Carlotta Hunter certainly isn’t what most would think of a traditional college student − and she wouldn’t want to be. A proud mom, an Army veteran, and now a Biology major at Methodist University who is graduating on May 3, Hunter is living proof that it’s never too late to return to your passion − and finish what you started.
Carlotta Hunter certainly isn’t what most would think of a traditional college student − and she wouldn’t want to be. A proud mom, an Army veteran, and now a Biology major at Methodist University who is graduating on May 3, Hunter is living proof that it’s never too late to return to your passion − and finish what you started.
“My favorite title will always be ‘Mom,’” she said. “But being a student again? That’s been one of the most empowering things I’ve done for myself.”
Hunter’s life has always revolved around service. As a veteran of both active duty and civil service roles in the Army, she spent years putting others first − her country, her family, her career. Her military service shaped her into a leader, even serving as a division chief for many years. However, in the fall of 2023 something shifted. After years of putting a “halt” on her dreams, the 20-year vet knew it was time.
“I did a lot of praying,” she said, “and I realized I was so close to finishing my degree. I’ve wanted to be in the medical field since I was in first grade. It was just time.”
Hunter began looking for a place where she could finish her Biology degree − somewhere close with strong science programs and a community that felt supportive. Methodist University wasn’t her first guess − but it quickly became her first choice.
She still remembers her admissions tour at MU like it was yesterday. She and her partner (Shajn Cabrera, who is also a retired Army veteran) tagged along for the visit.
“We just kept looking at each other,” she recalls. “When it was over, we got in the car, and we were just silent.” Hunter remembers calling her daughter, a student at another university at the time, and expressing the feeling. “It was this overwhelming feeling − like this is where we belong,” she said.
Hunter said that feeling has never faded. In fact, it has only deepened. “We’ve been to so many schools, but nowhere else felt like this,” she said. “At MU, you feel wrapped in support from the moment you step on campus.”
Today, not only is Hunter thriving as a Biology major, but her daughter, Niya Johnson, also transferred and now attends MU — a full-circle moment that Hunter describes as one of her proudest.
Together, the mother-daughter duo also share a sisterhood − both are members of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. In fact, the elder Hunter made history on campus by chartering the first chapter of the Divine Nine sorority at Methodist University. Paving the way for other students to find connection, culture, and community through Greek life.
Hunter works as a student employee in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program and participates in campus life when she can. She praises the University for creating spaces where all types of students feel seen and valued.
“I’m usually the oldest in all of my classes,” she said. “But I’ve never once felt out of place. The professors here are so invested in every student’s success. The campus has events and activities that make you want to be involved − No matter your age, there’s something for everyone.”
Academically, Hunter is diving deep into her passion. Her love for biology has only grown, especially after discovering a surprising new favorite: microbiology.
“I didn’t know how much I’d love it,” she said, crediting her professor, Dr. Lauren Klabonski, for sparking that interest. “She has a way of making it click for everyone − whether you’re 18 or 48.”
Klabonski describes Hunter as “The definition of an engaged student. She actively participates during lectures, and she asks poignant questions that push our class discussions deeper into the real-world applications of the biological concepts we’re covering… She is honestly a joy to have in my classes.”
On the other hand, Hunter is honest about the sacrifices behind the scenes − the kind that often go unnoticed.
“Leaving the workforce to go back to school full-time? That’s a huge sacrifice. It affects the whole family,” she said. “People don’t always see that. But for me, it’s worth it. Being here matters. Finishing my degree matters.”
Her advice for anyone questioning their own journey?
“Your time frame is your time frame,” she said “Don’t compare yourself to anyone else. Stay true to your passion, and don’t be afraid to take the path that looks a little different.”
When she crosses the graduation stage, Hunter hopes she’ll be remembered not just as a student − but as a force of compassion, determination and community.
“I want people to remember that I cared,” she said. “That I showed up. That I never gave up − no matter what.”