At just 17 years old, Kevin Manriquez is preparing to cross the stage at Craven Community College—earning his Associate in Science degree nearly a full year before he graduates high school.
A junior at New Bern High School, Kevin’s path to this moment hasn’t been typical. Growing up in a military family, he attended 11 different schools while his father served in the U.S. Army. Each move meant starting over, but Kevin turned those challenges into motivation.
Kevin began taking college classes earlier in his academic career before moving to Craven County, where he transferred his credits and continued his journey at Craven Community College. While local students typically begin college coursework during their junior year of high school, Kevin’s unique path gave him an early start.
“When I first started taking college classes, I didn’t think I belonged,” Kevin shares. “But I learned to adapt, connect with my classmates, and embrace the experience.”
Once at Craven, he found a welcoming community that helped him thrive. Faculty and staff made a lasting impression, giving him the confidence to continue pushing forward.
That drive has already opened unique doors. Recently, Kevin visited Raleigh, where he met with State Representative Steve Tyson and attended a reception at the Governor’s Mansion—an experience that included meeting Governor Josh Stein and connecting with state leaders.
Kevin’s story is about more than academic achievement, it’s about resilience, discipline, and vision. He plans to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering, with goals of earning his bachelor’s degree by 2029.
As graduation approaches on May 15, Kevin reflects on the journey and the support that made it possible.
“It takes discipline,” he says. “But if you stay focused and have people supporting you, you can do it.”