The new W.A.S. club has the mission of creating a safe, supportive space for women

The Women Achieving Success (W.A.S.) club is anchored by the Five E’s to Success pillars: Education, Empowerment, Employment, Experience, and Exposure.

At Guilford Technical Community College, a sisterhood unlike any other has been quietly making waves.

Founded to empower, guide, and uplift women, the Women Achieving Success (W.A.S.) club carries a profound mission of creating a safe, supportive space where women can overcome barriers, build confidence, and achieve their dreams.

Under the passionate leadership of co-advisors Ashley Anderson and April Thompson, this club has become a lifeline for countless students navigating challenges both inside and outside the classroom.

Anderson, who inherited the club in 2015, was inspired by her own personal struggles during her college years.

"I didn’t have a mentor or a space to gain resources and support when I needed it most," shared Anderson. Driven by her experiences, Anderson wanted to offer students a safe space where honesty and trust could flourish.

Her co-advisor, Thompson, also brings a deeply personal connection. Having been a teen mom, Thompson recalls how one counselor’s unwavering support transformed her outlook and allowed her to thrive. Now, she ensures that her students, many of whom are also grappling with significant life obstacles, have that same unwavering encouragement.

At the heart of W.A.S. lies its mentorship approach, anchored by the "Five E’s to Success" pillars: Education, Empowerment, Employment, Experience, and Exposure. These guiding principles shape every aspect of the club's efforts, providing students with the tools and confidence to carve paths toward success.

Through workshops, service opportunities, casual meetups, and networking events, W.A.S. takes a hands-on approach to its mission. For many students, this extends far beyond academics; it's about equipping them with holistic life skills. From soft-skills training like interview prep to opportunities to collaborate with professionals, the pillars serve as the foundation of the club's undeniable impact.

For Anderson and Thompson, each success story is a reminder of why they pour their hearts into this work. Thompson shared the story of an international student who, coming from Tunisia, had to start over from scratch after earning a degree in her home country. Despite doubts about her leadership abilities, Thompson encouraged her to run for club president. Thompson rarely gets to see her father, but when he learned about her newfound leadership role, he expressed overwhelming pride.

Thompson, whose voice caught in her throat with emotion, shared what her father said to her.

"Seeing her glow and stand tall because we believed in her was unforgettable," Thompson’s father said. "Our goal is always to lift them up when they feel like they can't carry on.”

Beyond providing immediate solutions, the club fosters long-lasting bonds of sisterhood and collaboration. The co-advisors emphasize that W.A.S. isn’t just about relying on mentors, but it’s also about leaning on a community of peers.

"The strength of this club lies in the understanding that it’s not just one of us supporting a student — it’s all of us," Anderson explains.

Perhaps most touching is the emotional reward that Anderson and Thompson experience when their students reach milestones like graduation. Both describe it as a deeply fulfilling moment.

“No matter how many students we help, even if it’s just one, it reminds us that everything we’ve done has been worth it," says Anderson.

The future of W.A.S. shines bright as the co-advisors work toward expanding the program. Their vision includes increasing participation, forging community partnerships, and introducing a small-group mentorship model to further personalize the experience for members. One key offering they’re currently seeking to develop is student leadership roles, designed to empower participants to take on responsibilities like digital content creation, preparing them for their future professions.

When asked about advice to give to women considering joining Women Achieving Success, Thompson says, "Think about the confidence you’ll build here. The self-esteem, the freedom to grow, the supportive community we offer. You’ll leave this club a stronger, more empowered version of yourself."

W.A.S is more than a club; it’s a movement. Through their dedication, Anderson, Thompson, and their members are rewriting the narrative of what it means for women to support one another, achieve greatness, and build a legacy of empowerment.