Phi Theta Kappa Featured Students

Heather Drake

Heather, a Pikeville, NC native, chose to accept the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa because “my mother is a member of Phi Theta Kappa.” Along with joining ranks with her mother in our International Organization, Heather stated that she was proud of herself for excelling in her program, as this was a new experience for her.

While pursuing a degree in Emergency Management at Wayne Community College, Heather is also a full-time paramedic with Wayne County EMS, a mother of two teenagers, as well as extremely involved with Girl Scouts of America. She chose to WCC because “it is close to home and I like to be able to come to the campus when I need something.” After graduation, Heather is planning to continue growing her EMS career.

Heather and her 13-year-old child are in constant competition for the highest overall Grade Point Average. This, along with her love for the outdoors and helping others, keeps Heather motivated to succeed. Having her children watch her succeed is a way of keeping them motivated and instilling the constant love for family in her home. She knows that “no obstacle is too big when I have my mind set on a goal” and proud of have her children witness this truth in her life.

When Heather is not investing her time in puzzles and diamond art, she is “always looking for a new adventure for my family and I to go on.” She also enjoys “making people laugh because life is too short to be sad!”

Kaylee Martin

Kaylee, a Goldsboro, NC native, chose to accept the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa to “find friends and better myself through relationships with others”.

She chose to pursue her Associate degree at Wayne Community College “because it allowed me to study while also remaining close to family.” Upon completion of her degree, Kaylee is planning to attend “the University of North Carolina at Wilmington to get a Bachelors in Marine Biology with a minor in Environmental Science.”

Along with accepting the role as the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa President, Kaylee is also an Ambassador for Wayne Community College, and volunteers with the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. She also works at Wayne Christian Daycare, enjoys reading all types of novels, and learning everything she can about her favorite animals – sharks!

When asked for a few extra thoughts, Kaylee stated, “I am grateful for my time at Wayne Community College because it has allowed me to make so many friendships and connections not only with other students, but also faculty. Throughout my time at Wayne Community College, I have grown tremendously as a person, not only growing in my academic journey, but also learning many valuable life lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.”

Anna Weeks

Anna, a Goldsboro, NC native, chose to accept the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa to “grow stronger leadership, academic, and personal skills, along with the opportunity to meet other scholars around the campus. Phi Theta Kappa provides countless opportunities for its members to grow into adaptable, passionate, and honest scholars and leaders.”

She chose to attend Wayne Community College “because it is local to home. After I graduated high school, I was unsure of what I wanted my future career path to look like. WCC and the wonderful staff helped guide me to find the right path for my career. Since my first day of classes, all my professors have been very supportive and encouraging and have always made WCC feel like ‘home’.”

What else sparked Anna’s love for business? “I decided that I wanted to pursue a business degree from watching one of my biggest role models’ successes over the years. My dad is a skilled electrical contractor who has also been an entrepreneur for over 20 years. By watching his leadership, determination, and work-ethic, this encouraged me to always work for what I want. He is a risk-taker, problem-solver, and the most optimistic person I know, and that is why I admire him. My dad has always told me, “I never dreamed of success, I worked for it.” That empowering statement has always stuck with me and motivated me to always chase after my dreams and realize that nothing is impossible.”

What are Anna’s future goals? “I graduated this past December with my Associate Degree in Business Administration. After much thought and consideration, I plan to stay at WCC for another two years, as I will be applying for the ADN program in the spring. I am very excited for this next chapter and to see all the opportunities that it brings.”

Outside of her studies, Anna enjoys traveling and exploring with her family and friends, spending time with her shih tzu, Bella Grace, shopping at Target and TJ Maxx, and meeting new people.

Paige Haines

Paige, a military kid who grew up mainly between England and Germany, chose to accept the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa upon moving to Goldsboro, NC, because she “wanted to do anything to help the college while I was earning my degree. It is important to me to be involved in the community, especially one that I am new to.”

Paige is one of six children in her family. They have lived in three different countries, with North Carolina being the fourth state she has lived in. Paige is looking forward to traveling more and seeing all that she can throughout the world.

She chose to attend Wayne Community College “because it was closest to (SJAFB) base at first. I wanted to be a substitute teacher, so I took that course, which motivated me to take the courses I am in now. Also, once I saw the campus and how pretty it was in person, I was sold!”

So, what are Paige’s goals now? “I am going to try to get into a top college. I went to a community college to save some money but with my associate degree that I will be receiving soon, I will be able to get a decent job. After that, I would like to go into the FBI Academy and pursue my dream of being a Criminal Behavioral Analyst (CSI stuff).”

Outside of her studies, Paige enjoys spending time with her two dogs, Ebony and Pepper, crafting and painting when she is motivated, playing soccer, which she has done since she could walk, and volunteering – especially for Upsilon Chi activities!

When asked for a few extra thoughts, Paige stated, “I am very excited to be a part of PTK and anyone that gets an (invitation) email about it, should join! I know that I had a lot of trouble looking for scholarships to complete, but on the account portal, there are many scholarships that one can receive no matter who they are. I also get emails about colleges and transferring so that I know I have options!”

Anna Hines

Anna, a Mt. Olive, NC native, chose to accept the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa “to become more involved on campus” and the community.

She chose to attend Wayne Community College due to the “well known nursing program” and wanting to make a difference in the lives of everyone she meets. Anna is in the ECU aRIBN program on campus and is looking forward to becoming an Registered Nurse and potentially earning her Bachelors of Science in Nursing through East Carolina University.

Outside of her studies, Anna loves “baking, cooking and trips to the beach” with her family and friends.

Dustin Neal

Dustin, from Pine Hall, NC, chose to transfer his membership from his previous PTK chapter to the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa “because it allows me to associate with like-minded students, engage in meaningful service projects, and enhance my academic and leadership skills. Being part of this prestigious honor society will enable me to be part of a community that values excellence in education and the positive impact we can make on our college and community.”

Dustin plans to transfer to a university to “continue my education in criminal justice and, ideally, accept a job at the Federal or State level of law enforcement.”

This love for justice and American history began displaying itself in his life around the 5th grade when he memorized all the US presidents and won the school spelling bee! Apart from history,

Dustin enjoys traveling to new places, exploring new sites, playing golf, attending Carolina Panthers football games, and spending time with his family. His faith is essential to him.

Kristen Joyner

Kristen, a Kinston, NC native, chose to accept the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa “to prove to others that no matter what you’ve been through in the past you can always achieve your goals.”

She chose to pursue the Business Administration / Operations Management AAS degree at Wayne Community College due to the flexibility of online courses while being a stay-at-home mom. After graduation, Kristen plans to work full time while reaching more goals she has set for herself.

Outside of her studies, Kristen loves “fishing, riding four wheelers, spending time with her family, and showing others Jesus.”