In honor of North Central Missouri College’s centennial, NCMC will spotlight 100 inspiring stories throughout the academic year. These narratives will showcase the voices and journeys of our alumni, students, faculty, staff, donors, and the communities that have shaped TJC/NCMC’s legacy. Each story is a tribute to the people throughout history who make NCMC extraordinary.
I attended NCMC as a very non-traditional student to attain my Associates degree in Nursing. The program was offered at an outreach site in Maryville which worked well for me, and I had reached a point that I felt progressing in my education and career would be beneficial. At the age of 48, I believe I was the oldest student in the class. Learning to study again, using the computer for classes, and integrating with a younger generation were all obstacles that challenged me to grow and succeed in the course, as well as in the nursing path I had chosen. I was prepared well by the instructors and opportunities both in the lab and clinicals to pass the nursing board exam and move into the next phase of my career. From there, I earned a Bachelor’s degree and came back to NCMC to teach, moving on to achieve a Master’s degree in nursing education. Even now, though technically retired, I continue to enjoy helping nursing students along their own career journey by filling in adjunct clinical, lab, and online roles. NCMC has been a huge part of my life for many years now!
Probably one of my favorite memories has been the opportunity to meet so many amazing people. I was fortunate enough to have Sue Nichols as an instructor, and later as a mentor and co-worker! Beth Crawford continues to be one of my best friends, and I have learned so much from both of these women. Good friendships like these never dissipate.
The centennial celebration will continue throughout the academic year, and NCMC invites alumni, students, faculty, staff, and our communities to be part of the story. We would love to hear your story about Trenton Junior College/North Central Missouri College. Visit the Centennial Website to submit your own story, memory, or reflection. Whether you walked the halls decades ago or are just beginning your journey, your story is a vital thread in the college’s tapestry, and we want to hear it.
Visit the Centennial Website to explore Trenton Junior College/North Central Missouri College stories, rich history, and discover upcoming events.
Photo: Deanna Scroggie