Warning! Your browser is extremely outdated and not web standards compliant.
Your browsing experience would greatly improve by upgrading to a modern browser.

Apply Contact Us

Rural Student Resources

Allen College is dedicated to preparing rural students to have a successful and smooth transition into the college and their academic programs. We are committed to doing this by offering student support services and financial assistance specifically for rural students who qualify.

Rural Student Grant Details

Monica Berning
Community Outreach Coordinator

I support both prospective and current rural students by connecting them with resources as they prepare for college. Please reach out to me with any questions or if I can be of assistance in any way.

Contact Monica

Meet your Rural Peer Mentors

Ellie Hull

My hometown is LeGrand, Iowa, which is down by Marshalltown. I completed my general education coursework through Marshalltown Community College. I decided to come to Allen because I came from a small school and Allen also has smaller class sizes. I think I benefit from making personal connections with my instructors and classmates. I enjoy being active and watching sports with my family and friends outside of school. My best memory from Allen College is trying to figure out where to go at the hospital with my classmates and we all got lost. Some advice that I would give to future students is to trust the learning process and be diligent with your learning.

Elly Schares

I am from Fairbank, Iowa and completed my general education courses at Hawkeye Community College and the University of Iowa. I chose Allen because of how close it is to home and the size of our classes so I can get to know my instructors and peers personally. My best memory from Allen so far is getting to know everyone in my cohort and making new friends.

My Advice: Don’t be a stranger! Get to know your peers in your cohort, your instructors, and other staff members in the building. These connections will help you in the long run!!

I enjoy being with my family and friends, reading, and shopping when I am not in class or clinic.

Erica Noe

I grew up in Vinton, Iowa and did my general education courses at The University of Northern Iowa. I chose Allen because of how close it is to home and because of the size of the campus and classes. My best memory of Allen College is when I met my best friend during new student orientation - we have been studying and hanging out together ever since!

My advice: Get out there! Talk to the group of people you recognize from classes. Ask your professors questions, even if you think it is silly or dumb (I promise, it's not!) You are surrounded by people who want to help you succeed in any way they can.

When I am not in class or clinical, I like to bake and spend time with family and friends.

Malea Neuroth

I am originally from Dike, Iowa, but now live in Parkersburg. After completing my general education courses at Hawkeye Community College and Kirkwood Community College, I chose Allen College because it is close to home, offers a lot of hands-on experience, and small class sizes so I can get to know my professors personally. I have become friends with all of my classmates, and my favorite memory is my first day on the floor as a student nurse.

My Advice: Remember why you decided to become a nurse and that all of your hard work will pay off in the end.

When I am not in class or clinical, I enjoy coaching off-season club volleyball in my hometown, reading, and spending time with my family and friends.

Ellissa Sweeney

My hometown is Independence, Iowa. I completed my prerequisites through Hawkeye during High School and finished them up at UNI. I chose to go to Allen college due to their wonderful reputation and high pass rates. Outside of the classroom I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, reading, and traveling. My favorite memory so far from Allen College is having almost my whole cohort over for a Christmas Party.

My Advice: One piece of advice I would give to future students is to stay organized. Keep a planner and print out your class schedules and check them off as you go.

Why should I connect with a Rural Peer Mentor?

Rural Peer Mentors provide support and guidance to new students as they navigate the transition to college and beyond. They are available to both prospective and current students from rural communities as a free resource.

The Louviere Study Room

Located adjacent to the McKinstry Student Center in Barrett Forum, the Louviere Study Room provides a quiet place to study and is equipped with resources to help you succeed. You are welcome to use this space at any time.

Quick Links

Apply News Donate Request a Transcript

Learn More About Allen College

Our Programs

Future Students

Current Students

Alumni

Rural Student Resources