A DIFFERENT PATH OHS graduate considers 2-year college a preferred pathway By MiStY SCHWaB misty.schwab@apgsomn.com
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our-year colleges aren’t for everyone, and Owatonna High School graduate Jason Spatenka has no problem being among those who chose a different path. Majoring in electrical work at Riverland Community College in albert lea, his two-year program will prepare him for becoming a
master electrician, a career path he knew he wanted to pursue by his senior year of high school. “it’s really going to help me when i first become an apprentice this summer,” Spatenka said. “i’ll know a bit more than if i were just going into the trade without any experience. When i
go out to a job, i’ll know a few more things than if i were just starting fresh.” Some people have commented to Spatenka that Riverland Community College is small, but he doesn’t mind, he said, because he considers
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above: owatonna high School graduate Jason Spatenka is now a first-year student at riverland Community College in albert Lea, where he is studying to become an electrician. (Photo courtesy of Jason Spatenka)
Profiles 2021 | Page 19
