In my role, I travel across the state and meet cool transfer students from all over the world, talk about what a great place UNC is, and get to know some of the best students on our campus—those who come to us from C-STEP. I also get to work one-on-one with amazing community college students.When I’m not working, I enjoy celebrating life and spending time with my family. My husband Daniel of 16 years and two beautiful daughters—Jordan Halen and Lawson Hannah, are my motivation in life. I love adventure and my other passions include rescuing animals, hiking, camping and anything outdoors (and in the water). Okay, it’s no secret among my colleagues that when I retire, I might be on location with National Geographic photographing the wild animals of the world.
I'll close by saying that there are many paths to Carolina—every path is different and every path is valid. If you are here, it is because you deserve a place on this campus. Look around, meet new people, create your own adventures and enjoy what short time you have as a student here. It will go fast!
What is C-STEP?
Launched in 2006, with the help of the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, C-STEP guarantees junior transfer admission to students who earn an associate degree and successfully complete the program at one of seven partner community colleges across North Carolina: Alamance Community College, Carteret Community College, Central Carolina Community College, Craven Community College, Durham Technical Community College, Fayetteville Technical Community College, and Wake Technical Community College. C-STEP currently serves more than 300 students, and more than 170 of those have already enrolled at Carolina. Read more Central Carolina's recent C-STEP graduates in the Sanford Herald!
How does the program work?
C-STEP students must successfully complete an AA or AS degree at one of the seven partner community colleges in no more than five semesters. Students must also complete at least three semesters of college-level foreign language before enrolling at Carolina. Additionally, students must participate fully in C-STEP activities—at their home college and later at Carolina. While enrolled at the community college, students work directly with C-STEP leaders and mentors and participate in monthly events on their campus and at Carolina. These events introduce students to Carolina, help them engage early with the campus community, and prepare them for their transition to Chapel Hill.
Who is eligible?
C-STEP focuses on community college students whose household incomes fall at or below 300 percent of the federal poverty guidelines (around $69,150 for a family of four). You must also be enrolled (or plan to enroll) at a partner community college in a course of study that will lead to the Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Sciences (AS) degree, and you must earn the degree with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.
We review candidates holistically and consider, among other criteria, demonstrated ability to overcome obstacles, first generation college status, diversity, employment history, and family responsibilities.
How do I apply?
The application is available here. Community college students should apply by October 1, and high school students entering one of the partner community colleges should apply by April 1. Representatives at UNC and two advisors from each partner college review applications and confirm students’ acceptances into the program by early fall.
Is financial aid provided?
Carolina meets 100 percent of demonstrated need through grants, scholarships, and loans for all students who are eligible to receive federal aid. Eligible students may qualify for the Carolina Covenant and graduate debt-free.
For more, please see the C-STEP website.
