In celebration of National First Generation Student Day on November 8, North Central Missouri College spotlights outstanding student Valorie Gabrielli. Valorie, a Missouri A+ Scholarship student, is from Polo, Missouri. Valorie is working on her Associate in Arts transfer degree and plans to graduate from NCMC with her degree in May. After graduating from NCMC, Valorie intends to transfer to the University of Central Missouri to pursue Digital Media Production with an emphasis in Live Studio and Sports Production.

Valorie is a first-generation college student, meaning neither of her parents has a bachelor’s degree. Valorie said, “NCMC helps first-generation college students by providing a safe and welcoming atmosphere, offering the SSS program, and promoting its very own First Gen Club. SSS has practically every resource you’ll need throughout your time here, from mentoring and tutoring to walking you through the transfer process; they are there every step of the way. I was inspired to go to college by my parents, Tom and Loni, and by my own strong will. My fondness for money may have also made an impact.”

North Central Missouri College helps first-generation college students by providing the resources they need to succeed, such as Student Support Services, attentive advisors, tutoring and resource centers, helpful faculty and staff, hands-on learning, clubs and organizations, and small class sizes.

“At North Central Missouri College, we pride ourselves on being student-focused,” said Dr. Lenny Klaver, President. “Our first-generation students and all of our students will find our attention to their success, our affordable and accessible courses, and our resources prepare them each step of the way in their academic path.”

At NCMC, Valorie is involved in Phi Theta Kappa, Book Club, Student Senate, Pirates Digital Media, First Gen Club, and the Baptist Student Union. When asked why she chose NCMC, Valorie said, “I was blessed with the opportunity to attend NCMC free of charge. I toured the college and appreciated the compact campus and the short distance from home. I recognized that NCMC was much more than a college; it’s a community!”

Valorie’s favorite classes were Spanish with Instructor Maryellen Harman and English I and II with Instructors Mindy Matter and Stephen Williamson. Valorie said, “I’ve had so many great instructors; I can’t say enough about them!” When asked her favorite thing about NCMC, Valorie said, “My advisors, Tocarra Williams and Dr. Susan Stull, and my BSU family.” Valorie went on to say, “NCMC has helped me explore my interests and find my passion for broadcasting through Pirates Digital Media. Choosing NCMC as a stair-step to my four-year university has given me the time to select the right major while learning about myself in the process. My advisors have sat through my many degree changes, teenage crises, and rambles to get me to this point! The opportunities here are tremendous! Being a first-generation student means braving a new and unfamiliar path with utmost pride! I am a proud first-generation student with even prouder parents.”

National First Generation Student Day is celebrated each year on or around November 8 to highlight, celebrate, and recognize the achievements of first-generation students.

North Central Missouri College recognizes, uplifts, and amplifies the voices of our first-generation college students and celebrates their success. Learn more about resources for first-generation college students at NCMC or contact (660) 359-3948.

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Photo: NCMC student Valorie Gabrielli