Meet Becca Nikolai, a QIDP in our Me Program. We asked her five questions so you can get to know and love her just as much as we do!
What is your background? Where do you come from?
My family and I are originally from Johnsburg. I am one of three children. My grandparents grew up on farms in Illinois and Wisconsin and I still enjoy returning to the family farms for visits. Throughout grade school and high school, I participated in school and club soccer and volleyball. I also had the pleasure of coaching Kiddie Kicker soccer. I loved becoming involved in the Big Brother Big Sister program while in college. I graduated from University of Wisconsin Whitewater with a degree in social work.
What draws you to social services and/or developmental disability services?
I originally went to college to become a preschool teacher. I started working in group homes on the weekends while attending school and I loved it. The client’s love of life and their unique personalities made me want to learn more about this field. I loved being able to goof around with the clients also. I eventually switched my major to social work and started focusing more on courses that would help me understand developmental disability clients better. Now, every day is an adventure. I enjoy watching and assisting everyone grow and achieve their goals. I enjoy coaching some of our Special Olympic teams and cheering on our participants! Our clients make me smile and warm my heart each and every day.
What’s rockin’ your world this month?
Really focusing on getting things accomplished with the Me program. (New outings, new things to teach, etc.) Also, I’ve been doing a lot of planning and preparing at home for my wedding!
Who inspires you?
My parents and my fiance always inspire me to do my best.
Tell us something personal about yourself.
I love to kayak and experience nature when I have the opportunity. My family and I love to travel and experience the world. I enjoy going and cheering on my fiance and his family in their church softball league during the summer months. Oh, and I’m getting married in March! I’m super excited!
