When Alexandria Wiggins first arrived at North Carolina Central University (NCCU), she described herself as "meek" and "reserved," a student comfortable staying in the shadows. As she prepares to graduate, that version of Wiggins is a distant memory.
Through her involvement in student leadership and the Alpha Lambda Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Wiggins has transformed into a confident advocate and a cornerstone of the Eagle community. For Wiggins, the turning point came during her sophomore year. While navigating a rigorous academic load in the social work program, she stepped into the role of a Resident Assistant (RA).
"I was very much in a shell," Wiggins said. "My graduate advisor pushed me to apply, telling me I had the personality for it. That role pushed me to get out of my shell and stand firm on having boundaries."
Wiggins’ leadership extended beyond the residence halls. She currently serves as the president of Project SAFE (Save a Fellow Eagle), an organization founded in 2001 that provides peer education on consent, healthy relationships and sexual health. Under her leadership, the organization has maintained a 20-year legacy of providing vital resources to the student body.
Her drive to serve is rooted in her upbringing. Growing up, her mother kept her involved in church and as a choir member to build a strong foundation of discipline. That resilience was tested during her sophomore year when her mother underwent a second major surgery.
"Social work is something that’s going to tug on your heartstrings," Wiggins said. "My mother’s experience prepared me for the times when you have to go through something hard and make tough decisions. It gave me the experience and knowledge that my peers might not have yet."
Wiggins credits her success to her faith and a meticulous approach to her schedule, mapping out every assignment and responsibility in her planner to maintain a high standard of excellence.
As she looks toward the future, with plans to apply to graduate programs, Wiggins encourages incoming students to lean on the "Eagle family."
"Our school has a fun atmosphere, but be ready to put in the work," Wiggins advised. "Don’t think you have to do everything on your own. Lean on the faculty and professors here; they want us to grow."
Though she is ready to embark on her career in social work, Wiggins says NCCU will always be home.
"Central has caused me to be a woman that’s confident in how she walks, talks and feels about herself," she said. "I will forever love my 1910."