Learning to rise: Chloe Mbongo turns failure into fuel on her path to graduation

Chloe Mbongo never expected her biggest college lesson would be learning to give herself grace. A straight-A student in high school, she entered Central Piedmont in 2021 confident and ready to excel. But things didn’t go as planned— her courseload felt overwhelming, and she struggled to meet the high expectations she set for herself.  

By spring of 2023, Chloe faced a tough realization: she didn't earn enough credits to graduate from Central Piedmont. She then had a choice to make—keep struggling alone or finally ask for help.  

When Chloe finally talked to her friends and family, everything began to change. She saw that what worked for her in high school wasn’t enough in college. She needed to work harder and study differently. With help from her support system, she changed her habits, attitude, and goals.  

“I became no longer interested in just passing but truly learning what was presented in front of me,” Chloe shared. “I came to realize that learning is not a chore, but a privilege.” 

Chloe turned her failed classes into four semesters in a row on the President’s List. When she shared her story, she saw that it could help other students too. She didn’t run from fear—she faced it and emerged stronger than ever. Instead of letting it define her, she used it as motivation to build the future she wanted. 

Future Plans

Chloe graduated with an associate in arts and is now transferring to UNC Charlotte to get her bachelor’s degree in communications. She also wants to earn a master's degree in Christian counseling at Southeastern Seminary. At graduation, she stood on stage and told her story to thousands of people—many who had faced similar struggles like she did—and showed them it’s possible to succeed.

Learn More About Chloe's Story