Nate Siegfried’s story doesn’t start in a lecture hall or a campus club meeting. It starts on the road.
Every day, he makes the hour-long commute from South Jersey to Goldey-Beacom College—a routine he’s embraced so fully that he jokingly calls himself a “road warrior.” But that drive represents something bigger than distance. It reflects a mindset: commitment, discipline, and a clear vision for what he wants his future to look like.
For Nate, college was never just about attending classes. It was about building something in real time.
Not every career path is carefully planned. Nate’s wasn’t. At 17, he was working at McDonald’s, looking for something different. Like many students, he started applying to jobs without much expectation. Then came a phone call—one he almost didn’t answer.
“I don’t even remember applying,” he said. “Next thing you know, I’m in a training call two days later… and I ended up in sales.”
What started as a random opportunity quickly turned into something more. Today, Nate works in event and retail marketing, representing home improvement services at local festivals and events. His job requires him to approach strangers, start conversations, and build trust, often within seconds.
“I have to convince random people to listen to me for 60 to 90 minutes,” he explained.
It’s not an easy job. But for Nate, that’s the appeal.
Behind Nate’s work ethic is a strong foundation at home. Growing up between Delaware County, Pennsylvania, and South Jersey, he experienced different communities but carried the same support system with him. His family played a major role in shaping how he approaches both life and work.
“My mom, my dad, my stepdad—they’ve been my go-to for everything,” he said.
Each of them influenced him in different ways. His stepfather, a roofing business owner, became an early mentor in sales and construction. His father, a lifelong barber, taught him how to communicate and connect with people. His mother provided unwavering support through it all. That combination of guidance, example, and encouragement gave Nate both confidence and direction.
“I wouldn’t be where I’m at without my family.”
When it came time to choose a college, Nate wasn’t looking for the traditional experience. He had already started working. He already had goals. What he needed was a place that could support both.
“I wanted something small, affordable, and business-focused,” he said. “Goldie checked every box.”
Coming from an area near a large university like Rowan, Nate had seen what that environment looked like. It meant crowded campuses, large lecture halls, and a fast-paced, impersonal atmosphere. That wasn’t what he wanted. Instead, Goldey-Beacom offered something different: flexibility, accessibility, and a community where he could balance school and work without sacrificing either.
At Goldey-Beacom, the small campus environment became one of the most meaningful parts of Nate’s experience.
“I like walking down the hallway and recognizing people,” he said.
It’s a simple idea, but it changes everything. Instead of being one of hundreds in a lecture hall, Nate is part of a community where faces become familiar, conversations come naturally, and connections feel real.
That sense of familiarity extends beyond classmates.
Faculty relationships, too, have played a major role in his journey. Professors who know his name, understand his goals, and are willing to have real conversations outside of class have helped bridge the gap between academics and the professional world.
For Nate, some of the most valuable lessons don’t come from textbooks. Working in sales has sharpened his communication skills, strengthened his confidence, and taught him how to read people, which are skills that directly translate into his academic experience.
“I think having to present myself that way definitely helped me… being in front of people,” he said.
At the same time, his coursework reinforces what he’s learning in the field. Business concepts, communication strategies, and real-world applications all connect back to what he’s doing every day. That overlap is what makes his experience different. He’s not waiting until graduation to start his career. He’s already in it.
Managing a job, commuting, and staying on track academically isn’t easy. But for Nate, it’s intentional.
“I was already in the mindset of building a career,” he said.
Goldey-Beacom’s structure of flexible scheduling, smaller classes, and a supportive environment make that balance possible. It allows him to keep moving forward professionally while continuing his education at the same time.
And that balance is what he values most.
“Goldey allowed me to explore being a real career professional while still being a full-time student.”
As Nate continues his journey, his future is already taking shape. Sales isn’t just something he’s trying. It’s something he sees himself building a long-term career in.
“I couldn’t see myself doing anything else,” he said.
He’s also considering what comes next academically, including the possibility of pursuing a master’s degree. But like everything else in his journey, that decision will be driven by opportunity, timing, and what makes the most sense for his goals.
For now, his focus is clear: keep building, keep learning, and keep moving forward.
For Nate, that daily drive to campus is more than just a routine. It’s a reflection of his commitment to his goals, his growth, and the future he’s actively creating. He didn’t wait for the “right time” to start building his career. He started early. Took chances. Learned on the go. And at Goldey-Beacom College, he found a place that allows him to keep doing exactly that.
Goldey-Beacom College is a Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
Text Telephone/Teletypewriter (TTY) Relay Service: 711 or 800-232-5460 for English or 877-335-7595 for Spanish
