It’s time to meet Evelyn. She has been riding horses since childhood, and brought her passion for equestrian sports, and her horse, Hocan, to Sweet Briar. From competing on the IHSA team to heading off to Oxford, her experience proves that academics and equestrian life go hand-in-hand, right here. Saddle up, everyone. Evelyn and Hocan. Let’s hear your story. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. I’ve been riding horses since I was a kid, and when I got my horse, Hocan, at 15, I knew I couldn’t leave him behind for college. When I discovered Sweet Briar, and its amazing riding program, and that I could bring him, I just knew it was the perfect place for both of us. One of the best parts about riding at Sweet Briar is how close the riding center is to the heart of campus. Just a five-minute drive or a 20-minute walk. Lessons are built right into your schedule, like regular classes, and you even earn academic credit for them. For an even deeper experience, students can join one of Sweet Rider’s riding teams. This year, I joined the IHSA team to challenge myself as a rider. In most horse shows, riders compete on horses they know well, but IHSA focuses on adaptability. At competitions, horses are randomly assigned to riders, who then rely on their training and instincts to perform their best. This kind of experience has pushed me to improve my skills, think quickly, and build confidence. Whether you’re a lifelong rider, or just getting started, Sweet Briar offers a truly unique and rewarding equestrian program. Another thing I love is that it brings together students from all majors, pre-vet, STEM, business, and more. One of my favorite parts about Sweet Briar is the global community. My roommate is from Peru, and her flag proudly hangs in our dining hall with the others. This summer, I’m thrilled to join the Virginia Program at Oxford. I’ll spend six weeks at St. Ann’s College, studying through daily lectures and weekly tutorials, led by Oxford and British University professors, all thanks to the opportunities at Sweet Briar. Maybe Peru’s next on my list. That’s all for me. Back to you, Alex.
– That was awesome. Evelyn, your story shows how seamlessly Sweet Briar blends passion with purpose. Whether you’re competing with the decorated IHSA team, or taking your studies overseas, you’ve made the most of every opportunity. We can’t wait to see where your next ride or flight takes you. Thanks again.
Automotive technology certificate of applied Science has a nice rank to it, doesn’t it? Let’s meet Carlin, a student enrolled in the automotive technology program here at FPCC, who’s getting practical skills in the maintenance and repair of vehicles, both in the classroom and with live hands-on experience. Show us what you got, Carlin, take it away.
– Well, hello, Alex. Thank you very much for your time with us and hello to all of you out there. As for me, growing up, I can remember watching my grandfather work on cars. I was about eight years old when I first started helping him, and I haven’t stopped working on cars since. So when I found out Fort Peck Community College had an automotive technology program, I decided to enroll in school and turned my hobby into a career. The staff here at the school helped me a lot in my first year, which made me so happy. I rolled into town in a busted up car and they helped me get a space in the dorm here along with getting me enrolled. Now I don’t have to worry about that car. I could just walk across the street to the garage. Pretty much from day one, we were able to get our hands dirty, working with industry standard equipment. My instructors are very knowledgeable and helpful when it comes to teaching me. Though I was pretty shy in high school, I’ve even met a few friends here along the way. But even if automotive technology isn’t what you want to do, they offer other one year certificates as well, such as welding, truck driving, IT, and digital technology just to name a few. They offer something for everyone, and as for me, I want to open up my own business as a mobile mechanic because not everyone can get their vehicle to a shop. With what I’ve learned at FPCC, I’ll be able to go to the customer’s house and work on their car at their place. That’s about me. Back to you, Alex.
– Very cool, Carlin. Seems like FPCC truly has something for everyone and it’s awesome to hear. I they’ve helped you shape a career outta something you already love to do. How cool is that? You know I’ll be giving you a call when I need my car work done. All the best.
If you could get college credits while still in high school, wouldn’t you do it? Ameliya is a current high school student whose answer is a resounding yes. Ameliya has already taken several courses at Fort Peck Community College as she gets a headstart. Look at what college is all about. You’re up, Ameliya.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi everybody. I’m currently a senior at Wolf Point High School. However, I’ve been taking dual credit classes with FPCC since I was a junior. Fort Peck Community College has set up dual credit and early college courses to make it a smooth transition between institutions. They make it super simple to register and the courses are very accessible. There is an FPCC advisor on our high school campus who helps me with any questions I might have. So I don’t even have to leave my own school during the day. I’ve taken anatomy and physiology, pre-calculus, calculus, personal finance, and beginning yoga. So I’m already way ahead of the game as far as college credits go. Eventually, I’m hoping to study nursing so I can then help my own community through healthcare. Fort Peck Community College offers an associates of science degree for pre-health nursing for those looking into the healthcare field. And a lot of those credits will fulfill requirements at other Montana colleges and universities. FPCC has been very supportive of me and my peers who are gaining college credits while in high school. Not only that, but my friends and I are developing important skills like time management and scheduling that will make taking that next big leap in our lives far less intimidating. I’m not sure where I’ll land yet, but I know wherever it is, I’ll be more than ready. Once I graduate from high school, first, I will start my basic training with the National Guard. Then I will come back to pursue my bachelor’s in nursing and Fort Peck Community College has given me a great start on that path. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Nice job, Ameliya. Thank you for filling us in on how high schoolers are putting themselves so far ahead of the curve. It’s impressive to see how much you’ve accomplished already and how strongly FPCC is promoting upward mobility for students like you. Good luck to the National Guard and thanks again.
It’s no secret that culture permeates through everything FPCC does. Here to tell us about it is Marty, a former student with a powerful story. Marty had almost no connection to his culture when he was younger, so when he discovered FPCC, he ended up with more than just a degree in social work. He found a new path in life. It’s all you, Marty.
– Hello, my relatives. My name is Marty Reum. I carry the name of left hand. A big thank you to Alex. I never thought of attending college. Based on my high school career, I didn’t think college was for me. After retirement from the United States Army, I moved home and realized that Fort Peck Community College had everything that I needed in my life. Here at Fort Peck Community College, there is an incredible embrace of our culture as indigenous people. History has not been kind to us collectively. My adolescent years were filled with confusion and uncertainty about who I was because I had no connection with our traditions and language. Fort Peck Community College opened my eyes to what the college offers as everything that’s done here is infused our culture. Learning our language, participating in ceremonies and helping in the community led to my new identity. One filled with hope, laughter, connection, and most importantly, direction. Now I was in an environment where I could learn without distraction. I found a passion for social work, helping others just like myself work through addiction and find a new path. Several instructors and staff were instrumental in assisting with my new found success. Now I am 13 years sober and the best dad that I can be for my children and the very best version of me for everyone. I always wanted to be able to give back to so many and FPCC allowed me this opportunity. After years in social work, I moved over to the IT department here at FPCC. I’m able to help in new and exciting ways. I will see you again. Back to you, Alex.
– Amazing, Marty. It’s commendable that you overcame so much adversity to be the person you are today and even more so that you pass that positivity onto others. Cheers to you and FPCC for doing so much to make the world a brighter place. Thanks again.
For many colleges and a possibility without scholarships, but at FPCC, there’s a vast array of financial assistance. Take for instance, Tashina, a student who moved to Fort Peck from Canada. When she arrived, she found numerous resources that helped her attend college without being weighed down by the stress of paying for it. Tell us all about it, Tashina, take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. I was born in Canada, but ever since I was young, it was my dream to come live and go to school here at Fort Peck Community College and now, that dream is a reality. Growing up in Canada, I am registered on the Piapot First Nation and I’m an enrolled member of the Assiniboine and Sioux Fort Peck tribes. I moved to Fort Peck a few years ago and I am the first person on the reservation with dual citizenship to receive the Pell Grant, and I have earned both the Jeanette Rankin Montana Scholar Grant and the American College Fund Tribal College Scholarship, along with a handful of other scholarships. Numerous staff members at Fort Peck were instrumental in helping me seek out and win this financial support, which has allowed me to focus on academics. Because of this, I have earned multiple presidents and deans lists and will be this year’s graduating class salutatorian. Since I have no children of my own, I am studying early childhood education where I can put all my effort into seeing young native children get the education they deserve. I have the drive, skills, and the ability to demonstrate and show the children that they can be whatever they wanna be, and I believe I can make a difference in my native community by being there and helping them get the knowledge they need to be successful in their lives. I plan to attend a four-year university and get my bachelor’s degree online and then work in a school or daycare here in the Fort Peck area. Fort Peck has helped me to live my dream and so I wanna give back and help this community continue to thrive and that’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Tashina. We are blown away by all the accolades you’ve received and how great is it that Fort Peck Community College was there to guide you along the way? As daunting as it may be to seek out financial aid, having someone in your corner to assist is phenomenal. Thanks again for sharing.
Just because you’ve been to college already doesn’t mean education comes to an end and FPCC knows that better than most. Meet Samantha who grew up in Poplar before going out of state to college and is now back working hand in hand with FPCC on a project that through education, has a huge impact on this community. Take it away, Samantha.
– Thanks, Alex and hey, everyone. I was born and raised in Poplar, and while I haven’t attended Fort Peck Community College as a full-time student, I do attend a lot of the college’s community workshops and trainings. My introduction to the college was as a high school student in their Summer Bridge Program before then attending Stanford. Now living here, I see how much the community benefits from the continuing education units offered by FPCC. Bringing these essential trainings like Indian Education, mental health and Wellness, and environmental sciences to the community plays a huge role supporting professional development in our region. Library is a great resource, not only for college students, but it’s open to the public and for many, it’s the only access to computers or the internet available and also provides programming for local families. We also have a wellness center, providing access to fitness equipment and classes for people of all ages to encourage physical and mental wellbeing. I now work for the Traditional Practices for Wellness project, one of the college’s several community outreach efforts. We provide workshops that foster a closer relationship with our traditional plants and foods, including conversations on ethical harvesting and hands-on demonstrations for preserving and bringing these foods into our everyday lives. By bringing people together around our foods, we encourage not just a sustainable way of life, but also an opportunity for community members to share their own stories, recipes and knowledge, which we know is crucial to our social and cultural wellbeing. My hope is that people see Fort Peck Community College as a wonderful resource to continue educating ourselves throughout our entire lives. Thanks for listening, and back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Samantha, for sharing your story. It’s incredible to see how people like you return to Poplar and FPCC to share their knowledge, and we love hearing how by continuing to educate the community, you are fostering continued resilience and wellbeing. Thanks again.
Beginning college can be an overwhelming experience, but FPCC is here to help. Recent graduate Bryor not only got a degree here, he’s now employed by FPCC, working with future graduates to set them up for success. By supporting students in so many ways, FPCC is ensuring not only a bright future for each individual, but also collectively for the community. Tell us more, Bryor.
– Thanks Alex. Hey, everyone. Growing up, I was surrounded by FPCC culture and knew a valuable resource. It is to many. I got my associate’s degree here before transferring to a university and getting my bachelor’s. Now I have an awesome job here on campus helping students any way I can. The resources available here are the heart of the institution. As the FPCC team all worked so hard to guide the educational path of all their students from many unique backgrounds to overcome challenges. Student services provides many key factors for everyone’s success, including providing tutors in numerous subjects, counseling advising along with a multitude of other services. Our tight-knit community makes these services easier with the quality locations on campus, like the James E. Shamley Library, Greet the Dawn, War-Eagle Vision, and the Dumont Building in Wolf Point. The staff as you are entering any building will point you in the right direction to get the help you need with any problems you are having. Personally, they played a huge role in my success by helping ease the process of transferring credits to my four-year university. I could not have done it without the faculty, staff or administration. I believe this is what makes FPCC such a special institution to attend. They are all about educating the whole student, not only focusing on fostering success in the classroom. They care about the wellness of students physically, mentally, and socially. Encouraging students to get active in campus life or join an organization like the Gaming Club. FPCC’s Academic support and Student Services definitely helped shape my life in a positive way. They prepared me to go a step further and made me the best employee that I could be now that I’m working back on campus. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Bryor. We love hearing how Fort Peck Community College has had and continues to have such an uplifting influence on you. Even better is hearing how you’re passing that encouragement onto the next generation of students. Thanks again for sharing.
Bringing higher education to Poplar means that academics are at the core of everything that FPCC does. Jacey, a current student, has always placed an emphasis on academics throughout her life, so though she went away for a while, it’s no surprise that she landed back at FPCC. Take it away, Jacey.
– Thank you, Alex. Hi everyone. So growing up, education has always been a pretty big deal for me and what I love about the Fort Peck Community College is it’s a really big deal for them too. For the past few years, I was a stay-at-home mom near Busby Montana, but was starting to go a bit stir crazy. I decided I wanted to continue my education and the best way to do that was to come back home so I could be close to my mom and my brothers. Although I don’t know where life will lead me yet, I do know I want to help other people and Fort Peck Community College has done an amazing job at preparing me for whatever path I choose. Currently, I am studying for my Associates of Arts and General studies, and I have learned so much in a mixture of different class setups, from in-person classes to classes online. There are so many positive aspects of Fort Peck Community College that will help you on your academic journey. For me, the support I received from the friendly staff has led to a job working for the Safe on All Roads program affiliated with the school. I help mentor other students and pitch in setting up events like the career fair and workshops for the community. Fort Peck Community College is such a great place to choose for furthering your education. It’s the whole package and I’m so lucky that this is my community college. With the knowledge that I have received, I am hoping to start a gardening program and a horse equine therapy for the Fort Peck community. Well, thank you for listening. Back to you, Alex.
– Nicely done, Jacey, and congrats on the position with Safe on All Roads. It’s incredible the way that FPCC meets students on their level, compelling them to succeed both inside and outside of the classroom. We know whatever you ultimately choose to do, you’ll be a success.
Fort Peck Community College has long associated with the American Indian Higher Education Consortium. AIHEC for short. One student with firsthand knowledge of AIHEC is Simon who has had the chance to travel out of the state while participating. He’s also taken his love of working with animals to a whole new level while at FPCC. All right, Simon, you’re on. Go for it.
– Thank you for introducing me, Alex, and hello, everyone. When I first started here at Fort Peck Community College, I knew I wanted to work with animals and not only has FPCC allowed me to work directly with animals while I’m well on my way to becoming a wildlife biologist. From a young age, I knew I wanted to work with animals. I just didn’t know what that looked like as a career. After high school, I took a gap year to figure things out, work and traveling. One of the most important experience I had was as a student researcher conducting field work on turtles along the Yellowstone River in Montana. It showed me how much I love working directly with wildlife and doing outdoor research. Since then, FPCC has given me many opportunities to grow in the right direction, like being hired as an intern to help at the Buffalo Ranch here, along with studying the local wildlife and surrounding ecosystem. These amazing hands-on experiences have helped me see the bigger picture of what it means to become a wildlife biologist. FPCC also gave me the opportunity to travel as a part of the American Indian Higher Education Consortium or AIHEC for short. On our trip, I competed in the science bowl and took part in the poster presentation. It was a fun experience where I met other native students, shared ideas, and learned more about science in the supportive environment. It’s just my first year and Fort Peck Community College has already given me multiple opportunities to thrive both personally and professionally. I’m grateful for the experience I’ve had so far and I’m excited for what’s ahead, not just for me, but for people on a similar path. That’s all I have to say. Back to you, Alex.
– That is awesome, Simon, what a remarkable journey you have been on already in your life and we’re just as excited as you are to see what’s ahead for you. We know that with Fort Peck’s support, your wildlife biology dreams will come true. All the best.
Though located in Montana, FPCC has students from several states all across the country. One of those outta state students is Kaileen who attends classes from nearly 500 miles away. With a robust online learning system, FPCC provides academic resources to anyone, anywhere. Just make sure the WiFi’s fired up. Over to you, Kaileen.
– Thanks, Alex and hi everyone. I live in Casper, Wyoming, and I’m the mother of two young children. I’ve pursued my degree a few times over the years, but life always seems to happen. Last year though, I found Fort Peck Community College and I’m now well on my way to earning my degree in social work. Initially, when I decided to sign up for FPCC, I felt scared due to living hours and hours away. I’m a non-traditional student and my life is chaotic, but FPCC offered asynchronous classes that allow me to participate in a timeframe that’s less overwhelming. Loy Sprague is my advisor and she’s great at making me feel supported because living 7 1/2 hours away, when a problem arises, my anxiety will tell me it can’t be solved. A quick email from Loy assures me that it can be solved easily. surprisingly, attending Fort Peck Community College online has also reconnected me with my community. I moved off the reservation at 18 and sometimes, you can get made to feel other when you don’t live here. But having a class in my tribal history literature and being taught by Native American professors, it’s amazing. I truly believe that the renewed sense of belonging built my confidence and is the reason I’m able to graduate and walk across that stage in May. My goal with social work is to be someone that can help make a native child feel safe because the system wasn’t built for us. Without FPCC, I don’t know that I would’ve gained the hope that now makes my dreams possible. Fort Peck Community College not only gave me the opportunity to succeed, they also gave me the community I needed to succeed too. Back to you, Alex.
– Thanks, Kaileen. It’s wonderful to hear how you’ve regained confidence and reconnected with the reservation and community. It has to be reassuring to know that the people who are teaching and mentoring you have had similar experiences as you growing up. Thanks again for sharing your story. That was awesome.