she’s been very encouraging along the way,” Ja’Naya said.

That support reminded her that she was never alone in the process.

Preparing for a Career in Healthcare

Through classroom instruction, hands-on clinical training, and workforce support, Ja’Naya gained the confidence and experience needed to begin her healthcare career.

The Radiography Program helped prepare her not only technically, but personally, strengthening her confidence and ability to push through difficult moments.

“I am most proud of making it through this program,” she shared. “The process has not been easy, but I’ve been given countless support and encouragement from the WIOA staff.”

Her journey is a powerful reminder that success is not always about having a perfect path. Sometimes it is about continuing forward even when life becomes difficult.

“Some people probably would’ve just given up if they had to face the challenges I did while completing this program,” she said.

But Ja’Naya chose to keep going.

Encouraging Future Students

Now, as a recent graduate beginning her career in healthcare, Ja’Naya hopes her story encourages others who may feel uncertain about their future or afraid to ask for help.

“I would encourage them to reach out to WIOA, to not be scared to ask for help, and to know that there are programs and people who truly care and want you to succeed,” she said.

She also encourages students to communicate openly with advisors and instructors when challenges arise.

“They will do the best they can to help you or give you resources that can help,” she explained.

For Ja’Naya, Carteret Community College became much more than a place to earn a degree. It became a support system, a source of encouragement, and a foundation for the future she had always envisioned.

“Carteret Community College is a college that cares about you and your well-being,” she said. “All of the staff are very friendly and helpful.”

Her story reflects the impact that support programs like WIOA, dedicated faculty, and access to education can have on a student’s life.

With determination, encouragement, and opportunity, Ja’Naya George turned challenges into motivation and built a future she can be proud of.

For more information about our Radiography and WIOA program please visit our website at carteret.edu.