Central High School graduate finds success through innovative NICC program.
Thursday, May 13, 2021
Abby and Darla, CDDG director, found tremendous mutual benefit through Career Learning Link, both for student intern and employer. Work-based learning experiences provide opportunities for students to learn about potential careers.
One local Central High School senior is getting a head start on her future career through an innovation program and partnership established by the high school and Northeast Iowa Community College. Abby Cummer participated in the Career Learning Link program to explore careers and learn more about internship opportunities.
This year, Abby secured an internship with Clayton County Development Group (CCDG) as a social media assistant and events promoter.
“I’ve learned so much about photo quality and problem solving in my internship. I also learned more about Clayton County, where I was born and raised. There are so many events that I didn’t know about and I enjoy helping to promote them for the community,” Abby said.
In her position at CCDG, Abby creates slideshows to promote Clayton County events, such as Ladies Day Out or Hi-Way 13 Vintage Market.
NICC Success Coach, Sarah Beaman, helped to introduce Abby to the internship opportunity at CCDG. “When Darla Kelchen at CCDG reached out to ask if I knew of a student who would be a good fit for the position, I immediately thought of Abby. I knew she had some interest in graphic art, was respectful and had a good work ethic. I was thrilled when she accepted the opportunity!” Sarah said.
Abby and Darla, CDDG director, found tremendous mutual benefit through Career Learning Link, both for student intern and employer. Work-based learning experiences provide opportunities for students to learn about potential careers.
“Central High School students are always great to work with and it’s a great opportunity to expose them to all of the wonderful events in Clayton County. Abby is proficient at promoting events, attractions and points of interest. Eighty percent of people would rather watch a video than read online, and she showcases what we offer and gets more attraction on social media,” Darla said.
The college courses Abby completed through NICC taught her lessons about people, professionalism and career preparation.
“The courses I completed taught me responsibility, public speaking, communication, sociology and psychology, and how to get along with people or see other people’s point of view,” Abby explained.
The May 2021 graduate accumulated 40 college credits through a concurrent enrollment agreement with NICC, in addition to earning a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) credential. She is enrolled in the College’s Nursing program next fall.
Northeast Iowa Career Learning Link is a program that exposes students to high-demand career areas and sets them on the pathway to career and educational success beyond high school. The program provides work-based learning opportunities for students in partnership with local businesses. For more information visit www.nicc.edu/careerlearninglink.
Clayton County businesses can also request to have a slideshow made, showcasing their companies with video and photos, by contacting Darla Kelchen at ccdg@alpinecom.net.