Blake Nun, a student at Northeast Community College, is pursuing a degree in secondary education with the goal of becoming a skilled and technical sciences teacher. Originally from Geneva, Nebraska, Nun’s educational journey reflects perseverance, determination, and the impact of meaningful support systems.
Nun initially planned to attend a four-year college after graduating from high school. However, upon the recommendation of his high school shop teacher, he visited Northeast Community College before making a final decision. After touring college campuses, Nun determined that Northeast was the right fit.
“When I stepped onto Northeast’s campus, something just felt different. The atmosphere, the people, and the way I was treated made me feel like I belonged,” Nun said.
Nun’s passion for teaching developed from his own experiences as a student. Throughout his academic career, he encountered challenges in traditional classroom settings and frequently sought additional help. During high school, he spent time in the resource room completing assignments and began assisting other students once his own work was finished.
“I started to realize I enjoyed helping others. It made me feel like I was making a difference,” Nun explained.
Nun also discovered a passion for hands-on learning through shop classes, which aligned with his upbringing on a family farm. His experiences working with construction, woodworking, and various projects helped him recognize that he learns best through practical application rather than lecture-based instruction.
Despite finding his strengths, Nun faced significant academic struggles beginning in elementary school. Early attempts by his family to secure support services were unsuccessful, and he was told he simply needed to apply himself more. This belief led to continued frustration and self-doubt.
“There were nights when I sat at the kitchen table for hours, frustrated and overwhelmed, wondering if I would ever graduate high school,” Nun said.
In sixth grade, a teacher recognized Nun’s challenges and provided individualized support while advocating for further evaluation. As a result, he was able to access the resources he needed to succeed academically. While receiving support services presented social challenges, Nun now recognizes their importance.
“Getting help didn’t make me weaker. It made me stronger. It gave me tools I still use today,” Nun reflected.
These experiences have shaped Nun’s professional goals. He aspires to create an inclusive and supportive classroom environment where all students feel valued and encouraged to seek help when needed.
“I want to be the teacher who notices when something isn’t right and steps in to support students,” Nun said. “I want my classroom to be a place where students feel safe and respected.”
During his time at Northeast, Nun has developed both academically and personally. He has utilized campus resources such as TRIO, Disability Services, and tutoring while learning to advocate for himself. Additionally, he has taken on leadership and service roles, including serving as president of the Student Education Association and volunteering as a wrestling and track coach.
Nun’s achievements have been supported by scholarships, including the Floyd Cyrus Murphy Memorial Scholarship and the Paul R. Rohrke Memorial Scholarship. These financial resources have allowed him to focus on his education and participate in extracurricular and volunteer opportunities.
“Scholarships have allowed me to focus on my future instead of financial stress,” Nun said. “They’ve also given me the opportunity to give back through coaching and leadership.”
Following graduation from Northeast Community College, Nun plans to transfer to Wayne State College to complete his degree in Skilled and Technical Sciences Education, with endorsements in work-based learning and coaching. He hopes to return to his home region to teach grades 7–12 and coach football and wrestling.
Nun credits his success to the support of his family, educators, and scholarship donors, emphasizing the importance of encouragement and advocacy.
“One small gesture can make a big impact,” Nun said. “I want to give that same support to future students.”
Nun’s journey demonstrates the transformative power of education, support systems, and persistence.
To learn more about giving opportunities, please contact the Northeast Community College Foundation by visiting northeast.edu/giving/foundation-scholarships.
