Ligia Ovalle Garcia graduated from Wayne Community College in May of 2025 with an associate degree in Office Management. She arrived back on campus later that month in a new role—as WCC’s newest admissions and records specialist.
“I wanted to work in an office environment, but I didn’t know I was going to be working at the school I graduated from,” she said.
Ovalle was the first person in her family to earn a high school diploma when she graduated from Eastern Wayne High School. Her parents encouraged her to attend college to continue down the path toward a brighter future. “I didn’t know what career to pick,” Ovalle shared. “But I wanted to work in an office setting so that I would have a steady job.” Ovalle found WCC’s Office Management program to be the perfect fit for her.
Preparing for the workplace
WCC’s Office Management program prepares students to add to the efficient operation of a business and to meet the demands of the ever-changing workplace. Classes can be taken completely online, in a traditional seated format, or through a combination of both. The program offers an Associate in Applied Science degree, a diploma, and several certificates.
The Office Management program consists of eight-week classes that cover topics such as word processing, keyboarding, spreadsheets, and professional development. “The program prepares you for many opportunities, whether it’s in a law firm, school, hospital, or another company,” Ovalle said. “It’s very broad.”
Ovalle took classes entirely online, allowing flexibility in her schedule to work while enrolled in school. Being both a full-time student and employee was a challenge for Ovalle but was not impossible. “I want to be an example that you can do both,” she said. “You can do it if you put your mind to it. I’ve always had that mindset.”
Support from student services
To maximize her success, Ovalle utilized the support of WCC’s student services. She received tutoring through the Academic Skills Center and took advantage of the assistance offered by Career Services to help her search for a job after graduating this spring. Soon after completing her education at WCC, Ovalle began her current position as an admissions and records specialist at the College.
Reaching her full potential
Ovalle helps potential students with their application to WCC. Being bilingual allows her to provide translation and assist both English and Spanish speakers with admission. “I like to sit down and talk with new students and make them feel welcome to the College, showing that we care and are here to help them,” she said.
Working in admissions and records has shown Ovalle how much she enjoys connecting with students, sparking her interest in becoming a high school ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher. She plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in education at East Carolina University through the ECU Partnership Teach college transfer pathway.
Graduating from WCC and then starting her career at the College is an opportunity Ovalle is grateful for. “I’m thankful for all the people I’ve met who have pushed me to be where I am today,” she said.
Learn more about WCC’s Office Management program on our website, or contact Department Chair LaRose Brock (rose@waynecc.edu or 919-739-6886).