Let’s hear from Alexis, who came from Hawaii to attend NJC and major in animal and crop science. She graduated last year and is thriving at a four-year college. The family atmosphere that a small college like NJC enjoys can be the perfect fit for so many students, and it allows them to thrive and grow. Take it away, Alexis.
– Mahalo, Alex. Aloha, everyone. When it came time for me to choose a school to be my home, it was important to me that it not only had my major but a strong support system behind it as well. I found that at NJC, and I’d like to tell you about it. While there weren’t many opportunities for me to visit colleges with the whole me living in the middle of the ocean thing, I’m glad I visited NJC and found a friendly college that was truly invested in my academic success. They understood that someone’s success in college didn’t just mean what classes they took. It was also the environment they were in. In my first academic advising meeting, the agriculture department chair was inviting me to his ranch to work cattle, efficiently easing all my worries about being so far away from my family. Strong support from my professors encouraged me to get involved on campus, so I became a student ambassador and club president, where I was able to grow my connections and share my story with potential new Plainsmen. These campus positions grew my confidence and sense of belonging, which will serve me well in the future. NJC also supported me outside of academics with financial aid and industry opportunities. Through the generous support of alumni and Sterling community donors, a variety of scholarships are available to NJC students. This academic support allowed me to graduate debt-free and ready to complete my bachelor’s at a four-year university. While at Northeastern Junior College, I attended industry events, connected and worked with the local community, and participated in amazing internships. I’m extremely grateful for the opportunities I got to experience as a Plainsman, and I’ll carry them with me as I continue my journey academically and professionally. Back to you, Alex.
– Thanks, Alexis. Your work as a student ambassador and club president positively affected so many students and demonstrated the welcoming nature of this college. It’s also great to hear about the community support of the college and how it helps students. We are wishing you all the best at university, Alexis. Take care.
Okay, let’s hear from Laryssa, a sophomore who’s in the RN program who’s also working as a nurse in the Sterling Hospital. NJC has state-of-the-art labs and partners with local hospitals to provide hands-on clinical experiences for students. Many graduates start their medical careers right here at these hospitals, making a difference in these rural communities. Tell us more, Laryssa.
– Thanks, Alex. Hello, everyone. Growing up, I have always wanted to become a nurse. I found my passion for a career in nursing by watching what other nurses have done for me and my family in times of need. Having someone to care for you when you can’t take care of yourself is what motivates me to be successful in this program. Nursing requires a lot of classroom and practical learning. After growing knowledge in the classroom, NJC has a fantastic lab on campus with mannequins that allow us to apply what we are learning to a safe environment. They simulate all kinds of conditions, including delivering a baby, but they are so realistic that the lab can really make you feel like you are in the delivery room. In addition to the lab, the nursing program requires us to gain clinical experience across the spectrums of care at hospitals and care facilities across our region. It is a lot, but we have an amazing team of instructors who prepare us to succeed. The first and second-year students work together, which strengthens everybody’s knowledge with the goal of passing the exam to become a registered nurse. The instructors have all worked as nurses, so they truly understand the challenge of becoming a nurse. They support us with life skills, coaching, and mental preparation, and resilience training. It’s more than just the skills necessary to become a nurse. They’re preparing us to become compassionate caregivers. If you have a desire to become a nurse, NJC is right for you. The combination of a caring faculty and modern training equipment will help set you up for success, and I look forward to my career as a nurse. We need to practice some IVs. Alex, are you ready?
– Thanks, Laryssa. We know NJC is teaching you to be a fantastic nurse, but no needles today. Clearly, NJC focuses on the practical experiences you need to care for patients, and it is so exciting to hear about the focus on your resilience and mental preparation for this high-intensity work. Thanks again.
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.