Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Adult Learner Spotlight: SVCC Student Balances Family, Resilience, and Academic Excellence
Southside Virginia Community College (SVCC) is proud to spotlight an adult learner whose determination, perseverance, and commitment to education exemplify the college’s mission of transforming lives through opportunity.
A resident of Keysville and originally from California, Candice Murphy, a current SVCC student double majoring in Business Management and Business Administration, has plans to graduate in May. Candice is a mother of three children, ages 15, 8, and 5; she balances coursework, family responsibilities, and long-term career goals with remarkable focus and resilience.
Her journey to SVCC was shaped by both practicality and encouragement. Living just seven minutes from campus, she chose SVCC after her father encouraged her to explore the many opportunities the college offers. Although initially unsure about attending a rural college after growing up in California, she quickly found a welcoming and supportive environment.
“I was worried it might be too small,” Candice shared. “But the faculty here have absolutely knocked it out of the park. SVCC is truly built for students.”
Before returning to school, she served as a Director of Sales and Marketing and now plans to use her education to assist her husband, a veteran-owned government contracting construction business, while also pursuing future opportunities in marketing. After graduation, she plans to continue her education and earn a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.
Managing school and family life requires strong time management. Candice completes coursework while her children are at school and stays on their schedules to remain organized and focused. Her motivation, she says, comes from setting an example for her children.
“I want them to believe in themselves,” she said. “If I can take classes, take care of my home, and keep going, then they can do anything too.”
Candice’s academic dedication has earned her a place on the President’s List and membership in Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. She has also been actively involved in campus life, participating in events such as the Student Leadership Luncheon and Casino Night, and has been nominated for academic recognition.
Her path to success has not been without hardship. A serious car accident resulted in 33 surgeries, with more scheduled, delaying the start of her college journey. Still, she credits that experience with strengthening her resolve.
“It’s never too late,” Candice said. “If I’ve made it this far, I can be successful at SVCC.”
She encourages other adult learners, especially parents, to take the first step, even if it means starting small. “Start with one or two classes. Don’t be scared by the onboarding process. Once you begin, everything flows.”
Candice’s story is a powerful reminder that education is possible at any stage of life and that with drive, support, and belief, success is within reach.
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