Northwood Tech News

When life forced her to pause, Sierra Franzel found her path forward.

Before enrolling at Northwood Technical College, Franzel was working as a general laborer when she broke her dominant arm. The injury sidelined her and sparked an unexpected period of reflection. “It wasn’t just a physical setback,” she said. “It served as a wake-up call that forced me to slow down and examine my life.”

During that time, she began to think about what truly inspired her. Since childhood, she had been drawn to computers, the internet, and how things work behind the screen. The injury became a turning point that pushed her to stop settling and pursue something that matched her curiosity and drive. That realization led her to Northwood Tech’s IT–Cybersecurity Specialist program, where she is now preparing for a career that blends technical skill with purpose.

Franzel’s connection to Northwood Tech runs deeper than a new start. She had previously attended the college before it was rebranded in 2021 and said that familiarity and trust helped guide her decision to return. “I trusted the integrity and professionalism of the staff and programs,” she said. “When I sought a fresh start, Northwood Tech was the first place I considered.”

One of her favorite experiences so far has been participating in work study during her first semester. The opportunity helped her stay engaged on campus, earn while she learned, and connect with others in the school community. “Northwood Tech understands that students have lives outside of class and offers support to make things manageable,” she said.

The path has not been without challenges. Managing ADHD and stress while keeping up with demanding coursework has required Franzel to build strong habits and structure. “It’s a constant balancing act,” she said. “But I’ve learned to push through and keep showing up for myself.” She credits therapy, supportive instructors, and her own routines, such as breaking large projects into smaller steps, for helping her stay focused and grounded.

Through it all, Franzel said the experience has strengthened her mental stamina and taught her to make more intentional choices. “I’ve become more focused and deliberate in how I handle challenges,” she said. “That mindset has improved not only my academic life but also how I show up for others.”