Building a Future in Early Childhood Education Close to Home

Lauren Wolseyʼs NLC Success Story

Lauren Wolsey always knew she wanted to help people, but it wasn’t until she considered her childhood dream of becoming a kindergarten teacher that she solidified her career path.

Unsure of where to begin her post-secondary education, Lauren ultimately chose the University Studies program at Northern Lakes College (NLC).

Choosing NLC allowed Lauren to stay in her hometown of Drayton Valley while gaining the education she needed to progress toward her goal.

“I live in a small town, so moving away was the only option to physically attend classes, and quite frankly, I wasn’t ready to leave,” said Lauren.

Studying remotely through NLC gave her the flexibility to maintain her job, spend time with her family and friends and gradually transition into post-secondary life.

“It’s been great because I get to stay with my family, and I get to reduce the cost of my education overall,” said Lauren.

Lauren’s success at NLC prepared her for the next step in her academic journey—transferring to the University of Calgary’s Community-Based Bachelor of Education program, a collaboration between NLC and the University of Calgary’s Werklund School of Education.

Now in her third year, she reflects on how her time at NLC gave her the strong foundation she needed to succeed.

“My time at NLC slowly eased me into what was to come,” said Lauren. “It definitely helped me prepare myself for this next step.”

In her studies, Lauren found a particular passion for Indigenous Studies courses.

“I have loved every Indigenous Studies course I’ve taken. They’ve been a vital part of the growth of my understanding, which will be important as I pursue my career as an educator,” said Lauren.

While she is not an Indigenous student herself, she values the awareness and understanding these courses provide.

Looking ahead, Lauren envisions herself running her own kindergarten class in Drayton Valley, and she is also interested in a master’s degree.

“I am considering pursuing a master’s degree, but that is a future endeavor,” said Lauren.

For high school students unsure of their post-secondary path, Lauren encourages them to consider NLC.

“It was a great way for me to begin my education in an easily accessible learning environment,” said Lauren. “NLC provided me with the courses I needed through University Studies to fulfill my education requirements for the University of Calgary’s Community-Based Bachelor of Education program.”

Northern Lakes College offers many programs through Supported Distance Learning.

Get more information at northernlakescollege.ca/programs-courses