The Montage Back-to-School Guide 2023

MERAMEC

The Music Program at Meramec offers courses and ensembles for all students. Classes are available for general education credit and the Associate in Arts degree with a concentration in Music to prepare for transfer into a Bachelor of Music program.

** SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE **

COURSES

MUS 101,102,201,202 Music Theory I,II,III,IV

MUS 103 Basic Music

MUS 113 History of Jazz

MUS 114 Music Appreciation

MUS 115,116 Class Voice I,II

MUS 121,122,221,222 Class Piano I,II,III,IV

MUS 128 History of Rock Music

MUS 130 Beginning Guitar

MUS 138,139,216 Jazz Improvisation I,II,III

MUS 141,142,241,242 Applied Music (Lessons) I,II,III,IV

MUS 150 Fundamentals of Music Technology

MUS 152 Audio Engineering

MUS 154 Music Recording with ProTools I

MUS 211,212 Music History I,II

Interested in performing in an ensemble?

All Meramec students may participate. No audition is required!

MUS131, 132 and 134 are CORE42 performance courses!

ENSEMBLES

Music 131 – Concert Choir

Music 132 – Orchestra

Music 134 – Symphonic Band

Music 138 – Jazz Improvisation

All ensembles hold a seat/part assignment hearing during the first rehearsal. Members of the Concert Choir may audition for the Chamber Singers

For more information, contact Music at Meramec Dr. Jerry Myers, Program Coordinator, gmyers34@stlcc.edu, (314) 984-7638

To all incoming Oscar Winners,

To all of those in attendance,

Welcome to the STLCC- Meramec! If you are new to STLCC, please know that you have joined our campus in the midst of a time full of change. The landscape of the campus is undergoing many changes that you will continue to see in the coming years, and by the time they’re complete, Meramec will look much, much different. But nonetheless, over the past six decades, many people who have gone on to do great things have passed through this institution, and even this specific campus. Meramec has hosted many stars and even athletes. Remember David Freese?

In Section 1, “Pre-Production” you will find information on the supplies that are needed to get the job done, including the bare physical essentials as well as the vital outlets of technology that are necessary to master. You’ll also find a map of the campus to help you navigate your journey, and information on the new way to get your textbooks through the college. In addition, you’ll also find information regarding a brand new program joining Meramec’s prolific Horticulture offerings.

In Section 2, “Production” some of the courses to take and clubs to join are highlighted, and you’ll find a detailed guide to building a cast of characters in the friends you’ll make during your time here. In addition to a school year calendar, You’ll also find vital information about Meramec’s counseling department, as well as other resources that you can and may very well come across your time here.

In Section 3, “Post-Production and Release” we’ll help prepare you for the end of your Meramec career. Hopefully, it’s been prolific and full of highlights to add to your personal portfolio. In this section, you’ll find a transfer guide, tips on how to curate the best resume and information on how to ace your dream job interview. In addition, we’ll check in with a former Meramec alumnus doing important work in the journalism field.

Section 4, “The Reviews Are In” revisits some of the biggest news stories of the 2022-2023 school year, including a look back at a year of faculty unrest with tension that can rarely be found on the silver screen, and for the very first time, a pathway to view a bombshell survey report. In addition, we remember the late, great Kathleen Swyers, take a photographic look back at STLCC sports and activities and also highlight STLCC’s newest Board of Trustees member.

And don’t forget to explore what the campus has to offer. There’s a little something for everyone, whether it be sports, clubs or organizations, or even just new friends, if you know where to look.

The Montage hopes this guide assists you greatly in your journey.

- Jacob Politte, Managing Editor

Prepping your instruments

A checklist of things you might need or want to aid your studies

JACOB POLITTE Managing EDITOR

In order to succeed in your studies, you need to make sure you have the best quality of materials.

There are a lot of materials that you’ll need to be ready for college life. In order to progress further along in your college career, you’ll need the following to help you achieve your goals both in and out of the classroom. Some of them are more vital than others. Some of them aren’t necessarily requirements (it really depends on the courses that you are taking). However, they will help you greatly along your journey, and some are absolutely essential, regardless of what your courses require.

Below you’ll find a sort of checklist of these items, along with specific details about why you’ll need them and where you can find them.

Pencils, pens, highlighters and paper: These items are always an absolute given. Some professors will type out lecture notes for you to keep, but you might need the paper to take notes in case they don’t, or even just in case they elaborate on the various topics that they discuss. But even if your courses don’t always require a lot of notetaking, they’re always handy to have. You might also need a few highlighters to make sure the most important portions of your notes stick out on paper.

Binders: You’ll want to make sure that all of your notes and other vital documents for your courses are well organized. A zipup, cloth binder is pretty durable and does a better job protecting your materials, but

any sort of binder will work. Textbooks: The amount that textbooks are actually used just depends on who your instructor is and how they conduct their class. Despite this, they are a requirement to have, and they can be expensive. Not to mention, the way STLCC can obtain textbooks has changed significantly as well. Beware though: not every textbook can be rented. Some, like many of the math and science textbooks, have to be purchased.

Laptop: This item isn’t necessarily a requirement to have unless you’re taking an online or hybrid course, but it will help you immensely in your studies. Most importantly, it will save you from relying too heavily on a library computer, as those can seem like they are in limited supply on some days.

Laptops can be found at various retail outlets. However, if you don’t wish to purchase one, the college does have a program where one can be loaned to you and eventually be returned or renewed on a semesterby-semester basis.

For more information on that, contact the IT Department.

Prices for both purchase and rentals can vary; it really just depends on the textbook, and what condition it’s in. Failure to return the rented textbook will result in a $25 fee, in addition to the difference between buying and renting the book.

If you are looking to purchase textbooks at a cheaper rate, Amazon.com is also a great place to look; they may be used, but they are much more affordable. As of this summer, however, textbooks can no longer be rented from Amazon.

Flash Drive: This is a rather essential item to have; it helps you to keep your assignments in one place and allows you to work on those assignments in places that aren’t your personal computer. Making sure that the flash drive is properly organized too (by course, subject or whatever works best) will help immensely.

Bookbag: It’s been said before, and it will be said again: you’re gonna need something to carry all of this stuff in. Carrying around all of these items in your hands just isn’t very practical.

inspect your gadgets

An overview of STLCC’s Technology Resources

JACOB POLITTE Managing EDITOR

STLCC uses a variety of technology resources in order to make handling all college matters, from schoolwork to signing up for classes, as easy and seamless as possible. Also, as an STLCC student, you are entitled to free usage of all of these programs under your student account. These programs include:

Canvas

Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Outlook

Banner Self-Service

… and others. In addition, Banner Self Service will be your primary tool to register and pay for your classes.

Canvas

The introduction of Canvas to the STLCC students and faculty had been in the works for some time, with the full implementation having begun in May 2022.

The vast majority of the time, your professor will attach a copy of the course syllabus and the tentative schedule for the course on the course’s Canvas page. Your instructor may also post discussion board topics that are mandatory to respond to; these are especially popular in online courses. While they’re often not worth that many points, they are important to do, as they may be the only interactions you’ll have with other students involved in the course. Often, they will have specific

provisions attached, like a specific minimum word count, a certain number of students that you’ll have to reply to, and etc.

Microsoft Teams

In the past few years, STLCC adopted using Microsoft Teams. Teams can be used for a variety of reasons, including by your professors to hold meetings, host classes or even virtual office hours. Zoom is also a popular service to use, and some Professors may also use that program for the same purposes. Teams, however, is the preferred program for the college.

Microsoft Outlook

Another Microsoft program already in use by STLCC is your student “Outlook” email account, which was created the moment you signed up for classes here. It may be tempting to ignore it, but don’t… vital college information is sent through this particular channel. This includes updates from your Professors about class cancellations or schedule changes, in addition to important messages from members of the college’s administration, the Campus President and other department heads.

Banner Self Service

When it comes to handling other college business, Banner Self Service is a page that must be visited, but it can be a bit tricky to navigate if you’ve never used it before. “Banner” is where all of your STLCC information is stored for your convenience. On Banner, you can sign up for classes, check your grades and your transcripts, and either set up a payment plan to pay for your classes or just pay for them outright.

Banner is used by both students and faculty college-wide. In particular, your official final grades for each semester are uploaded exclusively on Banner; you’ll have to access the site and view your transcript to see how you ultimately did.

When signing up for your future classes, Banner also has an interactive class schedule that helps you search for the classes you’re looking for. You can use this interactive feature to search for the classes by professor, campus, time period, or the type of class (online, independent study, or in-person).

If you’re looking to address how to pay for your classes, especially if you don’t benefit from FASFA aid, Banner is your ultimate destination.

On Banner, you can either set up a payment plan that is the best fit for your financial situation, or you can pay for your classes outright.

If you are a paid employee of the college, it’s also where you will go to submit your timesheets for approval, find important tax documents and more.

For more important information on the technology services that STLCC offers, please contact the STLCC IT Help Desk (the district wide offices are conveniently located at Meramec in the Gymnasium building) by phone at 314-539-5113. You can also contact them by email at helpdesk@stlcc.edu, or through their Web Request Portal which can be found at servicedesk.stlcc.edu.

Navigate the Arena of

Meramec Like a Star

Cannabis at Meramec

Previewing an Exciting new Horiculture Program

JACOB POLITTE Managing EDITOR

Following the legalization of recreational marijuana in Missouri after the November 2022 midterm elections, Meramec’s Horticulture programs are expanding to adapt with the times.

Starting this fall, there will be first-time course offerings that focus on the production and study of cannabis, taught by STLCC alumnus Sarah Moore.

HST 136 and 137 will require some prerequisites, including completion of or concurrent enrollment in HRT 135.

“St. Louis Community College at Meramec is very excited to be at the forefront of education in this new industry,” Meramec Campus President Feleccia Moore-Davis told STLCC’s newswire in May. “It’s clear which direction things are heading in the cannabis industry.

“When it comes to preparing students for the workforce,” she continued, “we want to be ahead of other institutions. It really comes down to ensuring our students are prepared for the jobs and industries that are in demand.”

Course descriptions are as follows:

HRT 135. Introduction to Cannabis. 3 Credit Hours.

Introduction to Cannabis introduces students to Cannabis and hemp plants. The course will focus on the anatomy and physiology of the Cannabis plant, the history of Cannabis, and the various uses for and products of Cannabis and hemp. It will also explore the different cannabinoids and chemical compounds of the Cannabis plant.

Prerequisites: Concurrent or prior enrollment HRT 101 or BIO 124 with a minimum grade of “C”, and Reading Proficiency.

HRT 136. Cannabis and Hemp Cultivation. 3 Credit Hours.

Cannabis and Hemp Cultivation covers techniques of growing and cultural requirements for cannabis and hemp. Students will experience the growing process from propagation to harvest of both cannabis and industrial hemp. Discussion of soil culture requirements for each type of plant is included along with experience in the greenhouse with both cannabis and hemp.

Prerequisites: Prior or concurrent enrollment in HRT 135 with a minimum grade of “C” and Reading Proficiency.

HRT 137. Laboratory Methods for Cannabis Extraction. 3 Credit Hours.

Laboratory Methods for Cannabis Extraction introduces students to cannabis extraction techniques and methods. Students will gain a broad perspective of product types and trends in the cannabis and hemp industries. Laboratory techniques for analyzing different chemical compounds including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids will be applied.

Prerequisites: HRT 135 with a minimum grade of “C” and Reading Proficiency.

To view a full catalog of the courses that STLCC offers, scan the QR code below.

The First Steps Down the Red Carpet

25 Tips for Incoming Students

emily weber Staff

As you begin your journey as a first-time student at STLCC-Meramec, know that the journey may seem long, but if you take that walk down the red carpet slowly and cautiously, you’ll be Oscar-worthy by the time graduation rolls around.

Here’s some advice to ensure you have an award-winning experience in college:

1. Go to every class and complete all assignments. It’s hard to come back from a zero.

2. Take things slow and assignments one at a time!

3. Try to be consistent and take care of yourself by staying hydrated, rested and eat healthy foods.

4. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help and use the resources available to you on campus.

5. Don’t buy textbooks unless you know you need them.

6. Join clubs - not only can you meet new friends, but clubs offer you a chance to give back and have fun.

7. It’s best to work ahead so you don’t fall behind.

8. Don’t wait to sign up for classes! If you wait to long, all the classes you want or need will fill up.

9. Don’t miss your first couple days of classes. Even the first day proves to be informative.

10. Make a plan and schedule time specifically for studying. Study early, don’t wait.

11. Stay diligent even when it’s hard.

12. Ask other students who have already taken a course what you can expect.

13. Be open minded to your professors’ teaching styles.

14. Take notes in class! Also make sure to manage your time carefully and leave some time for fun things and homework.

15. Be kind to yourself. This is a huge adjustment period! You can do it.

Want to Get Involved?

Those looking to form/ reform a club can find the forms to register on STLCC’s Campus Life & Community page here: https://stlcc.edu/ campus-life-community/

16. Make sure you go to your professors’ office hours if you have questions

17. Talk to the tutors for your subject! They’ve taken the classes and know what is important.

18. Don’t just listen to one advisor - talk to several.

19. Always communicate with your instructors when you are having life issues. They are people too and things happen. They will understand. Just open up to them and you will see.

20. Don’t let your grades define you.

21. Always read the syllabus.

22. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Give yourself a break when you need it. Repetition is key. Take easy classes during the summer because it’s fast paced. Register for classes before your other classes end near finals week and you’ll get better classes that way.

23. Take advantage of the archers market if you don’t have money for breakfast or lunch and they also offer clothes and supportive resources.

24. Show up on time.

25. Celebrate the small successes. Each step leads to something better.

Current Meramec Clubs Beginning Fall 2023

• Board Game Club

• Campus Activities Board

• CRU

• Improv Club

• Interior Designers of Meramec (IDOM)

• Music Club

• Phi Theta Kappa

• Pride Alliance

• Programming Club

• Socratic Society

• Student Government Association

• Student Nurse Association (SNA)

• Theatre Club

• TRIO Student Leadership Board

• The Montage Student Newspaper

Meramec Clubs gather for the Fall 2022 Campus Expo.

PHOTO BY: Dakota Pulcher

Steps to Success Start In Counseling

The Resources You Need to Become a Superstar Student

FAWWAZ ASHRAF STAFF

Meramec’s counseling department is here to support students’ mental health. Troy Hansen, manager of the Counseling Center, spoke more about the service available to students. Their primary responsibility is to provide mental health services for enrolled students. Describing this, Hansen said, “This includes pretty much anything and everything you could think of that a student might deal with.” Some of the most common includes anxiety, stress, depression, and relationship issues. They are also able to help just once or to provide ongoing support.

One of the counselors’ most notable attributes is that they are confidential sources, said Hansen. “It doesn’t go to anybody else on campus. It doesn’t go to their family or instructors. With the following exemptions: if they are a threat to themselves or someone else … if there’s child abuse that I know is going on or there is abuse of a vulnerable adult,” he said. Other than these exceptions, everything is kept private unless there’s a subpoena or the student signs a release form, said Hansen.

This service is available to all students and staff on campus. Every counselor in the district is a licensed, professional counselor, with one

exception at Florissant Valley who is still a provisional counselor and will be receiving her professional license by the fall. Additionally, all of the counselors are generalists, meaning students can work with any counselor on any issue.

To receive help, Hansen said, “The only qualification is that students are enrolled at the college.” Current students who are continuing in the fall can also receive help over the summer even if they aren’t taking any summer classes.

To work with a counselor, students are encouraged to set up an appointment, and they can do so via email, phone, or going to their office in the administration building in room 249. Walk-ins are generally reserved for students in an immediate crisis.

There’s currently no portal to create an appointment online, but Hansen said, “We’re in process right now of trying to get an electronic health record management system, so students could go to our website and make an appointment directly themselves.” Unlike the other departments, they don’t use Navigate, as it doesn’t meet the standards of confidentiality needed for healthcare.

To learn more about the counseling department, students can visit stlcc. edu/counseling or scan the QR code below. Alongside information about the counseling department and setting up an appointment, the website contains many resources that students can use. These include hotlines for immediate crisis counseling, resources for suicide survivors, substance abuse resources, and many more.

One of Hansen’s final notes was, “Even if you don’t think you need our services, that’s ok but keep our information because someone that you know might.”

Additional student resources on campus

Academic Support

• Peer and/or professional tutoring

• The Writing Center

Visit stlcc.edu/academicsupport

Access Office / Disability Support Services

Support services for students with disabilities are available that include:

• Coordination of accommodations for academics and

• programs/services

• Consultation with faculty and staff regarding accommodation needs as well as help with connecting to community professionals and agencies

Visit stlcc.edu/disability

Financial Aid

Visit stlcc.edu/financialaid

Scan the QR Code to access the Counseling Department’s contact information.

Jump Starting Student Careers With CTE Programs

FAWWAZ ASHRAF STAFF

Community college is often viewed as a stepping stone to higher education, but it can also act as a direct path into the workforce. STLCC offers a variety of Career & Technical Education programs (CTE) to get students ready to work in many a myriad of fields, from cooking to coding, a way that’s quick and cost effective.

Information Systems & Tech

Cisco Networking Academy: This program covers comprehensive networking concepts, from network applications to the protocols and services provided to those applications by the lower layers of the network.

Computer Applications - CS

This certificate is designed for individuals who are interested in learning a range of end-user applications for personal computers, It prepares the graduate to employ the functions of personal computers that are generally in use in offices today.

Cybersecurity - AAS, CP

The program prepares you for entry-level information assurance/ security technician positions that support planning, implementing, upgrading and monitoring security measures that protect computer networks and information systems.

Database Developer - CP

This program is designed for individuals who are interested in developing skills to qualify for positions as database application developers, database analysts, or database administrators.

Network Engineering - AAS, CP

This program provides students with an accelerated career pathway, stackable certificates and programs and industry-recognized credentials. With this network engineering degree, students will be prepared for apprentice-level networking jobs.

Healthcare Clinical Coding - CP

This program prepares students for entry-level positions as clinical code practitioners. Students will learn how to classify medical data from patient records, generally in a hospital setting.

Clinical Laboratory TechnologyAAS

This program prepares students for entry-level positions as clinical laboratory technicians. Through classroom and practical experience in hospital and clinical laboratories, students learn to perform testing in microbiology, hematology, immunohematology, clinical chemistry and et cetera.

Dental Hygiene - AAS

This program is a 2-year, full time program that begins each fall and is designed to prepare students for licensure and employment in Missouri. The program includes a general education component as well as a concentration in dental hygiene.

Health Information Management

This program provides students with the technical skills and knowledge required to provide reliable and valid information essential to the healthcare industry.

Graduates are specialists working with health information systems, managing medical records, and coding information for reimbursement and research.

Other Baking and Pastry Arts - AAS

Criminal Justice - AAS, CP

Culinary Arts - AAS

Horticulture - AAS, CP

Learn more at https://stlcc.edu/ programs-academics/pathways/ career-and-technical-education/.

The Key to Success: Know the Dates

FALL 2023 SEMESTER

Aug. 21: Semester Begins

Sept. 4: Labor Day Holiday (College Closed)

Sept. 18: First Day of 12-Week Classes

Oct. 3: Development Day (No Classes)

Oct. 13: Midterm

Oct. 16: First Day of 2nd 8-Week Classes

Nov. 17: Withdrawal Deadline for Full Semester Classes

Nov. 22: Fall Break (No Classes)

Nov. 23-26: Thanksgiving Break (College Closed)

Dec. 10: Last Day of Semester Classes

Jan. 16: Semester Begins

Feb. 5: First Day of 12-Week Classes

Feb. 19: Presidents’ Day Holiday (College Closed)

March 8: Midterm

March 11-17: Spring Break (No Classes)

March 18: First Day of 2nd 8-Week Classes

April 5: Withdrawal Deadline for Full Semester Classes

May 5: Last Day of Semester Classes

May 6-12: Final Exams

May 19: Commencement Ceremony

SUMMER 2024 SEMESTER

May 13: 3-and 11-Week Classes Begin

May 27: Memorial Day (College Closed)

June 3: 6-and 8-Week Classes Begin

June 19: Juneteenth Holiday (College Closed)

July 4: Independence Day (College Closed)

July 28: Last Day of Summer Session

A Guide to Making Winning Friendships

Enhance your college experience with friends by your side

MORGAN DANIELS STAFF

At community colleges, commuter campus culture makes it easy for students to develop a habit of coming to campus for class and leaving immediately after. Consider this guide a handy resource for Meramec students hoping to break away from this routine or find ways to engage themselves on campus and make new friends.

Meeting new people and getting involved can make a huge impact when it comes to enjoying and making the most of your time at community college. According to Cindy Clausen, Manager of Academic Success & Tutoring, having friends with similar goals can help students feel less isolated and motivated. “We all need a ‘cheer squad’ to help us get through life’s hard times, and

college has many unique stressors that can be difficult to manage on your own,” she said.

Having a supportive group of friends at school can also impact overall college enjoyment, specifically for first-year students. The New Student Programs department elaborated on this, sharing that “having friends to reach out to and hang out with is key to enjoying your first year and helps increase the likelihood that you will stay on track and finish your degree.” The Manager of Online Student Services, Stacy Foster, also adds that becoming friends with peers can expand students’ perspectives, enhance their professional network, and reduce stress and loneliness.

Although, the reality behind making friends is slightly more challenging. It is not uncommon for students to second-

guess themselves when opportunities arise to meet new people. Being the person to make the first move and talk to a classmate or attend a campus event alone can be daunting for some people. When putting oneself out there, there’s the risk of rejection.

However, most students are very friendly and welcoming to the thought of someone approaching them and showing genuine interest. In a personal anecdote from Clausen, she shared, “Even at my advanced age, I sometimes think twice about speaking to someone on campus for fear they will think this or that about me. But the truth is that everyone deserves to be seen and validated. If you reach out to others, they will almost always reach back.”

One of the most convenient ways to make friends on campus is to get involved in a club or campus organization. Meramec has plenty to choose from, and they are perfect hubs for meeting a group of people with similar interests. Even online students can partake in certain clubs, especially if they have options for members to attend meetings virtually. While clubs and organizations are popular choices for students intending to get involved and meet new people, there are various other ways to make friends on campus. The following are a few examples:

1. Attend a campus life event

2. Attend an Archers athletic game

3. Attend a theatre or music event

4. Create a study group in your class(es)

5. Get an on-campus job

6. Study in the library

7. Attend a networking event

Classmates are another source for finding friends. “Participating in a study group fosters academic engagement and allows you to build relationships with your peers,” said Stacey Foster.

Though there is only a little time during class to socialize, especially during lectures, developing connections outside of class is attainable through study groups. Students

Students complete paint-by-number kits in the Student Center during a Black History Month event in February 2023.

PHOTO BY: Dakota Pulcher

CONTINUED FROM P. 16 can use STLCC’s Study Buddies tool in Navigate to connect with classmates looking for study partners. Newly formed study groups then have the option to visit the Academic Success & Tutoring Center and study any subject with tutors and academic coaches. Online students can do the same and gather a group to meet via Teams or at a virtual tutoring session. Group studying not only makes learning more fun, but it is a perfect opportunity to socialize and connect with peers.

When trying these strategies, it is essential to be intentional about interactions. Friendship takes work, and maintaining them requires effort from both sides. Mia Harsley relates it to dating. “Just like a romantic relationship, you have to date or spend time getting to know each other,” she said. “It will take some time before you can really call someone your friend. Everyone starts off as an acquaintance and then moves up to the friendship ladder.” Harsley suggests talking on the phone, spending time together on and off campus, and studying together to retain new friendships. Maintaining contact via social media can also be very effective, especially if you don’t see them on campus often or they’re classmates in an online course. While following them on social media is a simple first step, Stacey Foster believes being intentional and engaging with their content is crucial. “Interact, comment, and show interest in their lives. Social media can help bridge the physical distance and keep you updated on each other’s lives,” she said.

Making the most of the community college experience means connecting with students, staff, and the community. Having friends on campus and people to socialize with on and off campus can help build your sense of belonging and connection to campus. As more students return to campus this fall, challenge yourself to move outside your comfort zone, get to know someone you wouldn’t typically talk to, and see where it goes. Be the first person to start a study group. Consider joining a club or attending a campus event.

There are different ways to make friends on the Meramec campus, so see what might work for you and try it. As the New Student Program department emphasized, “Be open to the opportunities around you. Go to class early, hang out a little afterward, and don’t be afraid to say ‘Hi.’ Walk with your head up, make eye contact with people, and smile as you walk through campus. You are sure to meet many friendly faces along the way.”

T I P S F O R M A K I N G

F R I E N D S

M e e t i n g n e w p e o p l e m i g h t s e e m d a u n t i n g .

H o w e v e r , i n t e n t i o n a l l y p u t t i n g y o u r s e l f o u t t h e r e c a n m a k e t h i n g s e a s i e r

Y o u a s k r e a l l y g o o d q u e s t i o n s d u r i n g c l a s s

I l i k e y o u r s t y l e ! W h e r e d o y o u s h o p ?

D o n ' t o v e r t h i n k y o u r i n t e r a c t i o n B e g e n u i n e

A s k f o r t h e i r n a m e o r c o m p l i m e n t s o m e t h i n g y o u n o t i c e d a b o u t t h e m

F o

C r e a t e d b y M o r g a n D a n i e l s

D e s i g n e d u s i n g C a n v a

YOU CAN DO IT HERE

At Webster University, transfer students are a vital part of our campus and student life.

About 50% of Webster University’s undergraduate students join our community with transfer credit from accredited institutions and military training. We offer guaranteed admission for students with an associate degree from a community college. Our transfer scholarships make earning a degree from an independent university affordable. We understand the needs of transfer students and are here to support your success.

ADVERTISE IN THE MONTAGE

Fall Publication Dates

Sept. 7, 2023

Oct. 5, 2023

Nov. 9, 2023

Dec. 7, 2023

Spring Publication Dates

Feb. 1, 2024

March 7, 2024

April 4, 2024

May 2, 2024

Recognized for excellence in the development and support of dynamic and innovative transfer pathways for community college transfer students by Phi Theta Kappa for the 6th consecutive year.

Webster University has been offering online degrees since 1999.

Webster makes transferring easy. Schedule your visit today! webster.edu/transfer

Resume Tips to Get the Part

JACOB POLITTE Managing EDITOR

Don’t put everything on your resume, but keep a separate master list

It’s tempting to make your resume as long and impressive as you can, but the shorter the better; employers don’t want to read a three-page resume. Alter your resume to tailor it to the best possible fit for the job that you’re applying to, but keep a separate list of every job that you’ve worked to make updating your list easier in the future.

Keep your format simple

It may be tempting to make your resume fancy and colorful, but the basics work best. A potential employer isn’t necessarily looking for pomp and circumstance, and they don’t care about your fancy fonts. The more professional looking, the better chances you may have.

Make sure your contact information prominent

Potential employers want to be able to easily get ahold of you, and your contact information should be at or near the top of your resume, preferably under your name. Again, it’s important to realize that employers do not look at resumes for a substantial amount of time. Placement and formatting makes all of the difference.

Don’t over explain your job responsibilities

When listing the different places you’ve worked, it’s important to make sure that the details of your work experience is not overexplained. Again, employers don’t spend that much time reading a resume. It’s best to leave the gritty details for the job interview itself.

Kate Sandheinrich, Access Office, Weighs In

Q: What do you look for in a resume?

A: When I look at a resume, I see if the contents match up to the job description. For example, if the job description requires 3 years of relevant experience, I will check the resume for 3 years’ experience. Additionally, a resume is a reflection of the person. If the resume is difficult to read, has multiple spelling errors or doesn’t have a lot of information that tells me a lot about the person and how they may work.

Q: Do you have a preference for what type of resume and why?

A: The type or style of resume doesn’t bother me. I am looking for an easy to read, error-free resume that demonstrates what the person brings to the job.

Q: Do you think it’s a good idea to put professional and personal references or just professional references on a resume? Why?

A: Personally, I include both. I would include at

least two people who have supervised you in some capacity, and one or two coworkers. However, if a friend already works at the place you are applying, I would include their information.

Q: Do you think it’s important to include interests and hobbies on a resume? Why?

A: It depends on if it is relevant to the job. If you add interests and hobbies to a resume, keep it short. You can always reference and expand on them in a cover letter. When I applied to the Access Office, I included that I have volunteered for the Special Olympics and am interested in transition. In my cover letter I explained that my interests included helping students with disabilities transition from high school to higher education which was directly related to the job and highlighted that I was currently getting a doctorate degree in the subject. This demonstrated that I was passionate about helping students and would bring expertise to the office.

Interview by Emily Weber

The Glitz & Glamour: Interviewing

The Do’s and Dont’s of how to respond during a job interview

ELIZABETH NAGUDI STAFF

What can make you succeed in landing a potential job opportunity?

Let us look at the top 10 questions you will likely be asked in your following interview.

Tell us about yourself.

Do’s: The go-to trick with interviews is storytelling. Think of the moment you were most proud of yourself in your career path and tell that story. Tell them of the career achievements you have had.

Don’ts: Keep it about yourself and not other people in your life.

Why should we hire you?

Do’s: This is the same as the famous question, “What do you bring to the table?” At this point, the confidence we discussed plays a significant role. Before the interview, you should have researched the organization and identified key areas to build your responses. What do you admire about the company, and would you like to be part of it? Talk about your hard skills that are needed to thrive in this role. Remember, a story invariably wins.

Don’ts: Remember, the goal is not to sound arrogant. You do not want to come off as one who knows it all and has overachieved to be part of this organization.

What do you want to achieve with this organization?

Do’s: This is not any different from the question, “Where do you see yourself in the next five years?” At this point, you talk about the growth you expect in this position. If it is an entry-level position, be honest and talk about the advancement in your career, as honestly, you want to be in a different position in the next five years. Give realistic achievements that you have set to obtain with this position.

Don’ts: Do not be quick to throw this position under the bus if it is not what you hope to do in the next five years. Statements like “Be the boss” or “Take over your seat”

are red flags. We all want growth, but keeping it positive will play a significant role.

What is your greatest strength?

Do’s: Tell those stories that bring out your strongest area. You could talk about soft skills such as communication skills, hands-on type of person, management of personal tasks and accountability, creativity, and analytical skills. There is a wide range of skills you can select from, and craft out a good story to back up those words.

Don’ts: Remember the confidence we talked about? It is not that time to brag and go overboard. Keep it to a minimum.

How much do you expect to earn?

Do’s: What is the entry payment for this particular job in any other company? What is the average entry pay for any role in this company? Does the company have financial records online to help you develop a figure? Did the job advertisement have any figures attached to it? All those guiding questions you can use to help develop a figure that will not scare the panel or undervalue you. You do not want to set a wage that is also lesser than what you have been earning.

Don’ts: Do not be over-demanding. You are still in an interview and have yet to be offered the job. Do not mention a salary as high as the company’s closing financial year statement. That is why you need to understand what is on the job market. This is one of the most tricky questions. However, that does not make it one of the most challenging questions to respond to if you carried out research.

Why did you leave your last job?

Do’s: It is perfectly fine to talk about your past job and why you decided to leave. The goal is to talk positively about it without criticizing why you left.

Don’ts: You do not want to bad mouth your former employer. Try to keep it professional.

Have you ever been fired before?

Do’s: Be as honest as possible. Be honest and tell them about it in a straightforward way. However, try not to sugarcoat the response but criticize your mistakes and how you have grown. Convert that period

into a learning experience.

Don’ts: Do not lie. Do not be defensive about why you got fired. Let it go.

Can you show us how to operate this?

Do’s: What happens when this occurs during an interview? Once again, we point back to confidence. If it is a new operation that you are unfamiliar with, feel free to let the panel know what you are familiar with and tell them how you are ready to learn how to operate what is at hand. Indicate a level of knowledge that you have about that particular operation.

Don’ts: It is only human to panic. However, do your best to keep it under control.

What are your hobbies?

Do’s: This usually comes at the end of the interview and often comes off as an easy question. State your hobbies even if they do not align with the role you are applying for. Having a hobby that aligns with your role may be a bonus point, but it is not a must. Feel free to talk about two or three areas of your interest.

Don’ts: Playing video games all day may not be the best answer an organization is looking for. Alternatively, saying that you do not have any hobbies may be questionable.

How did you know about this position?

Do’s: Grab this opportunity to show how much you have always been interested in this particular organization. Show as much enthusiasm about the company as you can.

Don’ts: Do not blow this up with a onesentence response that will leave the panel wondering if you made a mass application to companies and it is your lucky day that you got called in for an interview.

The questions above do not exhaust the whole list of what could be asked during your interview. Every interview has different questions, which may or may not be related. There are also many sites online that you could use to practice good interview habits.

An extended version of this piece can be found at meramecmontage.com.

Putting the Work in to Be Awarded

FAWWAZ ASHRAF STAFF

Transferring can be a complex endeavor, so to make it simple, the first step you should take is to figure out where you want to transfer and what you want to do. From there, you can figure out the rest.

If you plan on transferring, going to STLCC is likely a stepping stone in the grander journey of getting your bachelor’s degree. That’s why you want to ensure all the classes you take at STLCC will work toward your bachelor’s degree.

Every university will have a list of all of the classes needed to complete your degree. This is often split up into major requirements and general education requirements. While you can spend your time at STLCC just working on general education requirements and electives, it’s also important that foundational major requirements are completed as well. This way, you can go straight into the upper-division coursework when you transfer.

Once you know what classes you need for your degree, it’s time to start enrolling for those classes at STLCC, but it’s important to make sure those classes will actually transfer to your target university. If you plan on transferring to another Missouri public school, you can look for classes with the “MOTR” tag.

These classes will have a transfer guarantee, so you don’t need to worry about articulation. Many schools also offer a transfer equivalency table. If someone from STLCC has transferred to that college in the past, they will have a list of all the classes they accepted or denied. With these resources, you can avoid taking classes you know will get denied and prioritize classes you know will get accepted. Generally, a Cor higher is required for a class to transfer. It is important to note, however, that some universities will have special stipulations regarding course transferability, but this only really applies to a handful of highly selective universities.

For example, Washington University and Dartmouth College won’t accept classes

taken online, and the University of Notre Dame won’t accept courses unless the grade is a B or higher.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Many universities offer generous needbased and merit-based financial aid that can keep the cost of attendance far below the sticker price, but the availability varies heavily between schools. For most universities, the best way to save money is through scholarships.

Many of these scholarships just require having a certain GPA, so it’s important to keep your grades up even if you’re not aiming for a highly selective school. Simple grade-based scholarships can save students a lot of money, but many schools also offer larger scholarships for students who also excel outside of their grades. This might include doing community service and writing strong essays.

For more selective schools, the availability of scholarships tends to decrease, and the emphasis moves to need-based aid, aid awarded based on the student’s financial situation.

One notable example is that students whose families make under $85k/year pay nothing at Harvard University, and the average parent contribution is only $13k/ year despite a sticker price of around 82k/

year. Don’t let sticker prices scare you away from applying. To get an idea of how much you’d be paying, many universities offer a net price calculator to figure out your cost after need-based financial aid.

There are also third-party scholarships that can contribute significantly. The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation’s Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship is the most notable, as it can provide up to $55k/year and is exclusive to community college students. Many private companies also offer scholarships, so it’s always a good idea to keep an eye out for those. Additionally, there are also many scholarships reserved for underrepresented minorities.

Selective Admissions

This is where things start to get more complicated. When one starts applying to highly selective schools, many applicants already have high GPAs and solid course rigor, so it comes down to other factors to make the applicant stand out. A GPA of 3.8 or above is generally considered strong enough for selective admissions.

High school performance is typically only factored if you haven’t taken many credits yet, so students planning to transfer after a full two years will only need to worry about their college performance. Once you’re comfortable with getting or

the Best Transfer from STLCC

maintaining a high GPA, here are some other considerations based on input from students at selective institutions.

One of the first and most basic things that any strong applicant should have is letters of recommendation. Many, if not all, selective colleges will want or need to see at least two letters of recommendation from past professors. Getting a solid recommendation is largely a matter of excelling in coursework, showing genuine

interest in the content, and maintaining a strong relationship with the professor. Extracurricular activities are going to carry a lot of weight in your application. The possibilities of extracurricular activities are endless, but here’s a few general ideas to keep in mind. First is your interests. You shouldn’t force yourself to participate in activities that don’t interest you for the sake of pleasing admissions officers. Do what you love and excel in it. Next is

Standardized tests, such as the ACT and SAT, are generally not required anymore besides from a handful of schools such as MIT and Georgetown University. Additionally, unless you’re transferring with very few credits, it won’t significantly impact your application. If you haven’t already taken it, the time spent studying for the test would likely be better spent on keeping grades up or building extracurriculars.

STLCC Academic Advising Resources

It’s never too early to start planning for your next step. That’s why STLCC Academic Advising offers transfer guides and resources. Together, these tools help prepare you to leverage the credits you earn at STLCC toward your next degree.

Visit https://stlcc.edu/admissions/apply-to-stlcc/ transfer-students/transferring-out-of-stlcc.aspxto learn more about how to send an official transcript

to another college and transfer guides for all colleges and universities in Missouri. Whether you plan to apply to Webster University, Missouri State University or Harvard, it’s important to make sure you are on the right track.

Visit https://stlcc.edu/admissions/advising/ for more details.

From Aspiring Chef to Journalist

Meramec Alum: Melissa Wilkinson

MORGAN DANIELS STAFF

Sometimes students go into college thinking they know what they want to study and where they expect to be five to 10 years later. However, passions change, and new experiences expose them to areas of study beyond their imagination. For Melissa Wilkinson, changing paths was her best decision. Wilkinson graduated from Ladue Horton Watkins High School in 2012 and traveled east to attend Cornell University’s Nolan School of Hotel Administration. There she partook in a collaborative degree program with The Culinary Institute of America and graduated with an associate in culinary arts and a bachelor’s in hotel administration.

Within reach of her childhood dream to become a chef and own a restaurant, Wilkinson realized the culinary arts scene wasn’t the path for her–her personality didn’t quite mesh with restaurant culture. Determined to do work related to the culinary arts, Wilkinson sought visual design experience to design restaurant menus and logos. She returned home in 2016 to enroll at St. Louis Community College to earn an associate’s in graphic communications at Meramec.

The transition from an Ivy League university to a local community college was an adjustment, but Wilkinson found the Meramec campus refreshing. There were various individuals from all walks of life, and she appreciated her professor’s dedication to student learning. Wilkinson developed a close relationship with graphic communications professor Michael Swoboda. She respected his bluntness and honest feedback. “He is one of those teachers that will say it like it is. I feel like in an industry such as art, sometimes people are too worried about your feelings to give honest feedback,” she said. Swoboda challenged her to become a stronger designer, which she admired most about him as a professor.

Wilkinson also joined Meramec’s student

newspaper, The Montage. A classmate in one of her graphic design courses approached her one day and invited her to a meeting. Interested, Wilkinson went and started as a staff writer covering news stories and highlighting campus events. It wasn’t until she and former staff member Noah Sliney attended a Board of Trustees meeting on October 20, 2017, that she realized journalism was the path for her. The two watched what they assumed was an ordinary meeting until a police officer sprang into defense and detained an agitated professor. The thrill and fast-paced nature of news reporting lured Wilkinson in and officially shifted her focus to journalism. Wilkinson’s story “Board of Trustees meeting turns violent” remains one of the most popular stories written for The Montage.

Near the beginning of 2018, Wilkinson took on a leadership role as Editor-in-Chief for The Montage, where she managed a team of staff writers and prepared issues for monthly publication. Despite not having a formal education in journalism, Wilkinson’s writing skills and practice at the Montage allowed her to make mistakes and learn from them. “If I hadn’t done the Montage, I would certainly not know what I was doing. The Montage is a great resource for making you feel like a journalist because that’s what you are doing. You’re getting a hands-on look at what it’s like,” she said. Her experience with the student newspaper allowed her to intern for the Webster-Kirkwood Times in the summer of 2018.

Following her internship, the Breese Journal, a rural newspaper and publishing company in Illinois, hired her as editor. After a year with the company, Wilkinson returned to the Webster-Kirkwood Times and assumed a staff writer position. In 2021, she started working full-time as Associate Editor and has been with them since. Wilkinson said she loves the community at the Times office and intends to stay with them through her journalism career. She also owns a small craft business selling buttons, keychains, and other crafts on Etsy and at art conventions around the Midwest.

Wilkinson shared she is fortunate that her job allows her to manage her business and travel. “This is ideal, and I refuse to find anything else again,” she said.

Wilkinson said she appreciates that she had financially supportive backing and could afford additional education following an expensive undergraduate degree. She recognizes her and her family’s privilege in being able to change paths. Nevertheless, she supports the value and flexibility of a community college education. “Go to a community college first,” she said, “get your associates, and then transfer if you decide you want to study something else or continue your education.”

From an aspiring chef to journalist and owner of a small art business, one of the biggest takeaways from Wilkinson’s early stages of adulthood is not to be afraid of switching paths. She was grateful for her father’s love for learning and encouragement as she continued her education. Without his support, she might’ve continued with culinary school instead of trying something different. “If I stubbornly remained on the culinary track, I would be miserable. In the long run, it is so much easier to say I’ve tried it, I didn’t like it, and try something else. You don’t want to be locked into something because you’re too stubborn to admit you don’t enjoy it,” she shared.

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Faculty Unrest Simmers the Performance

Ch-Ch-Changes Grace the Stage District-Wide

JACOB POLITTE Managing EDITOR

Changes over the past few years have left some faculty and staff collegewide concerned, and this year, some of those tensions came to the forefront.

A revised board policy in 2021 continues to have some faculty expressing concerns about its vague nature, and fear that as a result the policy may be “weaponized” to intimidate anyone who speaks out or disagrees with the college. In addition, this past semester, some STLCC faculty and staff commented anonymously on the college’s culture and what they feel are inadequate salaries as a part of STLCC’s Best Place to Work Survey.

In the original May 2020 addition to board policy, the college’s Civility Policy reads “In an effort to maintain a safe workplace free of harassment and to promote a positive learning environment for students and staff, respectful and civil behavior is required on College property, in College-sponsored transportation, and at College-sponsored activities and events. All persons having business with the College including, but not limited to students, faculty, staff, Board of Trustees members, volunteers, visitors, and patrons shall treat one another with civility, courtesy, and respect. Abusive conduct shall be prohibited.”

The college listed some examples of what may constitute abusive conduct, noting that it could take place throughout a variety of mediums. They also noted that the policy also stipulates, however, that investigation into this conduct may not necessarily be limited to these mediums.

Numerous faculty members began expressing concern to The Montage that the policy’s vague nature could result in it being “weaponized” to intimidate anyone who speaks out or disagrees with the college.

STLCC Chancellor Jeff Pittman strongly disagreed with that sentiment this past December.

“The entire purpose of the policy is to add protections for all members of the College community so that they are free from the impact of uncivil behavior, as defined in the policy,” Pittman said. “So, no, I do not think that the policy takes any protections away from faculty or any other member of the community.”

Faculty members continued to be concerned, and one even spoke up anonymously in an interview with The Montage. That anonymous source said it has the potential to be used capriciously, that it is not objectively defined and that it can be and is being used to divide employees.

This person said that they have seen the clause weaponized already on campus, and that they feel as if the administration has created an environment over time where people have become afraid to ask questions and talk openly about various issues. They also hinted that the policy may have had something to do with the disappearance of Professor Emily Neal from the Meramec campus; Neal has been absent from Meramec since August of 2022, and did not return numerous requests for comment. When asked directly about Neal, the Chancellor said he could not comment on the matter.

The unrest did not cool down as the year progressed, as the results of STLCC’s bid to be considered a Best Place to Work by the St. Louis Business Journal showed faculty

members being more willing to speak out harshly against the college, albeit anonymously. Amidst the anonymous complaints are multiple accusations of salary disparity and a toxic college culture. Specifically, in one comment, the Chancellor is claimed to “have a known habit of making horrendous comments about those who move on to better opportunities and [a known habit of] treating them terribly upon receiving resignations.”

Pittman vehemently denied those accusations, saying that “It is impossible to understand what this is about given there are no names or details provided. I do not make ‘horrendous’ comments about current or past staff, and, in fact, I often serve as a coach and supply references for those who wish to further their career at other colleges.”

“STLCC Transformed” also was addressed in the survey results, with many feeling the project is disorganized. Some faculty members also reportedly had a strong negative reaction to renovations at the Corporate College that were uncovered by The Montage in a proposal that can be found in the January Board Of Trustees meeting agenda. That proposal revealed that the Chancellor’s Office at the Corporate college building was set to move to Room 295, with a potential renovation by contractor C. Rallo set to cost at least $169,347. Pittman said that the funding for these projects comes from the college’s sale of the Cosand Center in downtown St. Louis.

To read the complete versions of “Civility and STLCC,” “Is STLCC the Best Place to Work” and the previously unpublished Best Place To Work Survey results, use your phone to scan the QR codes below.

“CIVILITY AT STLCC”

“BEST PLACE TO WORK?”

“FULL SURVEY RESULTS”

Remembering a meramec legend

Kathleen swyers, 1955-2023

JACOB POLITTE Managing EDITOR

Longtime STLCC employee Kathleen Swyers passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 18. For over 20 years, she was a dedicated employee of the St. Louis Community College at the Forest Park and Meramec campuses as a Professor in Counseling, and was working on campus at Meramec just the day before she passed away, according to her colleague Troy Hansen.

Counseling services were made available to those who needed it in the immediate aftermath of this situation. In addition, tributes were offered to Swyers from many of those who interacted with her at STLCC, both past and present.

“She was a wonderful friend and colleague, and I don’t know what I will do without her. She was who I turned to in counseling with so many needs, and she always had the answer or connection. Her last email sign off to me was so Kathleen: “Take good care, my friend.” She will be missed tremendously but never forgotten for all she did for students and this institution, her community. She truly made the world a better place.”

- Juliet Scherer, Meramec English Professor

“So many students benefited from Kathleen’s wisdom, respect, love, honesty, and genuine care. And I will not ever forget her loving friendship as she helped me through my personal losses. Kathleen, my friend, find your way to all of us and continue to guide the many who need you.”

- Teresa Symthe, Disability Support Specialist

“I’m so sad and shocked. She was such a special person and I was so blessed to have known her the 3 short years I worked at the Meramec library. She was so happy for me when I got the promotion to go to the Forest Park library last July and wished me well. That meant so much to me. Rest in peace Kathleen.”

-Tami Ulreich, Library Assistant at STLCC-Forest Park

colleagues, and her students, showing up for us in so many little and big ways. STLCC won’t be the same without her. I will miss her so very much.”

- Sophia Pierroutsakos, Professor of Psychology, colleague and friend

“It is with a heavy heart that I pay tribute to a dearly loved friend and colleague, who has left us way too soon. Kathleen was a person of exceptional character and radiated kindness, compassion, and empathy toward everyone she met. I met her when she first transferred to Meramec from Forest Park, and I knew immediately we would be great friends because of her generous kindness, her contagious optimism, and her joy of life.

She spread happiness wherever she went, and always left me a more caring person anytime I spent time with her. Kathleen had a way of making everyone feel better about themselves and was always willing to lend a listening ear. Her smile lit up a room and could brighten the darkest of days. Her presence was a ray of sunshine, and her attitude of positivity was contagious. She was not only a lovable friend, but also a knowledgeable and resourceful colleague. Her input was always insightful and helpful, and her problem-solving skills were unparalleled.

“Kathleen was a generous soul and much beloved. She helped many people in our STLCC community and will be missed.”

- Maxine Beach, Professor at STLCC-

“During the pandemic some of us met regularly in the park, instead of going out to lunch, to sit socially distanced and share stories and provide each other moral support. Kathleen’s warmth and welcoming smile reached across that distance and helped create an important respite during that especially difficult time. She was so very dedicated to the STLCC community, her

She had a natural ability to connect with people and provided comfort, guidance, and support to countless individuals in need.

As I reflect on Kathleen’s life, I am grateful for the time we shared. Her memory will remain a source of inspiration and encouragement, as well as a reminder to keep returning those smiles I know she will continue to send our way, until we meet again.”

- Patty O’Hallaron Keller, Former Psychology Professor

Florissant Valley

A Year in Photos Showing How

DAKOTA PULCHER Photo EDITOR

The Archers Volleyball team discuss the plan before a game against Metropolitan Community College.

The Archers Baseball team watches the game from the dugout at Busch Stadium.

Christian Harvey pitches at Busch Stadium game aganst Lincoln Trail College.

Jonathan Melendez waits to bat at the match against Lincoln Trail College at Busch Stadium in the annual game.

Archers Softball player Dorothy Wunderlich sets the bat down after the second inning of a home game.

Coach Terry Collins motivates his team after a tough first quarter aganist Lewis and Clark Community College.

Students Rocked the Campus

STLCC’s Meramec Fall Club Expo, held in the Library Quad. It’s hosted annually by the Campus Life Office.

Professor Dirk Voss teaches his a section of his Fall Semester History class on Nov. 3, 2022.

STLCC Horticulture sells plants from a previous semester’s class.

The Campus Life office staff hands out free food vouchers at the Midterm Break Bash on Mar. 23.

Danielle Klobe, Victoria Cannon, Dr. Keith Ware and Sarah Kelly help students at the Midterm Break Bash on Mar. 23.

Women’s History Month Bingo, hosted on Mar. 30 by Campus Life, took place in the cafeteria atrium.

Photos by ELIZABETH NAGUDI, ADDE TUDOR AND DAKOTA PULCHER

Meramec Continues To Transform

In the past six months, the Meramec campus has changed significantly

JACOB POLITTE Managing EDITOR

STLCC Transformed has fully engulfed the Meramec campus, with three building closures, the move of various departments, and the reopening of the campus cafeteria being the biggest changes thus far.

Starting in May, access was fully restricted to the Communications South, Business Administration and Library buildings as the abatement process began. As of press time, the buildings are still standing, but demolition is expected to begin shortly.

Department offices were moved into various buildings across campus, but the Student Center saw the biggest influx of changes over the past semester, with the Library and Academic Success and Tutoring Centers moving into the building. The Library moved into the space once occupied by the Bookstore, while Academic Success and Tutoring moved into a massive, newly constructed space in the Cafeteria atrium. In addition, classrooms were added on both the first and second floor of the building. Also in the Student Center, the Cafeteria finally reopened on June 13, after three years of inactivity following the onset of the

COVID-19 pandemic.

American Dining Creations took over the space previously occupied by Chartwells, and as time goes on, will continue to add more dining options according to Chef Kevin Walton. Fall hours for the cafeteria have not yet been finalized.

And on June 12, the Metro Bus Station located at its long-time location near Big Bend Road was moved to the East Parking Lot near Geyer Road. The move was made in preparation for the continuing STLCC Transformed projects.

Stay tuned for more updates regarding those projects in the coming semesters.

From LEFT to RIGHT: The abatement process in Communications South; the new Academic Tutoring and Success Center; the new cafeteria. Photos by Jacob Politte.

LEFT: An official STLCC map that shows the new location of Meramec’s bus stop. ABOVE: Three individuals wait to board the Route #21 bus at the new bus stop on Thursday, June 15. This exact bus stop shell was entirely relocated as a result of ongoing “STLCC Transformed” projects. Photo by Jacob Politte

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Meet The Robinson

Community Elects Nicole Robinson to STLCC Board of Trustees

JACOB POLITTE Managing EDITOR

Nicole Robinson, Ed.D., has taken a position as part of the Board of Trustees in subdistrict 2 after winning the April 4 election. She was sworn in at the STLCC Board of Trustees Meeting April 20 at the Corporate College.

Robinson has a history in banking, which she said forced her to think about what her next career step would be. Her current position is as Vice President of public policy and community solutions for a local developer. In addition, she has a history in housing. Robinson has a nonprofit for breast cancer survivors. “I’m all things breast cancer,” Robinson said, as she is currently a breast cancer survivor and patient and working to advocate for those going through chemotherapy and losing their hair.

During the pandemic and working remotely, Robinson said that she and many others had to think to themselves, “What kind of impact will I have?” This question is what drove her to begin this nonprofit.

Born and raised in St. Louis, Robinson did not expect to wind up back here after moving around and going to school in other cities such as Los Angeles. She was focused on advocacy work when she had met a woman from St. Louis who convinced her to volunteer for her and deal with health and families. Robinson said that volunteering is what she loves and continues to do whenever she can. Eventually, she was faced with the question of moving to St. Louis permanently. She took the opportunity to have a positive impact on communities.

To Robinson, being on the Board of Trustees means “having a voice” and “having a seat at the table.” She hopes to help communities who are “not really being served and who are being missed out on.” She wants those communities to be able to have the programming, jobs, and funding needed, because “those all impact the community.”

Her short-term goals include student enrollment, as it is dropping in colleges. She said she wants underserved communities to be aware of the opportunities around them and to promote the advantages of STLCC. She wants to “revive the visibility of community college.” As she said, “We know it’s there, but not what it offers us.”

Her passions are in “serving others.” She said she has always loved leadership positions because the most satisfying accomplishment is to have given back and see someone succeed. A good example of this to her is how she mentored a young woman in her church and now that woman is all grown up and they went on a vacation to Brazil together. The woman used to be a

troubled teen and now they talk about those memories together and Robinson said she loves to see how people succeed in life.

Today, Robinson has two children and six grandchildren. One of her grandchildren is in community college. She has dedicated much of her time outside of work and volunteering to her new pug puppy, Lovey, and to spending time with family, trying out new restaurants. As a nontraditional student and teen mom raised in a family who struggled economically, Robinson got her doctorate and hoped to be a “beacon in the community, saying ‘you can do it, too.’” She wants students to know that “all things are possible.”

The

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