When Klaus Flanagan enrolled at Craven Community College, he was searching for something more meaningful—a path that combined creativity, curiosity, and connection.
This May, Klaus will graduate with his associate in arts and continue his academic journey through the Carolina Student Transfer Excellence Program (C-STEP), transferring to UNC Chapel Hill to pursue his passion for archaeology and anthropology.
Klaus’s decision to return to school was inspired by an unexpected experience while working with a touring band overseas. Originally interested in studying music, he began exploring colleges with strong arts programs and found himself drawn to Craven. But once classes began, his interests evolved.
“I realized formal music wasn’t really for me,” Klaus said. “Anthropology was everything I was interested in.”
The opportunity to study history, culture, and material objects sparked a new sense of purpose, and Craven helped him turn that passion into a future.
Along the way, Klaus found support from faculty, classmates, and especially his wife, who encouraged him throughout his journey. He also credits Dr. Saxon for introducing him to the C-STEP program and helping guide him toward UNC Chapel Hill.
“The C-STEP experience has been phenomenal,” he said. “Being able to visit the campus and connect with students there made the transfer process feel real and achievable.”
Outside the classroom, Klaus has worked to build the community on campus as founder of Craven’s Outdoors Club, bringing together students who shared a passion for nature and environmental stewardship. One of the group’s proudest accomplishments was partnering with Phi Theta Kappa for an Earth Day cleanup at Lawson Creek Park.
“I’m very passionate about the environment, especially the local environment here,” he said. “Having the opportunity to make an impact in Craven County was really wonderful.”
Looking back, Klaus says the biggest surprise about college was discovering his own potential.
“I really didn’t expect my life to go anywhere,” he shared. “Craven Community College put me on a path where I realized I could do a lot more.”
After high school, Klaus joined the Marine Corps searching for a more active and engaging life. Returning to college later showed him that higher education could offer that same sense of purpose and connection in unexpected ways. As he prepares to graduate as part of the Class of 2026, Klaus hopes others realize college can be more than what they imagine.
“There are so many opportunities to get involved, connect with your community, and discover what you’re passionate about.”