FEATURE grams ; online versus campus classes ; taking the Accuplacer to increase your score for entrance into a program ; short term programs offered at our Workforce Development Center ; the list goes on .
The next advice I ’ d give you is : best honest . When discussing your needs and desires , be upfront . If you know that campus classes fit you best , let us know . If you know that online work best for you , tell us . We have seen many , many students that are not open and have issues reaching their goals as they don ’ t speak up when it matters most . Students begin online classes knowing they don ’ t have an updated computer or dependable wi-fi but won ’ t speak up and let someone know . Other students register for campus classes knowing they don ’ t have reliable transportation . If you know a barrier at that first meeting , let us know . We have resources available or we may have to come up with a new plan . If all cards are on the table , we can develop the best plan and increase the odds of you being successful . So let ’ s say you came to campus , developed a plan to complete your degree , and are registered for class .
Other advice I ’ d give is : ask questions . You are the expert on your life and the questions you ask will help us help you . The “ What about this ?” “ Can I do this ?” “ What would you suggest ?” are great questions that can help us help you . Did you know that MCC has an articulation agreement with Mississippi State University , University of West Alabama and William Carey for students who have earned their Associate in Applied Science to earn your Bachelor of Applied Science ? Did you know that our Media Production Technology program teaches you to produce , edit , and direct many forms of media including radio and podcasts ? Our Software Coding Technology program teaches you to develop webpages and programming . Many
of our programs offer a 30-hour certificate , 45-hour certificate , as well as the Associate in Applied Science . Our Practical Nursing and Associate Degree in Nursing programs admit twice a year . By asking questions , you can get valuable information so you can know your options to make the best decision .
Now , the question that needs to be asked is : “ How will you pay for it ?”
Financial friction is the biggest barrier to completing your degree . Student Financial Success describes financial success as “ the gravity that holds students back from enrolling in college and completing their degree .” Everyone would be in school or would have a degree if money was no object .
Financial friction undoubtedly has held you back from starting your degree , completing your degree ; maybe even coming to MCC to talk to someone about your options . A vital part of the conversation is paying for whatever you decide to do at MCC . I say this so you can know that a discussion early on will need to be : how will I pay for classes ? There are many , many ways students pay for classes : most of our students utilize FAFSA ( Free Application for Free Student Aid ), MTAG , and scholarships . Our non-traditional students utilize FAFSA , scholarships , and other grant sources . We won ’ t know what you qualify for until we have a conversation with you .
I hope the advice I have given you will help you decide to stop by MCC to learn about the many options we have to best serve you .
• Kimberly D . Rush is Associate Dean of Advising , Retention and Student Success at Meridian Community College . You may contact her at 601-581-3506 or krush5 @ meridiancc . edu
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