Lake Land College Magazine Fall 2020

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LAKE LAND COLLEGE

GUIDED PATHWAYS: A ROUTE TO SUCCESS

DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI SOCIETY CLASS OF 2020 FROM PRAGUE TO MATTOON:

CHOOSING LAKE LAND WAS A HOMERUN ARMED WITH LAKE LAND SUPPORT

LAKER ALUMNI FIND SUCCESS IN 2020 LAKER NEST BOOKSTORE RECOGNIZED IN STORE DESIGN SHOWCASE

EXPLORE CAREER OPTIONS WITH CAREER COACH

ENHANCE SKILLS WITH

ADVANCED CAREER TRAINING COURSES

FALL 2020

MY LAKER EXPERIENCE

CONTENTS

Unique. That is how I would describe this Fall 2020 semester here at Lake Land. Online courses, Zoom and face masks are not what I had always dreamed college would be like, but that is OKAY! I, just like most students, have spent this fall trying to navigate taking almost all of my classes in some virtual format.

Personally I never minded taking a course or two online each semester, it's a nice way to give yourself a more flexible schedule. However, suddenly all classes are online and each one is set up a little different.

Suddenly, listening to lectures and keeping on track was so much harder. I will be honest, it was so hard at first. But then I got to thinking, "How can I use this unusual situation and use it to grow as a person?"

It is times like these that there are a few options, slack off and use the situation as an excuse, or take full advantage of this time and accomplish something you have always wanted to. For me, deciding to take advantage of this time was step number one to finding success in my courses this fall.

Once I had decided I was going to make good use of this situation, the next step was to implement a plan. For me, I struggled the first two weeks to know what was due when, and how each professor expected the students to learn. For many teachers pre-recorded lectures are their primary source for learning the material. I have found that taking time to figure out a schedule to keep yourself on track for your courses is extremely important. The key is keeping up with each class daily.

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MY LAKER EXPERIENCE

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CABINET REPORT: INVESTING IN THE FUTURE WITH A COLLEGE EDUCATION

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GUIDED PATHWAYS: A ROUTE TO SUCCESS

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DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI SOCIETY CLASS OF 2020

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CHOOSING LAKE LAND WAS A HOMERUN

Online courses and limited campus times is a challenge millions of students across the country are attempting to navigate. Making the choice to push yourself to grow, keeping a schedule and staying positive are going to set Lakers apart. The entire Lake Land community has been extremely supportive and understanding of the trying times and is working so hard to get things back to a “new” normal.

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LAKER ALUMNI FIND SUCCESS IN 2020 14

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Makenna Green

LAKER NEST BOOKSTORE RECOGNIZED IN STORE DESIGN SHOWCASE EXPLORE CAREER OPTIONS WITH CAREER COACH

18 JOIN LAKER NATION

GET SOCIAL WITH LAKE LAND COLLEGE!

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ENHANCE SKILLS WITH ADVANCED CAREER TRAINING COURSES

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LAKE LAND COLLEGE AREAS OF STUDY

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VISIT US AT LAKELANDCOLLEGE.EDU. LAKE LAND COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Doris Reynolds, Chair, Mattoon Mike Sullivan, Vice Chair, Mattoon Gary Cadwell, Secretary, Mode Kevin Curtis, Trustee, Mattoon Dave Storm, Trustee, Effingham Denise Walk, Trustee, Teutopolis Tom Wright, Trustee, Dieterich Lucas Duduit, Student Trustee, Pana

LAKE LAND COLLEGE CABINET

Josh Bullock, President Jon Althaus, Vice President for Academic Services Jean Anne Grunloh, Senior Executive to the President Valerie Lynch, Interim Vice President for Student Services Greg Nuxoll, Vice President for Business Services

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STAFF

Editor: Kelly Allee Graphic Designer: Megan Nelson Writer: Mercury Bowen

ON THE COVER: Krista Taylor, Mattoon

Laker Nation Class of 2019 Taylor will be graduating from the University of Illinois in May 2021 and then plans to immediately enroll in a master’s program.

LAKE LAND COLLEGE MISSION STATEMENT Lake Land College creates and continuously improves an affordable, accessible and effective learning environment for the lifelong educational needs of the diverse communities we serve.

We fulfill this mission through: University transfer education General education Technical & career education Workforce development Community & continuing education Intellectual & cultural programs Support Services

THE LAKE LAND COLLEGE MAGAZINE is published three times a year for the residents of Lake Land College District #517 by Marketing & Public Relations at Lake Land College, 5001 Lake Land Blvd., Mattoon, IL 61938. This magazine will introduce you to Lake Land College and provide you with resources to get started or continue your education with us. For inquiries, contact Marketing & Public Relations at 217-234-5215. Views and opinions expressed by individuals in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of Lake Land College.

SPRING CLASSES BEGIN JANUARY 11!

Register by January 8.

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BECOMING A LAKER?

Visit us @ lakelandcollege.edu and look for the “Request Info” button.

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MANY TIMES

when we talk to prospective students, we encourage them to invest in their future with a college education. We then go on to share how Lake Land College’s affordable tuition and high quality education provide them with the opportunity to pursue the career of their dreams with a bright financial outlook.

Admittedly, this is intangible, or even in some cases, irrelevant to many.

There are news reports undermining the value of higher education, and one often wonders if it really is worth the time, effort and finances to go to college.

Recent studies by the U.S. Department of Labor provide some solid facts to the equation and reinforce what thousands of Laker Alumni know – an investment in a college education is worth the commitment.

CABINET REPORT:

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE WITH A COLLEGE EDUCATION 4 LAKE LAND COLLEGE s LAKELANDCOLLEGE.EDU

A recent study also shows our Lake Land College graduates begin a new chapter with an added level of security in the workplace.

Data from monthly Bureau of Labor Statistics jobs reports shows adults (those 25 and older) with a college degree are less likely to be unemployed both before and during the pandemic, according to an article written by Dr. Michael T. Nietzel on Forbes.com. He looked at unemployment rates by educational attainment both in August 2019 and August 2020 and found:

THE VALUE LAKE LAND COLLEGE OFFERS OUR ADULTS AND GRADUATING HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS IS THE OPPORTUNITY TO INVEST IN A COLLEGE EDUCATION THAT WILL PROVIDE DIVIDENDS FAR INTO THEIR FUTURES.

The value Lake Land College offers our adults and graduating high school seniors is the opportunity to invest in a college education that will provide dividends far into their futures. Those who enter the workplace with a community college degree, have 16% greater earning power than their peers. And, by choosing to earn this college degree at Lake Land College, most students incur a minimal amount of debt, allowing them to transfer or enter the workforce in a solid financial position.

As a result, 58 students took advantage of a three-credit-hour tuition waiver, with several finishing certificates and degrees and about a dozen continuing their education at Lake Land.

We applaud these individuals and businesses for committing to their futures and making a wise investment that will undoubtedly have a lifetime of benefits. Our college community is here to help you do the same!

“Without exception, across this extraordinary 12-month period, the educational dividend paid by having more advanced levels of education was confirmed. The unemployment rates for individuals with only a high school diploma were anywhere from 1.75 times to twice as high as the rates for their college-educated peers.”

With many people looking for opportunities to advance their skills or build security for their future, we hope they will turn to Lake Land College to help them achieve these goals. We are continuously innovating to offer relevant, accessible courses and programs that help the members of our communities and area businesses thrive.

During the past year, we have been working closely with area businesses to identify how the college can help provide training to their workforce or assist individuals in preparing for a promotion or acquiring a needed skill.

Connect with Lake Land College President Dr. Josh Bullock and the President’s Cabinet at lakelandcollege.edu/presidents-office.

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GUIDED PATHWAYS:

A ROUTE TO SUCCESS

NEW SUMMER AND FALL 2021

Lake Land students will enter the college under a new college-wide system called Guided Pathways to Success. The following Q & A explains the benefits.

Q. WHAT IS A GUIDED PATHWAY?

A guided pathway is designed to provide students with an easy-to-use plan including the sequence of courses they should take to complete an academic program in a timely manner and transfer to a four-year university or enter the workforce. On a guided pathway, students may choose an exploratory area of study or a specific major to guide them toward their further educational and career goals.

Q. WHAT IS AN AREA OF STUDY?

An Area of Study is an umbrella for a cluster of academic majors focused on a specific industry field. For example, the Lake Land College Architectural & Construction Area of Study consists of Building Construction Technology, Civil Engineering Technology, Computer Aided Design Technology, Geospatial Technology, Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration and Residential Wiring.

THE 10 AREAS OF STUDY ARE: AGRICULTURE ARCHITECTURAL & CONSTRUCTION

Much like the navigation tools used on smartphones, it includes the route students take to connect with, enter, progress through and complete a program of study, as well as the skills they need to “IT WILL TAKE YOU ON acquire for THE FASTEST ROUTE. success in the workforce.

IT WILL ALSO ALLOW Programs have integrated checkpoints along the way to ensure students are staying on the path.

YOU TO TAKE AN ALTERNATIVE ROUTE, BUT IN THE END YOU STILL GET TO YOUR DESTINATION." -DARCI CATHER, DEAN OF GUIDED PATHWAYS

BUSINESS EDUCATION HEALTH & PUBLIC SERVICES HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY MANUFACTURING

Q. WHAT IF A STUDENT DOESN’T KNOW WHAT TO STUDY?

With the new Guided Pathways system, students who are undecided or uncertain of a major, will select one of the 10 exploratory areas of study and then complete coursework and career exploration during the first and second semesters that should help them narrow their choices and make a selection.

Q. WHY IS LAKE LAND COLLEGE IMPLEMENTING GUIDED PATHWAYS?

The college’s 2019-2022 Strategic Plan focuses on two key focus areas, one of which is Guided Pathways to Success (GPS). The Guided Pathways to Success Model supports the strategic plan goals of advancing student success and fulfilling the evolving and emerging education and training needs.

Q. WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT TO STUDENTS?

This new model allows students to shape their college experience in the most beneficial and efficient ways possible to orchestrate success and goal achievement. Following this model, students are urged to follow the “15 to finish” approach. This initiative encourages students to take 15 credit hours each semester to allow completion of a degree within two years.

“It is a lot like the GPS system in a vehicle,” Dean of Guided Pathways Darci Cather said.

“It will take you on the fastest route. It will also allow you to take an alternative route, but in the end you still get to your destination.”

MATH & SCIENCE TRANSPORTATION

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DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI SOCIETY

CLASS OF 2020

THE DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI SOCIETY RECOGNIZES

alumni who have utilized the Lake Land College experience to make an imprint on their profession or community. A Lake Land College alumnus is anyone who has graduated from Lake Land College or has taken classes. Five people were accepted into the Distinguished Alumni Society in 2020, and each of them has utilized the Laker experience to pursue their passions and inspire others.

CHERYL BEAM LAKER NATION CLASS OF 1988

Cheryl Beam, director of nursing programs/ nursing instructor at Lake Land College, graduated from the practical nursing program in 1988. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing and a master’s degree in nursing from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in 2003.

Beam started working at the college in 2001 as a nursing instructor in the practical nursing program and as a nurse practitioner in Effingham. Since assuming her position as director of nursing programs, Beam has increased the size of the nursing programs by 20%, added a track for licensed practical nurses (LPN) to earn an associate degree in nursing (ADN) at the Kluthe Center in Effingham and initiated computerized testing and remediation for nursing students.

Under her leadership, passage rates of both programs’ graduates on the state board exam exceeded state and national averages. In the fall of 2019, Lake Land College's nursing programs were ranked three out of 63 programs in the state for NCLEX exam pass rate and affordability.

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PATRICK DREES LAKER NATION CLASS OF 1994

Patrick Drees graduated from Lake Land College in 1994 with an associate degree in elementary education. Since then, he went on to earn both a bachelor’s degree, a specialist degree and a master’s degree in education from Eastern Illinois University.

As principal at Teutopolis Junior High since 2010, Drees promotes an environment in which students from a variety of backgrounds and challenges can thrive and become active in the school. He knows all of the students because he interacts with them each day. He can be seen at numerous sporting events cheering on the athletes or leading cheers with the student body.

Drees said he has worked with many outstanding educators during his journey, and he loves interacting with students. He also said he encourages students coming out of high school to go to Lake Land College because he says it provides a great education at an affordable price.

BOBBIE BECKMAN KINKELAAR LAKER NATION CLASS OF 1995

Bobbi Beckman Kinkelaar graduated from Lake Land College with an associate degree in pre-nursing in 1995. Going on to receive a bachelor’s degree in nursing and a master’s degree in nursing, Kinkelaar is now the chief nursing officer at HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital and St. Francis Hospital, Litchfield.

Through her many different roles in leadership, Kinkelaar has become an ambassador for St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital and the community. Kinkelaar is known for going out of her way to ensure students have a positive and valuable clinical experience.

Her skills, knowledge, willingness to help others and dedication to her profession exemplify the mission of Lake Land College and HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital.

BRAD TAMMEN LAKER NATION CLASS OF 1987

Brad Tammen graduated in 1987 after a successful athletic career in baseball at Lake Land College which had earned him the Lakers’ 1987 MVP title. After spending time in the front offices of professional baseball major league affiliates in Oklahoma City, Salt Lake City and Nashville, Tammen spent four years in marketing for IMG at Middle Tennessee State University before accepting a position with the Great Lakes Loons, a Class A Affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers. He now does consulting work for collegiate sports.

Tammen’s success at Lake Land College continued into the rest of his life. Having carried his love for baseball into his career, Tammen’s life is an example of applying the love of something to a career and never giving up.

CLAY ZWILLING LAKER NATION CLASS OF 2011

Clay Zwilling served as a Student Ambassador, a member of the Postsecondary Agriculture Student Organization and a member of the Livestock Judging Team during his time at Lake Land College.

After graduating, Clay went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in animal science and agricultural education from Oklahoma State University where he was named an AllAmerican Livestock Judge and was on the 2012 National Champion Livestock Judging Team.

He then earned a master’s degree from Texas A&M University.

Clay joined the National Swine Registry (NSR) in 2017 as the vice president of member outreach and youth development, providing oversight for the largest junior livestock organization in the U.S. In his role as chief executive officer for NSR since March 2019, Clay oversees the day to day operations of the Duroc, Hampshire, Landrace and Yorkshire breed registries whose membership comprise the world's largest purebred swine organization.

WE'VE MOVED!

The College Advancement staff has moved into the recently completed Foundation and Alumni Center at the former site of the Laker Nest Bookstore. The facility will serve as a welcoming center to alumni and guests of the Foundation and facilitate a connection between current students and the Alumni office as the center will host various student events throughout the year.

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2020-2021 SEASON Following guidelines established by the NJCAA this summer, all five of Lake Land College’s sports competitive seasons have been moved from the fall to the Spring 2021 semester.

This fall, each sport has established a 60-consecutive-calendar day practice and internal scrimmage schedule. Throughout the semester, athletes are participating in team and individual workouts, along with small group strength and conditioning.

“Our Return to Play Plan defines the safety protocols that will be required for all Fall 2020 athletic-related events to reduce the likelihood of student athletes being exposed to, contracting or spreading COVID-19. In addition to the college’s expectations for our student athletes to succeed in the classroom and in competition, we expect them to follow very strict protocols to protect themselves, their teammates and our college community. We want the very best for them and all look forward to the spring semester seasons,” Athletic Director Bill Jackson said.

The Laker Women’s Basketball Team will enter the spring competitive season as one of the most competitive in the nation. Prior to the pandemic outbreak, the Laker Women’s Basketball Team earned a trip to the NJCAA Division II National Tournament. The tournament was unfortunately cancelled, but the team was seeded fourth in the nation, with a season record of 30-3. In addition, our own Coach Dave Johnson was named the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Collegiate Co-Head Coach of the Year.

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FRESHMAN PLAYER KLÁRA CEJKOVAKOLACI

came to Lake Land College all the way from Prague, Czech Republic to play softball. Despite the safety measures in place due to the COVID-19 outbreak, Cejkova-Kolaci said her experience is what she hoped it would be.

“I was excited to come here,” Cejkova-Kolaci said. “The softball is really good, and the classes are interesting.”

Cejkova-Kolaci said she most looks forward to softball, especially scrimmages and practices.

“Even though we don´t get to play many games this fall our scrimmages are still really good and I think that we learn a lot from them,” Cejkova-Kolaci said.

FROM PRAGUE TO MATTOON: CHOOSING

LAKE LAND IS A HOME RUN

Though she does love the game, Cejkova-Kolaci said her favorite thing about playing softball at Lake Land is her teammates.

“I liked when our coach took us freshmen to lunch and we talked about previous “THE TEACHERS AND players and other stuff,” Cejkova-Kolaci OTHER STAFF FEEL said. “I also like just PERSONALIZED, SO having fun with my teammates.”

IF YOU NEED SOME

HELP YOU CAN ALWAYS SEND AN EMAIL OR Initially nervous SOMETHING TO GET about attending HELP. SCHOOL-WISE school as an international AND SOFTBALL-WISE IT student, CejkovaWAS VERY WORTH IT TO Kolaci said she ME TO COME.” quickly adapted to her new situation.

-KLÁRA CEJKOVA-

As a Business major, Cejkova-Kolaci said after completing an associate degree at Lake Land College, she plans to transfer to a university to major in either marketing or management.

“I was scared it “Lake Land is really KOLACI would be hard accommodating,” for me to adjust Cejkova-Kolaci said. to English, but it “The teachers and has gone pretty well,” Cejkovaother staff feel personalized, so if Kolaci said. “At first I didn’t want you need some help you can to get into a conversation, but now always send an email or something I am comfortable talking to other to get help. School-wise and people. I can also do everything in softball-wise it was very worth it my classes, so that is good.” to me to come.”

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“Ike was great,” Cutts said. “He guided me to academic success. He had a really big impact on where I am now.”

BRYSON CUTTS GRADUATED

ARMED WITH LAKE LAND SUPPORT

LAKER ALUMNI FIND SUCCESS IN 2020

“Without Lake Land College I wouldn’t have been as successful as I was,” Dorsett said.

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Winning the Mrs. Indiana America title in 2019, Dorsett competed for the Mrs. America title in Las Vegas, Nevada while raising her two

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Dorsett is now the interim clinical director and addictions therapist at a new in-patient addiction facility called Hickory Treatment Center in Rockville, Indiana. In describing how she got to where she is, Dorsett attributed much of her success to Lake Land College.

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Dorsett (above) completed an associate degree at Lake Land College in December 2010, just one year after graduating from high school thanks to the dual-credit program. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Indiana State University.

en t s a r e

“It was a crazy busy time, but I wouldn’t change it for the world,” Dorsett said.

a t La k e L an t ed

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to juggle an intense schedule is one that led her to success in her academics, career, motherhood and even the pageant circuit.

“Every single person there made it known that they wanted me to succeed. For me, it was a perfect transition and a great way to get my feet wet in the adult world.”

ud St

HAYLEY DORSETT’S ABILITY

children and working toward a master’s degree.

Then in May of 2020, she earned a master’s degree in clinical mental health and addictions counseling from Indiana Wesleyan University, having graduated with a 3.98 GPA despite the challenges presented by COVID-19.

from Lake Land College in May 2020. Though his last semester suddenly transitioned to a virtual format when COVID-19 began to spread across the world, Cutts (below) said he did not let the virus or the virtual environment slow him down.

“I have always been really driven in my studies,” Cutts said. “I was able to get my work done early most of the time, because I could work at my own pace.”

During his time at Lake Land, Cutts said his favorite experiences were his Anatomy & Physiology classes with Ikemefuna “Ike” Nwosu, division chair math & science/bioscience instructor, and tutoring for Anatomy & Physiology and Microbiology.

Having continued his education even amid the pandemic, Cutts is now pursuing a bachelor’s degree at Lakeview College of Nursing in Danville, Illinois. Rather than letting the coronavirus hinder him, Cutts said the situation has opened his eyes “to the simplest things in life.”

“Taking that time back and not being so busy with everything has really helped me focus on what matters most,” Cutts said.

MICHELE REEDER IS A MOTHER

of two who earned an associate degree in Civil Engineering Technology from Lake Land College in May of 2019. Reeder (right) now works in Civil Engineering Program Development at the Illinois Department of Transportation in Effingham.

After job-hunting amid a pandemic, Reeder said the coronavirus has taught her a lesson in patience. Though she did have to wait for it, working for IDOT was something Reeder always knew she wanted to do.

“I applied for the position I have now in December, and because of COVID I didn’t hear back from them until July,” Reeder said. “I had almost given up hope, but now I’m here and I love it.”

“Without a college education I found myself without a lot of options and being passed up by people who had degrees,” Reeder said. “Even though I had the experience, I did not have a degree to back it up, and Lake Land opened those doors for me.”

With a college education having fallen to the side for years, going to college was initially a “terrifying” notion for Reeder, but after attending Lake Land she said her experience was one she “loved every moment” of.

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Dear Laker Louie,

How can I order awesome Laker gear online so I can show my school spirit?

Sincerely, SEEKING SCHOOL SPIRIT, DEAR SEEKING SCHOOL SPIRIT You are one lucky duck! In the Laker Nest online store, it is super easy to find all kinds of really cool Laker gear like T-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, hats, jackets and more.

I am especially fond of the items that have my face on them!

To order Laker merchandise online: 1. Visit the Laker Nest online store by going to lakelandcollege.edu/bookstore.

2. Click on the image of me!

3. Begin shopping for many different products, including ladies’, men’s, children’s and unisex apparel, Laker spirit gear, Alumni gear, graduation products and even gift cards.

After you check out, all that is left to do is wait for all of your awesome new things to arrive, and when they do, enjoy sharing your school spirit!

Sincerely,

LAKER LOUIE

THE LAKER NEST BOOKSTORE

LAKER NEST BOOKSTORE RECOGNIZED IN

STORE DESIGN SHOWCASE

was one of only six college stores from across the nation to be featured in The College Store Magazine’s 15TH Annual Store Design Showcase.

The new bookstore space was designed to both accommodate the textbook rental and classroom material pickup process, as well as create a retail showroom for Laker gear. Most people would agree the final product exceeded all expectations, as store guests are greeted with red and black school spirit each time they walk through the door.

With the 2019 addition and renovation of the Luther Student Center, the Laker Nest Bookstore moved from a 40-year “temporary” pole barn building to the beautiful new facility last November. Not only has the new design increased the store’s functionality, it has enhanced school spirit and community support with easy access to Laker merchandise.

Amanda Arena, manager of bookstore and textbook rentals, said the new store transition has received an extremely positive response from the Lake Land College community.

“This is likely one of the biggest changes in appearance and functionality on our campus,” Arena said. “We have had quite a few people come to check out the new store, and every time they leave really impressed.”

The Laker Nest Bookstore has an online store stocked with plenty of Laker gear as well.

To read the feature or to shop online for Laker merchandise, visit the Laker Nest Bookstore website at lakelandcollege.edu/bookstore.

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HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED if you are in the right career? Are you puzzled by what to major in?

Lake Land College has a new way for you to connect your interests to careers and majors. Career Coach is an online tool that is free and open to all students and community members. The program is available from the college’s home page and features several easy-to-use tools to help you get started.

CAREER ASSESSMENT With the options of a brief six-question assessment or an extended 60-question assessment, you can match your skills and interests to academic majors and career paths. The program shows career options with salary and employment rate information from the Lake Land College district in real time, so you can see exactly

how each career stands in terms of employment and wages.

If you want to save your results, you can download them or easily type in your email and create a password. You will then have an account which unlocks the workplace resources such as the résumé builder.

BROWSE CAREERS OR AREAS OF STUDY If you have taken the assessment and are logged in, these categories will be arranged according to compatibility with the assessment outcomes. This allows you to browse paths that align with your interests and abilities without excluding any options. There is also an option for veterans who wish to apply their knowledge and skill sets to a career.

RÉSUMÉ BUILDER This tool allows you to construct a résumé using preset structure and phrasing suggestions. Because the site allows you to create a login, you have the option to create and save a résumé within the site that can be used or modified at any time.

Not only will the tool serve as a great help to the Lake Land College community, it will be useful in classes as well.

“Career Coach is taking the place of more than 10 tools that students used in my classes previously,” Andrea Bright, academic counselor and instructor, said.

“This will be so much easier and more valuable to have all the information in one place.”

“Career Coach is a great way for those who are undecided to narrow down their options,” Tina Moore, director of career services, said. “It’s a great tool for career exploration.“

DEAR CAREER COACH NEWBIE, It puts a smile on my beak to hear you are excited about Career Coach! It is super easy to use, and if you follow these quick, easy steps you’ll be career searching like a pro in no time!

EXPLORE CAREER OPTIONS WITH

CAREER COACH

Dear Laker Louie,

This Career Coach thing sounds really cool! How do I use it?

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Sincerely, CAREER COACH NEWBIE

4. To save your assessment information as well as careers and areas of study you may be interested in, you can create an account with just your email and a password. This way you can come back and pick up right where you left off!

5. You can even create a résumé using preset structure and phrasing suggestions with the awesome résumé builder tool, which you can save and come back to in your account.

6. Don’t want to take an assessment? That’s okay too! You can still browse the careers and areas of study, but they won’t be aligned to your interests.

1. To access Career Coach on the Lake Land College home page, look for the gray bar and click on “Explore Careers.”

2. Choose an assessment type to get started.

You have two options: a quick six-question assessment or a sixty-question one.

3. Based on your assessment, you can browse careers or areas of study that align well with your skills and interests. You can also see all Happy career searching, Laker! kinds of interesting information, like the pay rates and annual job openings for careers in this region.

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THE LAKE LAND COLLEGE CENTER FOR BUSINESS & INDUSTRY

has expanded the catalog of online courses available to help individuals grow both professionally and personally. This fall, the Center for Business & Industry added 373 Advanced Career Training courses to the existing catalog of nearly 700 fundamental courses.

In this updated course catalog, students are able to search courses by topic, making the information much easier to find and increasing accessibility. Classes are organized by broad categories of Advanced Career Training and Fundamentals as well as by Online, InPerson or Virtual Live learning. Advanced Career Training courses allow students to earn industry-recognized credentials and enhance their existing skill set.

ENHANCE SKILLS

WITH ADVANCED CAREER TRAINING

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These courses are offered in a broad variety of categories and include Project Management, Computer Applications, Health & Fitness, Information Technology and Writing.

Bonnie Moore, the director to the Center for Business & Industry, said not only has the update expanded the course catalog and improved the speed and ease of

finding a course, it has allowed more businesses to assist their employees in gaining new skills.

“I have a student right now whose supervisor has called me three times already to praise how much her work has improved,” Moore said. “It wasn’t that she didn’t do well before but she is just learning how to make her work as efficient as can be. The availability of this program in an online format has been vital to her success as she can work the program into her personal schedule.”

The Advanced Career Training courses are an excellent, cost-effective and flexible avenue to gaining real-world knowledge and skills that individuals and employers recognize to be valuable. While the courses do not offer college credit, they provide skills-based learning and benefit career and education paths.

Fundamental courses are enlightening and productive as they introduce students to new skill sets and information as well as provide personal enjoyment. These courses offer a variety of opportunities including photography, communication, alternative medicine, legal studies and test preparation.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT CENTER UNDER CONSTRUCTION

The Center for Business & Industry is on track to move to the new Workforce Development Center on campus this spring. This move will provide improved access to campus equipment and resources and expand services offered by the Center for Business & Industry.

The new building will offer a modern, updated space and new equipment for the Manufacturing Skills Lab and the Commercial Driver’s License Program.

“Everything in the new building, especially the expansion of classrooms, technology, and equipment, is going to be extremely beneficial to all of our students and customers,” Moore said. “We are beyond excited about all of the new resources we will be able to provide and look forward to providing expanded services to local industry.”

In addition to the Center for Business & Industry, the new building will be a home to Adult Education, Workforce Investment and Opportunity, Pathways Alternative High School and Corrections Education.

Both Advanced Career Training and Fundamental courses are great ways for students who are interested in learning at their own pace, with full flexibility, to gain the understanding they need to further their career, education or personal paths.

NEW WORKFORCE

LAKE LAND COLLEGE s 217-234-5253

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JOIN LAKER NATION TODAY! PAYING FOR

PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARSHIPS These scholarships cover the cost of tuition for up to two years. Talk with your high school guidance counselor for more information. These scholarships are awarded to in-district high school seniors who rank in the top 15 percent of the senior class or have an ACT composite score of 26 or higher or SAT of 1230.

20 LAKE LAND COLLEGE s LAKELANDCOLLEGE.EDU

lakelandcollege.edu/visit

We are here to help you virtually from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday via phone, email or Zoom.

If you would like to meet with someone in-person, please call ahead to make an appointment or to make sure in-person services are available when you plan to visit.

2020-2021 FAFSA as soon as possible.

For more information about paying for college, visit lakelandcollege.edu and look for the “PAYING FOR COLLEGE” menu.

Tour Campus Online

SPRING 2020

FINANCIAL AID FOR SPRING If you are enrolling in classes this spring, complete the

you to spread your tuition and fees payments out throughout the semester.

lakelandcollege.edu

SERVICES FOR

COLLEGE

NELNET PAYMENT PLAN The college offers the Nelnet Payment Plan that allows

Request Info

Visit the COVID-19 Student Resources page for helpful information if you are planning to visit campus.

FINANCIAL AID PROCESS ALL students requesting financial aid must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at fafsa.gov as early as possible to determine financial aid eligibility. Lake Land College’s school code is 007644.

The following financial aid options do not require payback or reimbursement: 1. Federal or state financial aid grants such as the Pell Grant.

2. Lake Land College Foundation Scholarships.

3. Third-party scholarships.

Those who do not qualify for state, federal or local assistance can explore: 1. Pay the bill in-full by the due date.

2. Sign up for the Nelnet tuition payment plan. Lake Land offers the Nelnet payment plan that allows students to spread their tuition payments out over the semester as opposed to paying their bill in full at one time.

3. Request a student loan. Visit lakelandcollege.edu/financialaid and click on “Student Loans” for information about the Federal Direct Loan Program eligibility requirements, and the three steps required to request a student loan at Lake Land College.

VISIT LAKELANDCOLLEGE.EDU/COVID-19FAQ FOR MORE INFORMATION!

STAY CONNECTED Our faculty and staff are available to assist you in various virtual platforms including email and phone or video meetings! Contact us today!

ADMISSIONS@LAKELANDCOLLEGE.EDU LAKELANDCOLLEGE.EDU

217-234-5253

Enroll Now

lakelandcollege.edu/enroll

Explore Careers lakelandcollege.edu

UPCOMING

VIRTUAL EVENTS

ADMISSIONS PROCESS WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2 AT 6 P.M. Attendees will meet a Lake Land College admissions representative who will walk step-by-step through the admissions process and answer any questions attendees may have. A current Lake Land College student will also be available to share what it is like to be part of Laker Nation.

FINANCIAL AID PROCESS AND PAYING FOR COLLEGE THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3 AT 6 P.M. Potential students will learn about scholarships and how to apply for them, the financial aid process and paying for college.

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS AND DIVISIONS WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 8 AT 3 P.M. Attendees can hear from a faculty member in their academic area of interest. Whether attendees know what they want to study or have many questions, faculty members will be available to provide information on the academic area of choice.

HONORS EXPERIENCE WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9 AT 3 P.M. Lake Land College is offering this event to learn about what encompasses the multifaceted Honors Experience and how to participate.

STUDENT Q & A PANEL THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10 AT 3 P.M. This panel features students from various student organizations who will be available to answer questions about topics such as classes, majors and student involvement or internships.

TO LEARN MORE, VISIT LAKELANDCOLLEGE.EDU/VISIT OR CALL 217-234-5232.

LAKE LAND COLLEGE s 217-234-5253

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LAKE LAND COLLEGE AREAS OF STUDY AGRICULTURE Agriculture Transfer Agriculture Business & Supply Agriculture Production & Management Crop Production Diesel & Ag Power Technology Horticulture – Production & Landscape John Deere Ag Tech Livestock Production Pre-Veterinary Medicine ARCHITECTURAL & CONSTRUCTION Building Construction CET/Advanced Tech Studies Civil Engineering Tech Computer-Aided Design Tech Geospatial Technology HVAC+R Residential Wiring BUSINESS Accounting Business Electronic Marketing Entrepreneurship Management Marketing Medical Coding & Health Information Medical Coding Specialist Medical Transcriptionist Office Assistant Office Manager Office Receptionist Office Support Specialist Professional Sales

EDUCATION Biology - Secondary Education Business Education Chemistry – Secondary Education Child & Family Services Early Childhood Care & Education Early Childhood Education Elementary Education Health Education Mathematics Education Nanny Child Care Provider Paraprofessional Educator Physical Education Physics – Secondary Education Social Science Education Special Education HEALTH & PUBLIC SERVICES Associate Degree Nurse Basic Nurse Assisting Cosmetology Teacher Cosmetology Criminal Justice Leadership Dental Hygiene Emergency Medical Services Esthetics Fire Science Management Human Services Law Enforcement Massage Therapy Medical Assistant Paramedical Services Physical Therapist Assistant Practical Nursing

22 LAKE LAND COLLEGE s LAKELANDCOLLEGE.EDU

HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCE Art Communication Studies Criminal Justice Economics English History Liberal Arts Political Science Psychology Radio-TV Broadcasting Sociology TV Field/Studio Production INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Computer Applications Specialist Computer Systems Computer Technician Desktop Publishing Graphic Design IT-Computer Applications IT-Computer Game Development IT-Digital Media Specialist IT-Network Administration IT-Programming IT-Web Technology MANUFACTURING Applied Engineering Technology Electronic Control Technician Electronics Engineering Technology Industrial Maintenance Manufacturing Skills Mechanical-Electrical Technology Plastics Manufacturing Programmable Logic Controllers Renewable Energy

Robotic & Automated Manufacturing Sustainable Energy Welding Technology MATH & SCIENCE Bioscience Non-Teaching Chemistry Clinical Laboratory Science Conservation Earth Science Engineering Science Environmental Science Mathematics Physics Pre-Chiropractic Pre-Dental Pre-Engineering Pre-Medicine Pre-Nursing Pre-Pharmacy Pre-Physical Therapy TRANSPORTATION Auto Mechanic Automotive Technology Commercial Truck Driver Training

NEED HELP

DECIDING?

Connect your interests to careers and majors with the new Career Coach.

Visit lakelandcollege.edu and look for "EXPLORE CAREERS."

Dear Laker Louie,

How do I find out when and how my classes will meet?

Sincerely, EXCITED FOR SPRING DEAR EXCITED FOR SPRING,

DURING SPRING 2021,

Lake Land College will offer classes in a variety of learning formats to meet course requirements and better accommodate student learning preferences.

The regularly scheduled in-person and virtual class times will be published in the class schedule. Course formats will be noted under the Meeting Information section on the student schedule.

We can help! Figuring out how and when your classes meet is easy as a waddle in the park! Just follow these easy steps:

VIRTUAL MEETINGS REQUIRED class sections will meet at the same time during regularly scheduled class times through a virtual meeting platform such as Canvas or Zoom. Students and faculty are required to keep these class times.

VIRTUAL MEETINGS OPTIONAL class sections will meet during regularly scheduled class times through a virtual meeting platform such as Canvas or Zoom, but virtual class meetings will have optional attendance.

THE COURSE FORMATS ARE: ONLINE class sections are fully online with no In-person attendance required on-campus or virtual class meetings.

Virtual meetings required or Virtual meetings optional For more information, contact Counseling Online Services at counsel@lakelandcollege.edu or 217-234-5232.

IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE REQUIRED class sections will meet face-to-face during regularly scheduled class times on the Mattoon campus and/or other campus locations.

1. Open your Laker Hub and access the IRIS menu.

2. Select the Registration option.

3. Select Search & Register for Sections.

4. Select the Spring 2021 term and any other subject or section options you like.

5. Click the Submit button.

6. When the sections fitting your search criteria appear, take a look at the “Meeting Information” area. That is where you will find all the meeting information you need to know!

Remember, if your feathers get ruffled about any of these things, you can always ask Counseling Services for help! Give them a quack at counsel@ lakelandcollege.edu or 217-234-5232.

Catch you later, Laker!

LAKER LOUIE LAKE LAND COLLEGE s 217-234-5253

23

NON-PROFIT ORG. PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 280 MATTOON, IL 61938

5001 Lake Land Blvd.

Mattoon, IL 61938

POSTAL CUSTOMER

REGISTER TODAY! Spring semester begins January 11.

Visit lakelandcollege.edu to get started.