Student Spotlights | Sandhills Community College
Stories of Learning, Growth, and Belonging
Sarah Baker’s journey at Sandhills Community College has been shaped by curiosity, flexibility, and a willingness to explore new possibilities. From earning certifications to stepping far outside her comfort zone through a Disney internship, she’s discovered that growth often begins by simply saying yes to the unfamiliar.
Emma Motta didn’t start college with everything figured out. At Sandhills Community College, she found a supportive environment and hands-on experience in Culinary and Pastry Arts that helped her build confidence, discover direction, and take meaningful steps forward.
Madeline Smith’s path to graduation hasn’t followed a straight line. A mother, small business owner, and Architectural Technology student, she returned to Sandhills Community College with renewed focus—using persistence, creativity, and hard-earned confidence to keep moving forward.
When Moises Cruz-Cortez arrived at Sandhills, he was simply hoping for a fresh start.
Instead, he found people who made him feel seen, supported and comfortable enough
to keep going. That feeling of belonging became the foundation of his future.
Read Moises' Full Story >>
After her federal position in women’s public health was eliminated, Helenka Ostrum
enrolled in Sandhills Community College’s EMT Basic course — combining her public
health background with hands-on emergency medical training.
Read Helenka's Full Story »