Confidence Shining Through

Like many young adults, Northampton Community College (NCC) student, James Spring, didn’t have a clear career path when he entered a four-year university. After three semesters at Pittsburgh University, where he changed his major three times, he concluded his studies weren’t preparing him for the work he wanted to do.  

Instead, he realized he had a passion for working with food. He was particularly intrigued by the prospect of creating dishes that resembled exquisite art.  

A scholarship recipient, Spring, reached out to his mentor, telling her of his interest. She supported his decision to transfer to another school and even recommended the culinary arts program at NCC. She had dined at the Hampton Winds, a restaurant operated by the college’s culinary art students, and found the food “phenomenal.”  

Spring also heard good things about the program and liked that it was closer to his Reading home. So, he decided to transfer and move into the residence halls at NCC’s Bethlehem campus.  

He entered the program amid the COVID-19 pandemic. With only five students, compared to a typical enrollment of about 15, Spring’s class was nicknamed the “COVID class.” Perhaps because of the small number, he became very close with his fellow students and instructors.  

“Chef Katie, the pastry chef, helped me develop my interest in pastry. She worked with me to bring things to life,” he said, adding his favorite food to make is croissants. 

Since then, he has taken advantage of every opportunity presented to him. Born and raised in inner-city Reading, Spring’s family instilled in him that he should have a clear mind and focus on what matters most. He also grew up taking karate lessons that stressed the importance of discipline and respect.  

These attributes helped him obtain an NCC resident assistant position (RA), earning him free room and board in the residence halls. To help cover the cost of tuition, he works as a server at the Hampton Winds and a nearby nursing home called Country Meadows, which is within walking distance of the campus.  

He graduated with an associate’s degree in culinary arts and a specialized diploma in baking and pastry in 2023, but he wanted to learn more. 

“Throughout my culinary journey, I became more intrigued by this industry, causing me to pursue a hospitality degree as well,” he said. “The best thing about these programs are the people who run it. The chefs and teachers are remarkable and passionate people. It shows every day and has made the programs more enjoyable and memorable. Chef Tyler, in particular, was so supportive and helped me to develop confidence,” he said.  

His current hospitality major requires him to plan special events, which enables him to blend his student and RA roles. For Black History Month this February, Spring organized an event where students used a large paper canvas to express their thoughts on black history. The art piece now hangs in the residence halls. He also helped plan and organize an Alumni Career Event that focused on entrepreneurs and professionals in the hospitality industry.  

Spring is now planning an outdoor dinner and movie night at the residence halls, intending to purchase an outdoor projector and screen with funds through the RA budget. 

After three semesters as an RA, Spring was promoted to Senior RA, supervising six RAs who support the 520 residence hall students. As Senior RA, he also supervises the front desk, which includes scheduling shifts, overseeing overnight guests and managing any problems.  

 “My time as an RA has been a crucial experience,” Spring said. “It’s helped me hone my leadership skills, learn to communicate properly, and work well within a team.” 

Spring is grateful for all the experiences NCC has provided him. He wholeheartedly recommends it to anyone, including his best friend from Reading, whom he is encouraging to enroll at NCC.  

He’s not sure exactly what he will pursue after he graduates in May 2025, but Spring remains optimistic. 

“I will complete my program and see where it takes me. After that, it will be nothing but greatness,” Spring jokes, adding in all seriousness. “I’m so glad I came here.”