Mrs. Cheryle Melton's story is one of courage, perseverance, and hope. In 2018, she was suddenly without work as the company she had worked for for over 10 years was forced into massive layoffs. Instead of giving up, Cheryle took this opportunity to further her education and give herself a better opportunity to achieve her dreams. Cheryle discovered the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) and Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs through NCWorks representatives and found out that these programs would provide funds and resources that would allow her to go to school. In addition to this, the Trade Readjustment Allowance (TRA) would continue to pay Cheryle's unemployment check after it stopped coming in. After Cheryle successfully qualified for these programs and took her placement exams, she began going to class for her Office Administration Degree. Due to the programs from NCWorks, Cheryle was able to focus completely on her education, without financial worries hanging over her.
Cheryle thrived in the academic environment. Her dedication, effort, and hard work paid off in amazing ways. She maintained a 4.0 GPA through all 4 semesters and earned certificates in both Office Administration and Microsoft Applications Proficiency. She was also awarded the "2020 Outstanding Student of the Office Administration Curriculum" award. Besides the accolades for her accomplishments, Cheryle also discovered her passion for tutoring other students during this time. Cheryle told us, "I will forever be grateful for the Trade Adjustment Assistance, Trade Readjustment Allowance, and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act programs. If not for these programs and the two special ladies who helped me through this journey, I never would have gone back to college. Gina Colie and Catherine Stickles believed in me, allowing me to believe in myself." Cheryle is now working at Wayne Community College in two part-time positions, one as a professional tutor and the other as a health screening technician. She continues to pursue her dreams, and we wish her the best in her journey.
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