On-the-Job Learning

After interning with the Greater Nashua Habitat for Humanity, Alexandria Daigle plans to graduate this fall with her associate degree in human services from Nashua Community College.

“I have been impressed with Ali's growth in self-awareness and focus since she began the human services degree,” said Professor Jayne Barnes, program coordinator for human services and chair of the social, educational & behavioral sciences department at NCC. Professor Barnes described Alexandria as a self-motived and hard worker.

“Ali seized the opportunity to make connections with what she was studying in class with what she saw in the real world of her internship with Greater Nashua Habitat for Humanity. It has been my pleasure to have been her advisor as well as her teacher, watching her building up her confidence throughout the internship and going beyond her comfort zone,” said Barnes.

The Nashua High School South grad became interested in NCC since the college had several programs she was considering, and college staff worked with her to find a focus. “I have developed a passion for continuing my learning, and have seen a side of myself I never have before. I have learned to take pride and be confident in my school work,” she said, adding,

“I have come so far since I have begun my journey at NCC.”

Alexandria said overall her experience as NCC has been positive, particularly within the human services program, which she said gave her confidence to pursue her education and career, “My professors have been always willing to help, and always encouraged discussion and questions during class. I have learned so much from my professors, and my classmates.”

Interning for the Greater Nashua Habitat for Humanity, Alexandria said she learned a lot about how non-profit organizations operate. “This experience has been truly rewarding, and eye-opening. Most importantly to me, I have gone out into the Nashua community and done things I wouldn’t have normally done,” she said. “My internship has really allowed me to develop into a working professional, while still giving me the comfort that it is a learning experience. Greater Nashua Habitat for Humanity has been an extremely positive experience for me, and the organization truly does wonderful things in the community.”

After graduation, Alexandria plans to continue learning and working with non-profit organizations, “I really want to use my Human Services degree in combination with nutrition to help low-income families supply healthy and clean food options for their children. I have always felt every family deserves healthy and clean meals no matter their economics status.”

She already has a goal in mind, “One day, I even hope to run my own non-profit organization that helps families in need be able to have access to nutrient dense foods. My time at NCC has gotten me one step closer to achieving that.”

Alexandria advises incoming freshmen not to be afraid to ask for help, “Most of the time, someone has the same exact question as you. When I first started I felt confused about the college experience, and often found myself too shy to simply ask. Everyone at NCC is extremely kind, and supportive and they are happy to guide you in the right direction!”

Fall 2019 begins Monday, August 26 at Nashua Community College. Learn more about human services and the 50+ associate degree and certificate programs at NCC by visiting nashuacc.edu, or call Admissions at 603.578.8908.

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