Posted: July 21, 2023
Anyone who’s been through the process of figuring out how to pay for college can tell you it’s usually complicated and sometimes stressful. At Northwest College, the person they often go to for help is Sami Ashcraft, finance technician in the college business office.
“It’s an eye-opener even for parents, but first and foremost, I try to be open and kind, to help them understand what’s happening and see it’s not so daunting. I let them know we’re willing to help them.”
Sami has been working in the NWC business office since 2014, and different areas of the college since 2004, but her time at the college goes back to her own days as a student. Coming from the small town of Teton, Idaho, about five hours west of Powell, she graduated from NWC in 2004 with an A.A.S. in Animal Science and Ag Business. She originally wanted to attend Montana State, but Northwest was the more affordable option and was highly recommended by a family friend, so Powell was where she ended up, and where she’d eventually stay and raise a family that includes three children.
However, it's not just her own children at the house these days. Three active teenagers mean a lot of friends hanging out for games, barbecues, and any number of other activities. Sami and her family have also served as a “friendship family” for Northwest College students, which started after they volunteered to host a dinner for the soccer teams. In reality though, Sami and her husband have opened their doors to any of the students if they just want to get away from campus for a while.
High school sports, especially hockey, are also a big part of the Ashcraft’s schedule, as are camping, fishing, and hunting. Sami is also working on her B.A.S. at Northwest College, but still has time to host the backyard barbecues or offer a home-away-from-home for the NWC students who’ve become part of her extended family. The benefits go both ways too, providing the type of experience that can only be found through a small-college environment.
“We often have a house full, and I enjoy spending time with and getting to know them. It’s been fun and rewarding for our whole family, and our own kids have learned a lot from the different cultures.”