As a youth pastor, Kelvin Nixon Jr. believes that a higher power led him to North Carolina Central University (NCCU).
Nixon’s initial journey to obtain his degree began in 2002; however, it included many setbacks at various universities and community colleges, which led to academic dismissal. Coupled with tragic experiences, including the death of his mother that triggered him into a deep depression and a serious car accident that left him with permanent nerve damage, he nearly gave up on his dream of one day obtaining a bachelor’s degree.
But, he says, with God, as well as his wife and daughter who served as inspiration, he got back on track and was soon admitted to NCCU Online’s bachelor’s degree in psychology program.
“Based on my personal experiences, I was drawn to the psychology program because mental health is a topic that is typically frowned upon,” said Nixon. “I wanted to be who I needed when I was younger.”
According to Nixon, his academic experience at NCCU was life changing. He appreciates his professors for their genuine passion for helping students regardless of status or age, and for inspiring him to educate individuals on the importance of mental health.
Nixon aspires to help others in the near future through his own therapy practice.
“I came in wanting to pursue a psychology degree and left with a passion for helping other people,” he adds.
Nixon is currently applying to graduate school programs with the ultimate goal of obtaining his doctorate in clinical psychology.
His advice for future Eagles? Set the bar high, don’t limit yourself and keep dreaming. It’s never too late to learn.
