At the Mount, we are committed to providing the support necessary to ensure that every student has an equal opportunity to succeed. This guide will walk you through the services offered, how to access them, and tips for making the most of your college experience at 开元棋牌.

Understanding the Disability Services Office

The Disability Services Office at 开元棋牌 is dedicated to creating an inclusive and accessible learning environment. They offer a range of services to support students with disabilities, including:

Academic Accommodations: Tailored adjustments to coursework and classroom settings, such as extended time on tests, note-taking assistance, and alternative formats for course materials.

Assistive Technology: Access to specialized software and devices designed to aid learning, such as screen readers, speech-to-text programs, and ergonomic equipment.

Advising and Counseling (Coaching): Personalized support to help navigate academic challenges, career planning, and personal development.

Advocacy and Awareness: Programs and workshops to educate the campus community about disability issues and promote a culture of inclusivity.

Steps to Accessing Services

Voluntary Self-disclosure: College students advocate for themselves, meaning they must let the college know that they have specific needs 鈥� learning disabilities, visual or hearing challenges, and/or physical disabilities. This is the first step to accessing support services.

Documentation: Provide current documentation of your disability from a qualified professional. This helps determine appropriate accommodations. Copies of Individual Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 Accommodation Plans from high school are an example.

Intake Meeting: Schedule an intake meeting with Disabilities Services. During this meeting, you鈥檒l discuss your needs, the accommodation available, and how to implement them.

Accommodation Plan: Work with Disabilities Services to create a customized accommodation plan. This plan will outline the specific support you鈥檒l receive and how it will be applied in your courses.

Ongoing Support: Stay in touch throughout your time at 开元棋牌. Accommodation can be adjusted as needed and provide continued support.

Making the Most of Disability Services

Be Proactive: Reach out as early as possible, ideally before classes begin. Early planning can help ensure that accommodations are in place from the start.

Communicate with Instructors: It鈥檚 important to communicate with your instructors about your needs. Building a good rapport can enhance your learning experience.

Utilize Campus Resources: 开元棋牌 offers various resources, such as tutoring centers, career services, and student clubs. These can complement and enrich your college life.

Stay Engaged: Participate in workshops and events hosted by the Disabilities Services. These can provide valuable information, build community, and offer additional skills and strategies for success.

What鈥檚 Next?

Navigating college with a disability can be challenging, but with the right support, you will thrive. Disability Services at 开元棋牌 is dedicated to ensuring that all students have the tools and resources they need to succeed. By taking advantage of these services and advocating for your needs, you can create a rewarding and enriching college experience. We are here to support you every step of the way鈥攄on鈥檛 hesitate to reach out and make the most of your time at Mount Wachusett Community College.

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Walking around Leominster or Gardner you may have noticed something new 鈥� refrigerators! We have added them to public areas in Leominster and Gardner and have added new refrigerators and freezers to both food pantries!

Adding the new refrigerators and freezers to both our Leominster and Gardner food pantries helps to diversify and increase the availability of perishable, fresh, and frozen foods for our students.听 Items like cheese, yogurt, plant and meat-based protein, and eggs will be added to our inventory.

Consistent with our continued commitment to address food access for our students, we are utilizing funding from our Hunger Free Campus grant to provide a variety of prepared meals and food options in public areas across these two campuses to reduce the stigma of accessing food, increase the visibility of our food options, and to encourage students to connect with our food pantry.

Our 开元棋牌 鈥淔ood for Thought鈥� Food Pantry helps hundreds of students 鈥� both credit and non-credit.听 As a college campus pantry, we are limited in what we can do to support the food and basic needs of our students, so we also partner with local community agencies to make sure students are connected to as many resources as possible.

These 鈥淐ommunity Fridges鈥� are an exciting new addition to our campuses and highlight our commitment to help students address basic needs.听 Modeled after similar campus and community programs, the 鈥淐ommunity Fridge鈥� initiative is a simple, yet powerful idea to help address food insecurity with our students. 听Our 开元棋牌 program started today.听 We plan to stock the fridges with prepared meals from our Green Street Caf茅 (bringing meal options to our Leominster Campus), fresh produce from , items from the , and items donated from our very own 开元棋牌 Greenhouse.

Items in the Community Fridges are available to our students at no cost.听 We encourage students to take advantage of these options and to cultivate an awareness of our goal to impact as many students as possible.听 We want students to take what they need while leaving what they can so that as many students as possible can be served.听 A recent survey of 开元棋牌 students revealed that over 26% of our students are food insecure.听 听This is another step forward in being ready to serve our students.

As with any new initiative, we expect that there will be questions and lessons to be learned.听 We are open and ready for both.听Feel free to contact our Basic Needs Specialist Terry Young, or one of our incredible student employees and interns who go above and beyond to make sure that every student matters with questions.

The new community fridges are located at:

• Gardner Science Wing 1^st floor
• Gardner Science Wing 2^nd floor
• Gardner Student Center near Corner Bites (Coming Soon!)
• Leominster Second Floor Student Center

The post NEW Community Fridges for Our Students appeared first on Mount Wachusett Community College.

Designed to support woman-identifying students already enrolled in a Massachusetts Public Higher Education Institution, scholarships will be available to help an individual complete their degree.

鈥淭his new program seeks to provide funding for women students, who may not be able to access scholarship and grant funding typically available to more traditional students, to continue their education and path to economic success,鈥� said MCSW State Commissioner Denella Clark, Chair of the new Scholarship Committee, stated in the

The MCSW will award 5 individuals with a scholarship of $5000 each for the 2024-2025 academic year. Applicants must complete the online application and submit supporting materials no later than March 1, 2024. Applicants must currently be enrolled in an accredited degree or certificate program in Massachusetts and have completed at least one year towards their degree. The funds from this scholarship will go towards tuition, fees, books and related supplies or equipment for study.听 All funds awarded are provided by the MCSW Trust Fund.

The post New Scholarship Opportunity from the Mass. Commission on the Status of Women appeared first on Mount Wachusett Community College.

What type of college is 开元棋牌?

As a small community college, 开元棋牌 offers small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty and staff.听 Mount Professors know their students鈥� names and care about their success. Our student services are readily available whether your student needs academic support, transfer or career counseling, or job placement assistance. In addition to degree and certificate programs, we offer over 35 clubs and organizations to participate in.

What is the process for a student to enroll at 开元棋牌?

开元棋牌鈥檚 friendly staff will help make the process of applying and enrolling as simple as possible. View our How to Apply page.

My student is still in high school and would like to take college classes. What are the options?

Through the dual enrollment program, high school students can complete their junior or senior year of high school and their first year of college simultaneously at 开元棋牌. Students must meet established guidelines of 开元棋牌 and their participating high school. Students enrolled in the dual enrollment program are not allowed to participate in classes beginning after 6PM without permission from the sending high school and the student鈥檚 parent or guardian.

Will we be able to afford 开元棋牌?

开元棋牌 is one of the best values in higher education. Students who start at 开元棋牌 often save thousands of dollars over those who attend private colleges and universities. The courses students take toward an associate degree at 开元棋牌 parallel the courses taken during the first two years at most four-year colleges and universities. 开元棋牌鈥檚 career-focused programs are equally as economical, and high quality, as other private two-year career programs.听 More than 70% of our students pay less than $1,000 per year out of pocket to attend the Mount.听

What if my student doesn’t know what major to choose?

Many students aren鈥檛 sure of their academic and career goals. 开元棋牌 is a perfect place to start. At significantly less cost, students can explore different subjects, change their major, and decide what path is best for them. Personalized academic and transfer counseling services can help students decide.

My student has an IEP/504 plan now. What will happen in college? Will they just be on their own now?

No way! Disabilities services are there to support students through college, just as they were supported in high school. The difference? They are adults now, and need to advocate for themselves. Each semester the student must connect with the disabilities service department to review their learning plan and progress. 开元棋牌 has various types of assistance available to support qualified students with disabilities. Appropriate documentation of a disability is required. Available support services include, but are not limited to, reserved parking, elevator privileges, note takers, scribes, extended time exams/alternative testing, tutorial services, readers, study skills, taped lectures, computer-assisted instruction, consultation with faculty addressing individual issues, assistance in obtaining auxiliary aids, and adaptive computer technology.

My student plans to pursue a bachelor鈥檚 degree. What programs are available for students who want to transfer?

开元棋牌 students transfer seamlessly to many public and private colleges and universities every year. They often save thousands of dollars by starting at 开元棋牌. Also, if students meet certain qualifications, they will be guaranteed admission and/or thirty-three percent off tuition at participating Massachusetts public colleges and universities. 开元棋牌 has transfer agreements with many colleges and universities.

My student wants to start a career after graduating, how can they do that with 开元棋牌?

Students aiming to enter the workforce after graduation can enroll in one of 开元棋牌鈥檚 career programs, which in many cases, can be completed in as little as two years. Talk with a career counselor to learn what kind of degree and certificate options are available.

Is 开元棋牌 a safe environment for students?

开元棋牌 is one of the safest places you can be. Our Campus Police Officers are dedicated to maintaining a safe learning environment and offer crime prevention programs and services such as safety escorts. For detailed information on security at 开元棋牌, you can view the college鈥檚 annual security report (PDF) at the 开元棋牌 Campus Police page.

What if my student needs a tutor or extra help with a class?

Staff in the Learning Success Center can help! Writing and math tutoring is available on a drop-in basis. Tutoring in other subjects is arranged by appointment. Services include a writing center, online writing lab, math lab, and individual and group tutoring sessions. All services are provided free of charge to 开元棋牌 students. The center is located in the LaChance Library on the first floor. For more information, access the Library and Academic Support Center website.

What are 开元棋牌鈥檚 payment policies?

Paying for college is a big responsibility. Payment of all charges is due in full by the due date specified on the student鈥檚 bill. Students whose accounts have not been paid in full, or otherwise cleared through commitments by other sources will be subject to cancellation of class enrollment. Students will not be allowed to re-enroll without proper payment. Payment is accepted via cash or credit card; waivers, scholarships, and financial aid; through third party payments (such as through an employer); and through an affordable monthly payment plan. For more information and payment resources, go to the Student Account page.

Is financial aid available?

Most students attending 开元棋牌 benefit from some form of financial aid. Most financial aid is need-based and begins with the student applying through the federal financial aid form. Once the results of the FASFA are received by the 开元棋牌 financial aid office, each student鈥檚 application is reviewed and their awards are made. Students may be eligible for grants, loan, or work-related aid. Timing is everything, and with financial aid, earlier is always better. Students should adhere to all published deadlines to receive their optimal financial aid awards. For more information go to the Student Financial Services department.

Are scholarships available?

Scholarships are another form of financial aid which includes a review of the student鈥檚 academic, personal and financial information. Depending upon the scholarship, students may need to document volunteer and community service activities and write a personal statement describing their reason for enrollment at the college or other related information. Scholarships are awarded to eligible students in January and in April for use during the following term. Ask for a scholarship brochure from the admissions or financial aid office, or access the information through our academic catalog.

My student is covered by my health insurance. Do we need to purchase a college health insurance plan?

Health insurance is required by state law for all students registering for nine or more credits. To ensure that students have proper health insurance, the college provides students with the Community College Health Insurance Plan. Students will see a fee for this on their tuition and fees bill. If you have comparable health insurance through another carrier, students may waive the charge. This must be done no later than the first day of classes or your name will be submitted to the insurance company. Once submitted there will be no waiver or refund of the fee. Please note: free care does not constitute comparable coverage. For more information, go to the Student Accounts page.

Can I access my student’s grades?

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. The college cannot legally release information to anyone except for the student, including but not limited to grades, attendance records, and payment information. The only information that can be released, with the student鈥檚 permission, is 鈥渄irectory鈥� information, which may include the student鈥檚 first and last name and middle initial, the city and state of the student鈥檚 billing address; the student鈥檚 declared programs of study; the student鈥檚 enrollment status (full or part time); and degree or certificate earned and academic honors.

Where can I access an academic calendar?

The college鈥檚 academic calendar can be accessed using this link.

What is the college鈥檚 class attendance policy?

Success in college is often related to class participation and attendance. Students are expected to attend ALL scheduled class meetings. If a student is unable to attend a class, it is the student鈥檚 responsibility to communicate with the instructor and makeup work that was missed as a result of his/her absence. Absence does not constitute an excuse for academic work due. Excessive absence is defined by each faculty member and included in the course syllabus. If a student is excessively absent, he or she may be withdrawn or receive a failing grade for the course.开元棋牌 supports the individual attendance policy as stated in every course syllabus. In the case of emergency or illness that will cause a student to miss three or more consecutive sessions, the student should notify his or her specific instructors. If a student expects to be absent for an extended period due to illness, accident, etc., he/she should notify the student services office (students need not call for an absence of one day).

Is there computer access on-campus?

Open-access computers are located in the library for academic and educational use. Computers are also available in the Academic Support Center and in labs on the second and third floors. Students can do research, homework, and prepare for presentations using these electronic resources. Wireless access is available to students wishing to access the college鈥檚 network capabilities; you can get more information on this service and sign up through the Information Services department, email helpdesk@mwcc.mass.edu.

Will my student have access to the fitness center at 开元棋牌?

Full-time 开元棋牌 students (12 credits or more) have access to at a discounted rate. The center features state-of-the-art equipment in a clean and friendly environment. The center is staffed with professional and certified personnel trained to assist your student in their recreational and fitness activities.

Is public transportation available?

The following transportation possibilities are available: Gardner Intra-City Busses; MART Fitchburg/Leominster Busses; MBTA Commuter Rail Service to Fitchburg only; Northern Tier and Vermont Transit Bus Lines. Further information on each is available in the student services office, room 141 or by calling MART at 978-345-7711.

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If you identify as a student who is also raising a family, while taking college courses, then this Career Panel discussion is for you! Our panelists recognize the opportunities and obstacles of a student-parent; come and hear their career path stories.

Register here:

Meet Our Student-Parent Panelists

Michel Cocuzza

Michel Cocuzza (she/her/hers) started her educational journey in the fall of 2015 after an almost 20-year hiatus from school. At that time she had 2 children ages 2.5 and 5, both in need of childcare in order for her to pursue her goals. Fortunately, Mount Wachusett Community College was one of only 2 colleges in Massachusetts that had the government-funded program CCAMPIS (Child Care Access Means Parents in School). Without this support and resource, Michel would not have been able to attend school. She was also involved with the Trio program at 开元棋牌. After receiving her Associate鈥檚 degree in December 2017 in Business with an Accounting concentration, she utilized the MassTransfer agreement between 开元棋牌 and FSU. She was able to transfer all of her credit into FSU and received a reduction in tuition by transferring with a GPA above 3.2. At Fitchburg State University Michel graduated in May 2019, Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor鈥檚 degree in Business with a concentration in Accounting and a minor in International Studies. Michel is a current scholar at Salem State University in the HESA (Higher Education in Student Affairs) program. After graduating from FSU, Michel started her career path in accounting two days after graduation. She worked for a local non-profit organization as an accountant for nearly a year when she realized how much she missed the community and students on the 开元棋牌 campus. Her current role is a frontline staff member, Clerk III in the ACT (Advising, Career, and Transfer) office. This has brought her to the decision to pursue her current graduate program in Higher Education. Her aspirations are to become an Academic Advisor and Student Affairs Professional.

Curtis Lopes

Curtis Lopes graduated with an Associate鈥檚 Degree in Human Services from Mount Wachusett Community College in 2009, and has continued his education with Elms College towards his Bachelor鈥檚 Degree in Psychology.

Curtis is currently a Senior Program Director at the Robert F. Kennedy Children鈥檚 Actions Corps in Lancaster, a residential treatment center serving at risk youth, where he has been employed for the last 21 years. Prior to RFK, Curtis spent several years working for MOC as the Men鈥檚 Coordinator of Health Services. He has extensive experience in crisis intervention, mental health, case management, and working with adolescent populations.

While pursuing his education, and working full-time, Curtis was a single father with full custody of his son. Today, Curtis is not only a proud father, but also a proud grandfather of three grandchildren.

Michelle Lopez

Michelle Lopez is self-employed working under the umbrella of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Leominster, licensed Massachusetts Realtor for the past 11 years. Michelle has won many awards for being a top producer and recently ranked number 76 State-wide, which is a huge accomplishment because they have over 3000 agents in MA alone. She earned an Associate鈥檚 Degree in Business Administration at 开元棋牌 and is currently pursuing the 3+1 program with the Mount and St. Josephs College in Maine for a Bachelor鈥檚 Degree in Business. Michelle currently lives in Fitchburg, and has 4 kids ages 26, 21, 18 and 6; three of them still live with her. Prior to COVID-19, she was very involved with the community, including the chambers and other networking groups. Because of the current situation in which we are living, Michelle had to stop going to school to be home with her 6 year old who just started kindergarten….the struggles of being a single mom. Once her bachelor’s is complete, she would like to go to school for nursing. She always wanted to work in the medical field as a nurse or doctor.

Sadiya Clark

Sadiya Clark began her educational journey at Mount Wachusett Community College (开元棋牌) as a dual-enrollment student in spring 2013. Sadiya鈥檚 goal from the start was to become a Nurse, but as life happens, her journey took some twists and turns. In the spring of 2014, Sadiya discovered she was pregnant. She knew that raising a child, while attending classes, would not be easy. With support from the baby鈥檚 father, and their families, she remained in her studies and graduated from High School in 2014.

In the fall of 2014 Sadiya was able to become part of CCAMPIS (Child Care Access Means Parents in School), a federal program that helps pay a subsidized amount of the students child care costs, and supports the student through their education. Sadiya also became part of the Rx Trio program.

In December 2016, Sadiya graduated from the PN (Practical Nurse) program, and transitioned straight into the RN (Registered Nursing) program spring 2017. She completed the RN program in 2018. She did not stop there; she transferred to Fitchburg State University to obtain her BSN (Bachelors of Science in Nursing), and is currently working towards her Master鈥檚 in Nursing Forensic at the university.

Sadiya is a mother to three children; a daughter and son, she had while attending classes at 开元棋牌, and a stepson, her new husbands’ son she gained this past year! She is a nurse in the Emergency Room at Lowell General and works part-time at the maximum-security prison in Shirley, MA. Sadiya and her family bought a house in Gardner MA, where they now reside. After Sadiya has earned her Master鈥檚 she plans to go for her CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist), which will mean more school!

Albert Rolon

Albert Rolon is a Registered Nurse who works at Spectrum Health Systems鈥� Outpatient Methadone Clinic in Worcester since June 2014 and just started at UMASS Memorial on a per diem basis.听 Albert holds an LPN Certificate, earned in 2008, and a General Studies Associate鈥檚 Degree in May 2009; both from 开元棋牌.听 He earned an Associate鈥檚 degree in Science Nursing from Excelsior College in June 2019.听 He also earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in January 2021, and is pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing from Western Governors University.听 He has three children: a daughter who is 23, a son aged 20, and a 59 weeks old daughter.听 Albert鈥檚 hobbies include spending time with family, playing, and coaching bowling.

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Tips and Tricks

Graduation! Seems like 颈迟鈥檚 just right around the corner. It鈥檚听a busy time for those who are graduating this spring. Whether you are applying to a four-year听college听or preparing yourself for a听career听in your field, it听can seem overwhelming. Luckily, we have a few听tips that can help you with your future endeavors.听

Developing A Resume听

Developing a听resume is important听for life after college because听颈迟鈥檚听what employers听expect听when you are seeking a job. A听resume is听also a key document that is used in the hiring听process for hiring managers that听communicates听to them听information about your听background and听qualifications听for听the job you are听interested in.听听

听Here are some steps听for听creating a professional resume:听

• Choose听the听right听resume听format听听
  • Chronological: places the professional history section first. This is useful if you听have听a听professional work history.听听听
  • Functional: emphasizes the skills section. This is useful听if you鈥檙e switching work industries.听
  • Combination: recognizes professional work experience. This is useful when听your听skills and听history are equally as important听
• Include听your听name听and听contact听information.听Be sure to make this prominent and include any additional links that may be听relevant听to your job search. E.g., links to a portfolio, blog, LinkedIn profile, etc.听
• Add听a summary or objective.听This explains your career goals and is good for those who have limited professional experience. It鈥檚 also there to describe听work experiences and skills that are relevant to the position you are applying to.听
• List听your听soft听and听hard听skills.听Consider what skills make you perfect for the job. Consider both hard (technical) and soft (interpersonal) you can use when changing jobs or industry听
• List听your听professional听history听with听keywords听from the job description in your听history bullets.听
• Include听an听education听section
  Tip:听If you haven鈥檛 graduated yet, you can听add听relevant course work, leadership positions, and your GPA (if higher than a 3.5)听
• Consider听adding听additional听options.听If there is space on your resume, consider making this an achievement or听interests听section,听especially听if you have little work or educational experience.听
• Format听your听resume.听Is your font size consistent? Did you check your spelling? Are your margins evenly spread out?听
• Tailor听for听each听position.听For each job, adjust some of the keywords in the skills section to what the employer needs. Also, change听what you emphasize in your professional history as well.听
• Proof Read!听Employers are looking for your attention to听detail. Be听sure your resume has听been proofread.听
  Tip: Read each word slowly out loud, you鈥檇 be surprised how much your brain auto-corrects your mistakes.听听

听There are a number of free resources online to help you develop your resume, a quick search will lead you to many different sites.听

The Cover Letter听

A cover letter should be unique to each position you are applying听to and should accompany听your resume every time,听whether or not it听is requested. Oh,听and by the way, it should definitely use standard letter format!听

听Your cover letter should introduce you and clearly focus on your qualifications for the position. It should provide convincing and relevant evidence to persuade the hiring manager of your qualifications. Your cover letter should consistently address your听audience’s听knowledge level and concerns about your qualifications as well as address the specific needs of the employer. Finally, your letter should include a conclusion that strengthens your qualifications, thanks to the hiring manager, and provides a method of contacting you.听

Professional References

Many employers require professional references. They听generally听require听current or past co-workers and/or听direct supervisors.听Contact听anyone you want to use as a professional reference听ahead听of time听to get their approval听and ensure that they听will听be expecting a call or email from the hiring manager.听Plan on听having听three to five听people who can provide positive information about you in a professional capacity.听You may also ask them to provide a听recommendation听on听your听LinkedIn听profile.听听

听Tip: Always听contact your references听ahead of time听so they have advance notice they may be called or emailed from a potential听employer.听

Develop Your Public Profile听

The first thing potential employers may do is check out your presence online.听听is听often听the first place they will look.听LinkedIn is a social networking site used by both employers and individuals in order to network, apply for jobs, and much more.听Think of it as Facebook for professionals.听Another online resource is听. Founded in 2013, Handshake is an online networking portal connecting students and recent graduates with employers looking for new talent.听Stay tuned for more information on Handshake as 开元棋牌听gets听closer to launching it this spring.听

LinkedIn allows employers to view your profile, qualifications, skills,听work听experience. Additionally, LinkedIn allows you to network and see who you might know at a company you听are听interested听in, and enable you to learn more about the hiring process before you even apply. LinkedIn also听allows for people you have worked with in the past to leave personal recommendations on your profile, another great bonus that hiring managers will see. You should treat your LinkedIn profile as your digital resume, making sure keywords in your personal summary and your objectives as well as within your work history descriptions. This can be similar, if not, the same as your summary on your resume. Employers will often do keyword searches on LinkedIn in order to find and recruit the talent they are looking for.听听

Tip: Keeping your resume and听professional social profiles听up to date will help you next time you might need it!听

Check Your Privacy

Let鈥檚 talk about your personal brand. If you have other personal social media accounts听–听,听, etc.听–听you may want to take some time to comb through and check your privacy settings. Why?听Employers tend to do background checks and take a look at your social media profiles to see if you are qualified for the job. So,听unless you are ok with your future employer seeing all of your personal pictures and information, it may be time to do a personal brand audit.听

We Are Here听To听Help听

We realize preparing听for life after graduation may be stressful, but we have resources for you! 开元棋牌 offers you tools and services in order to help you with your job search, these include:听

• Assistance听With听Job Search听
• Job Search Tools听
• Salary Negotiations听
• Additional Resume Tips听
• How to dress for success听
• Interview Tips听

For more听information听about our services, visit 开元棋牌鈥檚听Career听Services听at the Office of Advising, Career & Transfer听or to schedule an appointment for a one-on-one session, email听Career Services听or call听978-630-9325听

听

The post Life After Graduation听 appeared first on Mount Wachusett Community College.

What is the Difference?

The THRIVE Center is a newly added area to Mount Wachusett Community College that provides support for students. While the Academic Advising, Career, and Transfer office (ACT) also provides students with support, there are a few key differences. In this article, we will break down those differences and help you determine which area to contact.听

The Academic Advising, Career, and Transfer Office

The Academic Advising, Career, and Transfer office provide you with guidance and support when it comes to your academics and future after you graduate from 开元棋牌.

The Academic Advising Services Include:

• Keeping you on track with your program requirements
• Helping you navigate college policies and procedures
• Helping you identify college resources and support
• Supporting you in your academic success

The Career Advising team services cover both career planning and placement. They work with you to help prepare you for employment and connect you with job openings.

The Transfer Advising team assists and guides you through your educational planning if your goal is to transfer to a 4-year college or university.

The THRIVE Center

The THRIVE Center is essentially your personal care team at the Mount. If you are facing a challenge in your personal life that is getting in the way of your academic goals the THRIVE Center is the place to seek help. Additionally, the THRIVE team helps you if you are on academic probation or have satisfactory academic progress (SAP) issues.

Additionally, the THRIVE Center works with you and faculty, financial aid and the Dean of Students to identify, and support you with extra help to:

• Keep you on track with your program requirements
• Help you navigate college life
• Help you identify college resources and support
• Support you in your academic success

Essentially, the main difference between the ACT and THRIVE teams is in how many and what kind of challenges you find yourself with. If you have multiple issues, academically and/or personally, contact the THRIVE Center. If you are in need of extra support in your education or advice on your career goals, then the ACT Center is your go-to.

If you or someone you know needs academic support, please reach out鈥� we are always here to help you succeed!

THRIVE Center: (978) 630-9327 | THRIVE@mwcc.mass.edu

Advising: (978) 630-9109听 |听 advisor@mwcc.mass.edu

Career: (978) 630-9325听 | careerservices@mwcc.mass.edu

Transfer: (978) 630-9109听 |听 transferadvisor@mwcc.mass.edu

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Top Tips for Online Learning

Understand how you learn and how that translates into the online environment.

The brain is a super complex organ, but we can demystify its complexity with a few overarching themes about how it works and therefore how you learn.

First, you learn by repeating the same neural pathway over and over again. So, you learn by repetition鈥� 颈迟鈥檚 important to actively, daily participate in your classes, even if you don鈥檛 necessarily have anything 鈥渄ue.鈥� Read, review, take notes, quiz yourself, and do that again and again. Staying actively engaged as a form of repetition can help solidify the neural connections in your brain that enable you to learn the material.

Second, and connected to the first, you learn by building neural pathways. And you do that by making connections. You deepen your connection to material by asking questions, so reach out to your faculty members often; take advantage of office hours, virtual study groups, and do further research on your own. Find a way to make meaning of the material in a way that connects to your prior knowledge.

Third, your brain is constantly processing billions of bits of information, and you can help make sense of all this by getting and staying organized. Reviewing your syllabus on the first day of class is a great way to start. Mapping out all your due dates and assignments on a calendar or planner is another way. It is also a good idea to schedule time dedicated to online courses as though they were in-person live classes; to block off important due dates for assignments, tests, projects, synchronous events, etc. Check your email daily and communicate with the instructor weekly at a minimum.

Use the support services available to you.

Even though we鈥檙e all working remotely, we are still here for you鈥攖hat includes , health services, disability services, veteran鈥檚 services, advising, counseling services and more. We are only a phone call or email away. To figure out what support you could use or how to get in touch with someone specifically, you can check in with the THRIVE Center. In the college environment, asking for help is considered a sign of strength. Please do it!

Third, get a solid understanding of the online tools available to you, starting with iConnect.

Utilizing this resource brings you to several applications you’ll use often – email, Blackboard, Mount 101 (getting started at 开元棋牌), and Hoonuit – our collection of on-demand videos. Our help guru Marty the mountain lion is at the bottom of the corner on that page for help. IConnect is also where you can find the link to download Office 365, which is available for free to all students.

We have online classes available that are at your own pace or that have scheduled online meetings. When planning your classes, you should understand what you might prefer better, and what would better work with your schedule. If you plan to take classes with scheduled online meetings, you need at least a microphone, and preferably a camera. Phones can work for this. Also, in a remote environment, it is great to have a computer or Chromebook, not just a phone or tablet. If you need one, please don鈥檛 hesitate to reach out.

And last but not least, care for your mental health.

We are all going through mental health struggles as a result of the pandemic. It is a normal response to a very abnormal situation. We can help. Please do not hesitate to reach out, no matter what鈥檚 going on. Also, just in general, the importance of consistent self-care such as eating well, moving around a bit and getting a good night鈥檚 sleep cannot be understated.

If you are struggling with mental health concerns, you can make an appointment for a phone or video call with a member of our Counseling Services team. Services are confidential and free. Visit our Counseling page for contact details.

About Thrive

The THRIVE Center is a one-stop-shop for student success. It is a space for students to meet for private conversations, group discussions, peer mentoring, and a myriad of other resources.

You can reach the THRIVE Center at THRIVE@mwcc.mass.edu or 978.630.9327. You can also schedule an appointment with us from the Thrive Center page.

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First Step – What classes do you need?

Log onto and click the DegreeWorks icon. You are now able to view which courses you still need to take, which count as electives, and which are still needed to graduate.

Helpful tips!

#1 While you are logged in, you can view other helpful information like course grades, GPA and your major!

#2 Courses labeled Not Apply to Your Degree will not be covered by financial aid unless they qualify as a pre-requisite or co-requisite requirement.

Now that you know which classes you still need to graduate, it’s time to get signed up.

Second Step – Review Course Information

While you are logged into iConnect, click the Search for Course button. Use the filter to narrow down your search. Select the semester, campus and subject areas you need and click search. This will allow you to see details about the course, and book or equipment requirements, and class availability.

Last Step – Register!

Finally, while logged into iConnect, click the Register for Classes button. Then, simply select the term you are registering for, click “add class” and enter the CRN numbers for the classes and click submit! And poof, you are now all registered!

Helpful tip!

Lectures, labs and co-requisite courses must be entered at the same time or you will receive an error.

Have a printer and want to print your schedule?

You can do this through iConnect as well. Log in and click the View my Schedule button, select the term and right-click on the screen to select print.

Have questions or want us to verify your schedule? We are always here to help! Email us at advisor@mwcc.mass.edu from your 开元棋牌 email account and we will be glad to help!

Happy Registering!

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Everything You Need to Know About Online Learning (and How to Succeed)

Online classes are taking the academic world by storm 鈥斕齢ave enrolled in at least one remote course. That number is only increasing with the听. As more institutions offer digital alternatives, they also supply you with more opportunities to learn in a way that fits your lifestyle.

Whether you’re a returning student or fresh out of high school, online courses provide unparalleled flexibility and control over your academic experience. Is remote education right for you? We’ll explain what makes these courses so great, what skills you’ll need and what tips you can follow for a successful semester.

What Are the Benefits of Online Learning?

Remote education comes with more freedom than traditional classrooms and many other practical advantages. Benefits of online learning include:

• Flexibility:听With online classes, you call the shots. You can do things your way and at your own pace, ensuring you get the most out of your program. If you have a job, remote courses let you keep it 鈥� perfect for anyone听who wants to return to school听or works full time.
• Convenience:听Missed what the instructor said? Need to review your notes? Learning online听means you can revisit materials, pause lectures and “attend” class when it’s convenient for you.
• Productivity:听Employers value hires who can use their time wisely. Online courses provide you with structure, routine and a chance to hone your time management skills, keeping you productive all week long.
• Independence:听You can prove to yourself or potential bosses that you have the drive and discipline to set goals, achieve them and seek new ones. Since remote work is听, demonstrated self-motivation will put you ahead of the game.
• More time to be you:听What’s better than some personal time? Enjoy more self-care with online education. It removes commute time, which eats up an average of听. You’ll have more time to spend with loved ones, in the gym, at home or anywhere you want to be.

What Skills Do I Need for Online Learning?

Just as mechanics need the right tools to fix a car, you’ll need the proper skills to tackle online classes. The good news? You may already have some of these traits. The better news? If you need practice, online learning is the perfect place to develop these valuable traits. Four qualities of a successful online student include:

1. Self-discipline:听Online learning means you’re in control. You get to decide your schedule 鈥� and you’re responsible for adhering to it. If your designated studying time is 8 p.m., you’re the one who has to hold yourself accountable!
2. Communication:听You might be used to asking your professor quick questions after class. However, you’ll need to take a more proactive approach when you’re learning online. Send those emails at 3 a.m. and set up an appointment during virtual office hours. Overcommunicating is always better than under-communicating.
3. Healthy study habits:听A successful online student carves out dedicated time to study in a quiet, distraction-free environment. If you’ve developed excellent studying techniques in the past, now is the time you can put them to the test.
4. Persistence:听Persistence is an essential skill in any online student’s toolkit. View each challenge as an opportunity rather than an obstacle and听. Even the most successful people experience failure first 鈥� just ask Steven Spielberg or Oprah.

10 Quick Tips for Taking Online Classes

We know why online learning is a fantastic option. We know the traits we need to succeed in a digital classroom. What next? Now it’s time to put that knowledge into action. Here are our top 10 tips for effective online learning.

1. Stay Healthy

Eating right, staying hydrated, getting a good night’s sleep and exercising daily听are more crucial than ever.听Staying healthy听gives your body the strength to combat infections, and studies have shown that getting enough sleep听.

2. Take Breaks

Work smarter, not harder 鈥� your body and mind need breaks!听Set an alarm to remind yourself to stand up, stretch and grab some water. You can use apps like听,听听and听听to help keep track of these tasks.

3. Dress for Success

Get up and get ready for your day as you听usually听would. The act of showering and getting dressed helps you mentally transition to school without听an actual commute 鈥� talk about the best of both worlds.

4. Manage Your Time

Your classes may be听asynchronous, meaning your professors or instructors trust you听to make a solid plan and stick to it. Use your phone’s calendar, grab a paper calendar, take up听听or download an app like听. If a particular method works for you, take advantage of it and succeed!

5. Set Daily Goals

Set new daily goals before you log off听so you’ll know where to begin when you’re fresh and at your most productive the next day.听If your goals are actionable, clear and realistic, you can start 鈥� and celebrate 鈥� them in no time.

6. Log in Every Day

Keep up with your email and any other tools you’re using to track your assignments daily.听Doing so will help you stay on top of your work and make each day more manageable.

7. Be Involved

If there are group discussions, be a part of the conversation.听Your classmates and professor will feel like more than a few pixels on a screen, and the course will be more fun and enriching for everyone.

8. Ask Questions

Whether it’s a quiz question or a final report,听make sure you understand what your instructors expect of you.听If you’re unsure, just ask! Another classmate probably has the same question, so you’ll be helping yourself and others succeed. Your professors will appreciate the feedback too.

9. Limit Distractions

Create your own classroom or study hall at home. Find a quiet corner, close your door or even make a fancy sign letting your family know class is in session. If you can, separate your workspace from your living space so your brain recognizes when it’s time to get serious and when it’s time to relax.

10. Reward Yourself

Academic life can be challenging, both in class and from home. Your best is all you can do, so be proud of it! Make sure to treat yourself for a job well done. Life happens 鈥� keep learning.

Be Successful in Online Learning With the Mount

At Mount Wachusett Community College, we pride ourselves on providing all students with accessible, affordable solutions. We offer flexible schooling options, cost-effective payment plans and personalized academic schedules that let you learn, work and grow the way you want. With no essay or application fee, it’s easier than ever to achieve your personal best.听Apply online听today! Our caring team will help you set up financial aid, transfer credits and start on the right track.

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