Leah Bittner of Erie has been named NPRC’s Student of the Month for November 2026. A 2025 graduate of Erie High School, she enrolled at the College in August 2025 and intends to graduate in 2027.
Bittner is a criminal justice major who plans to apply to the Pennsylvania State Police Academy and hopes to become a detective one day. In this current chapter, she’s managing a full-time job on top of being a college student and has been on the Dean’s List multiple times. “So far, I’ve been able to support myself through college and am proud of that. But I am so thankful for my parents and my close friends who have both pushed and supported me. My parents have set an example for me of what it takes to be successful and have encouraged me to chase my full potential and wildest dreams. No matter the setbacks along the way, it is worth it to keep going. They’ve shown me that.”
The criminal justice courses have all been enjoyable for Bittner and are helping her prepare for the police academy, possibly as soon as 2028. “The criminal justice instructors have helped me enjoy college. Even on the nights I really don’t want to be writing papers or studying because of the long days, I continue to do it and credit them for helping me remain engaged.”
She continued, “NPRC has given me the opportunity to learn more and expand my previous knowledge of criminal justice, beyond what I learned in high school. The College was affordable and local, and I’m glad I pursued my degree here after seeing the advertisements on television.”
We are #NPRCProud of you, Leah! We look forward to continuing to support you at NPRC and beyond.
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