Starting off at a community college is proven to help students save money, further develop their career goals and passions, and provide a smoother transition from high school to college. This week, in our #DoingItForLenoir highlight, we’re putting the spotlight on Mr. Chris Humphrey—a 1988 graduate of South Lenoir High School who shares his college transfer success story with us from right here in our own community: Where did you go to school for high school and college?

I attended and am a proud graduate of South Lenoir High School in the Class of 1988. I then attended Lenoir Community College where I served as Student Government Association President and earned my Associate in Arts Degree in 1990.

Following LCC, I transferred to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science in 1992.

What is your current job, and how does it serve the Lenoir County community?

I have been an Allstate Insurance Agent since 1999. Being born and raised here, I know many local families. My knowledge and understanding of the people in our community help me provide my customers with an outstanding and personalized level of service. I enjoy helping the families of Lenoir County protect the things that are important to them — their lives, home, car and more.

In what other ways do you serve the Lenoir County community?

I currently serve on the Lenoir Community College Board of Trustees and as a member of the Lenoir Community College Foundation. I am an Eagle Scout, and currently serve as Co-Chair of the Friends of Scouting Committee where I help lead efforts to garner support for the East Carolina Council of Boys Scouts of America and the thousands of young people in our scouting programs in Eastern North Carolina.

I am also a member of the Kinston Noonday Rotary Club, one of our community’s many great civic organizations. From 1998 to 2001 I was elected to the La Grange Town Council, as well as the Lenoir County Board of Commissioners from 2002 to 2010.

Why do you believe going to college is important?

College is very important because a degree opens doors and opportunities that otherwise may not be available. Earning a degree shows dedication and commitment.

What did you enjoy most about college?

I most enjoyed the social aspect of college: meeting new people and attending sporting events were the highlights of my college experience at UNC. At LCC, being involved in Student Government led me to meeting our diverse student body from all around the area.

What is a tip you would share with a young person who is having a hard time choosing which college to attend?

When it comes to choosing a college to attend, I would suggest thinking about how the decision affects your family, not only yourself. You can get a quality education at your local community college at a much reduced cost. Smaller universities offer more of an intimate learning experience, though the cost may be higher.

“Getting out of town” is usually not the best reason to choose a college—at least not in the short term. Know your strengths and weaknesses, your social skills, and your study habits before you make a firm decision. The transfer option offers many advantages, and I’m proud to have taken part in it. Choose wisely.

We thank Mr. Humphrey for sharing his college and career success story with us. Mr. Humphrey’s experience is a testament to the fact that you can receive a high quality education at our local Lenoir Community College, attend and graduate from a university institution such as UNC, and then return to Lenoir County and make great impacts in the community that you love. Mr. Humphrey, you are truly #DoingItForLenoir!

Check back next week on the Kinston Teens website and social media pages for the next #DoingItForLenoir highlight. Did you miss last week’s? If so, check out Ms. Tamiko Loftin’s college and career success story by clicking here.