“Don’t ever tell yourself you can’t, because you can. Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”
For South Piedmont student Sekaya Cook, those words are more than advice. They’re a reflection of her journey.
After facing significant challenges, including abusive relationships and struggles with addiction, Sekaya made the decision to rewrite her story. A mother to her young son, Apollo, she returned to college in 2024 with a goal of earning her Associate in Arts degree and transferring to East Carolina University, where she plans to study business management.
While at South Piedmont, Sekaya participated in the Global Scholars program, which has helped her learn about other cultures and prepared her to work in the global economy. Today, she’s on track to graduate in December 2026 and begin her next chapter at ECU in January.
Balancing college, motherhood, and work isn’t easy, but Sekaya is determined to build a future for herself and her son. She credits the support she’s received at South Piedmont, including emergency assistance and student support resources, with helping her focus on her education. She also has high praise for her instructors, who she says consistently go above and beyond.
But perhaps the biggest change has been within herself.
“When I moved to North Carolina in 2018, I had no self-confidence or self-worth. Today, I know I’m worthy of all good things.”
Her motivation? Apollo.
“I want to make sure that he has everything I never had. I want him to see his mom working hard so that he will one day become a hardworking man.”
And to other single mothers who may be wondering whether going back to school is possible, Sekaya has a message:
“It is tough, but you can do it.”
Sekaya, we’re cheering you on as you finish strong at South Piedmont and take your next steps toward ECU. Your story is a reminder that your past does not define your future!