“The benefit of being a graduate student of Chowan University is that I was prepared for life once graduating. I learned the importance of networking, time management, and creative skills. Being a resident of a small town for four years at Chowan, you learn a lot. Chowan’s professors and staff knew me by name and not by number. This taught me how to communicate on an individual basis with my teachers and superiors and not be afraid to speak with them. Often times when you attend a larger institution, you are a number and not a name, unfortunately, students never have an opportunity to grow as an induvial. Having said that, upon my graduation, I left with great confidence, knowing I was prepared to communicate with all individuals, young and old. Their objective is to not only make sure the students graduate in 4 years but to make sure we leave out ready for the real world. Currently, as an Entrepreneur and Owner of a few businesses, I am reminded every day of how Chowan invested in my future. This is why I try on a daily basis to create jobs, help guide youth through my foundation, and to pour into their lives so they would someday have a prosperous future.”

Arrington Gavin,
Founder/CEO of Rugged Evolution Inc
Class of 2017