NORFOLK, Neb. -- Northeast Community College student Emma Wubben of Fordyce is the October TRIO-CSP student of the month.
The daughter of Don and Dion Wubben of Fordyce is working on her associate of applied science degree in Early Childhood Education. Wubben plans to graduate from Northeast with her degree in May of 2026. After graduation, she plans to move back home and start her own in-home childcare.
Wubben has always been passionate about working with children, with a dream of working in early childcare.
“I love being able to watch children grow and develop new skills. It is exciting to watch them learn new things and to be able to interact and help them through challenging times. It is so rewarding to help them learn those new skills and to help teach them how to overcome obstacles when trying out new things,” Wubben said.
Her own childcare provider provided an inspiration to her. Wubben said she enjoyed being able to go to the farm, grow up in that setting and now wants to give the children she will care for in the future that same experience.
Wubben is a first-generation college student. Being the oldest, she understands the impact she will have not only on those around her, but the future children she will care for.
As part of the TRIO-College Success Program, Wubben has fully grasped the many opportunities placed in front of her. She was a part of the early summer move in program, Fall Fast Track, was selected to go to a national leadership and diversity conference and is a member of TRIO Club.
Outside of TRIO, Wubben is a member of Pulse, Hawks Catholics and the Early Childhood Club. She works part-time for a local childcare center, working with school-age children and toddlers. Being able to work in a job that aligns with her future career, Wubben can get to know more kids with varying personalities. When Wubben is not busy working or focusing on her studies, she enjoys babysitting for family friends.
Wubben is a big family person and loves every opportunity where her family is all able to get together, including Christmas and picnics in the summer.
When asked who has had the greatest impact on her, Wubben gave credit to her Grandma Coletta.
“She is an overall amazing person and a great cook. She is also so supportive and remembers all the upcoming dates and activities that we have going on and always remembers to ask about them when we see her next.”
Wubben said that her grandma is the person she wants to tell her stories to or talk to when she is struggling. Wubben enjoys spending time with her grandma and getting to play a few rounds of rummy with her.
She also wanted to show her gratitude to her Aunt Donna, who is very supportive. Both her aunt and grandma have already started to put together things that she will be able to use once she opens her own daycare.
Wubben has made her mark here at Northeast with her bright and welcoming personality, both in her content area, and in the clubs she participates.
When asked to comment on Emma’s work ethic and impact, Lisa Guenther, Early Childhood Education instructor had this to say.
“Emma volunteers for Early Childhood Education children's activities like Prime-Time Family Reading Time. She submits assignments on time and asks for clarification when she needs it. Emma is part of our Nebraska childcare solution for quality childcare.”
TRIO-CSP adviser Denise Richling said Wubben is a very active participant in my First Year Experience course.
“She always is willing to participate in classroom discussion and not afraid to break the silence,” Richling said. “She is always one to take charge during group activities and gives each class day and assignment an outstanding effort!”
ID: Emma Wubben
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