Ashante’ Parchue says the education end game for her is transferring to a four-year institution to further specialize in science.
“Two years ago, I was applying for jobs and came across a Quality Assurance role,” Parchue said. “I got the job and landed myself in the pharmaceutical industry. While there, I quickly found out I know nothing about pharmaceuticals.”
It was at this time that Parchue learned about the BioWork certificate at Durham Tech.
“I heard from several people about how successful Durham Tech is with its BioWork program,” Parchue said. “Long story short, I got certified through the College in BioWork in summer 2025 and received a $7 increase in pay. The certification was not enough for me, so I am now working on my associate in Biotechnology at Durham Tech.”
Parchue is on track to graduate with her degree in spring 2027.
A young mother to 10-year-old son Dominic, Parchue works 40 hours a week, brings home the only income in her house, takes care of her child and attends school full time.
“I am a source of resource,” Parchue said. “I am pursuing my education to build stability and opportunity for myself and my son. Education provides tools needed to create long-term security. Without completing my degree, professional growth and access to resources remain limited; education expands both. A better day is my fuel. My loved ones are my fuel. Those things keep me flowing and growing.”
Helping to provide fuel toward Parchue’s end goal have been Durham Tech instructors.
“When I accepted my certificate, Lynn Tovar, Life Sciences employment specialist, told me I should pursue my associate degree. I smiled and told her my degree would be clinical research and she said I should look into Biotechnology,” Parchue said. “I did, and my certificate offered credits that counted toward my degree. I wouldn’t be starting over — I’d be continuing.”
Bio Ethics instructor Towanda Booker is a Life Sciences teacher Parchue credits with instilling her passion for the subject.
“Ms. Booker gets genuinely excited about her class and is open in sharing information with students,” Parchue said. “She has reminded me that people are at the core of Biotechnology and we must always be mindful to remember that.”
Keeping Parchue’s eye on her future is Assistant Dean of University Transfer Lea Bingham.
“Ms. Bingham is the one who told me I don’t have to stop at Durham Tech,” Parchue said. “I can transfer to a four-year institution if that is what I choose to do, but bigger than that, she reminds me that I can always pursue higher education.”
The majority of Parchue’s classes have been virtual, but she has met a co-worker, Shilpa Tamrakar, who is a product of Durham Tech’s BioWork program.
“We bounce ideas off each other,” Parchue said. “We are both tenacious about our journey and commitment to the field. We feel supported by Durham Tech.”
Support also comes in the form of family. Parchue's parents, both of whom are from Belize, did not have the same access to opportunities she has had and do all they can to help her along the way.
“They made it their daily mission to provide a clear path for me and I am grateful for the support and knowledge provided,” Parchue said. “Strength and courage in me come from them. They believe in me.”
Parchue had her son at 20 and said before becoming a mother her long-term goals did not exist, and the goals she did have lacked urgency.
“My son brings purpose and accountability to my actions,” Parchue said. “I learned instant gratification is temporary. Education is forever. Education provides an escape door for the challenges of life,” she said. “Pursuing my education models for my son that no matter your circumstances or age, there is room to create the life you dream of. I give my coursework at Durham Tech 100 percent knowing a fruitful life is at graduation day.”