More Than a Comeback

For Carteret Community College student Matthew Williams, success isn’t just about getting back on track.

It’s about building something that lasts.

“Recovery gave me my life back—education gave me direction, and service gives it purpose.”

That mindset has become the foundation of everything he’s working toward.

A Decision That Changed Everything

Matthew’s journey didn’t begin in a classroom.

It began with a decision—a decision to want more.

More stability.
More purpose.
More for his family.

“I reached a point where I knew I wanted more… not just for me, but for my family,” he said.

Before enrolling at Carteret, he was navigating life after incarceration and early recovery—working to rebuild while facing the realities of re-entry.

“I knew I wanted more, but I wasn’t sure how to move forward while dealing with re-entry challenges.”

There were real obstacles in front of him.

Rebuilding trust.
Finding steady employment.
Balancing recovery with long-term goals.

And like many in his position, there were moments of doubt.

“There were times I questioned if higher education was even realistic for me.”

But one belief kept pushing him forward:

“I wanted to prove that my past did not define my future.”

Finding Direction at Carteret

That belief found a path forward at Carteret Community College.

Through the NCWorks Re-entry and WIOA programs, Matthew found more than access to education—he found structure, accountability, and a support system that pushed him to grow.

Just as importantly, WIOA removed one of the biggest barriers standing in his way.

“The support from WIOA made a huge difference,” he said. “It helped cover my tuition and books, which took away a major financial barrier and allowed me to focus fully on my education and goals.”

Without that financial pressure, Matthew was able to focus on what mattered most—building a future.

“I needed support and structure. I wanted to be around people who understood where I came from but still pushed me to be better.”

At Carteret, he found exactly that.

“It’s more than just school—it’s a support system. It helps you rebuild your life, not just your education.”

That environment didn’t just help him move forward.

It changed how he thought.

“Education opened my mindset. I don’t think small anymore—I think about growth, legacy, and creating opportunities.”

Consistency Became the Breakthrough

Matthew didn’t begin his college journey with big expectations.

He started with one goal:

“Stay consistent and finish what I started.”

That consistency changed everything.

He earned his GED at Carteret in just three weeks—a milestone that set the tone for what was to come.

From there, he didn’t just succeed—he excelled.

• President’s List (Fall 2025)
• Vice President’s List (Spring & Summer 2025)
• Member of Phi Theta Kappa and Sigma Kappa Delta Honor Societies
• Vice President of Sigma Kappa Delta English Honor Society
• Certificate in Business Administration–Management with Honors

But for Matthew, the most important accomplishment wasn’t academic.

“I’m most proud of staying committed and proving to myself that I can succeed.”

Putting Purpose Into Action

Today, Matthew is not waiting for the future.

He’s already living it.

He currently works as a SAIOP/SACOT Facilitator at Southeastern Integrated Care, helping individuals navigate recovery and build stability in their own lives.

At the same time, he continues his journey as a full-time Business Administration student, while gaining hands-on experience through work and entrepreneurship.

He balances multiple roles every day:

Student.
Father.
Husband.
Facilitator.
Leader.
Future business owner.

“Balancing school, work, and family hasn’t been easy,” he said. “But I kept showing up—and that consistency changed everything.”

That consistency has built more than success.

It’s built confidence, discipline, and vision.

“I’ve gained leadership skills and a whole new way of thinking. I don’t see limitations anymore—I see opportunity.”

Building a Legacy, Not Just a Career

Matthew’s goals extend far beyond earning a degree.

“I don’t just want a job—I want to build businesses, create opportunities, and leave a legacy for my family.”

That vision is already taking shape.

He plans to transfer to UNC Pembroke in Fall 2026 to pursue his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, followed by his MBA—becoming the first person in his family to attend a university.

But his purpose goes even deeper than personal success.

“I want to help others successfully transition back into the community.”

Through his work and leadership, he is already doing just that—helping others see what’s possible and guiding them toward their own next steps.

The Power of People Who Believe in You

Matthew is clear about one thing:

He didn’t do this alone.

“The Re-entry support and advising had the biggest impact,” he said. “Having people who believe in you—even when you’re still learning to believe in yourself—changes everything.”

At Carteret Community College, he found people who didn’t just support him—they challenged him.

“They encouraged me, held me accountable, and reminded me of who I could become.”

That support turned possibility into progress.

“Carteret gave me direction, confidence, and opportunities I never thought I’d have.”

More Than a Second Chance

Matthew’s story is not about going back.

It’s about moving forward—with purpose.

“This experience has been life-changing. I came here looking for a second chance, and I found direction, purpose, and a future I’m proud of.”

And his message to others is simple:

“Don’t let your past define you. It’s not too late. If you take that first step, it can change your whole life.”

Because for Matthew, that first step didn’t just lead to education.

It led to something greater.

“I didn’t just go back to school,” he said.
“I went back and got my life back.”