As we count down the remaining days in December, it’s a wonderful time to reflect and give thanks, and to look ahead to a fresh start in 2025. According to the Pew Research Center, approximately 30% of Americans in 2024 reported making at least one resolution, with the large majority focusing on health, money or finances, personal relationships, hobbies, and work or career. While education did not make the top five, there are numerous studies showing a positive correlation between more education and improved health, finances, and career opportunities.
As you think about your New Year’s resolutions, consider the question, what can education at North Hennepin Community College do for you?
“College is a stepping stone to starting the career that you want. The right college will prepare you well enough for you to enter a new field feeling confident in your training and preparation, not like an imposter who was lucky to land a job,” said paralegal student Rebecca Drake.
English and business faculty Brigid Bechtold said students tell her they appreciate the diversity on North Hennepin’s campus as it gives them the chance to learn with people with different backgrounds and life experiences helping them understand things from new perspectives.
She added, “I think going to NHCC prepares students to be leaders in the society that is emerging in our country.”
“College is limitless,” said Sue Yang, an admissions representative. “College opens so many doors for both academic and personal growth. It provides countless opportunities to learn, explore, and develop new skills, while also offering the chance to meet diverse people and gain valuable life experiences.”
Why start college?
North Hennepin Community College is even more accessible today thanks to the North Star Promise Scholarship that offers a tuition-free path to a college education. The NSP is a last-dollar program that covers all tuition and fees that remain after scholarships, grants, and tuition waivers have been applied. NHCC awarded more than 350 students with the NSP Scholarship in fall semester! Find out if you are eligible and apply by visiting nhcc.edu/free.
Drake, the paralegal student quoted above, started college as a pre-law student at 18 years of age. Due to personal events, she left school, went to work, and returned later to complete associate and bachelor's degrees while also working.
She said, “Consider how you want to spend the working years that you have left until retirement. Assuming you are 40, started working at age 18, and you will work until you are 70, you have only spent a maximum of 22 years in your current career; you have 30 years of work ahead of you. You should spend it doing something that you enjoy.”
“Do it,” says Yang. “Learning is an exciting adventure, and the classroom offers knowledge and experiences you can't find anywhere else. It's not just about gaining information and learning content; it's about discovering new perspectives and skills that will shape your future. There will also be support every step of the way. Whether it’s through professors, peers, and/or campus resources, you don’t need to feel like you’re alone in your journey to your success.”
While college may sound overwhelming, Academic Advisor Jovon Dukes said, “Starting or returning to college requires more flexibility than anticipated. Learn to adjust and show yourself grace.”
As for Jovon, his New Year’s resolution includes gaining teaching experience and applying to a doctor of education program.