I Didn’t Choose Iowa Lakes…. Iowa Lakes Chose Me!

When people ask why she chose Iowa Lakes, Delanie Bruellman simply smiles and says, “I didn’t choose Iowa Lakes… Iowa Lakes chose me.”

Originally, Delanie had her mind set on attending a four-year university. However, during orientation, she quickly realized it wasn’t the right fit for her.

On the way home, her family decided to stop at the Emmetsburg Campus of Iowa Lakes Community College to check out the Veterinary Technician program. With both of her parents being Iowa Lakes alumni, they were familiar with the college and encouraged her to visit.

That quick stop changed everything.

Now in her sophomore spring semester, Delanie can’t imagine being anywhere else.

What stood out to her right away was the people.

The admissions team was incredibly welcoming and genuine, creating an immediate sense of comfort. Even today, she still finds herself stopping by just to say hello when she’s in the main building. It felt like home, while still offering the independence and freedom of college life.

Some of her favorite memories have come outside of the classroom. One that stands out most is painting pumpkins in the dorms with other vet tech students during her first fall semester.  It’s those simple moments that build lasting friendships and make campus life meaningful.

Inside the program, the experience is just as impactful.

The Veterinary Technician faculty are not only knowledgeable but deeply invested in student success. They bring energy, personality, and even a few French Bulldogs to the classroom, creating an environment that’s both engaging and memorable.

Students gain hands-on experience working with a wide variety of animals, including cattle, horses, dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, and even mice. From day one, learning is active. It’s not about sitting through lectures; it’s about doing the work, building skills, and gaining real-world experience. Off-campus trips further enhance that learning, giving students even more exposure to the field.

For students looking for a close-knit, small-town atmosphere, Iowa Lakes offers the perfect balance It’s a place where you can grow your independence while still feeling supported every step of the way.

And as Delanie puts it, it doesn’t even feel like “school” most of the time.

When you love what you’re learning, everything changes.

For students who didn’t thrive sitting in a classroom all day, Iowa Lakes offers something different: hands-on, engaging, and focused on building real skills for the future.

Looking back, Delanie is grateful things didn’t go as planned that day at orientation because it led her to exactly where she was meant to be.

Ready to find your fit, just like Delanie did?
Visit Iowa Lakes, explore our Veterinary Technician program, and find your IT!