From Classroom Concepts to Real-World Entrepreneurship
From Classroom Concepts to Real-World Entrepreneurship
For Kadin Walter, choosing Iowa Lakes Community College wasn’t just about earning credits—it was about building a future.
A Business Transfer major studying economics, Kadin says his experience at Iowa Lakes has far exceeded his expectations of what a local community college could offer.
“My experience at Iowa Lakes has been absolutely phenomenal. It’s exceeded my expectations—not just in the classroom, but in the relationships I’ve built with my professors. They’ve been mentors, people I look up to, and guides as I’ve started my own business.”
Learning That Goes Beyond the Classroom
Kadin credits Iowa Lakes instructors for creating an environment where learning is personal, practical, and deeply connected to real-world application.
Rather than limiting education to lectures and textbooks, his professors encouraged him to think bigger—about business structure, decision-making, and what it truly takes to succeed as an entrepreneur.
That hands-on guidance proved invaluable as Kadin grew his business alongside his coursework.
Leadership, Scholarships, and New Doors Through Phi Theta Kappa
Kadin has also been actively involved in Phi Theta Kappa, an experience he says opened doors he never expected.
“PTK connected me with academic peers outside my program and gave me access to scholarships and opportunities at four-year colleges. It helped me move into some really cool experiences I wouldn’t have had otherwise.”
Through PTK, Kadin expanded his academic network, strengthened his leadership skills, and positioned himself competitively for the next step in his education.
Turning a High School Project into a Growing Business
Kadin is the founder of Work ‘N’ Walter Farms, a business that began as a high school FFA project and truly took off during his time at Iowa Lakes.
While enrolled, he launched his first snack line and introduced a jerky product line last fall, applying business concepts learned in class—along with lessons about what to do and what not to do.
“I was able to work directly with a couple of professors at Iowa Lakes while building the business. That support made a huge difference.”
His long-term goal? To continue growing Work ‘N’ Walter Farms throughout college and ultimately turn it into his full-time career.
Experiential Learning Beyond Campus
In addition to coursework and student leadership, Kadin participated in the OEI program in Okoboji during the summer of 2025, gaining further exposure to entrepreneurial thinking, networking, and real-world business challenges—another example of how Iowa Lakes supports learning beyond the classroom.
What’s Next for Kadin
Kadin recently graduated a semester early and plans to attend University of Northern Iowa, where he will pursue an MBA along with additional bachelor’s degrees in economics-related fields.
Why Iowa Lakes?
When asked what he would tell students considering Iowa Lakes, Kadin’s answer is clear:
“Don’t underestimate the opportunity a community college provides. You can become whatever person you want to be at Iowa Lakes—and they’ll support you every step of the way.”
Faculty Perspective
Professor Denise Reimer sees Kadin as a student who fully embraces opportunity:
“Kadin is a student that shows genuine energy and passion for business, engaging actively in learning experiences and applying concepts with confidence and motivation. Kadin has taken the opportunities that Iowa Lakes Community College provides and has utilized them in his entrepreneurial endeavors.”