For Troy Henshaw, the path to a career in accounting didn’t begin in a traditional classroom—it began later in life, after starting a family and spending years working as a waiter. But when he enrolled at Craven Community College, he made a decision that would change the trajectory of his future.
Graduating in 2021 with an Associate in Arts degree, Henshaw approached his time at Craven with determination and a willingness to take full advantage of every opportunity available to him.
“I remember how much use I got out of the resources provided by Craven Community College,” he said. “Not only do you have staff and academic tutors available to help, but you also have job boards, workshops, and many other things put there specifically to help the student.”
That mindset—seeking out support, building connections, and staying open to guidance—became a cornerstone of his success. Faculty and staff played an important role in helping him prepare for what came next, including practicing interview skills and connecting him with opportunities in the field.
After leaving Craven, Henshaw continued his education at East Carolina University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree. Today, he works as an accountant at a CPA firm, a role that places him in a fast-paced and complex industry where learning never stops.
“My biggest accomplishment would be continuing my education at ECU, graduating with my bachelor’s degree, and working in this fast-paced and complex industry,” he said. “One thing I have absolutely learned is that your education continues after you graduate. There is still so much more to learn after you receive your degree.”
His journey reflects not only academic achievement, but personal growth—transitioning from a nontraditional student balancing responsibilities to a professional thriving in a demanding career.
Looking back, Henshaw emphasizes that success at Craven is about more than coursework. It’s about engagement, persistence, and taking initiative.
“Take advantage of every opportunity for help and advice you can get,” he said. “The worst someone can always tell you is no, so take the chance, get to know someone, and start connecting to this wonderful community.”
For current students, his advice is simple but powerful:
“Never stop continuing forward. The way forward is always tough and there will always be challenges, but you only lose when you give up. Continue striving, continue moving forward, and before you know it, you will be crossing that finish line.”
Henshaw’s story is a testament to the impact of perseverance and the support systems found at Craven Community College—proof that no matter where you start, forward is always possible.
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