Meet Kailey Kemp, an enrollment coordinator at North Idaho College who is passionate about helping students discover their strengths, explore meaningful career paths and take confident next steps toward their future.

With a background in education and nearly a decade as an elementary school teacher, Kailey brings a deep understanding of people, purpose and encouragement into every conversation she has with students. Her approach is grounded in hope, authenticity and meeting students exactly where they are. Whether she’s presenting in classrooms or guiding one-on-one conversations, Kailey’s mission is simple: To empower students to realize what’s possible and to help them build a life that aligns with who they are and who they want to become.

1) What do you love about encouraging students to dream about possible career paths and creating the lives they want?

I love the one-on-one conversations most. Hearing what excites a student — or getting the chance to speak hope into someone who’s unsure of themselves — means everything to me. When I hear them say they feel encouraged or I see that little smirk of, “Ohhhh K… maybe I can do this. Maybe continued education is for me,” I know we’re moving in the right direction. Those moments make my job meaningful.

2) What are some of the top questions you receive from high schoolers and others looking to enroll?

One of the biggest questions I get is, “Can I do ______ here?” And honestly, the short answer is yes. NIC is such a great place to start. For students who want to move on and earn their bachelor’s or even beyond, they can absolutely do that while keeping things affordable. I also love getting to tell them that they can earn a four-year degree right here on the Coeur d’Alene campus through our partnerships with Lewis-Clark State College and the University of Idaho. Students have more options than they realize.

3) Where did you go to college, and how did this experience shape who you are?

I went to the University of Montana in Missoula. I was actually placed on academic probation my first year, which ended up being a turning point for me. I took this incredible class where I learned about my strengths, and from that moment on I knew I was meant to work with people and make a positive impact. I became a teacher and eventually graduated with a 4.0. I taught elementary school for eight years, and even though my career path has changed since then, that experience taught me that you can create and recreate your story as many times as you need. What matters is staying connected to your “true north” — the place where you feel aligned, fulfilled and energized. When you follow that, you will succeed.

4) What is something people would be surprised to know about you?

People are usually surprised that even though I’m extremely outgoing, I get VERY nervous when all eyes are on me and I’m presenting. It has definitely improved over time in my role at NIC, especially because I get to talk about things that bring hope and optimism, but the nerves are still there!

5) What is the hardest part about applying to college, what is the easiest and why is it worth it?

The hardest part is overthinking it. It’s totally OK not to have it all figured out yet or to not know what you want to study. That’s what general studies is for! The easiest part is that my team and I will come to your school and sit down with you to walk you through every step. Continued learning helps you grow, opens doors and sets you up for positive outcomes throughout your life, so why not go for it?