What's Next 2011

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Issue 6 A publication

Transcript of What's Next 2011

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STEP 1. SUBMIT AN APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION

STEP 2. PROVIDE A COPY OF YOUR STATE ISSUED DRIVERS LICENSE OR ID • Remember,youraddressmustmatchtheaddress listedonyourapplicationtoverifyaccurate residencyinformation.JCCtuitionrateisbased uponyourcountyofresidency.

STEP 3. PROVIDE ASSESSMENT SCORES • Assessmentisusedbyyouracademicadvisorand willhelpensureyoursuccessbyplacingyouinthe properlevelofcourseworkforyourfirstsemester. • Assessmentcanbecompletedinseveralways. Talkwithyouradvisor.

STEP 4. APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID • SubmittheFreeApplicationforFederalStudent Aid(FAFSA)assoonaspossibleafterJanuary1st.

• ApplyforJCCscholarshipsbyearlyMarch. • Completetheonlineloanapplication,ifneeded.

• Respondtoe-mailmessagesfromFinancial AidandacceptyourawardonJCC’se-Services. • FAFSA,scholarshipandloanapplicationsare availableontheFinancialAidportionofthe JCCwebsite. STEP 5. ATTEND “GREAT START ADVISING”/ ORIENTATION SESSION • “GreatStartAdvising”sessionsareheldonthe JacksonCampusonFridayafternoons.Toreserve yourspace,pleasecall517.796.8425. • IfyouplantoattendourlocationsinAdrian (517.265.5515)orHillsdale(517.437.3343),please contacttheirofficesdirectlyforinformationon gettingstartedatthelocationnearestyou.

STEP 6. REGISTER FOR COURSES • Newstudentsmustmeetwithanacademicadvisor beforeregisteringforcourses.

• Paymentarrangements,includingfinancialaid, mustbeinplaceattimeofregistration.

For more information call 517.796.8425 or online at www.jccmi.edu

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What’s Next • Spring 2009

Printing of this publication is funded in part through a Carl D. Perkins grant.

Issue 6

A publication of Jackson Community College

Are you readyfor college?

Ready, set, go to college! a checklist for high schoolers

Why go to college?

Secrets for your success

Money matters:Finanical Aid helps with college costs

Alternative EnergyDegreeoffers opportunity for green jobs

Make yourself athome at JCC!

What’s up at JCC?

Tuition comparison

Career programs

Hello students!High school is a busy, exciting, fun time of life! Don’t forget, however, a little planning now can help you be prepared for the future when your days in high school come to an end. This publication is designed to offer suggestions on how to prepare for college while you are still in high school.

Deciding whether or not to go to college will be a significant choice in your life. There are many reasons to go to college, to prepare for a job, to increase your opportunities, to find employment, to improve your future earning potential, and become a well-rounded individual. There are many opportunities for higher education, including the community college, public and private universities and more. Consider all of your options when making this very important decision.

At Jackson Community College we are committed to seeing students succeed, and we want you to have the best experience possible. The College now offers three 15-week semesters throughout the year, making it possible for students to begin their studies any semester and finish faster, if they choose.

JCC offers excellent career programs that will help you develop new job skills. Our partnerships with other colleges and universities help you easily transfer JCC courses. We have a variety of Student Life activities: sports, performing arts, leadership opportunities and more, to help give you a full college experience.

Good luck to you as you complete high school and plan for the future. I invite you to visit JCC and see what we have to offer.

Sincerely,

Dr. Michelle Shields Dean, Student Services

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Choosing a college is a decision I can make on my own - True or False?False. While the decision will ultimately be yours, it is important to talk over the options with parents, teachers, counselors, coaches and other trusted friends who can help guide you in this important choice. Seeking advice is a wise move.

I can wait until my last semester of my senior year to starting thinking about college. - True or False?False. There are important steps you need to take from your freshman year and earlier to be fully ready for college, such as taking challenging courses and saving money. Read through the checklists on pages 4 - 7 to see the recommendations.

No one in my family has ever been to college, I may not be college material - True or False?False. No one is “wrong” for college. Colleges and universities come in all sizes with a wide assortment of programs and specialties – large, public universities to smaller universities, private liberal arts colleges, community colleges, technical and trade schools. All offer some level of support services, so shop around and see which one is the best fit for you.

I can find help paying for college - True or False? True. Most colleges offer some level of financial assistance, called financial aid. Speak with your counselor or a college admissions officer that can help guide you through the financial aid process, with its first step being filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

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I have to decide on a program of study or major right away - True or False?

False. Much of the first semesters are spent taking general studies courses, English, math and so on. Most college students, even those who think they know what they want to do, change their program or major one or two times before they are finished. If you are interested in a shorter career-focused program that can be completed in about a year, it is good to have some idea what your interests are.

It’s important to take challenging courses all four years of high school - True or False? True. College courses are rigorous and move at a faster pace than high school, so it’s important to be well-prepared. Following the Michigan curriculum requirements will help prepare you for college academics.

You have to have perfect grades to do well in college - True or False?False. While grades are important, students don’t have to be perfect; few of us are. Sometimes taking a harder class and getting an average grade can be more beneficial than taking an easier class to get a high grade. Colleges offer support services that can help you along the way, including tutoring and study groups.

A campus visit can help me decide what college to attend - True or False?True. College visits are an important part of the decision-making process. Visits to colleges, as well as attending college fairs and college night activities, can help you get an idea of what different institutions are like which will help you better decide where you will find your best fit.

Getting involved beyond the classroom can help me when it comes time for college - True or False?True. Involving yourself in different activities can help you discover where your real interests and talents are. Whether you are into sports, music, drama, clubs, or volunteering in the community, all are worthwhile to help you find your interests and develop skills such as leadership and teamwork, which will help you in college and in your career.

I can earn some college credit while in high school - True or False?True. Students may take dual enrollment courses while still in high school, putting them that much further ahead when they do start college and save money. Advanced Placement courses are also available at many high schools that can help students earn college credit. Speak with a high school counselor about what is available.

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Don’t stop now. Keep taking challenging classes.

Fight “senioritis.” Second semester grades can affect scholarship eligibility. Stay involved and seek leadership roles in your activities.

It’s time to apply! Apply to the colleges you have chosen. Follow the instructions carefully and pay attention to deadlines! College applications are typically due in January, though it varies, and you should find out in April if you have been accepted.

Well before your application deadlines, ask your counselor and teachers to submit required documents (e.g. transcript, letters of recommendation) to the colleges to which you are applying.

Financial aid. Complete all necessary financial aid forms. Colleges require the FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, which is available online or can be acquired from the college, guidance counselor or library.

Attend a financial aid workshopto learn more about the process. College Goal Sunday is offered in late winter. Check out www.micollegegoal.org for details on this free financial aid event.

Encourage your parents to complete their income tax forms early. That information will be necessary in filling out the FAFSA form, available online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.

Fill out your FAFSA as soon as income taxes are filed. Submit your FAFSA by the earliest financial aid deadline of the schools to which you are applying, usually by early February. After you complete your FAFSA, you should receive Student Aid Report (SAR). Quickly make any necessary corrections and send them to FAFSA for further processing.

Males age 18 to 25 must register for Selective Service to apply for financial aid.

Scholarships. Apply for scholarships as soon as possible. Check with your high school’s guidance office or local library about scholarships that are available, and ask about any scholarships from employers or any professional associations, clubs or unions to which you or your parents belong. Many scholarship deadlines occur on or before March 1.

Test do-over. Retake ACT® or SAT® tests if scores weren’t what you hoped to earn.

Check it out. When you receive acceptance letters from colleges inviting you to enroll, review the acceptances and compare financial aid packages.

Make your decision. When you decide which school you want to attend, notify that school of your commitment and submit any required financial deposit. Some schools require this notification.

Explore dual enrollment. Students have the opportunity to complete college classes while still in high school through dual enrollment. Speak with your counselor or principal to learn more about what options are available.

Advanced Placement (AP). Take Advanced Placement courses and be sure to complete the exam. Many colleges award credit for high scores on AP examinations.

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Prepare for tests. You will have two important tests to take this year. In October, juniors should take the Preliminary SAT®/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). You must take this test in the 11th grade to qualify for scholarships and programs associated with the National Merit Program. In the winter or spring, take the exams for college admission, the ACT® or the SAT®. Check with the colleges you are interested in attending to see what test they require. In Michigan, juniors will take the ACT as part of the Michigan Merit Examination during the month of March.

Research colleges. In February or March, make a list of prospective colleges and work campus visits into your family’s travel plans. A visit while classes are in session will be most beneficial. College fairs and college nights are a great opportunity to learn more about several institutions at once. JCC offers College Night in October of every year.

Keep up the work! Continue to review the high school curriculum requirements for graduation. Work hard in class and maintain your good grades.

Who’s on your pick list? In the spring before 12th grade, narrow down the list of prospective colleges and begin requesting applications, course catalogs and financial aid information.

Stay active. Continue your involvement in school or community-based extracurricular activities.

Math adds up. Taking a math class your senior year of high school will improve your performance when you get to college and reduce your need for foundational courses.

Build those savings! Continue to save for college.

Explore dual enrollment. Students have the opportunity to complete college classes while still in high school through dual enrollment. Speak with your counselor or principal to learn more about what options are available.

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Look ahead. Meet with your school counselor or mentor to discuss colleges and their requirements. Almost all colleges and universities have web sites that can give you an idea of what the institution is like.

Talk with family, friends, neighbors and older students who have been or are currently in college and see what thoughts or advice they have to give.

Job shadow. Have some ideas about what careers may interest you but are not certain? Job shadowing someone in that field currently is a great way to find out more about it and whether it’s right for you.

Get involved. Join clubs, play sports and volunteer. This is

a good way to develop or expand your interests. The Jackson

Legacy Scholarship program requires community service to be eligible for funds.

Take the PLAN® test when offered, usually in the fall, a practice test for the ACT college entrance test.This will allow you to get some practice and familiarize yourself with test-taking, and results can help in guidance throughout your remaining high school years and future planning.

Take the PSAT® test now in preparation for next year. If you are thinking of dual enrolling in college courses, you should take the PSAT® or PLAN®.

Get connected. Utilize the college and career preparation resources available to you through your high school. Many resources are web-based for easy access 24 hours a day.

Stay on track. Continue to take challenging core classes. Again, speak with your counselor to be sure you are following all graduation requirements and getting the courses you need that may be prerequisites to your junior and senior years. Colleges look closely at grades in 10th and 11th grades.

Work hard in your classes, stay on top of homework and earn good grades.

Get reading. In your free time and over the summer, read as much as you can of a variety of materials.Reading can help build your vocabulary, improve your concen-tration and boost your writing skills.

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Save, save, save! If you or your parents haven’t started yet, begin saving money for college. College costs do vary, and starting at a community college like JCC can save you money, but it is still a significant investment. It will be worth it – statistics show that college graduates make significantly more income throughout their lives than those with only a high school diploma, so saving and then investing in yourself can help you throughout your life. One way you can start saving is: Open a savings account in a bank or credit union.

Get focused. Take challenging core classes in academic subjects: English, social studies, mathematics, science and foreign languages.

Michigan has high school graduation requirements designed to prepare for future success in college and the workplace. Be sure to meet with your counselor so you are following the Michigan Merit Curriculum.

Mathematics – 4 credits

English Language Arts – 4 credits

Science – 3 credits

Social Studies – 3 credits

Physical Education & Health – 1 credit

Visual, Performing and Applied Arts – 1 credit

Language other than English – 2 credits (effective for Class of 2016)

Online learning experience

Work hard in your classes. Stay on top of homework and earn good grades. Develop good study and organizational skills, such as keeping a daily planner and forming study groups with classmates.

Get connected. Build good academic relationships with teachers and counselors, who can help you throughout high school and provide letters of recommendation later.

Go explore. Start planning for college by thinking about your career interests. If you are not sure, try different classes and activities to see where your talents and abilities fit.

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Going to college provides several benefits.

n Get a good job. More and more jobs today require an education beyond high school. College graduates have more jobs to choose from than those who don’t pursue education beyond high school.

n More earning potential. A college education decreases your chances of becoming unemployed while it increases your earning potential. Think of it as an investment in yourself that yields significant future earnings.

n Prepare for a career, not just a job. When you find a career that you can enjoy that is based on your interests and strengths, it can be far more personally rewarding

than just a job you do to get a paycheck.

n A college education can boost your communication skills, expand your knowledge base, make you methodical and organized, boost your confidence, and expose you to a whole new world of learning. In addition to preparing for a career, a college education can help you learn how to work well with others and develop problem-solving skills, something many employers look for in all employees.

n Find your fit in tomorrow’s workplace. It’s more important now than ever to have the right skills for the workplace. Manufacturing careers in Michigan are dwindling, while careers like health care and computer technology are searching for qualified workers.

n Prepare for lifelong learning. Many of today’s college majors didn’t exist 10 years ago – such as new media, e-business, and homeland security. Education can help prepare you to be a lifelong learner, important in today’s quickly changing world where tomorrow’s careers are still unknown.

n Make lasting memories. Whether it’s academic achievements, a memorable professor or hanging out with friends and ordering pizza at 1 a.m. while playing Guitar Hero, many remember their college years as some of the best of their life!

A college education can help you in many ways. Why should you go to college?

College sounds like a great idea, but sometimes it’s hard to stay in school if you think you would rather be working to earn money. But if you finish high school and go on to college, you will have a wider variety of jobs to choose from, and you’ll earn more—especially in the long run.

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Thinking about going to college but worried about whether you will make the grade? Jackson Community College’s Center for Student Success can help. The center is designed to help all students be successful. Help is also available to JCC @ LISD TECH and Hillsdale LeTarte Center students; please speak with staff for more information.

Tutoring Get help for that tough class with

tutoring. Peer tutors, certified tutors and professional tutors are available. They may help you understand assignments, prepare for tests, develop better

study skills and more. There are also opportunities for students to

become tutors and earn some extra money while helping others.

Accommodations for Learning Assistance Students with special needs, such as a learning disability or physical handicap, can make accommodations through the Center for Student Success (CSS). Available services include specialized technology, tape recording lectures, sign language interpreters, test accommodations, note-taking assistance and more.

PowerPath ScreeningDo bright lights bother you? Is reading a challenge? Are you easily distracted? PowerPath is a program that includes a screening to identify visual stress, attention challenges, and other barriers to success. Results are compiled to create an individualized report outlining simple strategies you may use to improve your reading, and overall success in college.

Writing Center Success in college depends in large part on a student’s writing skills. Adjunct writing faculty assist students with brainstorming of topics, organizing ideas, rough drafts, editing, proofreading, and any step of the writing process. Faculty work with students to develop their writing, proofreading and editing abilities, but will not do the assignment for the student.

Discover Career Assessment Not sure what career is right for you? The Discover Career Assessment can help match your interests, values and abilities to a career in approximately 45 minutes. Learn about the job market, expected salary, and the education required for potential careers.

Social WorkersJCC contracts with social workers who are licensed, experienced professionals with a special interest in working with college students. Both have attended community college so they have a clear understanding of the challenges that students experience. They are on campus just two days a week but do make time for emergencies as they arise.

Get Started!All services in the Center for Student Success are free to JCC students. The CSS is located in Bert Walker Hall Room 125. Hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday. Hours from May 2 through August 15 are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.For more information contact 517.796.8415

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Interested in going to college but have a big question mark in your mind about how to pay for it? Financial assistance is available for those who qualify. What is financial aid? Financial aid, or money to help with college expenses, comes from many sources. The U.S. Department of Education should be the first source to assess financial aid. Aid also comes from scholarships and grants from state governments, schools, employers, individuals, private companies, nonprofits, religious groups and professional organizations.

Financial assistance is available in four forms: grants, scholarships, work-study and loans. Grants and scholarships provide money that doesn’t have to be paid back. Work-study provides money you earn for work while in school. Loans are money that you borrow and pay back with interest.

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Aid may be used to cover school expenses, including tuition and fees, books and supplies, and transportation, and the amount received is based on a person’s need, as determined by federal guidelines. Both the College and the Jackson Community College Foundation provide scholarships to qualifying students. Applications may be printed from JCC’s web site, www.jccmi.edu/businessoffice/FinancialAid/docs/FoundationScholarshipApp_1112.pdf.

Get startedTo apply, complete the Free Application for Federak Student Aid (FAFSA) online at www.fafsa.gov. With limited financial aid available, the sooner one completes the form, the better. Application due dates: Fall July 1; Winter October 1; Spring April 1.

Check your reportAfter applying, you will receive your Student Aid Report (SAR) either by Internet or mail, depending on how you applied. The report will highlight the information you provided on your FAFSA and give an Expected Family Contribution (EFC). This is the amount the family should be expected to contribute toward a student’s education. Check the SAR over carefully and ensure that everything is accurate. When you are ready to apply at JCC visit e-Services to make sure you have provided all of your information.

Based on this information, JCC will be able to put together a financial aid package that’s right for you!

Interested in a job for the future? Consider JCC’s new alternative energy degree program.

JCC launched a new program in 2010 for students interested in the emerging field of alternative energy, also called green energy, renewable energy or clean energy. As the traditional “fossil fuels” that have powered our nation for decades become exhausted and Americans look to reduce their harmful greenhouse gas emissions, jobs in alternative energy are expected to increase.

“Everything is moving toward green jobs in the future,” said Mark Rabinsky, JCC’s director of sustainability. “As the economy continues to recover, growth is expected in this sector.”

JCC’s alternative energy degree will be a good fit for those interested in careers in these new fields, which are still in development, as well as current electricians or HVAC technicians looking to expand their knowledge and skill base. Several courses overlap with JCC’s current programs in electricity (electrician), climate control technology, and automotive. Courses and labs within the program provide students an opportunity to learn theory and skills required to design, install, operate and maintain alternative energy systems for both residential and small commercial applications.

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Make Jackson Community College feel like home by living on campus!JCC offers students a unique opportunity among two-year colleges with the option to live on campus. Two student residence halls, Campus View 1 and 2, offer living arrangements for 192 residents. Campus View is located on the Jackson campus, minutes away from classroom buildings, library, dining commons and fieldhouse.

“I came to JCC because of the dorms,” said Brittany Green, second year student from Chelsea who is studying accounting. “And, you get your own room, not like a university where you have two or three people crammed in a room.”

Each Campus View unit consists of four bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen, living room and storage space. Each building has common lounges and computer labs, as well as laundry facilities. Multiple levels of security are in place to help ensure residents’ safety. Each building also has one full-time employee living on site, residence life manager and assistant manager.

“I love it here. It’s a 10-minute walk to Bert Walker Hall. If you want you can go to town if you have a car, or if not you can call and order pizza,” Green said.

Denzel Harris was originally from Jackson, but moved to Detroit for several years and graduated from a Detroit high

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school. He wanted to return to the Jackson area for college, and JCC’s student housing was a big draw. He is working toward an Associate of Arts and plans to transfer to Eastern Michigan University to study three-dimensional design and animation.

“I really enjoy the independence,” Harris said. “It’s safe here, the security is really good.” Erica Young is from Cadillac and attended Spring Arbor University for a year and a half before switching to JCC to complete her general education credits. She is studying business and plans to transfer back to SAU to complete a bachelor’s degree in business management. “I’ve made a lot of new friends here, and the housing experience has been wonderful,” Young said. “I enjoy the community, I enjoy the activities, it’s a very positive environment we have here. And I’m happy with the accommodations.”

Residents also enjoy a variety of activities, from welcome week events to get acquainted with other residents to weekly and holiday occasions throughout the year.

Harris is a resident advisor in Campus View 2, and he urges all those interested in living on campus to take a tour. Also, if you do decide to live on campus, be sure to be up-to-date with paperwork and payment before moving in. To learn more about Campus View student housing, call the Office of Residence Life at 517.796.8656, or visit online at www.jccmi.edu/studentlife/campusview.

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JCC establishes Office of the Ombudsman to help with student concerns Jackson Community College’s new Office of the Student Ombudsman provides a listening ear and a neutral third party to help students, faculty and staff with student concerns. Ombudsman Leigh Ann Swihart is located in the Potter Center and helps students at all JCC locations with a variety of concerns, including conflicts and disputes with faculty or staff, financial aid concerns, academic issues, process and policy issues, and enrollment matters. “I’m here to help students have a better experience at JCC,” said Swihart, who has worked with the College since 2007, working most recently in the registrar’s office, and she also coaches women’s volleyball. “My office is designed to help students find their way through JCC, to provide one point person for issues, questions and concerns.” The Office of the Ombudsman provides a neutral third party to hear academic

and non-academic complaints, issues

and questions. The Office of the Ombudsman is located in Potter Center

Room 211 on the Jackson

campus, phone 517.990.1349, or e-mail [email protected]. Office hours are 8 a.m. to noon and 1-5 p.m., with other times by appointment.

Weatherwax Foundation donates to JCC's new HLC to fund simulation unitsJackson Community College Foundation is pleased to announce that the Weatherwax Foundation has committed $226,000 to purchase three state-of-the-art patient simulators for the new Health Laboratory Center addition to Justin Whiting Hall under construction and scheduled for completion for Fall 2011 semester.The Weatherwax Foundation will donate funds necessary for three iStan Patient Simulator units and all necessary related software, equipment and training needs, purchased from METI Learning, industry leader of these American-made simulators. These are adult mannequins that can be used by nursing students in health scenarios to help prepare for what they may encounter in a clinical setting. "We are so grateful to the Weatherwax Foundation for their support of JCC. These simulators will help provide our students with unparalleled educational

opportunities so they are fully prepared when they step out into the health care setting," said Jason Valente, executive director of Institutional Advancement and the JCC Foundation.JCC is currently building a 42,000-square-foot health laboratory center addition to Whiting Hall on its Jackson campus, scheduled for completion in time for Fall semester. JCC renovated the east and west wings of Whiting Hall and opened them in Fall 2010.

JCC awarded TRIO grant to help increase student persistenceJCC’s continuing efforts to help students succeed received a boost from a $220,000 grant per year for five years, to total $1.1 million when

fully funded, from the U.S. Department of Education’s TRIO Student Support

Services program.The TRIO Student Support Services program is designed to help increase retention and degree-completion of low-income, first-generation or disabled students. The three primary objectives are to increase persistence rates (remaining in college rather than dropping out), increase percentages of students in good academic standing, and increase graduation and transfer rates.TRIO grant money will assist 140

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low-income students who are first-generation college students or disabled through a variety of support services: academic development advising, career exploration, financial planning and individual assistance for those transferring to complete a bachelor’s degree.

College awarded $2 million grant to improve services, instruction under Title III JCC received a grant of nearly $2 million over the next five years to improve access to education and student success under the Strengthening Institutions Program, Title III Part A of the Higher Education Act of 1965, U.S. Department of Education.JCC has designed a comprehensive Title III project entitled Transforming Instruction and Student Services, designed to improve both services to students and classroominstruction. Title III, Part A is a program designed to help institutions of higher education to become sustainable and expand their capacity to serve low-income students by providing funds to improve and strengthen the academic quality, institutional management, and fiscal stability of eligible institutions.

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3-D Design & AnimationLearn to create three-dimensional characters and objects as moving images with computerized animation. JCC offers an Associate in Applied Science degree in 3-D design and animation that focuses on the visual and artistic side of modeling and animation. These artists create special effects, animation, or other visual images using film, video, computers, or other electronic media.

Accounting Accounting is the study of how businesses

track their income and assets, and it is critical to business success. As the marketplace grows and diversifies, accounting jobs are more varied than ever. Careers relating to accounting include bookkeeping, auditing

and accounting clerks, payroll manager and tax preparer.

Administrative AssistantOffice automation and restructuring have led administrative assistants to assume responsibilities once reserved for managerial and professional staff. Learn skills in business communications, interpersonal relations, desktop publishing, presentation software, accounting and database software to prepare for an administrative assistant, office assistant or related position.

Alternative Energy As the traditional “fossil fuels” that have powered our nation for decades become exhausted, jobs in alternative energy are expected to increase. This degree will be a good fit for those interested in these new fields, as well as current electricians or HVAC technicians looking to expand their knowledge and skill base. Courses overlap with electricity (electrician) and automotive.

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Automotive Collision RepairAutomotive body repairers, often called collision repair technicians, straighten bent bodies, remove dents, and replace crumpled parts that cannot be fixed. JCC utilizes the Inter-industry Conference on Automotive Collision Repair (I-CAR) Enhanced Delivery Curriculum, providing students with the skills to restore collision-damaged vehicles to industry standards.

Automotive Service TechnologyAutomotive service technicians inspect, maintain, troubleshoot, diagnose and repair mechanical, electronic and electrical parts of automobiles, vans and trucks. Automobiles’ increasing sophistication requires workers who can use computerized equipment and work with electronic components while maintaining skills with traditional hand tools. Workers are now

usually called technicians rather than mechanics.

Aviation Flight TechnologyPilots fly airplanes or helicopters to carry out a variety of tasks. Pilots plan their flights carefully and thoroughly check their aircraft to make sure that the engines, controls, instruments, and other systems are functioning properly. They confer with flight dispatchers and aviation

weather forecasters about weather conditions. They then choose a route, altitude, and speed that will provide the safest, most economical,

and smoothest flight.

Business AdministrationThe study of business equips one with tools to analyze a business situation, shape long-term action plans, oversee them as they are carried out, and make countless large and small decisions along the way. Business is one of the fastest growing and challenging career fields, and business professionals can expect growing status, and increased financial and personal rewards.

Cardiac SonographySonography is the use of sound waves to generate an image for diagnosis of medical conditions. Technologists who use ultrasound to examine the heart chambers, valves, and vessels are referred to as cardiac sonographers, or echocardiographers. They use ultrasound instrumentation to create images called echocardiograms, used to examine the heart.

Computer Programming SpecialistComputer programmers write step-by-step instructions called programs using one of the languages developed for computers. These instructions

tell the computer what it must do to solve a problem. Programmers also conceive, design and test logical structures for solving problems by computer. Emphasis is placed on information systems, programming language, concepts and designs, logic and theory.

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Computer Service Technician (A+/Network+)Computer service technicians install, maintain and repair computers and computer-related machines, such as high-speed printers, modems, hand held wireless

mobile devices and data-entry equipment. Technicians usually replace subsystems instead of repairing them,

including video cards, which transmit signals from the computer to the monitor; hard drives, which store data;

and network cards, which allow communication over the network.

CorrectionsCorrections officers guard inmates in prisons according to established rules and procedures to

prevent disturbances and escapes. Officers are responsible for overseeing individuals who have been

arrested and are awaiting trial or are serving time in jail, reformatory or penitentiary. Probation and parole officers

maintain contact with convicted offenders to enforce rules and offer guidance.

Culinary Arts & Hospitality ManagementPrepare for a career as a professional chef in a restaurant, hospitality, or institutional setting. Culinary arts professionals’ responsibilities may include supervising and coordinating the activities of food service workers or dining room employees, planning menus, estimating daily or weekly needs, ordering and maintaining inventories of supplies and equipment, and keeping records of meals served.

Digital PhotographyPhotographers produce images that help to tell a story or record an event. They bring together technical expertise and creativity along with the proper professional equipment to produce images for commercial use, whether that is a portrait

studio, advertising and marketing, news photography or photojournalism, sports photography, or fine arts.

eCommerceElectronic commerce, or eCommerce, refers to the buying and selling of products or services over the Internet. Creating an electronic store is a complex and cooperative process, utilizing an eCommerce professional’s business, web marketing, and customer service skills. Students

will combine web design, programming, search engine optimization and mobile eBusiness practices to create a

secure and smooth eCommerce experience.

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ElectricianElectricians bring electricity into homes, businesses, and factories. Electricians assemble, install, maintain and test electrical fixtures, apparatus, control equipment, and wiring used in heating and refrigeration, lighting, power, intercommunications, air conditioning, and electrical systems of home, factories and other buildings. Electricians connect all types of wires to circuit breakers, transformers, outlets, or other components.

Electronic Technology/ELTElectronic technologists are employed in digital

computer maintenance, radio and television broadcasting, medical electronic instrumentation,

high-tech manufacturing, research and development in laboratory settings. They apply electrical and electronic theory and related subjects to help develop, manufacture, maintain, and service equipment. Program provides a general electronic background in information technology and industrial.

Electronic Technology/MicrocomputerElectronic technologists are employed in digital computer maintenance, radio and television broadcasting, medical electronic instrumentation, high-tech manufacturing, research and development in laboratory settings. This program is designed for students intereseted in working in the information technology area. They apply electrical and electronic theory and related subjects to help develop, manufacture, maintain, and service a variety of equipment.

Emergency Medical TechnologyEmergency medical technicians (EMTs) work as members

of emergency teams administering care to sick and injured persons and transporting them to medical facilities. Following policies and protocols, they give appropriate emergency care when necessary. Incidents as varied as

automobile accidents, heart attacks, slips and falls, childbirth, and gunshot

wounds all require immediate attention.

EntrepreneurshipEntrepreneurs follow their own dreams and visions as they pursue their individual business goals. Entrepreneurs are people

who own their own businesses, invest their own money in their

businesses, and actively manage their businesses. Start your own business or find employment in a small business enterprise, while developing a broad base of business-related skills.

Financial ServicesBank tellers, customer service representatives, introductory positions with trust offices, pension and retirement planning firms and personal financial planning groups all require skills in customer relations and financial problem solving. Those involved in this field should have a strong aptitude for working with numbers, enjoy working with people, and be discreet and trustworthy because they handle confidential material.

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General SonographyDiagnostic medical sonographers, also known as ultrasound technologists, use complex equipment to direct high frequency sound waves into specific areas of a patient’s body to produce images. Physicians use these images in making diagnoses. Ultrasound technology has many applications in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions throughout the body. Sonographers have extensive direct patient contact during these procedures.

Graphic Design/Visual Communication

Graphic designers create artwork to

illustrate or promote products, services and ideas, and to improve appearance or attract attention. They plan, design and draw illustrations for displays, billboards, brochures, catalogs, books,

magazines, newspapers, television, the Internet and

packaging. Graphic designers use specialized computer software

packages to help them create layouts and design elements.

Health Management Health care is a business and, like every business, it needs good management and support. Workers in this field help in planning, directing, coordinating and supervising the delivery of health care. Duties may include clerical work and record keeping, scheduling procedures, managing personnel, finances and budget, facility operations and admissions, as well as coordinating activities with other managers.

Law EnforcementPolice officers and detectives are public employees whose functions are protecting life and property, preserving the peace, detecting and preventing crime, and maintaining public order through the application of the law. Officers must possess good interpersonal communication skills to handle encounters with citizens who are angry, injured or filled with despair.

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ManagementManagers direct the many support services that allow organizations to operate efficiently. In small organizations, a single manager may oversee all support services. In larger ones, however, first-line managers often report to mid-level managers who, in turn, report to owners or top-level managers. Managers should be analytical, detail-oriented, decisive, and have good leadership and communication skills.

Manufacturing Technology/MachiningMachinists use machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines and machining centers, to produce precision metal parts. Although they may produce large quantities of one part, precision machinists often produce small batches of one-of-a-kind items. They use their knowledge of the working properties of metals

and their skill with machine tools to make products that meet precise specifications.

Manufacturing Technology/MaintenanceMachinery maintenance workers work in industry

and are responsible for cleaning and lubricating machinery, performing basic diagnostic tests, checking performance and testing damaged machine parts to determine whether major repairs are necessary. They maintain and repair machinery and equipment, cranes, pumps, engines, conveyor systems, and other

mechanical equipment used in the industry.

Manufacturing Technology/Tool RoomStudy of the tool room may lead to a variety of

manufacturing careers. Tool and die makers are among the most highly skilled workers in manufacturing. They craft precision tools and machines that are used to cut, shape and form metal and other materials. They also make metal molds for diecasting and for molding plastics, ceramics and composite materials.

Marketing Marketing personnel help to coordinate their companies’ market research, strategy, sales, advertising, promotion, pricing and public relations, and is important to a number of business-related careers. Marketing options include advertising, promotions, market research and retail. Individuals considering marketing should be good listeners, enjoy current events and look forward to the business challenges that come with changing cultural habits.

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Medical AssistantMedical assistants work in medical offices, clinics, urgent care facilities, and hospitals performing administrative and clinical tasks in patient care. As one of health care’s most versatile members, the duties of medical assistants range from assisting physicians with patient exams to office management. Duties may be broad in smaller practices and more specialized in larger practices.

Medical Insurance Coder/BillerMedical billers and coders communicate between medical offices, patients and insurance companies. By assigning letters and numbers to diseases, injuries and medical procedures, they speed up the process of payment and ensure that records are correct. Students should have good organization and time management skills,

be good with numbers and memorization, and maintain privacy and confidentiality.

Microcomputer Applications SpecialistThe program recognizes the increasingly important role of the microcomputer in modern business and is

designed to assist students in developing skills in the use of microcomputer applications. Depending upon the

curriculum students choose, career choices may include applications specialist, information office manager, end user support technician, information systems associate, personal computer (PC) coordinator, or software specialist.

Microsoft Office SpecialistThe program recognizes the increasingly important role of the computer in modern business and is designed to develop students’ skills in the use of personal management, project management and electronic presentations. The Microsoft® Office® Specialist program provides a framework for measuring

student proficiency with Microsoft® Office® applications and prepares students for the industry recognized Microsoft® Exams.

Multimedia Web DesignWeb developers use knowledge of

programming and server software operations to plan, develop, implement, maintain and enhance Internet web sites for businesses, profit/nonprofit organizations, colleges, governmental agencies, and other entities. They are responsible for creating the look and feel of World Wide Web pages for clients, developing a design that effectively communicates the ideas being promoted.

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Networking SpecialistNetworking involves the hardware, software and communication channels necessary to allow computers to talk to each other. Many organizations now use computer networks and need networking specialists to maintain their networks. Several other occupations may utilize networking skills, such as office assistants, accountants, or managers. Students will study various components of computer hardware and networking.

Network+/Security+Computer security specialists may plan, coordinate and implement the organization’s information security. They educate users, install security software, monitor security breaches, respond to cyber attacks, and may gather evidence to be used in prosecuting cyber crime. This reflects an increasing emphasis on client-server applications, the expansion of Internet and intranet applications, and demand for end-user support.

Nursing (RN)Registered nurses provide care, treatment, counseling and health education to the sick and injured. They assist in the maintenance of health and the

prevention or management of illness, injury or disability. RNs record patients’ medical histories and symptoms,

help perform diagnostic tests and analyze results, operate medical machinery, administer treatment and medications, and help with follow-up and rehabilitation.

Nursing (Practical)Licensed practical nurses (or LPNs)

care for ill, injured, convalescent, and handicapped persons in hospitals, clinics, private homes, doctors’ offices and other settings. They provide basic bedside care, such as measuring patients’ vital signs, giving injections, monitoring catheters, and dressing wounds. They assist with bathing, dressing and personal hygiene, moving in bed, standing and walking.

Occupational StudiesSkilled trades workers who have completed apprenticeships in the construction or industrial trades may further their employment opportunities with this degree. These fields specifically can be carpenter, cement mason, structural draftsman, machine builder, machine repair and maintenance, millwright, wood model maker, mold maker (plaster and die cast), operating engineer, plumber, pipe fitter, tool and die maker.

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Process TechnologyA process technician is a key member of a team responsible for planning, analyzing and controlling production in a variety of process industries. The duties of a process technician including maintaining a safe work environment, controlling, monitoring and troubleshooting equipment, analyzing, evaluating and communicating about data concerning

the process.

RadiographyRadiologic technologists (also called radiographers or X-ray technicians) assist physicians in the use of X-ray and fluoroscopic equipment in the diagnosis of disease or injury. They prepare patients for radiologic examinations by explaining the procedure, work to correctly position

patients for procedures, operate high-tech equipment, explain procedures and guard against unnecessary exposure to radiation.

Respiratory CareRespiratory therapists assist in care of patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary problems. They work with all ages administering oxygen therapy and breathing treatments, operating ventilators, assessing cardiopulmonary health and performing tests. Treatment may range from temporary or long-term therapy for patients with lung disorders to emergency care for victims of heart failure, chest injuries and more.

Studio ArtArtists create art to communicate. They use a variety of methods — painting, sculpting, or illustration — and an assortment of materials, including oils, watercolors, acrylics, pastels, pencils, clay and computers. The study of art may lead to a career as a fine artist, or it may lead to a related career such as graphic artist, art critic or teacher.

TheatreActors portray characters for stage, video, television, film, nightclubs and theme

parks. While few performers achieve fame as “stars,” the study of acting can lead to a number of careers. Skills gained in the study of theatre – public

speaking and self-expression, imaginative problem-solving, general research, and collaborative effort – may serve the student well in a wide assortment of careers.

Vascular SonographyVascular sonographers perform arterial and venous diagnostic procedures

affecting the circulation using complex equipment to direct high frequency sound waves, producing images which are used by physicians in diagnosis. They perform a noninvasive procedure using ultrasound instruments to record vascular information such as vascular blood flow, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, cerebral circulation, peripheral circulation and abdominal circulation.

Video Production Video operators produce images that tell a story, inform or entertain. Making

commercial-quality programs requires technical expertise and creativity. Producing successful images requires choosing and presenting interesting material, selecting appropriate equipment, and providing a stand hand to operate a camera. Some camera operators film or videotape private ceremonies and special events and are often called videographers.

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Questions about the JCC programs and services described in this publication should be directed to Student Services at 517.796.8425. Comments or questions about the publication should be directed to the Marketing Department at 517.796.8416. Publisher: Cynthia S. AllenEditor: Dotty KarkheckWriter: Marilynn FryerCreative Director/Design: Lisa Drake Ashley FauserPhotography: Lisa Drake Marilynn Fryer

JCC Board of Trustees

Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, 30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400Chicago, IL 60602-2504 (312) 236-0456 www.ncacihe.org

Dr. Edward A. MatheinChairman

Matthew R. HeinsTrustee

Christina L. MedlarSecretary

Samuel R. BarnesTreasurer

John M. CristVice Chairman

Philip E. HoffmanTrustee

Sheila A. PattersonTrustee

Dr. Daniel J. PhelanPresident

Jackson Community College2111 Emmons RoadJackson, MI 49201www.jccmi.edu

It is the policy of Jackson Community College that no person shall be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, or handicap, excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to, discrimination in any program or activity for which it is responsible for or for which it receives financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Education.

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