WELDON — Twana Anderton said she enjoyed seeing what programs were offered at Halifax Community College (HCC) during its open house Tuesday at The Centre.

Jacqueline Hough | The Daily Herald Sarah Taylor, a junior at Weldon STEM High School, talks with Halifax Community College cosmetology student Sharan Carter about the program during the college’s open house Tuesday. Advertisement

“I think it’s very interesting,” said Anderton, a business teacher at Weldon STEM High School (WSHS). “It is a good opportunity for people to learn about the college.”

HCC is special for Anderton since it is where she earned her first degree.

“I got my start here,” she said. “This school has a lot of opportunities. I encouraged anyone who is interested to come.”

She added she earned her associate’s while working and raising a family.

“It was hard, but if I could do it, anyone can do it,” Anderton said.

Anderton and students from her Computer Application I and Digital Communication Systems classes visited the graphic design department and then the open house.

In addition to the college, the students visited Halifax Regional Medical Center and The Daily Herald.

During the open house, visitors to the campus had a chance to tour various departments and talk with representatives from various programs and offices.

Sarah Taylor, junior at WSHS, thought the event was very organized. “I enjoyed learning about the cosmotelogy,” she said.

Taylor said she had taken a class at the college in the past.

“They are giving students a chance to experience their college and see what options are available,” she said.

Attendance Counselor at WSHS Cora Ciotti said the open house is a big help. “Students have so many options,” she said.

Dr. Mary Stephenson, Elizabeth City State University site coordinator, had a table set up with information about the teacher prep program.

Once students have completed their associate’s degree at HCC, remaining courses for ECSU can be completed at HCC or through distance learning.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn about many programs,” she said. “It’s kind of one stop shopping.”