Emily WenzelEmily Wenzel

Associate in Arts, December 2016
Received the Levine Scholarship in Spring 2016


A heart to help others. In high school, Emily Wenzel struggled with anxiety, but never sought help because she didn't want to be a burden. Because of that, she realized she wanted to pursue a psychology degree to help people in their struggle with psychological issues and/or mental illnesses.

"I don't want anyone else to ever feel like I did, so I want to be the person who reaches out to others and gives them the help they need. I want to help people in any way that I can (emotionally, physically, psychologically, or even spiritually). With my knowledge of the Spanish language, I will be able to help even more people."

Why did she choose Central Piedmont? "I liked the atmosphere, the low tuition cost and the programs the college offered," she said. "But what really made me realize CPCC was for me was how the staff treated me from the second I walked in the door. They showed me they genuinely cared about my education. They weren't trying to persuade me to enroll just so they could get my money in their pockets. They did everything they could to find the best option for me to get a head start on life at 18 years old. I am so glad I chose CPCC."

"Eventually, after getting a master's degree, I would like to be a part of the healing ministry, Ministries of Pastoral Care. It's a group of Christian psychologists, psychiatrists and pastors who travel across the globe to help people receive healing for any kind of issue they have. It's something I feel like I am called to be a part of and I'm excited to see how it plays out one day."