Now, let’s hear from Arturo, a music student from Costa Rica. NJC hosts international students from six continents who bring a remarkable cultural experience to this campus. Arturo has taken advantage of the state-of-the-art recording studio and many opportunities to perform his music on campus while he studies in the U.S. Hit it, Arturo.
– Thank you so much, Alex. And what’s up, everyone? I’m originally from San Jose, Costa Rica, but I always knew I wanted to study in the U.S. My goal is to prepare for a career as a music producer and an artist. I was really excited to find the music and recording program at NJC. They provide me with all the tools that any musician would want to have, all done in a small college environment. This includes a beautiful and inspiring music studio to have developed my skills as a producer and a welcoming place to practice and share ideas with friends. I’ve had the opportunity to meet and collaborate with musicians from all over the world, which is a great experience to add to my portfolio. In this program, we learn about all aspects of the music industry, which makes for an amazing education and excellent preparation to work in many areas of the music industry. NJC organizes many events and concerts where students can showcase their talents. A good example of this is the annual culture fair, an event where students from all around the world prepare traditional foods from their home countries and share a part of their culture. I was really happy to perform as a singer as well as cook Costa Rica’s traditional breakfast, the Gallo Pinto, which everybody loved. Studying at NJC has been an enriching experience, and looking forward, there’s a lot of room to grow in my field of study. With a fast growing city like Denver in close proximity, students can enjoy all the opportunities that a nearby city can provide, but also enjoy the slow pace and more focused life of a small town like Sterling. And that’s all for me. Pura Vida, Alex.
– Pura Vida, Arturo. Thank you so much for sharing your music and your culture with us today. NJC provides so many unique opportunities for you to grow as an artist through their classes and interaction with your fellow students from all over the world. We know your songs will get a lot more streams in the future. Thanks again for sharing your story.
Let’s hear from Colleen, who is a Sterling native and a business major, but she is also on the cheerleading team and a music performer. NJC prepares students for a strong future academically but also provides the opportunity to grow in their area of interest with a multitude of clubs and activities here on the campus. Over to you, Colleen.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. Growing up, I wanted to do everything, but I needed to pick a major for college. I enjoy math and communication and watched my parents succeed in business careers, so I wanted to follow in their footsteps and make them proud, so a business degree was the perfect fit for me. The business program at NJC goes far beyond the classroom. As a business student, I’ve had the chance to learn outside of the classroom as an intern at a local bank. Also, I attend NJC with my twin sister Cassidy, and we are both very involved in music. We’ve had many opportunities to perform together at campus and community events. The talent shows and musical performances on campus have helped me to step out of my comfort zone and explore other interests and cultures. This year, I will be on the new NJC cheerleading team, where I know I will make new friends and represent our college. We get to cheer on and support our fellow student-athletes, and we perform at home sporting events. NJC has students from all over the United States and the world. Getting to know them and learn about their cultures has exposed me to some amazing people and their music. Although I grew up in this area, I never appreciated everything that goes on around NJC. I know I’m growing as a business professional through my studies, but my passion for music and cheer provide even more growth as a person. My teachers have really helped me to figure out what I can do after NJC, not only to further my education but to succeed in life. That’s all for me. Back to you, Alex.
– NJC!
– Wow, Colleen, you are truly taking advantage of everything NJC has to offer to build your future and expand your personal comfort zone. It’s so exciting to see that Sterling offers excellent support to the college with student growth opportunities at local businesses. Thanks again, Colleen.
Let’s meet Israel, coming from Brush, Colorado, who is studying psychology and theater. NJC offers many transfer programs like these to four-year universities, allowing students to start their college studies at a much lower cost with smaller classes and personal attention. Israel makes sure that students enjoy comradery and remarkable experiences along with their studies. Tell us more, Israel.
– Appreciate it, Alex, and hello, everyone. I was one of those people uncertain about attending college at all. But after taking a tour of NJC and talking to some advisors, I committed to my education. While NJC is a small campus, it’s a big community. The options for activities are abundant and diverse. I have done so many great activities on and around campus. I have taken advantage of many opportunities to explore the scenic wonders of Colorado. I have made friends from Russia, Switzerland, Brazil, and beyond. I’m building my future academically and socially here at NJC. I recall arriving at NJC, strolling through decorated hallways with a personalized name tag on my resident hall door. The warm greetings and generous smiles from fellow students and staff members made me feel truly welcomed. The small class sizes compliments the fun stuff I mentioned, and the low cost will help me avoid student debt. I’m not sure I’ll recognize the person who was so unsure about college or what to study just a year ago. I committed to my education, and now I am on a journey that will lead me to my future career. I’m growing through my experiences every day at NJC as well as making lifelong friends. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by. That’s why I chose to be a Plainsman. Handing it back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Israel. It sounds like you are quite the resident advisor, and we know you make NJC a fantastic place for students to live and study. Thanks again.
Let’s meet Grace, who is from Colorado Springs, Colorado, and majors in sports management. She is on the volleyball team, one of 10 NJC AA sports programs here at Northeastern. The college is proud of the consistent recognition of their athletes on the NJC AA Scholastic Honor Roll, showing the focus on developing the full student-athlete. Serve it up, Grace.
– NJC on three, 1,2,3!
– NJC!
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. I’m so fortunate to be living my childhood dream, playing college volleyball here at NJC. I’m so passionate about this sport, and the competition level challenges me and my teammates every single day. The culture here at NJC is unlike anything you’ll ever experience. The comradery among the athletes from every sport generates excitement and makes you want to achieve your best on and off the court. My coaches care about education, pushing us to be scholar-athletes while also honing our volleyball skills. The faculty are flexible when we travel for games, and our local community hosts us for dinners and cheer at the games. The special part about this place is that athletes come here from all over the world to learn and compete. The gym gets loud when we are playing, making it fun and exciting for the team and the crowd. While at NJC, I’ve learned so much about myself, about life, and the person I strive every day to become. I see that in many other athletes on campus as we come to understand the work it takes to compete in a college sport. I’m inspired by the former NJC volleyball players who still attend our games and give back through scholarships and fundraising support. I’m a sports management major, and I have the opportunity to learn outside of the classroom with our athletic trainers, directors, and event center managers. Northeastern is my home away from home. I have met so many different people here and made so many different connections. Today, not only am I a better student and athlete, but I’m constantly achieving a higher version of myself because of NJC. Well, that’s all for me, Alex. I’m passing it back to you.
– Perfect pass, Grace. NJC athletics attracts students from all over the world. That enhances the campus experience for everyone. The focus on student-athletes is critical for their future success, and we know these games bring excitement and pride to the college and Sterling. Thanks again, Grace.
Here’s Kellum from Julesburg, Colorado, who’s a pre-vet major and member of the livestock judging team. NJC is a premier agriculture school in the region with a wide variety of majors, from ag business and education to livestock and soil sciences. In addition, the college competes in rodeo, ranch horse versatility, and livestock judging. Tell us more, Kellum.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, guys. Ever since I was a kid, I always knew I wanted to be an expert in the day-to-day operations of production agriculture and the livestock industry, but when it came to choosing a college, I needed to find one that would allow me to fulfill my passion for learning more about livestock at an affordable price, and that’s exactly what NJC’s offered. My favorite thing about NJC is being a part of the livestock judging team. There’s no better feeling than showing up the first day of class with a team of people as excited and passionate as I am about livestock, and we soon became family. Since then, we’ve traveled countless miles across the United States, looking at some of the best livestock in the world. But I think what truly set NJC apart from other judging teams was the feeling that they’re not just trying to build good judgers but create people that would lead and live with integrity, and I see a similar commitment in our competitive ranch horse and rodeo teams. Another thing I love about NJC is that it’s allowed me to pursue broader interests like ministry and music through both on-campus Christian groups and instrumental lessons for non-majors. As a pre-vet major, confidence in the quality of my education and the knowledge I gain is critical. The small class size and eagerness of the professors and advisors to share their academic and practical knowledge has given me that assurance. NJC is helping set a strong foundation for me to transfer to a four-year university to continue my veterinary studies while giving me the opportunities to become a more well-rounded person. I’ll see you guys in the show ring. Over to you, Alex.
– Very impressive, Kellum. Agriculture and ranching are consistently growing in complexity, and these students are preparing to excel in these fields through a great education. Additionally, the opportunity to compete in collegiate ag sports enhances the student experience and the entire ag program. Thanks, Kellum.
Let’s go to Angelique, whose story will rock you as much as she rocks on top of wind turbines, creating green energy. In addition to traditional education, NJC offers career and technical programs like wind energy, industrial automation, auto diesel, welding, cosmetology, and more that start careers in well-paying industries for their graduates. Tell us all about it, Angelique.
– Thank you, Alex. Hello everyone. Not long ago, I was at a stage in my life when an immediate change was necessary. After some deep reflection during the COVID shutdown, I decided to follow my instincts and pursue a career in wind power generation. I have a passion for renewable energy and sought out the adventure of working high above the ground, and I found that training right here at NJC. I instantly appreciated the warm and inviting community NJC offered. I was still working a full-time job at the time and had not been back in a classroom in quite a while. This presented some real challenges, but my resolve to succeed showed, and the faculty and staff were flexible and ensured I had all the resources to complete the program. They truly cared about my college and work-life balance. I also appreciated that it was a hands-on program with ample opportunity to practice and master skills in the learning lab. The program introduced me to much more than wind energy, including electrical circuits, schematics, welding, industrial mathematics, and industrial automation. For our final project, my partner and I created a fully functional water pumping station similar to what you might find on agriculture farms. The skills I learned got me hired right away, and I am well into my career in wind energy. Choosing a degree in industrial automation and wind energy at NJC was the best decision for my future. While initially overwhelming, the dedicated faculty and staff supported me throughout the entire process. The program truly gave me the foundation I needed to transition from classroom to work site. Now, come join me at the top of the wind turbine. Back to you, Alex.
– That’s incredible, Angelique. Your perseverance and the support of the college was life changing for you and many others. The ability to get the training to shift careers or upskill is unique to community colleges and a highlight of what NJC offers its students. Stay safe up there, Angelique.
Here’s Levi, who grew up in Sterling and is now a Sterling firefighter after recently graduating from the Fire and Emergency Medical Services program. NJC partners with the Sterling Fire Department to provide live fire training, preparing graduates for a career as a first responder. The program is growing to include paramedic certification in the near future. Tell us more, Levi.
– Hi Alex, and hello. I’ve always wanted to be a firefighter ever since I was a little kid. I watched my parents do the job as volunteer firefighters, and when I turned 17, I volunteered as well. When it came time to grow my education to become a professional firefighter, NJC was the right place for me to pursue my dream. The NJC Fire Science Emergency Medical Services Program really prepared me to become an emergency medical technician and a firefighter. The college partners with the local fire department, so we learned from both college faculty and active firefighters. We use the city’s live training facility to practice extinguishing fires, conducting rescues, and much more. We learned on the real equipment that is being used today. I felt confident that I would be useful on my first day on the job. I also had the opportunity to serve as a resident advisor in one of the dorms. Here, I learned leadership, connection-building, and problem-solving skills that I’ll take with me in my career as a first responder. NJC is the right place to learn to be a firefighter and an EMT. Although I served as a volunteer before attending, I had so much more to learn, and NJC provided me with that opportunity. I am confident in my skills as a firefighter as a result of the program. I’m currently employed part-time at the Sterling Fire Department and hope to get on full-time soon. My education more than prepared me for this line of work, and my experience on campus really helped me grow as a person. NJC offers so many opportunities to learn a trade that will get you a job quick. Well, sorry, Alex, I gotta go on a call. Back to you.
– Be safe, Levi, and thanks for sharing your story. What an exciting field to study, knowing that you will enter a field where protecting and saving lives is an everyday job. NJC’s partnerships like this truly enhance the educational experience for all students. Thanks, Levi.
Let’s meet Channing from Utah. Channing is studying psychology and is on the wrestling team. He has a powerful story about finding his place through the support of peers, coaches, and counselors that highlights NJC’s commitment to students. This small campus truly offers a welcoming opportunity for students who aren’t sure what they’re looking for. Take it away, Channing.
– I appreciate it, Alex. Hey, everyone. As a four-time state wrestling title holder, I was faced with an incredibly hard decision on where to go to for college. NJC made that decision easy. When first stepping foot on campus, I immediately knew NJC would be my home. The campus always feels alive, from organized karaoke or talent shows to pick-up kickball games with friends. Academically, the faculty encourage you to grow not only as a student but as a person. I took advantage of the free tutoring to improve my skills, but my favorite thing that NJC provides is counseling. As someone who has struggled with mental health, the counselors go above and beyond, and it has helped me tremendously. The best part about being a Plainsman is the constant support you get from peers, faculty, and coaches, no matter your sport, interests, or major. Our coaches have a deep, personal connection to the athletes and do anything they can do to bring them success. I always see many professors and coaches in the stands at the sporting events cheering us on. They will pick you up when you fall down and raise you even higher when you feel on top of the world. At the end of last year, my wrestling coach asked me what it meant to be a Plainsman. A Plainsman is a part of a family. NJC is the most inviting place I’ve ever spent time. You being here means that you’re one of us. I once walked into the wrong dorm room and made a lifelong friend because I believe we were all drawn here for the same reasons, and I hope you will be, too. Now it’s my turn to take down the competition. I’ll catch you on the mat, Alex.
– What a moving story, Channing. And we celebrate your success at NJC. Counseling and tutoring are key elements to not only succeeding but excelling while in college, and it looks like NJC was the right fit for you. As for the mats, I’m gonna leave that to you. Thanks again, Channing.
All right, let’s meet Emmy. She’s a senior from Waunakee, Wisconsin, and she’s gonna tell us all about student organizations here at UWSP, plus some of the clubs and projects she’s part of on campus. Take it away, Emmy.
– Thank you, Alex. Ever since I was in high school, I loved being involved in different clubs such as forensics and mock trial. When I was looking at different universities, I knew I wanted to continue being involved in learning new leadership skills. What I find special about UW-Stevens Point is how much value there is in campus Involvement. A huge part of college is finding where you belong in this world and with over 260 student organizations, campus and community events and resource centers, finding your place is a breeze. I was able to find my place in Greek life, both serving as the vice president of membership for my sorority and the vice president of risk management for Inner Greek Council. I’ve also found my place as president of our Gender and Sexuality Alliance and by founding our collegiate forensics team. The university and campus engagement have made creating and participating in student organizations a fulfilling experience by allowing the students to take the reins of their organizations. This is also a great way to meet new people with similar interests and goals. Being involved on campus is not only fun and a way to relieve stress, but teaches valuable skills outside of the classroom. I have learned organizational and communication skills, how to plan large scale events, conflict resolution, and how to integrate these skills into my everyday life and career. When I graduate, I know I’ll be ready to take on any goals I set my mind to because of the skills I’ve learned while creating and leading student organizations and the connections I’ve made. I’m so thankful for UWSP’s student engagement. Back to you, Alex.
– That’s right, Emmy. Wow, you really can do just about anything Here at UWSP. Emmy, thank you for telling us all about student organizations here and showing us how easy it is to get involved and belong to something you’re passionate about on campus. Thanks again, Emmy.
It’s time to meet Sam. Sam is a senior pursuing environmental science and management with a minor in sustainable energy at UWSP and is originally from Medellin, Columbia. He is so excited to talk to us about the amazing experience going to college in Stevens Point and how UWSP is working to bring more great students like Samto campus. Let’s go, Sam.
– Thanks, Alex. Growing up, I always challenged myself to step out of my comfort zone, whether it was by trying different sports or reading books about science and technology. After graduating high school, I knew I wanted to come to the US so that I could live the experience of being a student-athlete. UW-Stevens Point offered me the best of both worlds. A top-tier education and the opportunity to be a part of its fantastic tennis team. UW-Stevens Point is also home to one of the leading undergraduate natural resources programs in the US. Upon entering as an environmental science and management student, I was able to immediately connect with professors with a wide variety of backgrounds. They helped me find my passion in waste management and sustainable energy. As a result, I became the secretary of the Waste Management Society and I had the chance to attend several conferences and meet employers from multiple engineering and scientific companies. With all the networking on campus, I even landed a job at Schmeeckle Reserve, one of the three field stations in the College of Natural Resources. On the athletic side, I was named captain of the tennis team, which helped me develop my leadership skills on and off the court. Thanks to all the opportunities I’ve had access to at UW-Stevens Point, I was given the role of University Ambassador. I have interacted with students from all over the US and several international students who also share a passion for traveling and learning about diverse cultures. I have learned about their backgrounds and aspirations and have been able to help them through the college search process. It has been an amazing journey and I wouldn’t change a thing. UW-Stevens Point has provided me with all the necessary tools to succeed in this world. Hitting it back to you, Alex.
– Awesome job, Sam. You’re such a great ambassador for UWSP. Thank you for helping other students from across the nation and world navigate the college search process. I can’t wait to come back again and experience a tour and Schmeeckle Reserve with you sometime. Thanks again, Sam.