PRESS RELEASE: IOWA LAKES PREPARES TO WELCOME STUDENTS FOR FALL SEMESTER
Classes begin Aug. 25, and there is still time for students to enroll and register
ESTHERVILLE, Iowa — The countdown to a new academic year is underway at Iowa Lakes Community College as faculty and staff prepare to welcome new and returning students for the start of fall classes on Tuesday, August 25.
Across Iowa Lakes locations, preparations are underway for students to return to classrooms, labs and campus activities. For new students, the beginning of the semester represents the start of a new experience and an opportunity to take the next step toward a career or four-year degree. Returning students will continue working toward the goals they began at Iowa Lakes.
“There is a special energy that comes with the beginning of a new academic year, and we are excited to welcome our students back to Iowa Lakes,” said Iowa Lakes President Scott Stokes. “Every student arrives with a different goal and a different story about what brought them here. Our role is to meet them where they are, provide the education and support they need, and help them take that next step toward the future they envision for themselves.”
New students enrolling for fall 2026 are pursuing a wide range of educational and career goals. Associate in Arts and Associate in Science transfer programs remain among the most popular choices, while career-focused programs such as Nursing and Business Administration are also seeing strong interest. Students are also choosing programs aligned with regional workforce needs, including Construction Technology, Electrical Technology, Aviation, Environmental Studies and Farm Equipment & Diesel Technology. The variety reflects the different paths students can take at Iowa Lakes — from beginning a bachelor’s degree and transferring to a four-year institution to preparing to enter the workforce in a high-demand career.
For students, however, the college experience extends beyond the classroom. As the semester begins, Iowa Lakes faculty and staff are focused on helping students make connections, access resources and find opportunities to become involved in campus life.
“The first few weeks of a semester are an important time for our students, particularly those who are experiencing college for the first time,” said Troy Larson, Vice President of Student Services at Iowa Lakes. “We want students to feel connected and know that there are people here who are invested in their success. Whether they need help navigating college, want to get involved in an activity or organization, or simply have a question about where to go next, we want them to know they have a community at Iowa Lakes ready to support them.”
And while the first day of classes is approaching, students who have not yet made their plans for fall still have time to get started.
“There is absolutely still time to become an Iowa Lakes student this fall,” said Annie Kalous, Director of Admissions at Iowa Lakes. “We know college decisions don’t always happen on a traditional timeline. Plans change, opportunities come up and sometimes a student simply decides that now is the right time to take that next step. Our admissions team is here to help students understand their options and make the process as easy as possible.”
Students who are considering Iowa Lakes but have not yet applied or registered are encouraged to contact the Admissions Office as soon as possible.
“You don’t need to have everything figured out before you contact us,” Kalous said. “That’s what we’re here for. We can talk about your interests and career goals, help you explore programs, walk you through the admissions and financial aid processes, and connect you with the resources you need to get ready and registered.”
Students can choose from more than 60 programs and areas of study at Iowa Lakes, including career and technical programs designed for direct entry into the workforce and transfer programs that allow students to begin their education close to home before continuing at a four-year college or university.
Students also have access to academic advising, financial aid assistance, career services, student organizations, athletics and other resources designed to support them throughout their college experience.
As Aug. 25 approaches, the focus across Iowa Lakes is on welcoming students and helping them begin the academic year ready for success.
“Our students are at the heart of everything we do,” Stokes said. “The beginning of a new academic year reminds us why this work matters. We get to watch students discover what they’re capable of, build relationships, develop skills and move closer to achieving their goals. We’re looking forward to seeing our campuses and centers filled with students again and to everything they will accomplish in the year ahead.”
Students interested in starting classes this fall are encouraged to contact Iowa Lakes Admissions as soon as possible to explore available programs, complete the admissions process and register for classes.
For more information or to apply, visit the Iowa Lakes Community College website at iowalakes.edu or contact the Admissions Office at 712-852-5304.