Before the long nights of studying, the early mornings, and the chaos of clinicals, Kaleigh and Amanda were rivals, though they didn’t know each other yet. Both were high school band kids, marching with pride for different schools, unknowingly competing against each other on the field.

“We were kind of unspoken rivals,” Kaleigh laughs. “We went to different high schools, both in marching band. But back then, I had no idea she’d become one of the most important people in my life.”

Nursing school has a way of revealing people’s true colors. The pressure, the pace, and the emotional weight either push you apart or bring you together. For Kaleigh and Amanda, it did the latter. Their friendship was built during long days, stressful tests, and sleepless nights. But it wasn’t all grit and grind.

“You know what was amazing?” Kaleigh reflects. “School was tough. I cried. I pulled out my hair. I missed meals, missed vacations, didn’t sleep. But I got to do it with my friends. That’s the best part of it.”

Amanda wasn’t just a friend. She became Kaleigh’s anchor.

“She was right beside me through all of it,” Kaleigh says. “Amanda was in front of me alphabetically, so during graduation, we were right next to each other. There’s just poetry in that. No matter where I looked at school, she was always there.”

The two weren’t just classmates. They became a team, supporting each other through every test, every clinical, and every moment of doubt.



“I didn’t have to water myself down with Amanda,” Kaleigh says with emotion. “We got to water each other. I didn’t have to change who I was. I was accepted, just as I am, for what I wanted to do with my life. I’m just glad I got to be part of her story and her journey.”

Amanda remembers their first encounter clearly. “Kaleigh came in and sat beside me, and she could tell I was nervous,” she says. “She started making jokes about how we’re the same height. She had already done a semester of the program, and it was just a lot of laughter right away. For our first interaction, it just took off.”

That shared sense of humor and mutual understanding became the glue in their friendship. They weren’t just two girls in scrubs. They were a lifeline for one another.

“It helps so much having someone who completely understands what you’re going through because they’re going through it too,” Amanda shares. “To have someone to help study with, to vent with. There were days when we had a test, and during the drive to school, we’d be on the phone yelling random facts from the PowerPoint just trying to remember everything. It was ridiculous, but it helped.”

Their bond went far beyond books and exams. It was about shared dreams and mutual respect. It was about being seen, heard, and loved in a space that can often feel overwhelming and isolating.

“Not everyone gets it,” Kaleigh says. “Not all your high school friends or other friends understand what nursing school is like. But Amanda did. She gets me. I get her. And that made all the difference.”

Now, as they step into the next chapter of their nursing careers, Kaleigh and Amanda do so knowing that whatever comes next, they’ve already weathered the storm together.

“They’re my friends forever,” Kaleigh says, smiling. “And they don’t have a choice.”

Hats off to the amazing twelve little graduates of Compass Point Preschool’s 4K program! On May 30, these bright stars celebrated their big day at Northeastern Technical College (NETC), marking a huge milestone on their journey to kindergarten and beyond.

Family, friends, and teachers cheered on Weston Adams, Ka’Amaya Bowen, Chloe Bragg, Maloni Brown, Brayden Gordon, Salem Holland, Dakota Hooks, Levi Moore, Jayden Reaves, Lela Reese, Javierus Thomas, and Aubree Watts as they walked across the stage with pride and joy.

Compass Point Preschool isn’t just any preschool, it’s a powerhouse partnership between NETC and Chesterfield County First Steps, offering a top-notch early education experience in a unique lab school environment. That means NETC’s college students get hands-on training while helping these little learners grow and shine.

And here’s the icing on the cake: every single graduate scored a tuition waiver for future classes at NETC! That’s right, the adventure continues with free college courses waiting just around the corner.

“We’re so proud of our kiddos,” said Amanda Ratliff, lead teacher at Compass Point. “They’ve worked hard and are ready to take on the world!”

Want to join the fun? Kids need to be 3 or 4 by September 1, meet income guidelines, and live in eligible school districts. For details and applications, visit www.netc.edu or call Chesterfield County First Steps at 843-921-1484

The Northeastern Technical College (NETC) Nursing Department is proud to announce a generous donation made in memory of Mrs. Betty Matheson that has directly supported the success of its 2025 Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) graduates.

Thanks to the funds donated to the Betty Matheson Memorial, the department was able to provide all 27 graduating ADN students with comprehensive NCLEX preparation books. These vital resources will help ensure students are well-equipped as they prepare for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), the final step toward becoming licensed registered nurses.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support of the Betty Matheson Memorial,” said Hope Pigg Department Chair-Nursing. “This donation not only honors Mrs. Matheson’s legacy but also empowers our graduates to confidently take the next step in their nursing careers.”



The NETC Nursing Department remains committed to student success and excellence in nursing education, and this contribution exemplifies the impact community support can have on future healthcare professionals.

Northeastern Technical College was proudly represented at the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) Conference for College and University Foundations, held May 7–9 in New York City.

Attending on behalf of NETC, Chad Vick, Director of Foundation, Grants and Alumni Relations, joined foundation and advancement leaders from across the country to explore innovative strategies in fundraising, donor engagement, and board development.

The conference offered valuable insight into national trends and best practices that support the long-term growth and sustainability of college foundations.

“This was a great opportunity to connect with peers, share ideas, and bring back strategies that can strengthen the impact of the NETC Foundation across our service region,” said Chad Vick.

The CASE Foundation Conference is a premier national event dedicated to advancing the missions of two year and four-year college foundations, with a strong focus on equity, innovation, and student success.