Serena Chandler - Good Strike Woman
My name is Serena Chandler, or Good Strike Woman. I am Aaniinen, from the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, and I am twenty-one years old. My parents are Sean and Lynette Chandler, and my sister is Wozek Chandler. I attended the White Clay Immersion school from grade Ist to 8th, and I graduated from Dodson High School. I acquired my associates degree in American Indian Studies in the Spring of 2024, and I am currently working on the Aanih Nakoda Language degree program with a focus on Aaniiih language.
When I was a senior in high school, I started to read American Indian history books and old Aaniiih stories, just out of curiosity. I felt a natural feeling of connection, that made me want more. I realized if I chose to go to ANC, I would be able to take meaningful classes that pertain to Indian history and culture, expanding my knowledge on Aaniiih history, culture, and language.
This would, allow me to stay home and strengthen my identity of who I truly am, so it was decided.
I have been grateful for the many opportunities that I have experienced as an ANC student.
Through internships, I have immersed myself in cultural knowledge, Indian language, plants, animals, and our land. It is fun to represent ANC, against other tribal colleges, in events such knowledge bowl or stick games at AIHEC. I have had the opportunity to help host a language conference in Missoula and here at the college. I am surrounded by Indian art and history throughout the halls, and that is probably what I enjoy the most
The language and history classes have had deep impact on my personal life. I feel more secure in who I am, as an Indian person and am continuously feeling the need for more. I have deepened my knowledge tremendously, changing my perspective on aspects of cultural lifeways and life today.
They strengthen my language use and knowledge outside of the classroom. It has pushed me to continue to find who I am and has guided me closer to my purpose. I feel that my future goals have changed in a more direct and positive way, thanks to my studies here at Aaniiih Nakoda College.
I would encourage people who are thinking about going to college to choose ANC. Whether you know, or are unsure what you want to study, or what career path to take, I think attending ANC will help guide you in the direction you are meant to go. You may change majors or get multiple degrees, and you will learn through everyone, helping you realize what you want in life.
Sonny Gray - Fast Horse
My name is Sonny Gray, and I am working towards graduating this spring with my bachelor's in Aaniiih Nakoda Ecology. I am from Ft. Belknap and my Indian name is Fast Horse in Aaniiih.
My decision to choose Aaniiih Nakoda College was based on location and cost factors, but I did not know what I wanted to do. But I knew I liked science, and ANC began a bachelor's degree in Aaniiih Nakoda Ecology after I graduated high school. My decision to choose Aaniiih Nakoda College was based on location and cost factors, but I did not know what I wanted to do. But I knew I liked science, and ANC began a bachelor's degree in Aaniiih Nakoda Ecology after I graduated high school.
What I like most about ANC are the people, staff, and faculty who can be very helpful and kind. I appreciate the events ANC always has going on for the whole college and community to enjoy. My educational journey has been fun and challenging, especially as I get closer to graduating. When I started, my entire goal was to get my bachelor's, so I enjoyed all the classes I took to get here. If I could pass down some knowledge to people who are thinking about going to college, my advice would be to apply for as many scholarships as you can and try interning for experience.
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