Elks Already Realizes the Benefits of a College Degree

Thirty two year old Darrell Vann Elks of Grimesland wanted to further his education, but it was difficult to attend college while working a full time job to support a growing family. “I didn’t want to go the traditional route and take multiple years to earn my bachelor’s degree,” said Elks. So, he enrolled in the accelerated program at University of Mount Olive at Washington. After his first year of classes, he received a highly sought-after promotion at his job. “I know that I would not have had this opportunity without University of Mount Olive.”

Elks began attending classes in the one-night-a-week program at MOC at Washington with a positive attitude. “I knew when I started that it would not be easy, so I had the right mindset. It has still been a definite challenge, and I’ve occasionally had to take a little vacation time, but using my time in class and on the weekends is mainly how I got all my work completed.”

The hard work was worth it in hindsight. Elks hoped to receive a promotion at DSM Pharmaceuticals after earning his degree at University of Mount Olive. He was pleasantly surprised to find that the weight of simply attending MOC was enough to earn him the position he wanted.

“After my first eight months at MOC, I applied for and got a great job in Project Management.  Then a little over a year later a supervisory position became available that I also applied for and received.  I started my new role on January 14th.  Though the position is very challenging, it is exactly where I want to be. I owe a big ‘thank you’ to University of Mount Olive and my very supportive family!”

Elks won’t reach the end of his journey at University of Mount Olive at Washington until May, but his decision to attend the College has already transformed his life. “You must be determined to work hard, but I think MOC at Washington is the absolute best way to go for someone that is working a fulltime job and wants to earn a college degree.”

University of Mount Olive is a private institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition with defining Christian values. The College, sponsored by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists, has locations in Mount Olive, New Bern, Wilmington, Goldsboro, Research Triangle Park, Washington and Jacksonville. For more information, visit www.moc.edu.