Lauren's Story: Building a Future in Early Childhood Education Close to Home

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), allowing her 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 just wasn’t ready to leave," Lauren explains. Studying remotely through NLC gave her the flexibility to maintain her job, spend time with 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."

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. Now in her third year, she reflects on how her time at NLC gave her the strong foundation she needed to succeed. "I think it absolutely did. It slowly eased me into what was to come," she says. "NLC definitely helped me prepare myself for this next step."

One of the highlights of her university experience has been her practicum placements, both of which took place in Drayton Valley. "I think that’s another great thing about doing online school - I am planning to stay in Drayton after school. By doing my practicum locally, I get to know many students and future colleagues.”

Through her studies, Lauren found a particular passion for Indigenous Studies courses. "I have loved every Indigenous Studies course that 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," she says. While she is not an Indigenous student herself, she values the awareness and understanding these courses have provided.

Looking ahead, Lauren envisions herself running her own kindergarten class in Drayton Valley, and she is also considering pursuing a master’s degree. "I am considering pursuing a master’s degree but that is a future endeavor.”

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. 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.”