SCENE Spring 2017 | Page 4

LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES RCC Partners with College Steps to Help Students with Disabilities R Digital Art Student Adam Quinones shows off his unique and colorful digital painting. Artwork by Quinones and fellow graphic design student Andrew Moghab is featured in a display in the Student Union. CC is partnering with the non-profit group College Steps to make college life easier for students with disabilities. The partnership will bring an innovative new program to RCC beginning this fall. College Steps supports students living with social, communication, or learning challenges via individualized, college-based learning programs. It serves both high school transition students interested in a college primer experience prior to graduation, as well as students already enrolled in college. The primary goal of College Steps is to prepare students for meaningful careers and autonomy after graduation. College Steps places a strong emphasis on self- advocacy, employment, and independent living skills. Campus partnerships are managed by an on-site Program Coordinator, while in-class academic and social skill support are provided by a group of carefully trained peer mentors. “We are very excited to be working with Rockland Community College and the surrounding high schools in Rockland County,” said College Steps co-founder Lauren Merritt. “Our research indicated that Rockland County would be an ideal match for our student-centered educational model. We look forward to working with area families and local high schools to collaboratively build sustainable and long-term options for transition aged youth living with disabilities.” RCC is the tenth college to become a partner with College Steps. To learn more, visit www.collegesteps.org or contact Rachael Smith-Ramos at rachael@ collegesteps.org. Train to Be a Health Professional through RCC Continuing Education World Affairs Emma Blankson, president of the African Student Association, and Sandy Belizaire, coordinator of TRiO Scholars, model and sell dashikis at World Affairs Day in the Student Union. SCENE | 4 Jobs in healthcare are growing faster than any other industry in the country, with thousands of new positions every month. You can get on the fast track to a career as a health professional through RCC’s Continuing Education program. Below are some of the many offerings that will prepare students for a healthcare job in a matter of weeks. Clinical Medical Assistant: This comprehensive program trains students to assist physicians by performing key functions of a medical office. At the end of the 140-hour classroom segment, students have the opportunity to gain direct experience through an externship with a local healthcare provider. Dental Assistant: A 60-hour course that prepares students for entry-level positions in one of the fastest-growing healthcare areas. EKG Technician Certification: A 50-hour course that prepares students to take national EKG certification exams. Ophthalmic Assistant: A 50-hour course that trains students for entry-level positions in ophthalmology, another fast-growing segment of the healthcare industry. Phlebotomy Technician: A 90-hour course that prepares graduates to collect blood specimens from clients for the purpose of laboratory analysis. Details, complete class schedules and fees can be found online at www.sunyrockland. edu/go/conted, click on Professional Development/Health Professions. Registration can also be completed online. For more information call 845-574-4151 or email [email protected].