Salina Kc of Ocean Pines never planned to work with children – in fact, she originally started her college career studying computer science. But a chance job ended up changing her life, along with her academic path.

“I took a job at this small martial arts center just to pay the bills,” she said. “It was just another job, I thought. But the kids look up to you, they think of you as a role model – it changes you.”

Kc, who is originally from Nepal, moved to the United States in 2008 and has been working for CMA Kids Care in Ocean Pines since she arrived. She helped grow its after-school program until it was large enough to need licensure. After searching for someone with the right qualifications, she realized she might be the one to step up and get the required education. “I got motivated,” she said. “I had to be – I was working full time and taking a full course load. There was a lot of juggling and balancing.”

Kc is now graduating with an associate degree in elementary education from Wor-Wic Community College. She says she couldn’t have done it without Kari Schamberger, assistant professor of education. “I cannot say enough good about her. She was always telling me, ‘You can do it.’”

Salina Kc.

Photo: Salina Kc of Ocean Pines graduated with an associate degree in education from Wor-Wic Community College. Kc works for Chesapeake Martial Arts in Ocean City and went back to school to help its afterschool program earn state accreditation.