At 42 years old, Cynthia Locke is proof that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. Her academic journey began in the early 2000’s, when she was a student at Hudson County Community College. But everything changed on Tuesday, September 11, 2001.
“I saw the second plane hit the tower from my classroom window,” Cynthia recalled. “Since then, I never wanted to even think about school.”
That day marked the beginning of a 20-year pause in Cynthia’s education. It wasn’t until she learned that her daughter’s Spanish teacher wasn’t fluent in the language that Cynthia felt the pull to return to the classroom herself. As a bilingual individual, Cynthia saw an opportunity to make a difference. Inspired to ensure that future students receive the quality instruction they deserve, she decided to return to college and pursue a degree in education.
“That was the pinch I needed to get started again,” she said.
Since enrolling at Camden County College, Cynthia has been focused and committed to her education, driven by purpose and a desire to set an example for her family.
“I want my daughter to be proud of me, and I want my parents to know that I can still make them proud,” she reflected. “It’s never too late.”
Cynthia will be attending Rowan University in the fall where she will pursue a degree in Elementary Education. While her academic journey with CCC is complete, she is filled with gratitude for the time she spent here.
“I met incredible teachers who have taught me so much about how I would like to lead my classroom,” she said. “It has truly been a pleasure to be a student here.”
Her message to others, especially to younger students: “When that fire hits you, it’s for a reason. Go after what you want and don’t let anything stop you.”
Congratulations, Cynthia, and congratulations to the entire class of 2025!
