Future educator begins career path at Northeast Iowa Community College

Thursday, November 12, 2020

Allison’s participation in Career Learning Link and connection to the Manchester Center focused her career goals on elementary education.

MANCHESTER, Iowa—First-generation college students with big dreams know that finding the best career requires more education and guidance. Academic advisors and the Northeast Iowa Career Learning Link program at the Northeast Iowa Community College provided the direction Allison Knipper needed.

A 2020 Maquoketa Valley High School graduate, Allison selected NICC for several major reasons.

“I decided to enroll at Northeast Iowa Community College instead of other colleges for many reasons. Northeast Iowa Community College is affordable, close to home and is a great option if you’re unsure of your future plans,” Allison explained.

Allison’s participation in Career Learning Link and connection to the Manchester Center focused her career goals on elementary education. She enrolled at the College to complete an Associate of Arts degree with the goal of transferring to the University of Northern Iowa to earn a bachelor’s degree in education. After she begins her career as an elementary education teacher, she also plans to complete a master’s degree.

“Career Learning Link provided guidance on my future plans. I was the first child in my family attending college, and I had no idea where to start or what I wanted to do with my future. Career Learning Link helped me find my path. I went on several job shadows, attended career and college events, and participated in other activities that helped me tremendously. These events gave me an idea of what I was interested in and what I wasn’t,” she said.

As a high school student Allison earned a Certified Nurse Aide credential through the Manchester Center and continued to visit with center staff to take advantage of additional resources and services. At NICC, she is taking a majority of classes 100 percent online and enjoys the flexibility.

“I prefer online classes over face-to-face classes. Online classes allow me to create my own schedule. My first semester at Northeast Iowa Community College has been going great, and I’m excited to see what my future holds!” Allison said.

Manchester Center Director, Holly Maurer, said that Allison’s academic and future success is the result of career planning and hard work.

“Caring and compassionate, Allie is bound to have success in her future as an elementary school teacher. She took advantage of many opportunities through the Career Learning Link program to help narrow down her career goals. I was so happy to help her start her journey at NICC. It was truly a pleasure to work with Allie,” Holly said.

The Northeast Iowa Career Learning Link program at Northeast Iowa Community College connects businesses and high schools so students can explore careers and gain relevant internships. Success Coaches guide students, help them find and prepare for job shadows and internships, arrange for industry leaders to visit classes and host site visits, and assist with job and college applications. For more information, visit www.nicc.edu/careerlearninglink.