Leslie Gangwer, Author at Northwest Nazarene University /author/leslie/ Here for Good Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:37:12 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 /wp-content/uploads/2023/11/cropped-favicon-150x150.png Leslie Gangwer, Author at Northwest Nazarene University /author/leslie/ 32 32 WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BORROWING? (BEFORE I PICK MY COLLEGE) /what-do-i-need-to-know-about-borrowing-before-i-pick-my-college/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=what-do-i-need-to-know-about-borrowing-before-i-pick-my-college Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:37:12 +0000 /?p=37498 It’sdecision time.You’vegot your acceptance letters,maybe ahoodie or two already, and nowthere’sone big question hanging in the air: What is this actually going to cost, and is it okay for me […]

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]]> It’sdecision time.You’vegot your acceptance letters,maybe ahoodie or two already, and nowthere’sone big question hanging in the air:

What is this actually going to cost, and is it okay for me to borrow?

Let’stalk about that. No jargon, noscaretactics, just the real stuff you should know before you say yes to a school and a financial aid offer.

First: What’s“AverageStudent Debt” Anyway?

You’veprobably heardnumbers thrown around, andyeah,they can feel intimidating. Theaverage student debtin the U.S. is around$33,000, but that numberdoesn’ttell the whole story.

What matters more isyoursituation:

  • How much total aid have you been offered?
  • What is the costafterscholarships and grants?
  • Do you plan to work during school?

A more useful question might be:What’sthe average student loan debt after graduation for someone graduating from my school?

That’swhere things get real—and way more helpful.

BorrowingIsn’tBad, But You Should Have a Plan

Let’sclear this up: taking out student loansisn’tautomaticallya bad thing. Plenty of students borrow and manage itjust fine.

The key is understandingstudent loan repaymentbefore you ever sign anything.

Ask yourself these three things:

  1. When will I need to start paying this back?
  1. What will my monthly payment look like?
  1. Will my expected career salary make that manageable?

A good rule of thumb:try to keep your total borrowing close to what you expect to make in yourfirst yearafter graduation. For example, if you expect to earn $60,000 in your first year, try not to borrow more than $60,000total.

Student Loan Interest Rates (Explained Without the Headache)

Interest isbasically theextra amount you pay for borrowing money.

Here’sthe simple version ofstudent loan interest rates explained:

  • Lower interest rate = less money paidover time
  • Higher interest rate = more money added to your total

Federal loans usually have fixed rates (meaning they never change), which makes them easier to budget for. Private loans can vary more, soyou’llwant to read those details carefully.

Even a small difference in interest rates can mean paying thousands more (or less) over time.Soyeah, it matters. Pay attention and call in reinforcements if needed!

Tips to Reduce Student Loan Debt (Your Future You Will Thank You)

Ifyou’reeven slightly concerned about debt load (which you should be), here are sometips to reduce student loan debt:

  • Maximize scholarships and grants first(free money = best money)
  • Work part-time if you can:even a few hourshelps
  • Borrow only what you need, not the max offered
  • Graduate on time:extra semesters = extra cost

Andmaybe thebiggest one: choose a schoolthat’sinvested in helping you succeed, not just enroll.

It’sNot Just About Cost,It’sAbout Value

Here’swhere your college choice really matters.

A school that supports you academically, personally,spirituallyand professionally canactuallyreduceyour financial stress long-term, becauseyou’remore likely to graduate, land a job and move forward confidently.

AtNorthwest Nazarene University,it’snot just about getting you in thedoor,it’sabout walking with you all the way through, including the financial side of things.It’sone of the waysWe Do College Different!

Final Thought: Questions are Encouraged

This decision is a big one.It’sokay if youdon’thave everything figured out yet. The financial aid office is used to questions, so be sure to ask things like:

  • “What will I actually owe after graduation?”
  • “Can I pay my loans off early without penalty?”
  • “What’s the average student loan debt for your graduates?”
  • “What support do you offer while I’m a student?”

The more you understand now, the more confidentyou’llfeel later.

Because at the end of the day, thisisn’tjust about choosinga college,it’sabout choosing a future you can affordandfeel good about.

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]]> GRADUATE PROGRAMS WITH THE BEST JOB PLACEMENT RATES: HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT ONE FOR YOU /graduate-programs-with-the-best-job-placement-rates-how-to-choose-the-right-one-for-you-2/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=graduate-programs-with-the-best-job-placement-rates-how-to-choose-the-right-one-for-you-2 Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:02:27 +0000 /?p=37493 Ifyou’rea working adult thinking about heading back to school, one big questionprobably topsyour list:Will this degreeactually helpme land a better job?You’renot alone. Today’s professionals are investing in graduate programs that […]

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]]> Ifyou’rea working adult thinking about heading back to school, one big questionprobably topsyour list:Will this degreeactually helpme land a better job?You’renot alone. Today’s professionals are investing in graduate programs that not only expand their knowledge but alsoguarantee solid career outcomes. In other words,job placementis where the real value lies.

Why Job Placement Rates Matter More Than Ever

Gone are the days when having a master’s degree automaticallymeanta corner office and a paycheck to match. Employers are looking for candidates who can hit the ground running.That’swhy thecareer outcomes of graduate schoolprograms have become a key metric for students deciding where to invest their time and money.

A school’s job placement rate—how many graduates land jobs in their field within six months to a year after finishing—tells you how well-connected and career-focused the program is. High rates mean strong employer partnerships, relevantcourseworkand a proven record of helpinggradsget hired.

What to LookForin High Job Placement Programs

When searching for thebest graduate programs for high job placement, think beyond glossy brochures and lofty mission statements. Ask the tough questions:

  • Whatarethe program’s actual job placement statistics?Schools with rates above 90% are serious about career prep.
  • Does the school have partnerships with employers?These connections often lead directly to internships and job offers.
  • What kind of career support is available?Resume workshops, networkingeventsand mentorship programs makea huge difference.
  • Are graduates satisfied with their outcomes?Alumni reviews can tell you more than a ranking list ever could.

The MBA Factor: Business Degrees and Placement Success

Ifyou’releaning toward business, MBA programs have long been a popular choice; but not all are createdequal. The most competitive MBA programs boast placement rates above 95%, with graduates walking into roles at top firms or launching their own ventures.

When comparing MBA programs, pay attention to the average starting salaries and the industries that hire graduates. For example, MBAs with a focus on data analytics or project management often have stronger placement results than traditional generalist programs.

The Working Adult Advantage

Here’ssome good news: as a working professional, you already have an advantage. You bring real-world experience, transferableskillsand an existing network. All things employers value. A well-chosen graduate program should build on what you already know, notstart from scratch.

Look for flexible options like online or hybrid formats that allow you to balance work,lifeand school. The best programs for adult learners understand that success means more than just earning a diploma;it’sabout positioning you forimmediatecareer growth.

Spotlight: Northwest Nazarene University

Ifyou’reexploring programs with exceptional career outcomes,Northwest Nazarene University (N鶹ԭ)isa great placeto start. N鶹ԭ’s graduate programs focus on real-world application and career readiness, offering degrees in business, education, theology, counseling and more. Many of N鶹ԭ’s graduates report quick job placement and advancement thanks to a strong network of employers and hands-on learning experiences.

Whetheryou’repursuing an MBA, a master’s in education, an MSW or another specialized degree, N鶹ԭ’s blend of academic excellence, flexibility and personal support makes it a standout choice for working adults who want results, not just credentials.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to choosing the right graduate school, don’t just ask,“What will I learn?”Ask,“Where will this degree take me?”By focusing ongraduate program job placementand provencareer outcomes from graduate school,you’llmake an investment that pays off long after graduation day.

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]]> N鶹ԭ NAMES GEORGE ZICKEFOOSE AS THE RECIPIENT OF THE 2026 L.E. WESCHE OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR AWARD /nnu-names-george-zickefoose-as-the-recipient-of-the-2026-l-e-wesche-outstanding-educator-award/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=nnu-names-george-zickefoose-as-the-recipient-of-the-2026-l-e-wesche-outstanding-educator-award Thu, 23 Apr 2026 15:08:06 +0000 /?p=37401 George L. Zickefoose, Ed.D., veteran educator and current principal of Warhawk Elementary School in theVallivueSchool District, has been named this year’s L.E. Wesche Outstanding Educator. The award was presented at […]

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]]> George L. Zickefoose, Ed.D., veteran educator and current principal of Warhawk Elementary School in theVallivueSchool District, has been named this year’s L.E. Wesche Outstanding Educator. The award was presented at a private reception on Tuesday, April 21, 2026.

Zickefoose bringsnearly fourdecades of experience in education, serving in a wide range of roles as a teacher,principaland international school leader. A graduate of Northwest Nazarene University, where he earned both his Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, he later completed his Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership. Throughout his career, he hasremainedcommitted to developing students, supportingeducatorsand leading schools with integrity and purpose.

His leadership has spanned classrooms and campuses across the United States, SouthKoreaand Ethiopia. Most recently, Zickefoose returned to Idaho to invest in the local community, serving as principal in the Nampa School District before stepping into his current role in theVallivueSchool District. In 2025, he opened Warhawk Elementary as its founding principal, helping establish the school’s vision,cultureand systems in partnership with staff,studentsand families.

Zickefoose is widely recognized for his collaborative leadership style and his commitment to building strong, student-centered school communities. His work reflects a deep belief in education as a calling;one that creates meaningful impact through purposeful growth,serviceand relationships. His faith has also playeda central rolein shaping his approach to leadership, guiding his desire to serve others and invest in each community he has been part of.

“In selecting recipients for the L.E. Wesche Award, we look for individuals whose influence goes beyond their job description. Those who inspire, lead withintegrityand reflect the heart of N鶹ԭ’s mission,” said Holly Ripley, Education DepartmentChair. “Dr. Zickefoose has been a faithful servant in education, leading wherever God has him. The person in front of him is always the most important person in the room. His reputation of kindness is rooted in a sincere faith.”

This award is named in honor of Dr. Lilburn Wesche, N鶹ԭ Faculty Emeritus, who graduated from Northwest Nazarene College in 1951. During his 30-year career at N鶹ԭ, Dr. Wesche served as a professor, head of the education department, director of teacher education, director of graduate studies, interim academicdeanand chair of the division of professional studies. Award recipients are current or retired professionals who have made a positive and lasting impactineducation that extends beyond the classroom.

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]]> Is a Graduate Degree Worth It for Working Adults? 3 Key Questions to Ask Before You Apply /is-a-graduate-degree-worth-it-for-working-adults-3-key-questions-to-ask-before-you-apply/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=is-a-graduate-degree-worth-it-for-working-adults-3-key-questions-to-ask-before-you-apply Fri, 27 Mar 2026 16:44:56 +0000 /?p=36713 Ifyou’veever found yourself Googling“Is a graduate degree worth it?”at10:00p.m. after a long workday,you’renot alone. For working adults like you, the idea of going back to school can feel equal parts […]

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]]> Ifyou’veever found yourself Googling“Is a graduate degree worth it?”at10:00p.m. after a long workday,you’renot alone. For working adults like you, the idea of going back to school can feel equal parts exciting and overwhelming. Whetheryou’rechasing a promotion, pivotingcareersor just craving more purpose in your work, there are a few big questions thatalmost everyoneasks before taking the leap.

Let’s break down thetop threeand get real about what actually matters.

 

1. Will a graduate degree actually advance my career?

This is usually the first (and most important) question. Peoplearen’tjustsearching“graduate degree programs near me”for fun;they want results. The truth?In many fields, a master’s degree can absolutely open doors.It can lead to higher earning potential, leadershipopportunitiesand increased job security.

Buthere’sthe nuance: it depends on your industry. Fields like business, educationandbehavioral health often place a high value on advanced degrees. Ifyou’vebeen stuck in the same role or hitting a ceiling, a graduate program can be the catalyst for growth.

Searches like“is a master’s degree worth it for career advancement”or“best graduate degrees for working professionals”reflect what people really want to know: will this pay off? The answer is yeswhen you choose a program aligned with your goals.

 

2. Can I realistically balance work, life and school?

Let’s be honest,this is the dealbreaker for a lot of people.You’vegot a job,maybe afamily, bills, responsibilities… adding school into the mix sounds like chaos.

That’swhy flexible programs matter. Searches like“online graduate programs for working adults”and“part-time master’s degree options”are trending for a reason. People need options that fit into real life, not the other way around.

Many universities (including places like Northwest Nazarene University) design graduate programs specifically for working adults. That means evening classes, onlineformatsand supportive faculty who understandyou’rejuggling a lot.It’snot about doing more;it’sabout doing things differently.

The key questionisn’t“Will it be busy?”Because it will.It’s“Will it be worth it?” And for many, the answer is yes.

 

3. How will I pay for a graduate degree?

Money is a big one. Searches like“how to pay for grad school”or“financial aid for graduate students”are incredibly common;and for good reason.

The good news? Graduate school is often more affordable than you think. Financial aid is available, including grants, scholarships, employer tuitionassistanceandfederal student loans. Many working adults also continue earning while enrolled, which helps offset costs.

When researching programs,it’sworth asking:What financial aid options are available? Are there scholarships for my field?Schools like N鶹ԭ have a dedicated team to walk you through the process, which can makea huge difference.

At the end of the day, deciding whether to pursue a graduate degreeisn’tjust about costorconvenience,it’sabout where you want your life to go next. Ifyou’refeeling stuck, ready forgrowthor simply curious aboutwhat’spossible, it might be time to explore your options.

Because sometimes, the next step in your career starts with asking better questionsand being willing to chase the answers.

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]]> How to Choose Between Colleges: 3 Questions Every Senior Should Answer Before May /how-to-choose-between-colleges-3-questions-every-senior-should-answer-before-may/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-to-choose-between-colleges-3-questions-every-senior-should-answer-before-may Fri, 27 Mar 2026 16:36:05 +0000 /?p=36709 By the time spring of your senior year rolls around,you’veprobably beenaccepted to one (or several) colleges.That’ssomething worth celebrating. Yay you! But now comes the harder part: choosing where to go. […]

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]]> By the time spring of your senior year rolls around,you’veprobably beenaccepted to one (or several) colleges.That’ssomething worth celebrating. Yay you! But now comes the harder part: choosing where to go.

Ifyou’refeeling stuck,you’renot alone. Most seniors arewonderingthe same thing right now. Andyeah, it can feel like a lot.

Instead of overthinking every little detail, try asking yourself three simple questions. They can help cut through the noise and make your decision a whole lot clearer.

 

1. Where do I feel at home?

This is bigger than academics.It’sabout your everyday life.

Where do you picture yourself walking to class, grabbing coffee, hanging out with friends, going toeventsandgrowing in your faith?

When you visited campuses (or even just scrolled through photos), youprobably hada gut reaction.Don’tignore your gut.

AtNorthwest Nazarene University, students often saysomethingjustfelt differentwhen they stepped on campus.It’sa place where people know yourname,professors invest in yourlifeand your faithisn’tseparate from your education,it’spart of it.

That’swhat we mean when we saywe do collegedifferent.Soask yourself honestly:

Where do I feel like I could belong,not just attend?

 

2. What am I paying for and what will I get?

Let’stalk about the thingeveryone’sthinkingabout:cost.

It’s easy to get stuck on the big number, but that’s usually not what you’ll actually pay.Scholarships,grantsandfinancial aid can change things more than you might expect.

Buthere’sthe bigger question:

What am I getting for my investment?

AtN鶹ԭ, a lot of students are surprised by how affordable it can be. But even more than that, they see the value in things that are harder to measure;like smaller classes, professors whoactually knowyou, making lifelong friends and opportunities togrow inconfidence,leadershipand faith.

College is a big investment. It should feel worth it—not just financially, but personally.

 

3. Will this place help me become who I want to be?

It’seasy to focus on the next four years.But this decision is really about what comes after, too.

Think about it this way:

Will this school help me discover whatI’mgood at?

Will I have opportunities to getreal experience?

Will I graduate ready for what’s next?

AtNorthwest Nazarene University, the goalisn’tjust to help you get a degree.It’sto help you step into yourcalling. That might look like a career,gradschool,ministryor something youhaven’teven discovered yet.

Through internships,mentorshipand a strong community,N鶹ԭ is focused on helping you leave here ready,not just qualified.

So… how do you decide?

Ifyou’restuck between options, honestly answer those three core questions:

  • Where do I feel at home?
  • What am I paying for and what will I get?
  • Will this place help me become who I want to be?

When you answer those questions, one school will stand out. And if that school is Northwest Nazarene University,don’toverthink your next step.

Claim your spot. Submit your deposit. Make it official.

There’ssomethingreally excitingabout being able to say, “This is where I’m going.”

At N鶹ԭ,we’reready for you!

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]]> N鶹ԭ Student Publishes Op-Ed in the Idaho Statesman /nnu-student-publishes-op-ed-in-the-idaho-statesman/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=nnu-student-publishes-op-ed-in-the-idaho-statesman Tue, 17 Mar 2026 21:08:14 +0000 /?p=36610 Northwest Nazarene University is celebrating a meaningful accomplishment by one of its students. First-year English and Creative Writing studentSadie Myersrecently had an op-ed published in theIdaho Statesman, highlighting the kind […]

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]]> Northwest Nazarene University is celebrating a meaningful accomplishment by one of its students. First-year English and Creative Writing studentSadie Myersrecently had an op-ed published in theIdaho Statesman, highlighting the kind of thoughtful, real-world writing N鶹ԭ students are already producing early in their college careers.

Myers’ piece,“Californians come to Idaho for many reasons.Don’tjudge too quickly,”was published in theIdaho StatesmanonFebruary 20, 2026. The article grew out of a paper she wrote in her first-year English class and was developed with the support ofDr. Julie Straight.

In the op-ed, Myersreflects onher family’s experience leaving northern California after devastating wildfires and challenges readers to look beyond assumptions and take time to understand the personal stories that often shape major life decisions. Drawing from both personal experience and broader context, her writing offers a thoughtful perspective on a topic that continues to affect communities across the West.

For N鶹ԭ, Myers’ publication is more than an individual achievement. It is a strong example of what can happen when students are encouraged to engage deeply with their coursework, develop theirvoicesand contribute meaningfully to public conversation. It also reflects the value of faculty mentorship and the ways professors help students grow as writers,thinkersand communicators.

Having a first-year student published in a major regional news outlet is a significant accomplishment. It speaks not only to Myers’ talent and insight but also to theopportunitiesstudents at N鶹ԭhave toturn classroom work into writing that reaches a wider audience.

You can read Sadie Myers’ full op-ed in theIdaho Statesman.

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]]> N鶹ԭ Student Presents at Writing Matters Literary Conference /nnu-student-presents-at-writing-matters-literary-conference/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=nnu-student-presents-at-writing-matters-literary-conference Tue, 17 Mar 2026 21:02:16 +0000 /?p=36607 Northwest Nazarene University student Kiara Blanco recentlyrepresented N鶹ԭ at the WritingMatters conference hosted by the College of SouthernIdahoon February 19and20. The annual event brings together students,facultyand writers fromsouthwesternIdahoto explore the […]

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]]> Northwest Nazarene University student Kiara Blanco recentlyrepresented N鶹ԭ at the WritingMatters conference hosted by the College of SouthernIdahoon February 19and20. The annual event brings together students,facultyand writers fromsouthwesternIdahoto explore the power of storytelling, literaryanalysisand creative expression.

Blanco, a sophomore English Education major, presented a paper titled “Life in the Ring,” examining Jesmyn Ward’s novel Salvage the Bones. She originally wrote it for the American Novel course taught by Dr. Darrin Grinder, who also coached the paper’s development from class assignment to conference presentation.

Opportunities like Writing Matters allow students to share their ideas in a scholarly setting while engaging in meaningful dialogue with peers and faculty from other institutions. Each student presenterparticipatesin a session designed to encourage thoughtful discussion and close attention to each piece of work.

Dr. Julie Straight, professor of English at N鶹ԭ,accompaniedBlanco to the conference andparticipatedin the Favorite Poem Project reading, aportionof the event that invites participants to share and celebrate poems that have been meaningful in their lives.

N鶹ԭ’s participation in the conference was made possible through a generous donation from retired Nazarene pastor and hospice chaplain Robert Dawley (’74). The gift honors the memory of his wife, Doris Foronda Dawley (’71), an NNC English major originally from Bolivia.

Doris Dawley devoted her life to education. After teaching junior high in Nampa, she and her husband moved to New York, where she earned a master’s degree in bilingual education from New York University. She went on to teach elementary school in Freeport, New York until her retirement.

Through the Dawley family’s generosity, N鶹ԭ students continue to have opportunities to present their work, connect with fellow writers and celebrate the written word,an enduring legacy that reflects Doris Dawley’s lifelong love of education and language.

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]]> Northwest Nazarene University Launches New eCampus Programs for Today’s Adult Learners /northwest-nazarene-university-launches-new-ecampus-programs-for-todays-adult-learners/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=northwest-nazarene-university-launches-new-ecampus-programs-for-todays-adult-learners Thu, 12 Mar 2026 22:15:21 +0000 /?p=36556 Northwest Nazarene University (N鶹ԭ) announced the launch of its neweCampusdegree offerings, a fully online and accelerated set ofbachelor’sprograms designed specifically for adult learners and working professionals. Beginning August 2026, N鶹ԭ […]

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]]> Northwest Nazarene University (N鶹ԭ) announced the launch of its neweCampusdegree offerings, a fully online and accelerated set ofbachelor’sprograms designed specifically for adult learners and working professionals.

Beginning August 2026, N鶹ԭ will offer four new 92-credit online degrees: Organizational Leadership, Sport Management, SocialWorkand Business Administration. The Business Administration program is already live and enrolling new cohorts every eight weeks. These programs were created in response to growing demand for flexible education that allows adults to continue working while making meaningful progress toward a degree.

“At N鶹ԭ, we recognize that higher education is changing and adult learners are leading that change,” said N鶹ԭ President Mark DeMichael. “We are one ofveryfew universities that have intentionally pursued this approach for adult learners. I am proud of our faculty and all who helped build these programs.As we look toward the future, we must be responsive and bold in how we meet the needs of today’s students and support them as they advance in their careers and lives.”

N鶹ԭ’seCampusprograms were designed around the realities of adult life. Courses are fully online and asynchronous, allowing students to complete coursework on their own schedule. Classes run in accelerated eight-week sessions so students can move forward consistently without pausing their careers.

Studentswilltypically spend18to22hours per week on each course.Depending on transfer credits, many can complete their degree intwoyears or less.The programs are designed with flexibility in mind, with six start dates each year so students can begin when the time is right for them while balancing work,familyand school.

EacheCampusprogram was built withinput from industry leaders and employer partners. The curriculum emphasizescareer-alignedskillsthat students can applyimmediatelyin their current roles.

N鶹ԭ also partners with employers to offer tuitionassistancebenefits, helping reduce financial barriers and support career growth. These partnerships reflect a shared commitment to strengthening Idaho’s workforce and expandingopportunityfor adult learners.

“OureCampusprograms were intentionally designed for the reality of adult life,” said Dr. Christa Sandidge, Associate Vice President of N鶹ԭ’seCampus. “We know our students are balancing significant responsibilities. These programs provide the flexibility and academic quality they need to move forward with confidence.”

The launch ofeCampusreflects N鶹ԭ’s broader commitment to serving students at every stage of life. With a streamlined 92-credit structure and transfer-friendly policies, the University is helping adult learners complete their degrees more efficiently and at a lower overall cost than many traditional pathways.

As demand for flexible learning continues to grow, N鶹ԭ’seCampusexpands the University’s reach while staying grounded in its Christ-centered mission and commitment to personal formation.

For more information, visit nnu.edu/ecampus or contact ecampusinfo@nnu.edu.

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]]> Northwest Nazarene University Recognized Among Best Business Colleges in Idaho by Research.com /northwest-nazarene-university-recognized-among-best-business-colleges-in-idaho-by-research-com/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=northwest-nazarene-university-recognized-among-best-business-colleges-in-idaho-by-research-com Mon, 09 Mar 2026 18:29:34 +0000 /?p=36503 Northwest Nazarene University has been recognized among theBest Business Colleges in Idaho for 2026by Research.com and received theBest Online Business Programs in Idaho Award. The recognition highlights institutions thatdemonstratestrong academic […]

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]]> Northwest Nazarene University has been recognized among theBest Business Colleges in Idaho for 2026by Research.com and received theBest Online Business Programs in Idaho Award.

The recognition highlights institutions thatdemonstratestrong academic quality, studentinterestand overall value for students pursuing business degrees. N鶹ԭ’s College of Business offers programs designed to prepare graduates for meaningful work and leadership in today’s changing marketplace.

Research.com is an international platform that evaluates colleges and universities to help prospective students explore higher education options. The 2026 rankings were compiled using data from sources such as Peterson,IPEDSand College Scorecard, evaluating factors including educational quality,affordabilityand program popularity.

Northwest Nazarene University is a private Christian university inNampa, Idaho,known for combining strong academics with a supportive, faith-centered community. With small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, students receive a personalized education across a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. N鶹ԭ is especially known for its programs in nursing, engineering,businessand the sciences, along with opportunities for internships, research and hands-on learning that prepare students for meaningful careers and lives of service.

Learn more about the ranking and N鶹ԭ’s profile at:

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]]> HOW DO I KNOW WHICH COLLEGE IS THE RIGHT FIT FOR ME? /how-do-i-know-which-college-is-the-right-fit-for-me/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-do-i-know-which-college-is-the-right-fit-for-me Thu, 26 Feb 2026 19:31:52 +0000 /?p=36432 Decision Day is approaching, and asa high school senior,you’veprobably alreadyheard this phrase about a hundred times:“It’s all about finding the right fit.” But what does that actually mean? As an […]

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]]> Decision Day is approaching, and asa high school senior,you’veprobably alreadyheard this phrase about a hundred times:“It’s all about finding the right fit.”

But what does that actually mean?

As an admissions counselor,I’vehad this conversation more times than I can count. Students sit across from me (on campus or on Zoom), acceptance letters in hand, and say, “I just don’t know how to tell which one is right.”

First, take a deep breath. The fact thatyou’rethinking carefully about this tells meyou’realready approaching it the right way.

Let’sbreak it down.

 

Start with how you want to feel

When you picture yourself walking across campus on a random Tuesday in October, what do you see?

Do you want small classes where your professors know your name?
In between classes, do you want to run into people you recognize?
Is it important to have space so you can explore who you are becoming—academically, socially, spiritually?

Fitisn’tjust about rankingsor majors.It’sabout college being a place where you feel known,challengedand supported.

At Northwest Nazarene University, for example, students often tell me they chose us because when they visited, it just “felt different.”That’shard to measure on a spreadsheet. But it matters. We do college different—and for many students, that difference shows up in relationships,mentorshipand community.

 

Look beyond the website

Every college website looks polished. Every campus tour hits the highlights;Iknow,I give them. So how do you dig deeper?

Ask me the real questions:

  • What happens if I struggle in a class?
  • How accessible are professors outside of lectures?
  • What do students do on weekends?
  • Is it easy to change majors?
  • What’s chapel like, and how can I grow in my faith?
  • Do people seem genuinely happy here?

Talk to current students.I can evenconnectyou with afew. Ask them what surprised them most after enrolling. Their answers will tell you more than our website ever could.

 

Think about your growth, not just your major

It’simportant to love your academic program, of course. But you also need to look at what happens outside of class. Look at internships andextracurriculars. Look at location and entertainment, and recreation opportunities. How about opportunities to explore and expand your Christian faith? Read alumni stories and look at outcomes after graduation.

Here’sthe BIG question: Will this place help me grow as a whole person?

College is four years,but it shapes the next forty. The right fit should stretch you academically while also giving you room to discover your strengths, yourvoiceand your purpose.

AtN鶹ԭ, undergraduate programs are designed to be rigorous, but also personal. Professorsaren’tjust experts in their fields;they’rementors who invest in students. Our kind of environment can makea big difference, especially ifyou’restill figuring out exactly where you want to land.

 

Pay attention to your gut

Sometimes students try to logic their way into a decision thatdoesn’tsit right in their gut.

If you felt energized during a campus visit, that matters.
Can you picture yourself in the residencehalls? That matters.
When you finish your campustourthinking, “I belong here,”that really matters!

This decision is personal.

 

Remember: Thereisn’tonly one “right” choice

Here’ssomething I wish every senior understood: you are not choosing the only path your life can take. You are choosing a place for your next chapter.

The right college is the one whereyou’llengage, ask questions, buildrelationshipsand say yes to opportunities. A school can offer all the resources in the world, butit’syour involvement that makes it transformative.

Soas you weigh your options, look for the place where you feel seen. Whereyou’llbe challenged. Where you can imagine becoming a fuller version of yourself.

That’sthe “fit” that really means. And when you find it,you’llfeel it!

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