College education refers to tertiary education provided by colleges, universities, or other higher education institutions. It typically follows completion of secondary education (high school) and offers a wide range of academic programs and degrees. Here are some key aspects and benefits of college education: Knowledge and Skill Development: College education provides students with in-depth knowledge and skills in their chosen field of study. It offers specialized coursework, hands-on training, and opportunities for research, enabling students to gain expertise and proficiency in their respective areas. Career Preparation: College education equips students with the skills and qualifications necessary for their chosen career paths. Many professions and industries require a college degree as a minimum qualification for employment. College programs often incorporate internships, co-op placements, or practical experiences, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings and build valuable professional networks. Personal Growth and Development: College education fosters personal growth and development in various aspects. Students have the opportunity to explore new ideas, perspectives, and disciplines, expanding their horizons and broadening their understanding of the world. College also promotes critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills, which are essential for personal and professional success. Networking and Connections: College provides an environment for networking and building connections with fellow students, faculty members, alumni, and professionals in the field. These connections can be valuable for future job opportunities, mentorship, collaboration, and support throughout one's career. Cultural and Social Experiences: College campuses are diverse and inclusive communities that expose students to a wide range of cultures, beliefs, and experiences. College education encourages interaction, dialogue, and understanding among students from different backgrounds, fostering cultural awareness, empathy, and social skills. Higher Earning Potential: On average, individuals with a college degree tend to earn higher salaries compared to those with only a high school diploma. College graduates often have access to better job opportunities and career advancement, leading to increased earning potential over their lifetime. Personal Fulfillment and Achievement: Obtaining a college degree is often seen as a significant personal achievement. It instills a sense of pride, accomplishment, and self-confidence, providing individuals with a foundation for lifelong learning and personal fulfillment. It's important to note that college education requires a significant investment of time, effort, and financial resources. Students should consider factors such as tuition costs, scholarships, financial aid options, and career prospects when making decisions about pursuing higher education.

1. ACP Goes to College
Andrew Mertig
Recruitment Manager
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College

2. Learning Outcomes
1. Learn about NWTC’s career coaching model.
2. Best practices between K12 and Higher Education
partnerships.
3. Explore resources in the ACE Workbook
4. Connect with one colleague.

3. Background
• Worked in Higher Education for over 10 years
• Private 4 year, Public 4 year, Technical College
• UW Oshkosh
• Academic Advisor
• Taught Academic and Career Exploration Course
• Chaired Academic and Career Exploration Course and re-developed
curriculum.
• Career coach for three years
• Recruitment Manager
• Co-author ACE Workbook

4. Embedded Career Coaching Model
• Philosophy
• Transition from mass communication to one-on-one
• Inquiry through enrollment (FAFSA, scholarships, college questions)
• Physical location at high school
• Academic and Career Exploration
• Goal changes: from getting applications to finding the right fit

5. Mutual Benefits
• Higher education institutions
• Exposure to prospective students
• Encouraging a “college going culture”
• High Schools
• Support in ACP requirements
• Providing transition support to students

6. Embedded Career Coaching Model
• Why Technical Colleges work for ACP:
• Every career cluster
• Local job market
• Connections to employers
• Advisory committees

7. Best Practices for Partnerships
• Access to students
• Information sharing agreements
• Partnerships with other higher education institutions
• GBAPS
• Marinette
• Physical space
• Clear expectations from K12 and college/university

8. Best Practices for Partnerships
• Potential Obstacles
• College Neutrality
• Fairness between higher education institutions
• Funding
• Availability

9. How Can K12 Start a Partnership?
• Work with K12 Administration
• I’m happy to be a referral
• Work with Higher Ed Partners
• Typically Admissions
• Start small
• Scale up

10. • New model limits interactions with non-Seniors
• Seeking solution how to assist:
• Middle Schools
• Freshmen/Sophomores
• Undecided
• Activities that were easy to duplicate for classrooms
• OER Resource for Career Exploration
ACE Workbook

11. ACE Workbook

12. • Skills, Values, Interests
• Job Market
• College Research
• Cost Analysis
• Career Interview
• Goal Setting
• Action Plan
ACE Workbook

13. Thank You!
• Questions?
• Connect:
• Andrew.Mertig@nwtc.edu