Stepping stone
Spencer and his family heard about the Northwestern NEXT program from one of the teachers in his homeschool group. As a student at NWC, he lists NEXT program outings and Hospers Hall events as his favorite memories. He hopes to one day have his own business, home and family, and he wants to travel and see places he’s learned about in books, movies or TV shows. “I have big dreams,” Spencer says, “and the Northwestern NEXT program is an avenue to making those dreams a reality.”
Parent-like support
The NEXT program staff support me and other NEXT students in many different ways. In the classes we audit, they work with the professors to create a learner’s agreement, which consists of assignments that must be completed for credit in that class. They will still challenge you a little, but they will not overwhelm you. The most crucial way that John and Sherry support us is by acting as parental figures. If we have a problem and they are on campus, we can talk to them about it, and if we need encouragement in something difficult, they lift our spirits. They give the parental love we need while we are away from our homes and families.
Diversity + charity
There are many things about Northwestern that I love, but one of them is the diversity of the staff and the student body. I find it intriguing to learn more about the different cultures and ethnicities of my peers and instructors—as well as the different places they call home. Another thing I love is that they do a lot of charity work. I have a place in my heart for helping others, and if I can do that while spreading the word of Jesus, sign me up.
Playing a part
I was part of the play “Even Though I Know.” One thing I liked about that experience was the overall process of building a total production from start to finish. I also enjoyed working on how best to tell my story to those in the crowd. I will be honest: Standing on a stage in front of a packed house was nerve-racking, but it was not just me—there were other NEXT students and people I consider family there to help us tell our stories.
Heartfelt testimonial
The NEXT program is teaching me to be independent, self-aware and vocal about my needs. These are things I have struggled with throughout my life, but the NEXT program made them easier to understand. I look forward to learning more from John and Sherry. I recommend that anyone with special needs look at the NEXT program if they want to have a college experience.
