Jessyca Gleason (Kantor) – Associates Degree Nursing, RN, ADN - Central Lakes College

Spectrum Class of 2015

Where did you go and what did you do after graduating from Spectrum?

I completed my AA degree at Lake Superior College in Duluth then transferred to Central Lakes College where I graduated with my Associates Degree in Nursing.

Describe any recent accomplishments.

After graduating with my ADN, I passed my NCLEX- RN and accepted a position as a Registered Nurse at M Health Fairview. I recently have been accepted into a RN to BSN program that I will complete while working as a nurse!

What is your favorite memory of your time at Spectrum?

My favorite memory at Spectrum would be the service learning classes us students were involved in. For me, volunteering at the local nursing home in Elk River was where I really discovered my passion for serving others and also opened the window to my career.

Were there any teachers or staff who influenced your life?

I think all the staff influenced me in different ways throughout my years at Spectrum. They pushed me in the right direction and many supported me in my personal life.

Describe Spectrum in three words.

Quality, community, supportive.

What impact did Spectrum have on your life?

Spectrum has transformed every part of my life. I built the foundation to my career, life, and values at Spectrum and I was introduced to people who will be apart of my life forever, including my husband.

What advice would you give today’s students?

Take advantage of the opportunities and education Spectrum provides! Avid, cash/college classes, volunteering, tutoring, etc. They are there to help you succeed!! Also, don't overlook community or tech colleges straight out of high school!

Camden Goepferd – Associates Degree in Paramedicine - Century College

Spectrum Class of 2016

Where did you go and what did you do after graduating from Spectrum?
After graduation from Spectrum I attended Century College to obtain my Associates Degree in Paramedicine. I worked on a 911 ambulance in St. Cloud for about a year before being offered a job as a paramedic in the Stillwater area where I have been for the last 4 years. Lakeview EMS has offered me many opportunities for growth including completion of my Critical Care certification and a position working with the county Mobile Field Force team while waiting for a Paramedic Operator position to open up on the SWAT team. I also was hired on with the local fire department and completed my state fire fighter training to respond to both fire and rescue incidents.

Describe any recent accomplishments.
My biggest accomplishments have been buying a house and being promoted to a supervisor support role within Lakeview EMS company. This will allow me multiple opportunities for further growth. I also recently have completed multiple classes and received instructor certifications for ACLS/and Palls along with Narcan Instruction for first responders. These certifications allow me to help others and work with other fire and law enforcement responders in the community to better the care of patients in our area.

What is your favorite memory of your time at Spectrum?

My favorite memories are the multiple friends that I made while attending spectrum. Many that I still connect with and see regularly. I also enjoyed attending the choir tours each year and helping with the yearly theater productions.

What was your funniest moment as a student?   

Any of the number of pranks I played on Mrs. Kirkpatrick during choir rehearsals.

Were there any teachers or staff who influenced your life?

The two most influential teachers for me were Mrs. Mollet and Mrs. Kinney. They both taught me many classes and relevant topics which I still use today.

What impact did Spectrum have on your life?

Attending Spectrum allowed me to complete all of my college generals prior to graduation which allowed me to save about a year and a half of school and tuition payments when I completed my degree.

Parker Brown – Media Major -  University of Sioux Falls

Spectrum Class of 2019

Where did you go and what did you do after graduating from Spectrum?

I went to the University of Sioux Falls to study media in concentrations of multi-media broadcasting and social media marketing.

Describe any recent accomplishments.

I got involved at USF very quickly. During my time at USF, I held the positions of Student Senator, Peer Mentor, Concert Chorale Chaplain, and Resident Assistant. I am currently the manager for our student radio station, KCFS. Last summer I interned for a professional baseball team in Sioux Falls, the Sioux Falls Canaries. I moved into an Assistant Broadcasting and Media Relations position towards the second half of the season where I interviewed players, co-commentated on the radio, updated rosters, and much more.

What is your favorite memory of your time at Spectrum?

While it's extremely difficult to pinpoint a single favorite memory of my time at Spectrum, I would have to say that my favorite memory at Spectrum was my final choir tour and choir concert. There were so many bittersweet moments and I still hold those songs we sang close to my heart.

What was your funniest moment as a student?   

My funniest moment as a student at Spectrum was most likely when my class arranged the creation of a Thanos cake as a prize at our Senior homecoming pep fest.

Were there any teachers or staff who influenced your life?

The faculty at Spectrum are fantastic and numerous staff members have had a positive impact on my life. The most influential people to me were Mrs. Chrest, Mrs. Kirkpatrick, and Mr. Mills. All three of them helped me find the things I was passionate about, gave me the tools to go after my goals, and taught me countless life lessons.

Describe Spectrum in three words.

Enriching, challenging, and engaging.

What impact did Spectrum have on your life?

Spectrum provided me with an experience that I couldn't get anywhere else. It provided me with many opportunities to serve my community, get involved in many school groups, and find personal growth.

What advice would you give today’s students? 

Continue to challenge yourself and enjoy your time as it goes by way too fast.