Student Connor Michael found camaraderie, collaboration, and critical thinking in the GTCC Honors Program
Published on: March 19, 2025
Connor Michael didn’t always picture himself thriving in an academic environment. Graduating from Northern Guilford High School in 2021 with a 2.0 GPA, Michael admits he didn’t care at all about academics during those years.
For two years after high school, he embarked on what he calls "a real path of self-discovery" – a period spent redefining his values and entire outlook on life. The result was a radically transformed focus that led Michael to find his place at Guilford Technical Community College and, ultimately, in its prestigious Honors Program.
Michael started at GTCC in fall 2023 as a computer science major. While the field itself didn’t initially pull him, what excited him was the growth-oriented nature of the industry.
"I like the idea of being in a field that’s constantly growing and will continue testing me," said Michael. "That seems like a prosperous thing to me."
His decision to join the Honors Program was another challenge he embraced head-on, though not without reservations. When his precalculus algebra teacher informed the class about the honors program, Michael was intrigued but apprehensive. The admissions process required sharing high school GPA, a potential hurdle for Michael.
His strong academic performance during his first semester at GTCC helped secure him an opportunity to interview for the program. Through that process, Michael was able to tell his story, explaining his personal growth and commitment to excelling in college. The Honors Program accepted him, and he quickly found his stride.
"At first, I was super scared," Michael admitted.
But once in, he discovered a program tailored to foster collaboration, critical thinking, and academic excellence. Honors-specific courses, with their emphasis on group work and engagement, stood out to Michael immediately. He shared a vivid example of a group project on “The Great Gatsby” in his English 112 class.
"The coursework completely redefines what the course is and what you get out of it," he said, noting how the project brought students together and pushed them to share both scholarly insights and personal experiences.
The sense of camaraderie within the Honors Program was another unexpected benefit for Michael. Unlike the isolated nature of many traditional college courses, the Honors Program creates an environment where students could form lasting bonds.
"It’s designed for us to work with each other," he said. "Now we have multiple group chats and are all friends who support each other, not just with schoolwork but with personal things, too."
These relationships extended beyond the classroom, with fellow Honors students even helping each other through transfer applications and with plans for the future. Michael explained that having a close-knit network will be helpful after he transfers, too, especially since many of his peers also plan to transfer.
Beyond the friendships, Michael highlighted the support he’s received from Honors Program faculty and staff as a pivotal aspect of his success. Whether aiding him with his coursework or guiding him through the college application process, his instructors have treated student input seriously and tailored lessons to elevate their learning experience. He recalled how History 132 assignments were developed collaboratively between instructors and students, creating a dynamic and engaging approach to education.
Michael’s dedication to excelling at GTCC is evident in his approach to managing a demanding workload. Currently enrolled in 18 credit hours, he finds the challenges invigorating rather than daunting.
"I feel like the Honors Program is for students who love school, who want to do more of it with a close-knit group, and who want a deeper understanding of the subjects," Michael explained. "I just love GTCC, and I love to learn."
Looking ahead, Michael has his sights set on transferring to UNC Chapel Hill, his top choice. Thanks to the guidance and encouragement of Honors Program advisors, he feels well-prepared for the next step in his academic journey. Reflecting on how far he’s come, he is grateful for the support system the program has provided and hopes to carry those connections with him as he transitions to a four-year university.
When asked if he would recommend the GTCC Honors Program to other students, his response was immediate.
"100%," he said without hesitation. “All the staff and student members are of the same mindset. As long as you’re there to get more out of GTCC, you’ll fit right in. Everyone is super supportive and willing to help."
Michael’s story is one of transformation and determination, a testament to the power of self-reflection and structured support. From a disengaged high school student to a driven Honors Program scholar, he has harnessed his potential to open doors he once thought were out of reach.
At GTCC, he found not just an academic program but a community, one that will undoubtedly propel him toward a bright future.