Graduate Program Opportunities with Jake

Transcript

Let’s meet Jake, a descendant of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, who has found both community and opportunity at SKC. His story is about his unique experiences, honing his leadership skills, and connecting to his Native roots, all while pursuing his academic goals in the master’s program of Natural Resources Management. Here at SKC, Jake is able to combine culture with passion. Tell us all about it, Jake.

– Thanks, Alex. Salish Kootenai College was the right choice for me because it offered a way for me to connect to my Native roots and achieve my academic goals at the same time. I’m blessed to be here at SKC. I’ve had opportunities that have shaped me as an academic, a leader, and as a Native. With grant-funded programs and career services, SKC offers access to scholarships and internships with unique experiences I wouldn’t have found elsewhere. Last summer, I had the opportunity to take part in an internship with the Geronimo Hotshots in San Carlos, Arizona. This experience not only taught me firefighting skills, but it also showed me effective leadership, organizational skills, and paramilitary structure. It was a great experience that I’ll never forget. I also had another internship that involved touring the Montana Tribal Colleges. We participated in listening sessions about work-based learning and career service opportunities. SKC ensured my internships were tailored to the experience I wanted. As a forestry student, I’m able to engage in hands-on learning just minutes from campus. As part of my classes, we go out and measure diameter, base height, and core trees. The forestry program here is one of few in the country that emphasizes the relationship between the forest, tribal sovereignty, and cultural preservation. SKC has been a community and a home for me in more than just an academic way. I’ve been blessed to be a part of this community and the opportunities available here, which helped me grow in my leadership capacities. What’s next? I’m entering the master’s program for Natural Resource Management at SKC. It’s truly a place that provides a home for long-term learning. That’s me. Back to you, Alex.

– Jake, what an exciting journey. Your story reflects SKC’s commitment to hands-on opportunities with lifelong support. With graduate programs in Natural Resource Management, Life Sciences, and Education, SKC offers many diverse paths for growth. We look forward to your continued success in your master’s program and beyond. Best wishes, Jake.