When Grant Gupton crosses the stage this May to receive his Associate in Science from Craven Community College, it will mark more than a graduation—it will represent a powerful transformation.
Grant’s path to this moment wasn’t easy or straightforward. As a teenager, he struggled to find direction. During high school, he began taking college classes, but like many students during the uncertainty of 2020, he quickly felt overwhelmed. Academic challenges followed, and eventually, he stepped away from school altogether.
At 17, Grant faced another turning point when he became involved with the juvenile justice system. As part of that process, he was introduced to Craven’s Volt Center, where he was encouraged to explore workforce training opportunities.
At the time, he admits, he wasn’t fully invested.
“It gave me a place to be,” Grant shared. “Even though I wasn’t on board with school then, it exposed me to skills and opportunities I didn’t know about.”
Those early experiences planted a seed.
After completing the Tarheel Challenge Academy—a program through the National Guard where he excelled academically and physically—Grant returned to Craven, but still wasn’t ready to fully commit. He faced setbacks, withdrew from classes, and struggled personally.
Then, he made a decision that changed everything.
Grant chose to turn his life around—committing to his health, his future, and his education.
When he returned to Craven Community College, things were different.
He found support through the Academic Support Center, where one-on-one tutoring helped him rebuild his confidence. He became involved as a Hurst Ambassador, developing leadership skills while giving back to the college community. Today, he’s come full circle—serving as a tutor himself, helping other students succeed in math and Spanish.
“I went from withdrawing from high school to becoming a straight-A college student,” Grant said.
Now graduating as part of the Class of 2026, Grant plans to continue his education and pursue a degree in engineering. Along the way, he hasn’t forgotten the people and programs that helped him get here—from the Volt Center to the donors who support student success through the Craven Community College Foundation.
“Craven gave me a second chance,” he said. “For that, I will always be grateful.”
Grant’s story is a reminder that the path forward isn’t always linear—but with support, determination, and a willingness to change, it’s always possible.