Osage

Osage

Meet with your College & Career Transition Counselor!

As your College & Career Transition Counselor (CCTC), I’m here to support you and your family throughout high school and as you prepare for life after graduation. This includes exploring careers, applying to college or apprenticeships, and preparing you for employment.

As a CCTC, each week I spend full days on your high school campus so I can provide one‑on‑one guidance tailored to your post‑secondary goals.

   641-422-4324
  Melissa.Hocken@NIACC.EDU

 

hocken
Get to Know Me & What I Do !!

I have been career advising and educating students about career paths for the past 19 years with kindergarteners through college sophomores!  I am a school counseling grad from UNI and an English education grad from Wartburg.  I love working at NIACC, and I feel privileged to get to work with high school and college students-- it's so much fun talking with all of you!  

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When To Find Me!

When will I be on campus?

  • I will be on campus every week on Tuesdays and Fridays!

Resources For You

What Do You Want To Do?
Career: The Questions
Iowa: Careers in Demand
College: Which is Best for Me?
Non-College: Continuing Ed.

NIACC offers anything from Degrees to Diplomas and even Certificates!

If you're seeking a non-traditional educational path, explore our short-term programs designed to quickly equip you with the skills needed to enter the workforce.

Check out Education to Employment for further information!

FASFA Federal Student Aid
Scholarships
Professional Development
NIACC Resources
Rent/Buy Textbooks
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Get a Head Start on College - While Still in High School!

What is Dual Enrollment?

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  • No Cost To Students: NIACC offers high school students the unique opportunity to earn FREE college credits before graduation.
  • Dual Credit: Students receive high school credits while receiving college credit.
  • Flexible Delivery: Students have course options of face-to-face at high school or at NIACC, online, or hybrid.
  • Career-Focused Academies: Some programs are organized as academies, giving students a head start in high-demand fields—such as manufacturing, construction, IT, and health-related careers.
  • Admissions Process: High schoolers taking concurrent enrollment don’t need to fill out a separate NIACC admissions application; their registration form for the courses already serves as their admission.

NIACC Facts

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Choose Concurrent Enrollment at NIACC?
  • Save on Tuition Costs: Earn college credits at no charge!
  • Flexible Learning Options: Pick from courses that suit your interests and schedule, all taught by experienced instructors.
  • Smooth Transition to College Life: Tackle real college-level classes and build skills that will help you thrive in any higher‑ed setting.
  • Robust Support & Resources: Tap into NIACC’s full range of academic support—tutoring, library access, advising, career counseling, wellness support, and more.
Why Is NIACC The Best Choice After High School?
  • Strong Academic Reputation: NIACC is recognized for its commitment to excellence in education and has a track record of preparing students for successful careers.
  • Supportive Community: Enjoy a welcoming campus environment where students, faculty, and staff are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals.
  • Pathways to Success: Whether you plan to transfer to a four-year university or enter the workforce, NIACC provides the guidance and opportunities to reach your aspirations.
How Do I Get Started?
You can get started by reaching out to your High School Counselor to get connected to your CCTC! They both are here to answer any question and provide all resources to you!