Christine Wilborne Nkemjika
Academic & Career Counselor
Christine Wilborne Nkemjika began her journey at Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµ in 2010, following a previous role at another community college in New York City. Initially, she worked in Delaware Tech’s financial aid department, and her passion for helping students led her to transition into her current role as an academic and career counselor. In this Q&A, Wilborne Nkemjika shares valuable insights into her time at Delaware Tech, her advising philosophies, and more.
Q: Why was it important for you to work at Delaware Tech?
I've always been passionate about community colleges and higher education administration because it allows me to support individuals who are in a place I once was. As a first-generation college student from a low-income family who began my journey at a community college, I understand the uncertainty many students feel when they walk through the door. Like me, they’re often seeking guidance and reassurance. Now, I have the opportunity to help them navigate that process and find their path forward.
Q: What did you do before working at Delaware Tech?
I worked at a community college back home in New York City for 10 years, where my role was focused on student life. I also worked in enrollment management.
Q: Describe your first day at Delaware Tech.
On my first day at Delaware Tech, I felt nervous about the complex and sensitive nature of the work ahead. Although I had prior experience working at a community college, starting in financial aid was a new and unfamiliar challenge. It was quite different from anything I had done before. However, I quickly adapted to the role and discovered a real strength in supporting students. I found that the core of the work is about helping students make meaningful connections and guiding them toward achieving their goals.
Q: What is your favorite thing about working at Delaware Tech?
What I like most about working at Delaware Tech is being able to teach students how to navigate this setting and these processes. I’ve become the kind of support person I once needed when I was a community college student, and it is incredibly rewarding.
Q: What changes have you seen in yourself since you started working here?
When I first started working at Delaware Tech, I thought my role only needed to be student-facing. After learning more about the College’s processes and policies, I realized I could better advocate for students by helping them navigate those systems and empowering them to understand the policies that affect their education.
Q: How do you describe your philosophy when working with students?
The first thing I do is ensure students feel welcomed. Just as importantly, I help them understand that they truly belong here.
Q: How would you define student success?
Success looks different for every student. If a student leaves Delaware Tech feeling more confident, better equipped to navigate the world, and personally stronger than when they arrived, that’s what I would call true success.
Q: What is a significant achievement or milestone that you've had in your professional journey?
One of the most meaningful milestones for me has been earning a reputation as someone who is collaborative, dependable, and deeply committed to supporting students. I've had the opportunity to serve on several collegewide committees, and even when I’m not an expert in a specific area, my contributions are still valued. To me, that recognition and trust represent a true success.
Q: What is your favorite memory from your time at Delaware Tech?
One of my favorite memories is attending my first graduation ceremony and watching a student I had taught walk across the stage. I’m not sure who cried more—me or the student. Being part of graduation and seeing students I’ve directly supported or taught reach that milestone is always an incredibly rewarding and emotional experience.
Q: What hobbies or interests do you have outside of Delaware Tech?
I like to play checkers, and I like puzzles of all sorts.
Q: What is something people may not know about you?
People are usually surprised to learn that I'm the youngest of eight children.
Q: What are your future goals?
I plan to continue supporting students—especially during their transition out of Delaware Tech—to help them successfully complete their academic experience. I also intend to further my own education and continue growing both personally and professionally.
Job Title
Academic & Career Counselor
Started Working at Delaware Tech
2010