Eastfield Experience 2015-16

Welcome Eastfield Experience The Eastfield Experience is a newcomer’s guide for the college. It was produced and published by the Eastfield student newspaper, The Et Cetera, with support from the Office of Student Engagement and Retention.

Editor | J. Gomez Managing Editor | Andy Carrizales Assistant Managing Editor | Ana Gallegos Assistant Managing Editor | James Hartley Copy Editor | Caitlin Piper Photo Editor | Jonathan Wences Design Editor | Shane John Staff Christopher Bennett Nicole Ceron Tonya Caston Marie Garcia Brianna Harmon Braulio Tellez Carlos Valenzuela Shaunbrekia Washington Student Publications Manager | Elizabeth Langton Faculty Adviser | Lori Dann Executive Dean, OSER | Courtney Carter-Harbour The Et Cetera 3737 Motley Drive, Room N-240 Mesquite, Texas 75150 972-860-7130 etc4640@dcccd.edu

Experience success Greetings from President Dr. Jean Conway

Welcome to Eastfield College, and welcome back to those of you Harvesters who are returning. We are so glad to have you joining us for the Eastfield Experience.

What is this Eastfield Experience, you ask? It is the highly engaged learning experience Eastfield students enjoy, whether in the classroom, using the many student support services, being involved in student activities or simply enjoying the pleasant facilities and campus grounds. We want Eastfield students to be energized as they learn new information, gain skills and understand more about themselves.

As each of you expand your knowledge base through taking science, math, social science, English, foreign language, the arts, physical education and career technology courses, you will expand your future horizons. Through student support services, you will have extra help to enhance your educational experience.

Through student activities, you will meet new friends as well as learn civic and leadership skills. Through all of these experiences, you will learn more about yourself too.

This is perhaps the most important learning you will gain while at Eastfield.

For only through truly understanding yourself will you have a basis on which to build the rest of your life.

Eastfield College strives to exceed students’ expectations as they move through the Eastfield Experience. We are glad you have come for this extraordinary educational journey.

Eastfield College

Dallas County Community College District The mission of Eastfield College is to provide excellence in teaching and learning.

3737 Motley Drive Mesquite, Texas 75150 972-860-7002 eastfieldcollege.edu Colors | Blue & Orange Mascot | Harvesters COURTESY EFC GRAPHICS

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Eastfield Experience

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07 Getting Started n n n n n n n orange Student Checklist, Choose a Major, Scholarships 13 Academics n n n n n n n n n Academic Divisions, Campus Map,

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22 Services n n n n n n n n n n Safety, OSER, Health Services

26 Campus Life n n n n n n n n n Annual Events, Clubs, Sports

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33 Graduation n n n n n n n n n

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Unique Classes

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ANA GALLEGOS/ET CETERA

EASTFIELD TIMELINE September 1970 Classes start in the Campus Center and LRC building. The Physical Education and Fine Arts buildings are not completed until spring. The first full-time staff member, James W. Hall, is hired in the fall to teach English.

1972 Students react with ambivalence toward the selection of a new mascot, the Harvesters.

February 1972: Myrlie Evers, widow of murdered Mississippi civil rights leader Medgar Evers, visits Eastfield to encourage the involvement of women and ethnic minorities in politics.

April 1972: Comedian George Carlin performs at Eastfield.

TABLE oF CoNTENTS

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Below, a 2015 graduate at May commencement. Below, left, ballet folklorico dancers perform during Hispanic Heritage Month. Below right, the Mardi Gras queen and king with parade Grand Marshal Emilio Lopez, business professor.

1972 Actor Michael York visits Eastfield while filming “Logan’s Run.”

Academic Year 2015

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Academic Calendar Fall 2015 Aug. 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Faculty reports Aug. 28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . District Conference Day Aug. 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Classes begin Sept. 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Labor Day holiday Sept. 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12th class day Nov. 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Last day to withdraw Nov. 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Thanksgiving holidays begin Dec. 14-17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Final exams Dec. 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grades due Dec. 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . College buildings and offices close . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .for the holidays at end of workday Dec. 18-Jan. 11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wintermester

Spring 2016 Jan. 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . College buildings and offices open Jan. 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Faculty reports Jan. 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Martin Luther King Jr. holiday Jan. 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Classes begin Feb. 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12th class day Feb. 26 . . . . . . Friday day classes will not meet. Friday evening, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Saturday and Sunday classes will meet March 14-18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Spring Break – college closed March 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Holiday April 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Last day to withdraw May 9-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Final exams May 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grades due May 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Graduation May 13-June 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Maymester

ANA GALLEGOS/THE ET CETERA

Above, festive students celebrate Mardi Gras in the Pit. Left, Ray Bradbury’s “The Illustrated Man” was last year’s Common Book. The novel inspired sci-fi related events, from movie-watching parties to a campuswide, alien invasion-themed game of tag. Bottom, students race each another to the finish line on Field Day. The event gives students a chance to unwind before finals week.

Summer 2016 May 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Memorial Day holiday June 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Summer I begins June 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Last day to withdraw July 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fourth of July holiday July 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Final Exams/Summer I ends July 11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grades due July 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Summer II begins Aug. 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Last day to withdraw Aug. 11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Final exams Aug. 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grades due to Registrar’s Office BRAULIO TELLEZ/THE ET CETERA

EASTFIELD TIMELINE Fall 1981 North Building, the first addition to the campus since the original construction, opens.

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Eastfield Experience

February 1983 Count Basie is the featured artist at the 11th Annual Festival of Twentieth Century Music at Eastfield.

Nov. 3, 1986: Vice President George Bush attends a Republican rally at Eastfield.

Nov. 21, 1989: A woman disgruntled about not being hired at the college delivers a suspicious package to the Admissions Office and leads police on a car chase before being shot and crashing into a tree.

Her “bomb” proves harmless.

ANA GALLEGOS/THE ET CETERA

Fall 1993 The district board approves $9.5 million for construction of the T building, renovation of the old automotive areas as a new campus entrance and a library extension and computer lab.

Eastfield’s founding family: the Motleys

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Clockwise from top left: The Eastfield community celebrates Arbor Day by planting a tree. Hungry students grab some popcorn in the Pit during Spirit Day. The Eastfield Jazz Ensemble performs in the Lower Courtyard during “Jazz Under the Stars.” Music professor Pierrette Mouledous teaches her students how to play piano. Scuba instructor Ken Balvin teaches one of his students the proper techniques for diving.

June 1996

Fall 1996

Hendrick Vinkenborg, manager of the Eastfield Food Service, is murdered in his office, apparently as part of a robbery. The killing took place overnight when no students were on campus.

Eastfield’s auto technology program partners with Toyota to train future employees.

Spring 1997: Basketball team wins national championship

The Motley family came to Texas from Kentucky in 1856, leading a caravan of 30 covered wagons.

“Zachariah, Mary Motley, their eight children and an unknown number of slaves moved to Dallas County,” retired professor Jerry Henson wrote in his Eastfield history book, “The Person-Centered College.”

They bought the land on which Eastfield College now resides for $3 an acre, making it their home.

With a total of 3,000 acres, the Motley family worked the land spread all EASTFIELD LIBRARY ARCHIVES across Dallas County, from the middle of downtown Dallas to Mesquite. It was on the land in Mesquite that the Motley family built their homestead.

Zachariah Motley, first owner of the land, passed away in 1868.

His grandson, John Stephen Motley, lost his arm in a cotton gin accident. The limb was buried in the family cemetery, located on the Eastfield campus, without its owner in 1894.

The foot of Grover Cleveland Motley, another grandson of Zachariah, is also buried in the cemetery. Henson’s book indicates, “Cleveland’s foot was seriously injured when it was caught in a stirrup when he was thrown from a horse. … [The] foot developed an infection, and like John’s arm, it also had to be removed.”

Until 1969, the land on which the college now resides remained under the care and ownership of the Motleys. On Sept. 15, 1969, the Dallas County Junior College District purchased the land for about $9,000.

A year later, the Motley manor burned in a suspected arson.

Local legend holds that the Motley homestead was haunted, and rumors persist that a ghost inhabits Eastfield’s Performance Hall.

Eastfield College opened in 1979, joining El Centro and Mountain View in the district.

Today, monuments mark the Motley family’s influence in the area. Motley Drive runs alongside Eastfield’s campus. Three Mesquite elementary schools are named for the original family and its descendants — Zachariah Motley, Ruby Shaw and Joe Lawrence.

The Motley Cemetery received a state historical marker in 1976, and descendants of settlers still maintain it.

— James Hartley and J. Gomez

April 2000: Eastfield celebrates its 30-year anniversary

30!

Sept. 4, 2000 Professor Jerry Henson publishes an Eastfield history book.

Academic Year 2015

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Pleasant Grove campus

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ANA GALLEGOS/THE ET CETERA

My job is about continuously learning how to build community, not only in higher education internally, but also in higher education externally ... I focus on the community and how we are preparing students to meet their needs. ­— Javier Olguin, Executive Director of Pleasant Grove Campus

Services offered at PG campus : 802 S. BUCKNER BLVD. DALLAS 75217 | 972-860-5300

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Workforce training programs ESL and ESOL classes Testing/Learning Center Four computer labs Community room 10 smart technology classrooms English and math tutoring Teaching Assistant certificate Nursing Assistant certificate Continuing education courses GED training Freshman-level credit courses College readiness classes in reading, writing, math

EASTFIELD TIMELINE Spring 2001

Feb. 2009

Baseball team wins its first national championship. The Harvesters will go on to win it again in 2006 and 2011.

Construction begins on Eastfield’s satellite campus in Pleasant Grove.

June 2011: Dr. Jean Conway named new college president.

Fall 2011 The Et Cetera wins its first Pacemaker award. The student paper will win the national award again in 2014.

Oct. 4, 2011: President Barack Obama visits Eastfield to talk about his American Jobs Act.

April 22, 2015 A memorial for founding DCCCD Chancellor Bill J. Priest, who negotiated an end to the labor strike that allowed Eastfield College’s construction, is held at Eastfield.

TIMELINE COMPILED FROM “THE PERSON CENTERED COLLEGE” BY JERRY C. HENSON

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Eastfield Experience

Getting started Harvester Tips

n For scholarships, internships, volunteer opportunities, clubs, programs, event dates and other general information, visit the Office of Student Engagement and Retention in C-237.

n Eastfield offers free Wi-Fi to students in all buildings.

Select EFC Public in your Wi-Fi options to connect on your laptop or mobile device.

n Swing by The Link in the library, TRiO in C-237, the Science Corner on the second floor of S-building and the Math Spot in C-201 for free tutoring.

n The Health Center in C-139 has a list of low-cost health agencies for people who cannot afford health insurance. The Health Center also provides students with over-the-counter medication when needed.

n For group projects, reserve a group study room in the library at the circulation desk. All rooms include white boards. Some rooms have media equipment including TVs, VCRs and DVD players. A student ID number and photo ID are required.

n The relaxed atmosphere in the S and G buildings are perfect for studying on your own. Although there are study areas in the C building, these areas tend to be more noisy because of their proximity to the Pit.

n Students can access campus via DART bus route 110, which connects to downtown Dallas.

n The Military Veterans Place in C-216 allows veterans to relax between classes. Contact Veterans Affairs for more information.

n Prefer a nice restroom? Ladies: Try the restroom next to the elevator on the first floor of C building near the L Building. Gentlemen: Outside the Performance Hall near the entrance to A building..

About the cover: Illustration by Jonathan Wences Design by Shane John

new Student

checklist

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Submit all transcripts to Admissions Office in C-119.

Email visiteastfield@dcccd.edu or call 972-860-7348 to request campus tour and complete student orientation.

Print Proof of Bacterial Meningitis Immunization Compliance at eastfieldcollege.edu/ari/menigitis.asp.

Incoming students under 22 must submit the completed form at least 10 days before the first day of class. Some exceptions may apply. Submit completed Immunization Compliance to Admissions Office in C-119.

Obtain a student ID card in L-108.

Students must present a photo ID and class fee receipt, which can be acquired at the Eastfield Business Office in C-126.

If under 18, the student’s parent or guardian must supply an ID. Replacement IDs cost $10.

Pass Pre-Assessment Activity and Texas Success Initiative Assessment in C-114.

Grade will determine college readiness and whether the student requires any developmental classes.

Complete Free Application For Student Aid at fafsa.gov.

Visit Eastfield Financial Aid Office in C-100 for further guidance.

Meet with an adviser in C-120 for help with planning your schedule. Students can walk in or schedule appointments at www.eastfieldcollege.edu/advisement.

Wait times are longer during peak registration times.

File degree plan on eConnect.

Degree plans guide students in selecting classes for their preferred degree or field of study.

Complete registration for classes online on eConnect or in the Welcome Center in C-127.

Apply for a DCCCD Money Card, which allows students to easily receive refunds and financial aid disbursements from the Dallas County Community College District. Students must verify their eConnect accounts before they can apply online. Cards will arrive in the mail within five to seven days after applying.

Replacement cards are $20.

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Buy or rent textbooks or e-books.

Textbooks can be ordered through eConnect from the Eastfield College Bookstore or they can be purchased at the bookstore in N-100 or from online retailers.

Download the DCCCD app for iPhone or Android. The app includes campus maps, a public directory for staff and faculty, mobile-friendly access to eConnect and eCampus and more. The app is free.

Attend your first class. If you are having trouble finding a room, use Google Maps or one of the directories on campus, or visit a 411 information table during the first week of classes. To ensure that you don’t get lost, plan a walk-through to find your classrooms the week before classes start.

Academic Year 2015

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$

$

$

S T U D E NT LOANS

$

are at an all-time high at nearly

COSTs ARE ANNUAL AND ASSUME A COURSE LOAD OF 15 CREDIT HOURS EACH FOR TWO LONG SEMESTERS At A DCCCD CAMPUS IN DISTRICT

IN DISTRICT

OUT DISTRICT

$1, 770

$1, 770

$3, 330

$3, 330

$3, 708

$9, 747

$3, 708

$9, 747

Home With Parents

Home With Parents

OUT DISTRICT Off Campus

$2, 000

$2, 000

$2, 000

$2, 000

$1, 296

$1, 296

$1, 296

$1, 296

$1, 881

$1, 881

$1, 881

$1, 881

$10, 665

$16, 694

$12, 215

$18, 254

SOURCES: DCCCD, EDVISORS

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Off Campus

Eastfield Experience

71%

CLASS Of 2015 bears the most student loan debt in American history SHANE JOHN/THE ET CETERA

Advising:

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Get guidance before starting coursework Academic advising is designed to help students reach their educational and career goals while attending college.

Advising is a shared responsibility between the adviser and the student. While the ultimate responsibility is on the student, advisers are there to help students choose classes, identify career goals, find resources and follow the best path to graduation and Audra Patridge future success in the professional Advising Director world.

When visiting the Eastfield College Advising Office, students should be aware of their responsibilities as an advisee.

You should: • Understand and communicate personal values, abilities and goals.

• Provide accurate and truthful information when being advised.

• Schedule and keep appointments or call if it is necessary to change or cancel appointments.

• Learn and understand Dallas Community College District and Eastfield College’s policies, procedures and requirements.

• Come prepared to each advising session.

• Be open to the new possibilities that an adviser may suggest.

• Follow through on plans of action identified during advising sessions.

• Understand and accept that you are ultimately responsible for your education and decisions.

Whether you are meeting with your adviser in person or via some other medium, you should have all applicable materials for that conversation, including: • Your Program of Study report, which can be accessed on eConnect; • A list of questions for your adviser; • Your advising report; • Transfer guides for four-year institutions you are considering; • List of classes you are considering; • Most recent copy of your degree plan; • Unofficial transcript; • Materials gathered from a plan-of-action from a previous appointment.

Do not be afraid to ask questions. Policies and procedures on a college campus can be very complex, so asking questions is an excellent way to understand them better.

Take an active role in your advising sessions. Come to your appointment prepared with questions and materials. This is your educational process, and you have the right to participate in shaping it.

Room C-120; 972-860-7106; efcadvising@dcccd.edu

I want students to know that I’m here to support them, so I try to be involved with different programs and initiatives to make sure that they get a well-rounded college experience.” ­ — Kimberly Lowry Executive Dean of Student Enrollment

How to choose your major

S

o, what do you want to be when you grow up? College is a time for exploration and learning, but it’s also meant to prepare you for a career — one that may last the rest of your life. It’s OK to be undecided, but you also don’t want to waste too much time or money taking classes that don’t move you toward a goal.

Meet with an adviser before you register for classes. If you’re unsure about a career path, visit the Career Services Department and take a career interest inventory.

Determining your field of study is the first step on the road to your degree or certificate. Whether you want to focus on English (Associate in Arts), music (Associate in Arts with a Field of Study in Music), Auto Body (Auto Body Technology AAS) or something else entirely, Eastfield has a place for you.

Use the list below and schedule an appointment with an academic adviser and career counselor to plan your future.

General Associate Degrees Associate in Arts Associate in Sciences Associate of Arts in Teaching

Office Technology–Executive Assistant Renewable/Sustainable Energy Social Work Substance Abuse Counseling

Fields of Study Associate in Sciences (Business) Associate in Arts (Criminal Justice) Associate in Arts (Mass Communications–Journalism) Associate in Arts (Mass Communications–Speech) Associate in Arts (Music)

Certificates in Applied Sciences Accounting Assistant Accounting Clerk Advanced Manufacturing/Mechatronics Technology Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Residential Technician I

Residential Technician III Auto Body

Metal Technician Painter

Shop Management Technology Custom Auto/Street Rod Fabrication Automotive Technology

Chassis Service Technician

Electronics/Climate Controls

Engine Repair/Performance

High Performance Modification

Transmission Service Business Administration-Human

Resources Assistant Business Office Systems and Support

Administrative Support

Office Assistant

Software Application Specialist Child Development/Early Childhood Ed Administrative

Teaching Careers Computer-Aided Design and Drafting

Architectural Drafting CAM-CNC

Advanced Operator Operator

Associate in Applied Sciences Accounting Advanced Manufacturing/Mechatronics Technology Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technology Residential Air Conditioning and

Refrigeration Technology Auto Body Technology Automotive Technology

Honda Career Training

Service Tech

Toyota Technician Business Administration Business Office Systems and Support

Executive Assistant Child Development/Early Childhood Ed Computer-Aided Design and Drafting Computer Information Technology

Personal Computer Support Criminal Justice Digital Media Technology Electronic Systems Technician Option Electronics/Computer Technology Management

Computer Information Technology

Information Security

Help Desk/User Support Tech

Personal Computer Specialist

Personal Computer User

Technology Support Criminal Justice

Basic Certificate

Criminal Digital Forensic Investigations

Criminal Forensics

Criminal Justice (30 Hours)

Criminal Justice (45-46 Hours) Digital Media

Digital Photography

Digital Pre-Press Multimedia Electronic Telecommunications-

Technical Platform (16 Hours) Electronics/Computer Technology Management Management-Supervisor Office Technology

Administrative Support

Office Assistant

Software Application Specialist Renewable/Sustainable Energy Tech Social Work Gerontology

Human Service Substance Abuse Counseling

Mental Health/Prevention Counseling Welding

Gas Metal Arc (GMAW)

Gas Tungsten Arc (GTAW)

Shielded Metal Arc (SMAW)

Academic Year 2015

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DCCCD Scholarships Applicants must be current or future DCCCD students. Deadlines are the first Friday in June unless otherwise noted.

Adolph Streng Memorial Endowed Scholarship $200 per semester Requirements: 2.0 GPA; enrolled in psychology/human sexuality course Alice Jones Berding Endowed Award in Music $500 per year Deadline: second Friday in February Requirements: music major; must be enrolled in music; preference to students studying piano Bill and Mary Mitchell Scholarship $500 per academic year Requirements: math, science, engineering or arts major; 3.0 GPA; U.S citizen; enrolled in nine credit hours Bill J. Priest Endowed Scholarship $500 per semester Requirements: 3.0 GPA; involved in church or community activities; participate in academic clubs Brookhaven College Humanities Scholarship $200 per academic year Requirements: enrolled in DCCCD humanities course Bryan Hogan Endowed Scholarship $500 per semester Deadline: 5 p.m. Friday before Spring Break Requirements: nominated and recommended by a member of the DCCCD faculty Career Pathway Scholarship $500 per semester Deadline: apply within 12 months of high school graduation Requirements: AAS degree associated with articulated credits; must qualify for articulated (Career Pathway) credit Carole Rolnick Shlipak Endowed Scholarship $500 per semester Requirements: 3.0 GPA; enrolled nine credit hours; completed at least one semester at a DCCCD college Cecil Wallace Fordham Memorial Endowed Award in Visual Arts $500 per semester Deadline: third Monday in February Requirements: visual arts major; enrolled in the field of visual arts Communities in Schools Scholarship $325 per semester Requirements: recommendation from Communities in Schools Dallas Region; “at-risk” student Dallas Association for the Blind Scholarship $500 per semester Requirements: 2.5 GPA; completed minimum of six credit hours;

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Eastfield Experience

documentation of disability Dallas County Sheriff’s Association Endowed Scholarship $250 per semester Requirements: 2.0 GPA; enrolled in six credit hours David Yoder Theatre Scholarship $500 per semester Requirements: 3.0 GPA DCCCD Faculty Association Endowed Scholarship $300 for tuition and books for spring semester only Deadline: Nov. 15 Requirements: 3.0 GPA; completed a minimum of 12 credit hours; enrolled full-time during the semester for which the scholarship application is submitted DCCCD Retirees Association Endowed Scholarship $500 tuition and books for spring semester only Deadline: first Friday of October Requirements: 3.0 GPA; completed 15 transfer credit hours; enrolled in 12 credit hours; Dallas County resident DCCCD Second Chance Scholarship $500 per semester Requirements: 2.5 GPA; degree plan on file DCCCD Single Mothers Scholarship $375 per semester Requirements: 2.0 GPA; lowincome mother (25 years old or younger) with proven custody of children; enrolled in six credit hours DCCCD Sustainable Communities Development Scholarship $500 per semester Requirements: 2.5 GPA; sustainable studies, renewable energy practices major; degree plan on file Dorothy Gibson Blankenship Memorial Scholarship $500 per semester Requirements: 3.0 GPA; education major; degree plan on file Charley A. “Chuck” Shaw Memorial Scholarship $1,500 per semester Requirements: persistence toward a pharmacy or pharmaceutical degree; 3.0 GPA Chuck Choate Memorial Endowed Scholarship $250 a semester Requirements: 2.0 GPA; journalism major David McCoy Photography Endowed Scholarship $250 a semester Requirements: photography major; financial need; 2.0 GPA Drs. Richard J. and Carol L. Cinclair Endowed Scholarship $300 per semester Deadline: fall, June 30; spring, Oct. 30 Requirements: Eastfield student; 2.0 GPA; completed six hours of

substance abuse counseling/social work courses Early Foundation Endowed Scholarship $200 per semester Requirements: 2.0 GPA; enrolled in six credit hours Eastfield College Academy of Science & Technology Endowed Scholarship $250 a semester Requirements: Eastfield student; honor student; 3.0 GPA; math, science or technology major Eastfield College Visual Arts Scholarship $300 per academic year Deadline: March 8 Requirements: Eastfield student; minimum 3.0 GPA; pursuing university transfer to earn Bachelor of Fine Arts Eleanor Fordham Jones Endowed Award in Creative Writing $500 per semester (spring only; rotates yearly between designated colleges) Deadline: Feb. 3 Requirements: Be enrolled in either fall or spring creative writing class; preference for English majors Erin Tierney Kramp Encouragement Endowed Scholarship High school students: Tuition and books for up to six semesters.

College students: Tuition and books for the remainder of two-year program Deadline: first Friday in April Requirements: DCCCD student; high school graduate; 3.0 GPA; complete eight hours per semester; exemplify courage and perseverance in the face of hardship or adversity Foundation President’s Scholarship Amount varies Requirements: 2.0 GPA; enrolled in six credit hours Franklin E. Spafford Academic Endowed Scholarship $100 per semester Requirements: 3.0 GPA Furman Milton Memorial Scholarship Fund $500 per semester Deadline varies Requirements: full-time Eastfield student; education major; Institutional Student Information Report on file; 3.0 GPA Gayle Weaver Memorial Endowed Scholarship $400 per academic year Requirements: Eastfield student; interest in science; completed four credit hours in biology and taking fours hours in biology or completed eight hours of biology; 2.0 GPA; preference for students taking field science courses George Dawson “Hold Fast to Dreams” Scholarship

$250 per semester Requirements: 2.5 GPA; enrolled in six credit hours James Michael Pitt Memorial Endowed Scholarship $300 per semester Requirements: Eastfield student; 3.0 GPA; science, math or computer science major Jane Allen Memorial Endowed Scholarship $300 per academic year Deadline: first Friday in April Requirements: Eastfield student; 3.0 GPA; pursuing an associate degree Jeff John Memorial Endowed Scholarship $250 per semester Requirements: Eastfield or Richland College student; 2.0 GPA J.D. and Lillie Belle Hall Endowed Scholarship $250 per semester Requirements: 2.5 GPA; have a high school diploma or GED; completed six credit hours per semester; financial need Jim Wardlow Memorial Endowed Scholarship $250 per semester Requirements: Eastfield student; fine arts major, preferably theater John Hinkle Memorial Scholarship $200 per semester Deadline: varies Requirements: returning Eastfield student; 3.0 GPA John M. Thorne Memorial Endowed Scholarship $500 per semester Deadline: first Friday in November Requirements: Eastfield student; business major; 2.75 GPA; volunteer service John Stewart Fine Arts Memorial Endowed Scholarship $250 per academic year Requirements: Eastfield student; demonstrate artistic merit; declared major in the fine or performing arts Lareese Ratcliff Memorial Scholarship $500 per semester Deadline: varies Requirements: 3.0 GPA; accounting or criminal justice major; complete 12 credit hours; live in ZIP codes 75241 or 75232 or in the Oak Cliff area of Dallas County Lance Grigsby Memorial Endowed Scholarship $400 per academic year Requirements: Eastfield or Brookhaven College student; automotive technology major; 2.0 GPA LeCroy Scholars Endowed Scholarship Tuition and books for up to six semesters Deadline: first Friday in April Requirements: high school

graduate; exemplify outstanding leadership; strong academic record; extracurricular activities; 3.0 GPA Lee Caropresi Guitar Endowed Scholarship $250 per academic year Requirements: Eastfield student; 2.5 GPA; music major; enrolled in guitar courses Leon Pleasant Memorial Endowed Scholarship $500 per semester Deadline: first Friday in November Requirements: Eastfield student; business major; 2.75 GPA; single parent with custody of a minor child Linda Nevius Groves Scholarship $250 per semester Requirements: 2.0 GPA; accounting major; enrolled in six credit hours; single parent Lone Star Corvette Club Automotive Technology Scholarship $1,000 per semester Deadline: varies Requirements: 2.5 GPA; automotive technology major; enrolled in an automotive technology program; completed 12 credit hours Marie M. Razkow Service Learning Endowed Scholarship $250 per semester Requirements: First generation college student; service learning participant in high school or college; 2.5 GPA Mark W. Presley Scholarship $1,000 per academic year Requirements: Eastfield student; U.S. citizen; 3.0 GPA; declared math or science major Mary Forrest Communications Club Scholarship Amount varies Requirements: Eastfield student; member of Eastfield College Communications Club; 2.5 GPA Mesquite Host Lions Club Endowed Scholarship $400 per semester Requirements: 2.5 GPA; graduated or earned GED from a high school in Mesquite Independent School District or Dallas Christian School in Mesquite; enrolled in six credit hours per semester Miles Production Company Endowed Scholarship $300 per semester Requirements: demonstrate urgent financial need Muse Scholarship Tuition, books and fees for up to six semesters

Deadline: first Friday in April Requirements: 3.5 GPA or top 10 percent of high school class; complete 12 credit hours per semester; exemplify outstanding leadership demonstrated by involvement in academic, church and/or community-based activities North Texas Collision Repair Association Endowed Scholarship Amount varies Deadline: fall, June 30; spring, Oct. 30 Requirements: Eastfield student; U.S. citizen; Dallas County resident; high school diploma or GED; enrolled in second semester or second year of auto body technology program; 3.0 GPA Oscar Blair Memorial Endowed Scholarship $125 per semester Requirements: Eastfield student; Dallas County high school graduate; 3.0 GPA Pat Kennedy Memorial Endowed Scholarship $400 per academic year Applications accepted year-round Requirements: Eastfield student; 2.5 GPA; child development or teacher education major with a certificate or degree plan on file Peter Maaske Memorial Scholarship $500 per semester Requirements: Eastfield student; South Garland High School graduate; 2.5 GPA; pursuing a certificate or Associate Degree in an electronics, solar energy or mechatronics field Picquet Military Scholarship $100 per semester Requirements: 2.5 GPA; enrolled in a DCCCD distance learning course; military student or spouse enrolled in a program of study; enrolled in three credit hours Press Club of Dallas Endowed Scholarship $250 per semester, Requirements: journalism major; 2.5 GPA Professional Support Staff Association (PSSA) Endowed Scholarship $200 per calendar year Deadline: third business day in January Requirements: DCCCD staff; 2.0 GPA; full-time or limited full-time PSSA member with one year of employment or a part-time PSSA member with two years of continuous active employment; minimum of 70 credit hours The Randall and Sherry Reed Advantage Scholarship $5,000 for automotive specific tools; educational expenses on case-by-case business; opportunity for training and employment at Reeds-owned auto dealership Deadline: July 31 Requirements: Eastfield or Brookhaven College student; 2.9 GPA

Rauscher Pierce Refsnes Endowed Scholarship $250 per semester Requirements: 3.0 GPA; business major; enrolled in six credit hours Reece A. Overcash Jr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship $500 per semester Requirements: 3.0 GPA; employee of Citi with one year of active employment or legal dependent of a Citi employee; six credit hours Richard McCrary International StudyAbroad Endowed Scholarship Amount varies Deadline: first Friday in March Requirements: 2.5 GPA; completed 12 credit hours; accepted into DCCCD study-abroad program Rising Star Scholarship $4,000 Requirements: recent graduate of Dallas County public high school, Dallas Can Academy or approved charter high school; family income must fall within a specific range; meet one of the following: graduated top 40 percent of high school class; at least B average in high school; pass the required assessment test to enter DCCCD R.L. Thornton, Jr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship $500 per semester Requirements: 3.0 GPA; demonstrated leadership in academic, church or community activities; complete nine credit hours per semester; preference for first-generation college students Roger Weeks Memorial Endowed Scholarship $500 per semester Deadline: first Friday in November Requirements: Eastfield student; business major; 2.75 GPA; disabled veteran pursuing a business career SCORE (Service Corp of Retired Executives) Endowed Scholarship $250 per semester Requirements: 2.0 GPA; business major; enrolled six credit hours Services for Disabled Students Endowed Scholarship $250 per semester Deadline: fall Oct. 1; spring March 1 Requirements: 2.0 GPA; completed six credit hours; documentation of disability SSDA: Student Success in the Dramatic Arts Scholarship $200 per semester Deadline: fall July 31; spring Dec. 16 Requirements: Eastfield student; 3.0 GPA; history of service to theater department; complete three-hour theater course; remain active in theater productions and events Susan Hitt Hall and Ralph G. Hall Endowed Scholarship $500 per semester Requirements: 2.5 GPA; Red Oak High School graduate (2013 or after); completed nine credit hours;

active participant in academicor music-related University Interscholastic League activities Suzanne Andres Endowed Scholarship $500 per semester Deadline: second Friday in March Requirements: nomination from DCCCD faculty or staff T-STEM Challenge Scholarship $2,500 per academic year Deadline: Aug. 15 Requirements: Eastfield student; high school graduate, 3.0 GPA; pursuing science, technology, engineering or math degree Telemundo Hispanic Business Salute Scholarship $5,000 per academic year Deadline: May 30 Requirements: Hispanic heritage; 3.0 GPA; broadcasting, journalism or radio, television and film major Ted Pohrte Distance Learning Scholarship $225 per semester Deadline: fall, June 30; spring, Nov. 30 Requirements: 2.5 GPA; enrolled in six hours of distance learning classes; no outstanding debt with financial aid Thelma B. Ratcliff Memorial Scholarship $500 per semester Requirements: pursuing degree in health and science professions, such as nursing, pre-med, biology, physical therapy, engineering, radiology, dentistry and pharmacy; complete two credit hours per semester; resident of Dallas County in ZIP codes 75241 or 75232 Trinity Chapter of Links Inc. Scholarship for Excellence $500 per semester Deadline: second Friday in November Requirements: 2.5 GPA; completed 12 credit hours; enrolled in six credit hours Toyota Automotive Technology T-Ten Scholarship Tuition, books, materials, tool set, paid internship at a Toyota dealership at the end of the first semester Requirements: Eastfield student; citizen or legal resident of U.S. residing in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Mississippi or Louisiana; high school diploma or equivalent; 2.5 cumulative GPA Vivian Davis Textbook Scholarship $200 per semester Requirements: Eastfield student; 2.0 GPA; involvement in campus activities that promote diversity; enrolled in or completed developmental writing or earned at least a B in English 1301 Walter L. Pike Endowed Scholarship $500 per semester Requirements: 3.0 GPA; accounting major; U.S. citizen; enrolled in nine credit hours,; completed six credit hours per semester

Q A &

Q A

Amina Kader, an adviser in the ELLA Center, majored in international relations and traveled during college to Egypt, Oman, and Dubai. After graduating she spent a year teaching English in China and developed a passion for speaking to people from around the world. She and The Et Cetera’s Ana Gallegos discussed the center’s services.

What is ELLA?

ELLA stands for English Language Learning Advisement Center. We handle three different types of students. We handle noncredit English students who are just taking communication based courses. We also handle credit English classes [for] any students that are on the path of becoming college-level ready. Instead of taking developmental English classes, they take the ESOL credit classes. And then we also handle international students that come from abroad with a student visa to study.

Q A

How long are the courses?

For the noncredit classes there are six levels. The basic level is 48 hours of instruction and then the other five levels are 60 hours of instruction. The credit program is broken down by class type. So there’s writing, grammar, reading, listening and speaking, and then each one of those have four levels.

“

I want the student experience to be seamless and easy when entering Eastfield College.”

The credit classes are more academic and the noncredit classes are more communication based.

Q A

How many students are involved per semester?

Just with our international students and our ESOL students – this includes online students, part-time students and even full time students – we had almost 2,000. If we include the noncredit students, that’s about another 600 or 700 students per semester. People don’t realize that we handle so many because they all sort of just come in spurts.

Q A

What’s it like working here, what have you learned?

When I first got here we only had seven or nine total international students and now we have almost 60, so that’s a pretty big jump for just a year and a half – it’s great.

C-112, 972-860-8308, efcglobal@ dcccd.edu.

— Paul Goertemiller Executive Dean Student Development and Support Services Academic Year 2015

11

Academics

Change your study habits to succeed in college thinking it will be easy without doing the homework that covers the material of the class.

Q

How important is it to get involved with campus events and extra-curricular activities? What can students expect to gain from being involved?

A

We’re called a community college for a reason ... Being engaged is the secret ingredient for doing well in school. There are many higher education studies that show if a student is emotionally and socially engaged, there is a much higher success rate for that student.

Q

What are three of the most important tips for students wanting to have a successful transition from high school to college?

A

Q A &

JONATHAN WENCES/THE ET CETERA

The transition from high school to college can prove jarring for students, who move from a structured learning environment to a self-directed education experience. The Et Cetera’s Christopher Bennett asked Associate Dean of Arts and Communications Judith Dumont, who also manages The Link writing and languages tutoring lab, for advice on successfully adjusting to the change.

Q

In high school, students may study very little or not at all. How does this change when attending college classes?

A

It depends on your learning style and the professor teaching the course because every student learns differently and has different strengths and weaknesses. But the average college course requires three hours of study time outside of class each week. One of the most important ways to learn the material is to attend class and take notes.

Q

In high school, testing or exams are typically frequent and may only cover a small amount of material. Does this change in college, and if so, how?

A

It depends on the type of material being taught, but most professors will have a midterm and a final exam that make up most of the student’s grade, along with attendance and homework assignments. The exams will be very heavy in content and may cover six or more chapters. However, this is not the only way that

professors teach, and many have the freedom to choose how they want to present the material.

Q A

How does the structure of time management change in college?

Time management is something you develop as you progress in your academic career, but it will benefit you greatly to find a strategy or create a plan early on. Time management in college changes drastically.

Students become more in control of their schedules and academic life than previously in high school and often find themselves skipping out on class or procrastinating on projects because of this change ... Students must control their study time by sitting down and scheduling everything.

Q A

What type of classes do students have the most difficulty with at Eastfield?

Statistically speaking, the most difficult classes at Eastfield College are the online courses. Online courses demand more work because they require more independent student study, which goes back to time management and study habits ... Never take an online course

No. 1 tip, don’t let anyone tell you what to major in. Find your passion in life by testing out different fields of study. You will be much happier if you do what you want. No. 2, don’t assume professors hate students. Professors aren’t the devil. They don’t want to make you hate your life, but they do have a standard for education and want to challenge students to learn as much as they can in order to be prepared for the professional world ... The third tip is to make a friend in college. Moving from high school to college can be a very lonely time because many friend circles have broken up and gone their own direction in life. Many students find that a lot of friends suddenly aren’t there, and it can really cause your happiness, and therefore motivation, to fall.

Q

What kind of help or assistance is available for students who find themselves struggling with grades or studies?

A

Don’t be ashamed if you need help or are struggling. Don’t let a grade tell you if you are good or bad at something. Typically a grade is just a reflection of effort. Therefore, if something doesn’t come naturally to you, it doesn’t mean you cannot become good at it. Instead, it’s a matter of self-discipline and looking for the right resources to do better next time. Some of the most helpful programs Eastfield offers are The Link for reading and writing, the Math Spot for math tutoring and the Science Corner for science subjects. All of these services are 100 percent free of charge ... You also have your peers in your classroom, creating a study group with classmates, going to the library to find library guides already set up for certain classes ... Also, we have a program called Journey to Success, which is a mentor program that sets you up with a professor or faculty member to be an academic coach to assist you.

And if students become too overwhelmed and stressed with anxiety, you can go talk to the oncampus counseling services.

Course

Terms Eastfield offers classes yearround and in several different formats, with terms as short as three weeks up to the traditional 16-week semester.

Fall and Spring Traditional 16-week schedule from August to December and January to May. Summer Five weeks from June to July and July to August; 10 weeks from June to August.

Scholar-Mester Online 12 credit hours per semester, one class at a time. Each class lasts three weeks with one-week breaks between sessions.

Maymester Three- to four-week term from mid-May to early June.

Wintermester Four- to five-week term from mid-December to early January.

Flex-term Classes during the fall and spring semesters that last less than the traditional 16 weeks.

Lengths range from three to 15 weeks and vary by class.

Learning Communities Groups of students complete two or more classes as a group. Linked courses include English composition and learning frameworks; automotive technology and English composition; and speech and learning frameworks. Look under Learning Communities in the schedule for other options.

Nights and Weekends Many courses are offered at night or on the weekends to allow students who work fulltime to pursue their education goals.

Academic Year 2015

13

Arts

& Communications Division

Dance

Arts

Enroll in a hip-hop, ballet, tap, ballroom, jazz or modern dance class or stretch your limbs with yoga or Pilates.

Students in the Eastfield Dance Company are encouraged to enroll in multiple dance courses.

Theater If drama is your passion, consider theater, acting or film classes, which are open to all students. The Harvester Theatre Company also stages two big shows per semester. Theater classes are not required for participants. Past productions include “Hairspray,” “Dracula,” “Miracle on 34th Street,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” “The Great Gatsby” and “Medea.”

Students interested in joining the Musical Theater Learning Community, a new program that culminates in a stage musical, must enroll in vocal ensemble, musical theater and jazz dance.

Art

&

communications

Classes Art Dance Developmental Reading Developmental Writing Digital Media Drama English ESOL Foreign Languages Humanities Journalism Music Speech Theater

A wide range of visual arts classes are offered at Eastfield: 2-D and 3-D design, painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, fiber arts, photography and watercolor. Student work is displayed in Gallery 219 at the end of each semester, and some are selected for the college’s permanent art collection on display throughout the campus. Gallery 219 in F-219 and the H Gallery, attached to the F building, host art shows each semester.

Music Eastfield offers an Associate in Arts degree with an emphasis in music, which prepares students to transfer as junior-level music majors. Most music classes are open to nonmajors of varying skill level. The Eastfield Chorus, which performs at several campus events each semester and plans performances with the Mesquite Symphony in the fall and the Irving Symphony in the spring, welcomes all students. Auditions are required for the 15-member Jazz Ensemble.

Music Appreciation is a core course.

JONATHAN WENCES/THE ET CETERA

Above, an Eastfield art student works on a piece in the Lower Courtyard. Above center, The Harvester Theatre Company performs “You Can’t Take It With You.” Above right, a dance student shows off his moves in the Performance Hall.

14

Eastfield Experience

THE ET CETERA FILE PHOTO

“

THE ET CETERA FILE PHOTO

I’m here to help. If [students] have concerns about what their teachers are doing or if they have concerns about the campus or a program, I’m here to hear those things and to help them. I’d like them to come by and tell me if things are going well.” ­— Rachel Wolf, Executive Dean of Arts and Communications

Social Sciences Division SOCIAL

L SOCIA

CES SCIEN

Classes

y Anthropolog ent m op el ev Child D e ic st Criminal Ju s ic m Econo Geography Gerontology Government History opment Human Devel

SCIENC ES

Classes

Learning Fram eworks Philosophy Psychology Religion Social Work Sociology Substance Ab use Counselin g Teacher Educ ation

ET CETERA FILE PHOTO

Teachers in the Eastfield Children’s Laboratory School give individual attention to children in their care.

Child and Family Studies

Center trains future teachers THE ET CETERA FILE PHOTO

Shayn Davenport, a tutor in The Link language and learning lab, helps a student edit an essay assignment.

Courses train students in best practices of learning Human Development 0092 is a class that helps students who are unprepared for college learn tools to be successful.

Topics covered during the class include critical thinking, problem solving, goal setting, note taking, stress and time management, communication, the importance of supportive relationships and academic and career planning.

Learning Frameworks, Education 1300, is mandatory for Dallas County Community College students.

The course goes beyond the lessons of HDEV 0092 to further explore critical thinking techniques and apply behavioral theories to student success. The class also teaches time management, personal responsibility and interdependence.

Students who take this class are statistically proven to have a 0.2 higher GPA than students who do not, according to the district.

DCCCD exempts veterans, people over age 64, and those who have completed more than 13 credit hours from taking the course.

Eastfield’s Center for Child and Family Studies serves two purposes: educating future teachers and caring for children.

The Children’s Laboratory School in the K building provides day care services for all children up to age 5.

The center also offers low-cost, child care at night for the children of students who attend evening classes.

The school is accredited through the National Asso-

“

ciation for the Education of Young Children.

Students have three options for studying child development at Eastfield: a two-year associate degree or a one-year certificate in either administration or teaching.

Training includes hands-on activities and observation in the college classroom as well as working and observing in the lab school, public schools and other child care facilities.

I am responsible for making sure student needs are met within the scope of (our division’s) courses.

Our main focus is the students and making sure that what we do can support their efforts during their time at EFC.” ­ Mike Walker — Executive Dean of Social Sciences

Academic Year 2015

15

Career Technologies

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Class

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ting Accoun hnology e T ody c Auto B e Technology tiv Automo siness upport Bu s and S m te s y eS ss Offic Machining fting Busine CNC and Dra n ig s e dD ding ter Aide Compu Blueprint Rea echnology T te u mp r Conditioning ir nics/Co Electro tilation and A n t e n V e , g m e Heatin Manag nics o tr a ergy Mech able En in ta s u S able/ g Renew Weldin

Crash courses

Tech training provides fast track to job market

S

PHOTOS BY JONATHAN WENCES/THE ET CETERA

Clockwise from above: A welding student works in a T building classroom. Automotive students repair a car engine. A student creates a metal machine part in the CNC machining lab.

16

Eastfield Experience

“

Our main focus is to get you to work and find a skill that gets you going at the job as fast as possible.”­ — Johnnie Bellamy Acting Dean of Career Technologies

tudents interested in earning certificates to jump-start their careers are encouraged to check out Eastfield’s Career and Technologies Division. Eastfield offers students opportunities to get hands-on, viable training and experience that will make them a commodity in today’s workforce with a variety of certificates and two-year programs such as an Associate of Applied Science in automotive technology.

Eastfield trains students in general automotive repair, but also offers programs for specific companies.

The Toyota T-Ten is an intensive, two-year curriculum that leads to an Associate of Applied Science degree, two Automotive Service Excellence certification and nine Toyota factory certifications. A scholarship is available that covers tuition, books, materials, tool set and a paid internship at a Toyota dealership at the end of the student’s first semester.

Honda Professional Automotive Career Training is also a two-year path toward an AAS degree with Honda certification.

STEM Division

“

I’m in charge of making sure everything runs smoothly. So I hire the faculty, make the schedule, make sure we have qualified faculty in front of the classes, help faculty solve problems and help faculty help students solve problems. ” ­— Gretchen Riehl, Executive Dean of STEM

Electron microscopes magnify ants, student experience The Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Division is home to a pair of scanning electron microscopes.

Electron microscopes are several magnitudes more powerful than standard light microscopes.

Light microscopes achieve about 2,000-times magnification. Electron microscopy beams electrons to create images of objects, allowing much higher magnification.

Any student can be trained to use the microscopes and join the research projects coordinated by professor Murry Gans. The most recent project is a census of the ant species in nearby counties.

Students go into the field and collect the ants as well as use light microscopes and the scanning electron microscopes in the lab to identify them.

“I am primarily interested in students who plan to pursue a degree related to biology,” Gans said. “But mainly I am looking for intelligent, disciplined and highly motivated students who are not afraid of a challenge – or getting hot and dirty – who will persist in the research and are interested in learning something new about the natural world.”

Gans says that participation in this research helps students acquire skills that could help them join undergraduate research programs when they transfer to four-year colleges.

For more information, contact Gans at mgans@dcccd.edu.

S TEM

Classes Anatomy/Physiology Athletics Biology Chemistry Computer Science Computer Technology Developmental Math Engineering Geology Math Medical Terminology Nutrition Physical Education Physics

STEM Institute preps scholars for 4-year goals

ET CETERA FILE PHOTOS

Above, Professor Murry Gans points out features of a scanning electron microscope.

Left, ants magnified by an electron scanning microscope.

The DCCCD STEM Institute was created in 2009 to provide help for students looking to complete associate degrees in science, technology, engineering or mathematics.

The STEM Institute selects students through a competitive application process in which the average GPA of accepted applicants is a 3.7. Those chosen to be STEM Scholars are eligible for aid with books and tuition.

The institute’s academic support and mentoring are designed to reduce attrition among STEM majors during their first two years of college. About 90 percent of DCCCD STEM scholars earned degrees, have transferred to universities or are in the program, according to the district.

For information, visit the STEM office in C-202 or call 972860-7108.

— Brianna Harmon

Academic Year 2015

17

L - Library

Exit to Oates Byron McClenney Drive

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Dan Sundermann Dr.

The Pit Registration Rising Star STEM Division Subway Veterans Place

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Dance Studio Facilities Management Receiving

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T - Technology Alternative/Sustainable Energy Automotive Programs Career Technologies Division

Parking Lot 10

K - Center for Child and Parent Studies

18

Eastfield Experience

Weight Room

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Art Gallery

Children’s Laboratory School Early Childhood Development Teacher Education

Et Cetera Upward Bound

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W - Workforce Criminal Justice Continuing Education Global Corporate College

Robert Aguero Dr.

Police Academy Workforce Training

Academic Year 2015

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Unique classes, new hobbies American Sign Language This class will provide you with a valuable skill and fulfill your foreign language credit. Taught by American Sign Language interpreters from the Disabilities Services Office, the course covers finger spelling and appropriate behavior at the beginner’s level and proper grammatical structure, the study of deaf culture and the opportunity to interact with

Professors: Jenny Powley, Mary Tobola Core: Yes Courses: SGNL 1301, SGNL 1302, SGNL 2301 Prerequisites: Varies by class

Composition II — ­­ Native American Literature/ Speeches focus This pilot course includes all the elements of an English 1302 class, covering definition, visual and argumentative essays with a special focus on Native American speeches, literature, history and art.

Students will analyze speeches from 1500 to the present time while immersing themselves in Native American history.

The course also explores why

the local deaf community at more advanced levels.

ANDY CARRIZALES/THE ET CETERA

Learn about Native American tribes through English.

Discrimination, mass murder and the belief in a superior race — the hallmarks of Nazi Germany and the focus of Western Civilization II. The class covers familiar topics such as the Holocaust and major battles of World War II, but also reflects on military strategies, religion, art, psychology and even fashion of the period. The course is also part of the Honors Program and is one of the most popular at Eastfield. It fills up fast, so register quickly to go 70 years back in history.

Professor: Emilio Lopez Core: No Course: BUSI 1307 Prerequisites: None

“The advantage in that is that we have all this wealth in experience, life experiences,” Lopez said. “Everything good and bad in life is going to have a financial impact on us.”

Lopez will also help students create plans to escape debt.

many Native Americans cooperated with Europeans.

Textbooks and other materials are provided. Students must return textbooks at the end of the semester.

Western Civilization II ­— Nazi Germany focus

Personal Finance Don’t let debt take over your life.

Learn how to manage your money in Personal Finance.

This class covers short-term and long-term investments, retirement, homeowners insurance, car insurance, life insurance, stock market investments, savings and many more of the financial obstacles of life.

Professor Emilio Lopez says it should be mandatory for every student. The diverse ages of students enrolled provides valuable insight for younger students.

Professor: Kassandra Buck Core: Yes Course: ENGL 1302-41003 Prerequisites: English 1302

Professor: Michael Noble Core: No Course: HIST 2312 Prerequisites: None

ANDY CARRIZALES/THE ET CETERA

Some of the relics that Professor Noble shares with his class.

Musical Theater Learning Community This three-class program offers students an opportunity to immerse themselves in a musical theater environment.

“It’s designed to prepare students to be solid performers in musicals,” Professor Melinda Imthurn said.

Students will start their mornings with a music class, a dance class and a drama class. The program is open to all students, not just dance, drama and music majors. The course prepares students to audition for four-year programs and professional shows.

At the end of the semester, students will stage a performance to showcase their new talents.

ET CETERA FILE PHOTO

The Harvester Theatre Company performs the musical “Hairspray.”

20

Eastfield Experience

“

Professors: Dance: Danielle Georgiou; Drama: Dusty Reasons-Thomas; Music: Melinda Imthurn Core: No Courses: DANC 1347-41001, DRAM 1161-41001, MUEN 1151-41201 Prerequisites: None

It’s what they call being a triple threat. You can act, you can sing, and you can dance.” ­— Melinda Imthurn, Music Professor — Information compiled by Andy Carrizales

Students say ‘aloha’ to field study Field Studies

COURTESY OF FABIOLA CHAVEZ

Professor Ron Beecham holding a plant indigenous to Hawaii.

Eastfield’s Biological Field Studies program provides students with the opportunity to conduct research projects outside the classroom. Current offerings include field trips to Port Aransas and Hawaii’s Island of Kauai. The courses are short terms, usually offered in Maymester or Wintermester. Students participate in online and classroom instruction before leaving.

“That’s exciting to me, that we are able to give students these kinds of experiences they have never had before, and that’s really the goal behind these field courses,” said Gretchen Riehl, dean of the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Division.

Science major Fabiola Chavez participated in the Hawaii trip in May with professors Mike Huddleston and Ron Beecham.

“I learned a lot indirectly … because we were being taught a lot, but there was just stuff that you were wondering about,” Chavez said.

“You wanted to learn about this stuff because the professors are really passionate.”

Field studies classes for Hawaii generally run between May and June and require enrollment in both Biology 1411 (general botany) and Biology 1407 (biology for science majors II). The program costs about $2,175 plus meals.

For information, contact Huddleston at 214-354-0884 or mhuddleston@dcccd.edu or Beecham at 214-328-8295 or rbeecham@dcccd. edu.

Field studies classes for Port Aransas are offered in May and December and require enrollment in Biology 1409 (biology for nonscience majors II) and biology 1411 (intro to botany.)

COURTESY OF FABIOLA CHAVEZ

Students from the 2015 Maymester trip to Hawaii pose on the exposed buttress roots of a tree.

“Field studies like these give students the opportunity to travel as part of the class and build camaraderie with students on the trip because it’s usually a small group working

closely together,” professor Jeff Hughes said.

Contact Hughes at 972-860-7328 or JeffHughes@dcccd.edu — J. Gomez

Programs target specialized student groups Rising Star

Upward Bound

Honors Progr am

W.W. Samuell early college

Offers academic support services, one-on-one academic advisement, scholarships and career counseling for qualifying high school graduates.

Helps high school students gain academic and social skills to continue their post-secondary education. Students receive counseling, SAT preparation, university tours, personal enrichment workshops and other opportunities.

Offers students an advanced academic experience to prepare them for transferring to universities. Small classes encourage interaction, leadership and service. Graduates receive Honors Scholar distinction on their diplomas.

Allows qualifying high school students to spend their junior and senior years at Eastfield and earn up to 60 hours of free college credit by the time they complete high school.

C-138 LaKisha D. Wooden 972-860-7327 lwooden@dcccd.edu

N-230 Sandy Hampton 972-860-7284 sandyhampton@dcccd.edu

C-138 Brittany Smith 972-860-7293 brittanysmith@dcccd.edu

C-237 972-860-7631 4OSER@dcccd.edu

Dual Credit

Continuing Education

Career & T ech Early College

Allows high school juniors and seniors to earn high school and college credit simultaneously. Tuition is free.

Along with Workforce Development, provides educational opportunities to community members without college credit. Classes include business and industry training, GED and test preparation and leisure activities.

Enables Spruce High School students to take technical and general-education courses in order to obtain their associate degrees while obtaining high school diplomas.

C-125 LaQuesha Foster 972-860-7289 efcdualcredit@dcccd.edu

C-119 eastfieldcollege.edu/ced

C-138 Elisa Garcia 972-860-7293 engarcia@dcccd.edu

Academic Year 2015

21

services Police

CONTACT INFO

Add this number to your phone’s contacts:

972-860-4290

Call 911 from a campus phone Office: N-112

Be safe on campus Campus police say they are always ready to help, but students should know the rules and how to protect themselves and their property.

According to police Cpl. Nona Titus, the first thing students should do to protect themselves is know who to call in the case of an emergency and save the Police Department’s number into their cell phones.

When dialing from an outside phone (pay phones, cell phones, etc.), dial 972-860-4290 to contact the Dallas County Community College police dispatch.

When dialing from an on-campus phone, dial 911. You can also use the emergency call boxes at the following locations: n PE circle at swimming pool n On sidewalk on the west side of G building (W3 lot) n Between N1 and N2 parking lots n E1 parking lot, northwest corner n E5 parking lot on the north side of S building n On the jogging trail adjacent to the baseball field n On the median between W4 and W5 lots n On the north side of L building, near W2 lot

How to prevent theft n Lock your car. n Hide your expensive belongings in the trunk out of sight. n Do not leave your phone, purse or computer unattended.

How to act in event of an armed intruder lockdown n Remain calm. n Find the nearest room, lock the doors, turn off the lights and close the blinds. n Sit on the floor. n Wait for an all-clear message from police.s How to prevent assault n Ask a police officer to escort you to your vehicle at night. n Report suspicious individuals if you are being followed. n If you feel you have been violated on or off-campus by a student or professor, contact campus police immediately. Both physical and verbal abuse should be reported.Automobile Safety PHOTOS BY BRAULIO TELLEZ/THE ET CETERA

Member’s of the Police Department present the flags at the Veteran’s Day celebration in fall 2014.

“ 22

Eastfield Experience

I want students to come to school knowing they are safe and secure. I’m a concerned chief and would like to inform incoming students about our open-door policy. Students do not have to be afraid to stop any officer, including myself, about concerns they may have.”

— Michael Horak

Eastfield Chief of Police

Driving tips n No speeding on campus. n Do not text and drive. n Police can air up a flat tire or jump a dead car battery. n Campus police are authorized to ticket drivers on campus roads, so always obey the speed limit and stop signs.

— Christopher Bennett Campus

RULES No smoking on campus, even parking lots. No e-ciga rette use.

No weapons in campus bu ildings.

Concealed ca rry permit hold ers may possess weapo ns in parking lots. The “campus carry ” law allowing concealed licence holder s to carry wea pons at colleges do es not take ef fect for community co lleges until fall 2017.

OSER: Your connection to campus life, services

Q A &

Q A

The Office of Student Engagement and Retention is the umbrella for campus life activities such as clubs, Student Government Association and service learning, plus helpful services such as peer mentoring, career counseling and the Health Center. OSER Executive Dean Courtney Carter-Harbour talked to Et Cetera writer James Hartley about maximizing student success through engagement in campus activities.

What is OSER?

OSER is a very unique concept and it is one of a kind in the district. It’s where campus life becomes more integrated into the classroom and becomes more integrated in student services, so all the areas, programs and activities are set to actively engage and retain our students and help our students reach their goals.

Q

What is the First Year Experience?

OSER

Calendar Wed

29

Mon

July

Club orientation, 12:30-4 p.m., G-101

August

10

Club officer retreat through Aug. 12

31

Welcome Week begins Coffee in Fireside Lounge; 7:30 a.m.-noon

Mon

Tue

1

Wed

2

First fall Et Cetera published

September Coffee in Fireside Lounge, 7:30 a.m.-noon Spirit Day: wear orange and blue T-Shirt swap, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Evening Coffee in Fireside Lounge, 5:35-8:35 p.m.

Thu

3

Coffee in Fireside Lounge, 7:30 a.m.-noon Evening Coffee in Fireside Lounge, 5:35-8:35 p.m.

Fri

4

Wed

9

a cohort of new students who have gone through the New Student Orientation. They invite them to campus life activities, and they also make themselves available in the OSER office.

Our PALs work very closely with academic advising.

Sometimes information is lost in translation, and students want to talk with someone one-on-one who can maybe speak their language and has already gone through several semesters, so that when they do go to an academic adviser they feel more comfortable. Currently, to help us host and lead our New Student Orientation, we have 12 PALs. We ask that the PALs commit to work with students for a full year.

JONATHAN WENCES/THE ET CETERA

A

The First Year Experience is also something fairly new that we’ve been working on since OSER’s beginnings.

So, currently, the First Year Experience includes peer mentoring, learning communities, making career connections, working with students who have participated in our new student orientation services, and working with them on their educational plans. And, of course, it includes participation in New Student Orientation sessions.

Q A

What are peer mentors?

Currently, our peer-mentoring model is called PALs. The word PALs stands for Peer Advising Leaders, and these are students who are paid to be peer mentors. These PALs first connect to students in New Student Orientation (and) continue to work with students throughout the year. Each PAL is given

OSER Fun Friday: surprise event Club Fundraiser, 11 a.m.1 p.m., Lower Courtyard Spirit Day

Wed

16 Thu

17

Spirit Day Service Learning Fair, 9 a.m., the Pit Constitution Day Panel, 11 a.m.-12:20 p.m., C-135 SGA Forum. 12:30-1:50 p.m., C-135

Mon

Common Book “Maltese Falcon” scavenger hunt starts

Wed

Spirit Day

21

23 Tue

29

Common Book keynote speaker Leslie Klinger, Sherlock Holmes expert, 11 a.m. and 5:35 p.m.

Wed

Spirit Day

30

Common Book keynote speaker from Perot Museum, 9:30 a.m., Pleasant Grove campus; 11:15 a.m., main campus

Mon

5

Tue

6

Wed

7

Thu

8

Fri

9

Mon

12

October Health & Wellness Week Art in Action, 11 a.m.1 p.m., the Pit Intramural Recruiting Campus safety and Title IX workshop; 11 a.m. for students, 2 p.m. for faculty and staff Spirit Day Healthy Living Fair, 11 a.m.1 p.m., the Pit International Day of the Girl Child event SGA Mental Health Awareness activities, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Transfer Fair, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., the Pit Hispanic Heritage Month activities begin with “Dia de la Raza”

Wed

Spirit Day

Thu

Transfer Fair, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., the Pit

14

15

ELLA Center Foreign Film Series, 12:30 p.m., C-237A

Q A

How does OSER directly impact campus culture?

OSER directly impacts students in pretty much all of our areas — learning communities, where we work closely with faculty, and intramurals. We directly impact students in terms of the participation of students in clubs and organizations. Also, with service learning, where students go out into the community and then connect those experiences with what they are learning in the classroom. We work with students in transferring and career services. Also, OSER includes counseling and health, so we work with students on their health and overall well-being while they’re here on campus. So we help students in all areas of their lives and really pay attention to our students’ campus life, soliciting student input on what their campus life should look like and what kind of activities and support they need in between their classes and in their classes to help them be successful.

Room C-237; 972-860-7335; eastfieldcollege.edu/OSER

Mon

Free Speech Week begins

Wed

Spirit Day

19

21

Hispanic Heritage Month readings and reflections, 5:35 p.m.

Tue

Hispanic Heritage keynote speaker, 11 a.m.

Wed

Spirit Day

Thu

Halloween club fundraiser, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., the Pit

Fri

Halloween club fundraiser, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., the Pit

27

28

29 30 Mon

2

Wed

4

Halloween costume contest, 11 a.m., the Pit

November Harvester Hunger Project begins; runs until Nov. 24 Hispanic Heritage food and trivia, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., the Pit Spirit Day

Wed

Veterans Day ceremony, 10 a.m.-noon, the Pit

Mon

Finals Week Slam

Wed

Spirit Day

Tue

Harvester Hunger Project ends

11

16 18

24

December Wed

Spirit Day

Mon

OSER Stress Less activities begin, 11 a.m-1 p.m., the Pit; every day Dec. 7-11

Mon

Stress Buster refreshments and giveaways in library during regular hours of operation; every day, Dec. 14-17

2 7

14

Academic Year 2015

23

Campus health ser vices

Managing stress while staying on track for graduation

Q A

Q A

What types of services are offered by Eastfield counselors?

We work with people through their issues, whether it be family, relationships, school, work or life in general.

Q A

&

For what types of issues do students seek counseling?

More often than not, students are coming in because they are stressed. They have anxiety about something. Stress can be overwhelming. Stress can be caused by any number of things. Physical things can cause stress; how people treat us can cause stress.

JONATHAN WENCES/THE ET CETERA

Homework, tests, relationships, money, jobs — all elements of student life can trigger stress. Eastfield offers free counseling to students, whether their issues are school-related or personal. Counselors Jeff Quan and Katie Neff are available year-round. Et Cetera reporter Brianna Harmon talked to Quan about handling stress and when to seek help.

Q A

How does stress impact academic performance?

It can have a tremendous impact. What happens is at the beginning of the semester, students are excited, dedicated, motivated and ready to be back in college.

So all of the good stress that they are experiencing is devoted to the classroom environment. After about two to three weeks, life in general

starts creeping right back into them, and all these other things they have had going on for years start becoming a higher priority.

Q A

What are the symptoms of stress?

Let’s break it down to three categories, which are biological, physiological and social. Biological is physical. It’s easiest to see signs of stress physically with sweating, rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing, high blood pressure, muscle tension, headaches. Physiologically or mentally, it’s about [students’] thoughts and their feelings. Often they have racing thoughts, inability to concentrate, difficulty speaking. They are compacting their emotions or they explode with their emotions. It’s taking their thoughts to extremes rather than being in a balanced perspective. Social is when they begin changing their relationships.

Q A

Q A

Do students stress more about their home life or school?

I think it’s related more often than not to the stuff outside of the classroom. It may present [itself] as an issue related to their schoolwork.

Think about it this way: Someone who is taking 12 hours, a full-time student, theoretically they are in the classroom 12 hours during the week.

But that means they are outside of the classroom for so many more hours, and that is where life really impacts us.

Q

What age group stresses the most, the first-time college student or the older student who has been out of school for a while?

A

At what point should students seek help with their stress?

We see students coming in from any age group. Many would be 18 and fresh out of high school. Some clients have been in their 60s and 70s.

It is just one of those cases of that person has reached that stage of their life where they said they are sick and tired of being sick and tired, and I’m willing to do something about it.

As soon as they recognize that something doesn’t feel right.

C-140, Quan 972-860-7371, Neff 972860-7384.

Health

Center Provides health care, over-the-counter medication, disease prevention education, health screenings, counseling and monitoring of community health needs. The Health Center also sponsors special campus events such as blood drives, immunizations, HIV testing, STD testing, mammograms and more.

C-139 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday 972-860-7190

24

“

We are here for students who need help, but also for students who may just have questions about their own health.”

— Cynthia Taylor Health Center Director

Eastfield Experience

CARLOS VALENZUELA/THE ET CETERA

More s tudent ser vices

Bookstore The Follett-run campus store sells textbooks, school supplies, snacks and Harvester gear.

Location: N-100 Hours: Varies 972-279-3660

Business Office Pay for your classes and organize refunds, reimbursements and club money transactions here. Students may also request registration receipts and get change.

Location: C-126 Hours: 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday 972-860-8381 C2: SAFE A free, non-profit program designed to help students manage their money with the help of a counselor, financial webinars and workshops. Students can also apply for a one-year program to multiply their monthly savings with a $300 annual maximum. www.cccs.net/services/financial-education/ dcccd 214-540-6836 Career and Employment Services Free career advice for everything from resumes to job interviews. Assessments are also available for students struggling to determine their majors.

Location: C-237B Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday 972-860-8310 Child Care The Children’s Laboratory School is housed within the Center for Child and Family Studies. The program offers full-time day care to the public and part-time evening care for children of Eastfield College students enrolled in evening classes. The program is also a teaching environment for Eastfield’s Teacher Education and Child Development/Early Childhood Education departments.

Location: K building 972-806-7195

Computer Center The main computer lab for students.

Students must have their student ID numbers to access these computers. To print or make copies, create accounts with a minimum $1

“

“We are here to serve students, and we want them to be successful.” ­— Karla Greer Educational Resources Dean

balance at the ADD Value Stations. To obtain a free student ID, students must present proof of registration and a photo ID at the help desk.

Location: L-108 Hours: 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday 972-860-7012 Disability Services Offices Provides individualized services for disabled students.

Location: C-237 Hours: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday 972-860-8348 Fitness Center Weight room, jogging trail and outdoor basketball, racquetball and tennis courts for student and employee use. Students registered in PHED courses may use the weight room free of charge; other students must pay $10 per semester or $25 per quarter. The pool is closed for repairs.

Location: Weight room P-215; other facilities located around the grounds.

Hours: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday Library In addition to books and DVDs for checkout, the library has computers with Internet access and Microsoft Office, printers, copiers and scanners. Magazines are available for in-library use. Private group study rooms can be reserved at the Circulation Services

Desk. A variety of textbooks are available for on-site use in the Reference Section. A maximum of 10 items can be checked out simultaneously. A student ID is required for most services.

Location: L-200 Hours: 7:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday 972-860-7168

Tutoring Centers The LINK: Tutoring services for English, reading, writing and language courses. The LINK employs peer tutors as well as seasoned writing experts for individual and group tutoring. Email 4thelink@dcccd.edu for online tutoring.

Location: L-200, inside the library Hours: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday

Lost & Found Located in the Police Department Location: N-112 Hours: Office 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday 972-860-4290

The Math Spot: Tutoring services for math, economics and accounting courses.

MyMathLab access available.

Location: C-201 Math hours: 7:30 a.m.-7 p.m. MondayThursday 7:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Friday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday Hours for statistics, accounting and economics tutoring vary.

972-860-7062

TRiO Student Support Services Guides disabled, economically disadvantaged and first-generation college students toward successful college careers with scholarships and academic advice. Peer Advising Leaders, or PALs, mentor TRiO students during their first year.

Location: C-237 Hours: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday 972-860-8353 Testing Center Also known as the Assessment Center, this is where most incoming students are required to complete the Pre-Assessment Activity and Texas Success Initiative Assessment.

Instructors may also arrange for make-up tests here. Tests will not be administered within the hour before closing.

Location: C-114 Hours: 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday 972-860-7011 Service Learning A teaching and learning strategy that aims to enrich the learning experience and strengthen the community by melding community service, instruction and reflection. Students can work with community agencies in order to fulfill the expected hours. Some classes require participation in the program.

Location: C-141B 972-860-7182 Student Success Series Workshops held throughout the academic year that seek to facilitate student engagement and success outside the classroom. Workshop sessions, coordinated by library staff, are developed by faculty and staff and cover a wide range of topics. Event dates vary. http://libguides.eastfieldcollege.edu/ studentsuccessworkshops

The Science Corner: Tutoring for various science courses and an ideal place for study group meetings.

Location: Second floor mezzanine of S building Hours vary by course subject.

Visit www.eastfieldcollege.edu/smpe/ ScienceCorner/ for schedule. jemery@dcccd.edu

Veterans Affairs Office Assists qualifying students with advising, tuition and monthly benefits. In addition, veterans registered with the office can relax and socialize in the Military Veterans Place with computers, a TV and an Xbox.

Location: Veterans Affairs C-125 Military Veterans Place C-216 Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday and Thursday 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday 972-860-7323

Academic Year 2015

25

campus life

Speak up! Student government listens

Q A

The Student Government Association is an elected group that represents Eastfield students.

Students can hold leadership roles as part of the Executive Body of the SGA, & the House of Representatives or the Senate or serve on committees.

All students may attend the SGA general meetings, held at 12:30 p.m. every other Friday.

Danny Lam, a biomedical engineering major, is SGA president for 2015-16. He has previously served as SGA secretary and is a vice president for Phi Theta Kappa and the Rotaract Club.

Et Cetera reporter Carlos Valenzuela chatted with him about the SGA’s plans.

Q A

What is the role of the SGA at Eastfield?

We are the bridge between the student body and administration. However, this year I want to change that to more of a two-way communication.

We are here to advocate and promote the student body’s concerns and issues and address them to the administration.

From your past experiences, how has the SGA benefited students?

Q A

We have committees that address specific issues around campus; for example, the Beautification Committee, which has been involved in things like planting tulips on campus and also improving the soccer fields.

What is the platform for the SGA in the upcoming fall semester?

Q A

Our plan is for SGA to be more visible to the campus, to be more involved in campus activities, and also for other clubs to be interconnected between each other when it comes to campus activities and events.

Q

What impact do you think the changes to the Office of Student Life will have on the student body? (At the end of the spring semester, Student Life was absorbed into the Office of Student Engagement

26

Eastfield Experience

SGA 2015-2016 Executive Body President: Danny Lam Vice President: Andrea Carrizales Secretary: Aaron Sustaita Parliamentarian: Danny Garcia Treasurer: Vanessa Trevino Public Relations: Nicole Ceron Texas Junior College Student Government Association President: Rameez Sohail

and Retention. The Student Life director and her assistant lost their jobs.)

A

All of the Student Life activities and events will remain the same. However, there are going to be new programs and events that are upcoming, like a Campus Activity Board and a new study abroad program coming next summer where students are able to travel to different countries and still receive credits, which will be funded by OSER.

What long-term goals do you have for the SGA?

Q A

Since we lost our adviser and the Office of Student Life, we have to start from scratch. So there’s a lot of pressure for not only me but also for my officers and upcoming SGA members because we have to start a new platform. What I am hoping is what we do now will help future SGA groups as far as having the right resources, rearranging our constitution and meeting with administration more often than before.

Q A

Why is it important for students to join organizations like the SGA?

I feel like it’s very important for students to join clubs and organizations because it’s a good way to make new friends, network with other students and get in touch with administration. With SGA you also become a part of a statewide organization known as the Texas Junior College Student Government Association, or TJCSGA. So, not only do you get to network here at the college but also at a regional level.

Q A

What process do students have to take in order to get elected for certain positions in the SGA?

Since our executive board is filled at the moment, students won’t be able to run for any positions this upcoming year. However, you can run for a senator [position] by filling out an application, having 15 nominations from other students and writing an essay explaining why you deserve that position.

C-237; Adviser Diana Madrigal-Hopes ; 972-860-7634

Student

clubs These clubs have indicated they will be active during the fall 2015 semester. Contact the Office of Student Engagement and Retention for information on existing clubs and how to form your own.

Adventure & Travel Club: To network with students who have traveled or would like to travel. Adviser: Rik Post, 972-860-8342 Allied Health Club: To provide networking among students interested in the medical and allied health fields. Advisers: Jessica Kerins, 972-860-8137; Carl Knight, 972-860-7152; Rik Post, 972860-8342 Anime Club: To watch and understand Japanese cartoons and animations. Adviser: Emilio Lopez, 972-860-7118 Art Club: To engage students in art events on campus and the community and encourage creativity. Adviser: Kathy Windrow, 972860-7657 Baptist Student Ministry: To encourage and bring others to come to know Christ. Adviser: Michael Hutchins, 972-860-7681 Baseball Club: To promote and support the baseball program and its facilities. Adviser: Michael Martin, 972-860-7643 Comic Book Club: To spread an appreciation of comic books as an official form of literature. Adviser: Nina Lambert, 972-860-7229 Communication Club: To help students further develop speech communication skills by participating in professional workshops and events. Advisers: Mary Forrest, 972-860-7658; Courtney Brazile, 972-860-7164 International Student Club: To promote understanding and better relations between international and national students through social and cultural activities. Adviser: Aline Lopes, 972-860-8308 LULAC: To advocate equal opportunities for Hispanics and other minorities relating to government, law and business. Adviser: Katherine Reguero, 972-860-7678 Men’s Empowerment Coalition: To engage and retain male students by involving them academically, socially, culturally and professionally in their campus and the community. Adviser: Courtney Brazile, 972-860-7164 National Society of Collegiate Scholars at Eastfield College: To recognize and celebrate high achievement among first- and second-year students in all academic disciplines. Adviser: Nate Simpson, 972-860-7296 Nu Phi Sigma: To enjoy the power of step and encourage school spirit. Adviser: Ronda Jackson-Grandberry, 972-680-7630 Phi Theta Kappa – International Honor Society: To recognize and encourage scholarship, leadership, fellowship and service among students. Adviser: Mike Noble, 972-860-7146 Rotaract Club: To provide opportunities for young men and women to enhance personal development and to promote a worldwide framework of friendship and service. Advisers: John Emery, 972-860-7141; Kassandra Buck, 972-860-7046 Science Club: To provide an opportunity for those interested in science to encourage leadership in the field of science and research worldwide. Advisers: Rik Post, 972-860-8342; Carl Knight, 972860-7152; Jeff Hughes, 972-860-7328; Joseph Malaer, 972-8607265 Student Government Association: To represent the student body at Eastfield College. Adviser: Diana Madrigal-Hopes, 972-860-7634 Video Game Club: To collaborate and develop friendships between video game players at Eastfield. Advisers: Emilio Lopez, 972-8607118; Rita Bregola, 972-860-7631 Unswella Ankton, Student Clubs Coordinator unswellaankton@dcccd.edu 972-860-7359

Find your place at Eastfield:

Clockwise from top left: Lakeisha Tyler rehearses with the Nu Phi Sigma step club in the Lower Courtyard. Several student clubs raised money for victims of the Nepal earthquake. Members of the Science Club perform experiments with elementary school students. The Men’s Empowerment Coalition conducts a community service project.

Join a student Club

Clubs play an important role in making students feel connected to campus life beyond their classroom experiences. Organizations at Eastfield gather for service (Rotaract, Communications Club and Baptist Student Ministry), professional development (Men’s Empowerment Coalition and Allied Health Club), academics (Phi Theta Kappa and Science Club) and hobbies (Ping Pong Club and Video Game Club).

One of the newest clubs is Nu Phi Sigma, a step-dance group. Steppers use their entire bodies to create sounds and rhythms accompanied by spoken words, claps and footsteps. Vice President Jarvin Lockett said he wants to bring something new to the college community, and the dancers want to start participating in campus events right away.

“We plan on stepping at halftime during the basketball games and going to support the teams as well as baseball season and Welcome Week,” Lockett said.

They hope to aggressively recruit new members in the fall. For now, the club has three members.

“We want to become Eastfield’s official step team,” Lockett said.

“That’s the future plan within two or three semesters.”

The Men’s Empowerment Coalition is a more established group on campus. The club is part of the district’s Male Leadership and Retention Program.

The group’s mission is to engage and retain male students by involving them academically, socially, culturally and professionally on campus and in the community.

The coalition sponsors events, including a campus game night and race relations town hall last year,. It also participates in state and national leadership conferences. Mentors strive to help members achieve personal and professional goals.

The coalition meets at 12:30 p.m. on the first and third Tuesdays of each month. ­— Ana Gallegos

ANA GALLEGOS/THE ET CETERA

PHOTO COURTESY OF MEN’S EMPOWERMENT COALITION

ANA GALLEGOS/THE ET CETERA

Embrace college by diving into activities There is no doubt that the beginning of a new year in college can be daunting.

Between hoping your professors don’t give you any homework, trying to figure out how financial aid works, looking for alternative, inexpensive ways to buy books and working, participating in events and organizations around campus is probably the last thing on your mind.

However, Eastfield offers great opportunities to develop your leadership skills, discover your talents and make friends through student-run clubs, activities and organizations.

Being part of a club is a great way to start or continue your college career. Whether your passion is volunteering, video games or economics, there is a student club for you.

Some campus clubs are part of bigger organizations, offering students the opportunity to connect with people who share their interests on a larger scale.

The Rotaract Club, for example, is sponsored by the Mesquite Rotary Club, which is part of the global volunteering organization Rotary International.

I joined the Eastfield Rotaract Club last

fall following a recommendation from a friend.

Although I didn’t know what “Rotaract” meant, I still agreed when asked to represent the club in the Student Government Association.

Now I know Andy Carrizales that the club’s Student Leader of the Year mission is to volunteer and help others regardless of race, social and economic background and even distance. In spring 2015, we partnered with some Nepalese international students to collect funds for the people affected by the Nepal earthquakes.

“Service Above Self ” is our motto, and no distance will prevent us from helping those in need.

I’m incredibly excited to be this year’s Eastfield Rotaract president. We have great volunteer and leadership opportunities in the

works. Being a member of the Rotaract Club is as easy as volunteering.

As the SGA representative for Rotaract, I was introduced to Eastfield’s Student Government Association. I will be vice president for the upcoming 2015-16 academic year.

The SGA consists of motivated students who want to make Eastfield College a better place for all who enter its doors. As the official voice of the student body, the SGA strives to bridge a connection between students and administrators.

In summer 2015, we hosted a forum where students voiced their concerns about changes in staff and departments and got answers directly from administrators.

Last fall, I founded the Beautification Committee after seeing Eastfield’s potential to become a more eye-catching campus, and it soon grew to be one of the largest committees in the SGA. Comprised of students who seek to improve campus aesthetics, this committee is dedicated to making Eastfield a more pleasant campus and to keeping our college relevant in our community.

As the vice president of the SGA, I urge all

students to make your voices heard. Whether you’re representing a club, joining a committee or simply attending meetings, there is no better way to address your concerns about Eastfield than to be part of SGA. Honors organizations are also a great way to get involved. Being a member or an officer in these societies can bring you recognition and scholarships.

This year, I am the vice president of service for Phi Theta Kappa’s Psi Eta chapter.

Phi Theta Kappa’s main goal is to provide a way for students to develop their leadership skills. Through campus and community projects, volunteering events, state and international conventions and more, we hope to impact your life in the best possible way.

Being part of a student club or organization is easier than you think. You can dive right in as I did my first semester, or go in little by little by attending the Club Fair, Welcome Week or many of the festivals and events that Eastfield offers year-round.

The most important thing to remember is that there are many ways to be involved in campus life at Eastfield.

Academic Year 2015

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Student media Etera

Eastfield College

Wednesday, March 25, 2015

Volume 46, Issue 9

Women in Science professors shaping the landscape for young girls through example

Etera

MISD showcases student art work in gallery 219 See Pg. 8

THE GREAT DIVIDE Eastfield College

Wednesday, March 4, 2015

Volume 46, Issue 8

Etera

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Volume 45, Issue 10

Why Does Racism Still Exist In America ?

See page 6

Dr. Joe May, new DCCCD chancellor, visits Eastfield campus. Page 3.

Volume 45, Issue 11

Etera

Eastfield College

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Volume 46, Issue 1

Etera

Eastfield College

Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Volume 46, Issue 2

CULTURE SHOCKED

Family gives retiring piano instructor Pierrette Mouledous a special send-off. ➤ Page 6

Catcalls, sexist images, vulgar chants, date rape, victim-blaming.

Welcome to college life in 2014. ➤

Pages 8-9

Student raped on campus

Employee charged with sexually assaulting an 18-year-old student in a music practice room. ➤ Page 2

Etera

Eastfield College

Wednesday, December 3, 2014

Volume 46, Issue 6

From Sao Paulo to texas

Etera

Eastfield College

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

Greg Abbott defeats Wendy Davis in a landslide for Texas governor, Page 3

Volume 46, Issue 4

let’s talk nerdy how geek became chic

Etera

Eastfield College

Wednesday, February 12, 2014

Progress in gay rights, acceptance of LGBT community grow

By Braulio Tellez Within the past few years, the world has seen professional athletes, CEOs, actors, politicians and musicians come out of the closet. Some say it is a sign that times are changing.

Brother and sister move from one of Brazil's biggest cities to Texas suburbs, Page 3

“I definitely think that things are turning for the better,” said Larry Macklin, a part-time academic advisor.

Macklin has been working on a study of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender groups on two-year and four-year colleges campuses. He believes having openly gay figures in pop culture is helping America become more open-minded toward the LGBT community.

“10 or 20 years ago, there were hardly any gay figures in pop culture,” Macklin said. “Being gay then was considered a sin or even a crime. Now, you have openly gay football players. Everything is turning around and now you have people on TV you can look up to and tell yourself, ‘It’s OK to be gay.’ ” See Gay-Straight, page 3➤

Eastfield reacts to the marijuana debate Pages 4-5 ➤

The

Et Cetera Award-winning journalism Students who work for The Et Cetera, the college’s

Eastfield student goes Beast Mode at night ➤ Page 8

See page 3

Eastfield College

Etera

Eastfield College

see page 6

Volume 45, Issue 7

student newspaper, learn real-world journalism skills while reporting on issues that affect the campus community.

The newspaper seeks student writers, photographers, editors, page designers, cartoonists, website designers and videographers to produce content for the print edition and website. The staff publishes 12 newspapers each year in addition to updating the Et website — eastfieldnews.com — and social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Applicants need no prior experience and are not required to be journalism majors. However, Eastfield does offer an Associate of Arts with a field of study in journalism. Classes include mass communications, reporting, photojournalism, advertising, public relations, media literacy and broadcast journalism.

The Et Cetera won the Pacemaker Award, the college equivalent of the Pulitzer Prize, in 2011 and 2014 and has been a finalist for the award five

times. The newspaper has won more than 100 state journalism awards in the past three years.

“It’s like you already have an expectation built up there, and we’re always trying to surpass it,” Assistant Managing Editor Ana Gallegos said.

The experience teaches skills that could translate to future jobs.

“I’ve learned better time management skills and how to motivate people who work for me,” Editor in Chief J. Gomez said.

Contact Student Publications Manager Elizabeth Langton at elizabethlangton@dcccd.edu or visit N-242 for information on working for The Et Cetera.

Contact journalism program coordinator Lori Dann at loridann@ dcccd.edu for information on journalism courses.

— James Hartley

The Alternative

The Alternative, the college’s student-produced fine arts and literary magazine, was first published in 1990 to highlight student writing and artwork. After a three-year hiatus from 2007-09, it was restarted in 2010, receiving an honorable mention for general excellence from the Texas Community College Journalism Association.

The college has published a student literary magazine under five other names, starting with The

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Eastfield Experience

Villager in 1971. It was changed to Goat Leg in 1976, Epoch in 1980, Et Cetera Ambiance in 1988 and Visions in 1989.

Each year, students submit essays, short stories, poetry, art and photos.

Faculty judges choose the works to publish, and student editors design the publication.

The magazine is released each spring in conjunction with the Arts & Communications Division’s Literary and Fine Arts Festival.

Alte 2 rnAt 201 i 2015

ve

Celebrations

& Festivals

The college experience extends beyond the classroom. Eastfield encourages such engagement with a series of campus events throughout the year. n Welcome Week kicks off the fall and spring semesters. This fall, the Office of Student Engagement and Retention will host coffee socials and mixers each day in the Fireside Lounge on the second floor of C building.

Students will meet student leaders and learn about clubs and activities. n The Common Book Project encourages the Eastfield community to share the experience of reading a single book. Professors incorporate the book into their curriculums, and the Common Book Committee sponsors linked events throughout the year. Dashiell Hammett’s novel “The Maltese Falcon” is Eastfield’s sixth annual Common Book. The novel is a detective tale set in the 1920s. Humphrey Bogart starred in the 1941 film adaptation.

JONATHAN WENCES/THE ET CETERA

ET CETERA FILE PHOTO

n Health Week, sponsored by the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Division, takes place in early October. Events include lectures and sports contests. n Free Speech Week is celebrated during the third week of October and features guests and panels discussing free speech and the First Amendment. n On Halloween, clubs hold fundraising events such as bake sales, and OSER sponsors a popular costume contest. Other themed celebrations are held for Cinco de Mayo and Mardi Gras. n The college’s Sustainability Team holds an elaborate Arbor Day celebration, usually concluding with a tree planting, around the first Friday in November. n The Literary and Fine Arts Festival in April celebrates student achievements in dance, drama, music and writing over the course of a week in the spring semester. The student literary journal, The Alternative, is published, and each day features several speakers and events. The highlight is Jazz Under the Stars, a performance by the Eastfield Jazz Ensemble. n The International Festival, which showcases fashion and culture from around the world, is an annual event that takes place in the spring. n Other events include Black History Month in February, Women’s History Month in March and Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15-Oct. 15, all celebrated with an array of events. n For more information on festivals and campus life as well as a calendar of events, visit OSER online at eastfieldcollege.edu/OSER.

— James Hartley

ANA GALLEGOS/THE ET CETERA

Clockwise from top left: A dancer performs in the Lower Courtyard during Cinco de Mayo. Former Student Government Association President Danny Garcia dumps a bucket of ice water on President Jean Conway as part of the Ice Bucket Challenge, a fundraiser to fight amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. A guitarist plays a song during the Wednesday Recital Series. Getting a cookie from their foreheads and into their mouths proves to be a challenge for these students during annual Field Day.

ET CETERA FILE PHOTO

Harvester Tips n Where is that classroom? Who teaches developmental

math? When is the next music recital? How do I apply for financial aid? When do I register for classes? The Harvester Hotline has the answers you are seeking. Call 972-8607189.

n The Business Office in C-126 isn’t just where you pay

your tuition. Employees will also exchange large bills for smaller ones and refund cash lost in vending machines. n Visit eastfieldcollege.edu/student-concern-process/index. asp to submit a student complaint.

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Athletics A history of Harvester excellence on the court & in the classroom Eastfield fields four sports teams that compete in the National Junior College Athletic Association: women’s soccer and volleyball and men’s basketball and baseball. n The Harvester baseball team won national championships in 2001, 2006 and 2011. The basketball team captured the national championship in 1997, was the national runner-up in 2013 and has played in the national tournament 13 times, including a fifth-place finish in 2014. The volleyball team competed in the national tournament in 2013.

KEVIN CUSHINGBERRY JR./ET CETERA FILES

Above, the men's basketball team celebrates its 13th NJCAA regional championship win in 2014. Right, the soccer team takes on Mountain View during the 2014 season. Below from left: A Harvester hustles around the bases. The volleyball team defends its home court. National home run leader Casey Maack swings for the fences.

n Athletic Director Anthony Fletcher said he is pleased by the Eastfield's on-field accomplishments but is most proud that so many athletes also excel academically. Thirty-nine Harvesters received academic awards last year for maintaining GPAs above 3.25. n In spring 2015, coach Michael Martin’s baseball team won its 19th Metro Athletic Conference title before falling to eventual national champion Tyler Junior College in the final game of the District C tournament. The Harvesters have won the MAC championship in five of the past six years. Shortstop Casey Maack and outfielder Jason Serchay were named All-Americans this year, and freshman Blake Barr was the NJCAA Division III National Pitcher of the Week for March 9-15. n The Harvesters basketball team finished the 2014-15 with a 19-11 record. Fletcher, who is also the head basketball coach, said Eastfield plays in one of the most competitive conferences in the country. “In the past 10 years, seven teams in our conference have played for a national championship,” he said. “Out of those seven, five teams have won the national championship. If you can get out of Dallas, you have a great chance.” n The volleyball team finished last season with a 7-17 record. But with seven returning players and a recruiting class of 15 new student athletes, coach Brandon Crisp has high expectations for the fall.“This is an incredibly strong class of athletes,” said Crisp, who served on the coaching staffs at four Division I schools prior to taking over the Eastfield program in 2014. “We are very excited about all of the girls that are coming in, and we expect them all to make a significant impact on the team. We can’t wait to get everybody here in August.” n Last fall, the soccer team finished second in the conference with a 7-8-3 record, falling to North Lake in the Metro Athletic Conference semifinals. Eastfield freshman Abigayle Cantrell was named NJCAA Division III Goalie of the Week early in the season after making 22 saves and posting an .846 save percentage over three games. Twelve players, 10 of them starters, will return this season.“We will have a lot of depth. We will have competition at every position,” coach Dustin Stein said. “Our expectations are to win it.” ­— Brianna Harmon

JONATHAN WENCES/THE ET CETERA

JAMES HARTLEY/THE ET CETERA

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Eastfield Experience

JONATHAN WENCES/THE ET CETERA

JONATHAN WENCES/THE ET CETERA

Social Media Look for these Eastfield groups and departments online.

For a full list of user names and web addresses, visit eastfieldnews.com.

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

YouTube

Eastfield College

✓

✓

✓

✓

DCCCD

✓

✓

✓

✓

The Et Cetera

✓

✓

✓

✓

Scanning Electron Microscope

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Student Publications

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Women’s Soccer

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Criminal Justice Training Center

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Library

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Harvester Community Garden

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Visual Arts

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Harvester Theatre Company

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Continuing Education

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Journalism

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ELLA Center

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Webpage

Pinterest

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EFC Galleries Bookstore

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Dance

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TRiO

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STEM

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English Department The Link

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DCCCD Foundation

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Adventure and Travel Club

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Allied Health

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Comic Book and Graphic Novel

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Communication Club

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LULAC

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Rotaract Club

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Science Club

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Video Game Club

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Student Government

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Phi Theta Kappa

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National Society of Collegiate Scholars

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Blog

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graduation

Po m p & C i rc u m s t a n c e Graduation 101:

Take these steps to ensure you walk, get your diploma 1. Meet all requirements of your degree plan.

2. Submit all transcripts to the Admissions Office in C-119.

3. Apply for graduation at the beginning of the term or semester you intend to graduate.

The application and guidelines can be found at eastfieldcollege.edu/Recordsmgmt/ graduation-application.asp. Deadlines vary between semesters. Meet with an adviser if you have additional questions.

4. Participate in the optional Commencement Ceremony in May. Students who are nine credit hours or less from completing their degree or certificate may participate.

Students will not receive their degrees or certificates at the event. Attendance for students and guests is free. Regalia such as caps, gowns and invitations are ordered at herffjones.com and picked up at the Eastfield College Bookstore in N-100.

5. Pick up your diploma in the Admissions Office. Processing takes up to four weeks after the end of the semester but can vary due to holidays and other events. Students will receive emails when their diplomas are available for pick up.

Graduation 2015, which was held at the Curtis Culwell Center in Garland, was an emotional time for the more than 500 Eastfield students who earned associate degrees and certificates.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF EFC GRAPHICS DEPARTMENT

Academic Year 2015

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TIPS FOR TRANSFERRING

Students often plan on transferring to four-year universities after attending community college. However, the process isn’t easy. There are transcripts to pick up, deadlines to meet and applications to fill out. Here are five tips to guide you through the process.

5. Have your transcripts ready 4. Think about applying at least a semester in advance 3. Develop a financial plan

Transcripts are very important. These academic records will be transferred to your new school and will indicate what kind of student you are. Make sure to request your transcripts early so you have time to submit them to the universities of your choice. You can request a free copy of your transcript in person at the Admissions Office or submit a request through eConnect to have it mailed to you.

Early registration and orientation for many universities starts in May. This gives students the chance to get the classes they want before they begin to fill. The road to transferring to a larger school can be much smoother if students think about registering early. One helpful tool is the DCCCD website, which has links to transfer guides for many Texas universities, listing degree requirements on a variety of programs of study.

The average cost of attending a public university in Texas during the 2015-16 school year is more than $22,000, so it’s best to get your financial aid and loans taken care of in advance. Fill out your FAFSA and apply for as many scholarships as possible. Then focusing on what classes you can take will become much easier.

2. Find out which of your credit classes will transfer 1. Set academic goals early

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Eastfield Experience

You could be taking classes that might not be transferable, so research the degree plans for the universities of your choice. Most universities accept the core curriculum courses from DCCCD colleges, meaning transfer students will not be required to take any additional core classes. However, this may not be the case with other courses, so make sure you know where you stand.

Visit different campuses to see what each has to offer, academically and socially. This can help you make a more informed decision. Meet with advisers who can help guide you through the transfer process and choosing a degree. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and do plenty of research. Statistics show that 82 percent of students who complete their associate degrees before transferring are more successful in earning their bachelor’s degrees at universities.

ET CETERA FILE GRAPHIC

Pursuing a 4-year diploma You earned an associate degree ... now what?

College is an investment. The average four-year degree at a public school costs $94,000, according to the College Board.

The Pew Research Center says that college graduates age 25 to 32 who are working full-time earn about $17,500 more annually than their peers who have only high school diplomas. But that doesn’t hold true for every degree.

And a survey conducted by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants found that 84 percent of adults said they would “make at least one change to their education choices, given the chance to do things differently.”

So how do students build a successful future without wasting time or regretting their educational choices?

Build a resume now and educate yourself about the qualities universities look for in transfer students and the skills that transfer over to employment.

Here are several sought-after skills and traits that top American universities are looking for in applicants, as well as questions that might be asked in application essays.

Growth and Potential Where will you be in one, five or 25 years? Will you contribute something to those around you? Do you have initiative? Eastfield provides many opportunities for student growth.

Work with an adviser to find new areas of study that might interest you. Build professional relationships with professors and learn from fellow students about what classes you might want to take.

This will give you the necessary guidance to create a successful plan for the next several years and may result in letters of recommendation when you transfer to a four-year school or a new area of employment after earning a degree at Eastfield.

Interest and Activities In terms of extracurricular, athletic, community or family commitments, have you taken full advantage

or volunteering in local fundraising events. There are many resources on campus where students can find activities of interest.

The Office of Student Engagement and Retention provides interesting extracurricular and co-curricular activities designed to promote individual growth, leadership skills and an enhanced awareness of the campus and the community.

Character and Personality How open are you to new ideas and people?

Universities are accepting more and more international students to promote diversity. They also want people who are culturally sensitive and work well with others.

Taking foreign language classes is a great way to indicate acceptance of other cultures and a desire to connect with different people. Knowledge of a foreign language makes you stand out against candidates who have resumes comparable to yours.

Starting a language course early in your educational career will give you the opportunity to build language proficiency without rushing through the courses.

Community contributions Will you be able to stand up to the pressures and freedoms of college life? Will you contribute something to the community and your classmates?

College life will be very stressful if you want to be successful. Deadlines, projects, club activities and exams will fill up your free time. How you prioritize will show transfer universities and business recruiters how successful you are under pressure in a new environment.

of the opportunities provided to you?

Universities want well-rounded students. You can achieve this by joining The Et Cetera newspaper, taking part in campus activities, joining a club or sports team

Get a bachelor’s without leaving Mesquite Columbia College, a university in Columbia, Missouri, has partnered with Eastfield to offer four-year degrees in Mesquite.

Students enrolled in the program will complete their first two years at Eastfield just as any other student and enroll in Columbia for their last two years, taking classes in the W building.

Classes are taught in business, criminal justice and general studies. These lecture style classes will be offered during evenings and weekends, lasting eight weeks instead of

the standard 16, and will be available to all DCCCD students. These students may transfer 81 credit hours instead of the standard 60, and Columbia will waive its application fee for them.

Tuition is predicted to be compa-

rable to the in-state tuitions of Texas public universities, and financial aid will apply.

Visit www.ccis.edu for information.

All the skills you build here at Eastfield can be added to your resume for the next chapter of your life.

Whether you transfer to a four-year university or apply to a new job, you will be better prepared to take on the challenges if you start now.

“

— Christopher Bennett

All the decisions that we make, we try to do them keeping students in mind and more importantly their learning.”

W-136, 972-391-1010

— Michael Gutierrez Executive V.P. Academic Affairs and Student Success Academic Year 2015

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4-YEAR UNIVERSITY