After finishing her studies at Sampson Community College, Meagan Sessoms plans to continue her studies at a four-year college. In the future, she wants to be in front of elementary students, inside a classroom.

A college fair for future transfer students at the local community college may have pointed her in the right direction toward becoming an educator.

“Most of them had really good scholarships, so that was really good,” she said about the Wednesday event.

Student Deonte Morrison said he would like to pursue automotive studies and music.

“The different variety of schools showed me that there’s a variety of choices available,” Morrison said.

Currently, some of Sessoms’ top choices include East Carolina University and Campbell University, which is close to home for her. Some of the other universities represented during the event included Fayetteville State University, Western Carolina University, North Carolina A&T State University and Chamberlain College of Nursing.

Prior to the event, Sessoms encouraged her schoolmates to attend to receive more information about state colleges. She also learned about out-of-state universities that offer in-state tuition rates, such as Fort Hays State University.

“There’s a good mix of private or independent schools and state schools,” said Ronald Plummer, a representative from Fort Hays State University. “We’re here for the students. All we can do is show them their options and opportunities and they go from there.”

Sharon Leggett, Sampson Community College guidance counselor, said the yearly event allows the college to bring in recruiters to meet students, who have doubts about transferring or receiving scholarships.

“We want to give them that opportunity,” Leggett said about the event, which began in 2007. “With us living in a rural county, we want everyone to know that no matter where you come from or who you are, you can acquire a four-year degree.”

Loreta Jones, cosmetology chairwoman for the community college, said the event allows students to seek opportunities beyond a two-year degree, such as becoming a instructor. Some representatives had night programs for working and single parents.

“It really benefits them a whole lot,” Jones said. “When they come back and talk to us, they say it’s a great opportunity to have four-year degree colleges at the campus. They don’t have to travel a lot.”

Steven Lambert, an admissions counselor from William Peace University in Raleigh, said it’s important for students to take advantage of college fairs. During the year, he helps transfer students with the enrollment process.

“You have schools from across the state in North Carolina here,” Lambert said, “so it’s a great first step for them.”

Reach Chase Jordan at 910-249-4617. Follow us on Twitter at @SampsonInd and like us on Facebook.

By Chase Jordan

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Meagan Sessoms speaks with Ronald Plummer of Fort Hays State University during a college fair Wednesday at Sampson Community College.
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/web1_IMG_6055.jpgMeagan Sessoms speaks with Ronald Plummer of Fort Hays State University during a college fair Wednesday at Sampson Community College.