Many adult learners ask the same questions: Am I ready for college? Can I balance school with work and family? Is it worth it?
NHCC alumni, Kari Struble asked herself those same questions when she decided to return to school. After spending 12 years raising her four children, Kari came to NHCC to take the first step toward earning a college degree. What followed was an educational journey that led to an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree, a rewarding career in medical regulatory affairs, and now she’s back where it all started, this time pursuing a master’s degree through NHCC’s partnership with St. Cloud State University.
We asked Kari to share what she learned along the way and what advice she has for other adults who may be wondering if college is the right next step for them.
3 Things to Know from Kari’s Story
- It’s never too late to start.
Kari returned to college after spending 12 years focused on raising her family. - You don’t have to do it alone.
Support from family, faculty, staff, and fellow students helped her stay on track. - Focus on the next step, not the entire journey.
One class led to an associate degree, then a bachelor’s degree, a rewarding career, and now a master’s degree.
What made you decide that it was time to go back to college?
After staying home full time for 12 years to raise our children, an experience I am very grateful to have had, I wanted to obtain an education that would allow me to enter in to a career where I could be a contributor; first, to contribute to our household with an additional income, much needed with four children and thus, four additional college educations to save for, and to contribute to my broader community.
And what made you choose NHCC?
Initially, I chose NHCC for practical reasons. It was close to home, affordable, and accessible for my situation at the time. What I didn't expect was how connected I would become to the campus community. After earning my associate degree, I was able to continue my education through NHCC's partnership program with Bemidji State University and complete my bachelor's degree right on the same campus.I became invested in the campus community during my time at North Hennepin, through my involvement in student organizations and academic opportunities. Staying at NHCC was the right choice for me both academically and personally.
How did you balance college with family responsibilities and a busy life?
My support network was key in my success during my time at North Hennepin. My family allowed me to prioritize my education, knowing in the long term it would benefit all of us; my friends were a constant source of encouragement, and the many connections I made on campus - classmates, faculty, and staff - provided support and encouragement.
“My biggest challenge was the doubt in my own ability to exceed, which I still struggle with at times. Thankfully, I was able to build from the small, initial successes such as completing a single class until eventually there was objective data to support the conclusion that I am quite capable after all.”
What helped you succeed as a student at NHCC?
- Going to professors’ open office hours, especially for chemistry and physics
- Making appointments at the Tutoring Center for math help
- NHCC Foundation Scholarships
- Student Life organizations: Environmental Club, Phi Theta Kappa
What would you say to someone who wants to go back to school but isn't sure they're ready?
“Know this – you are absolutely and 100% not alone if you feel nervous or unsure of where to start or how to start. Most students feel the same way; I was one of them.”
Stay focused on the next step ahead, wherever you are on your education journey; whether that is reaching out to learn more about the college and its programs, scheduling the placement testing, or starting your first class.
“You will get the opportunity to work through the next step when it’s time. For now, work on the task directly in front of you.”
How does it feel to be coming back to NHCC, now getting your master’s degree on our campus?
It makes me feel happy and incredibly grateful; to have the opportunity to obtain a master’s degree in my specific field (medical device regulatory affairs) in the first place, and now, to get to learn, once again, on the NHCC campus that had already done so much to help me grow, as a person and as a student, over the years.
Can you remind us where you work currently?
I work at DiaSorin Inc., a global in vitro diagnostic medical device manufacturer, in Stillwater, Minnesota. My current position is with the U.S. and Canadian Regulatory Affairs team. Simply put, I am a liaison between the FDA, Health Canada, and our DiaSorin technical experts.
Are YOU thinking about going back to school?
Whether you're exploring college for the first time or returning after years away, NHCC offers flexible programs, support services for adult learners, and transfer pathways designed to help you reach your goals.
For adults who wonder if it's too late to start, or return to college, Kari's story shows what's possible when you take the first step. One class can turn into a degree, a career, and opportunities you never imagined.