/bridges_manual

Bridges to Success Student Handbook

Dr. Tanisha D. Carter, Director John Stover, Manager Donna Rivera-Kalala, Academic Advisor Dr. Sylvester Robinson, Academic Advisor James McKnight, Academic Advisor Pauletta DaSilva, Academic Advisor Dorshea Redhead, Staff Assistant Audrey Alexander, Staff Assistant

Student Services Building (SSB) | Room 248 | 407-582-1395

2 Table of Contents Introduction 3 Bridges to Success Programs

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Bridges to Success Achievers Program

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Selection Process

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Orientation-Registration 11 Degrees 13 Academic Requirements

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Non Academic Requirements

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Expectations 24 Scholarships and Financial Aid

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Student Organizations

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Suspension and Expulsion

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valenciacc.edu/bridges/

3 Bridges to Success The Office of Bridges to Success is responsible for working with ethnically diverse populations to assist with the post-secondary transition from application to enrollment and graduation; and to assist the college in creating an educational environment that supports the success of these students. In addition, BTS is committed to helping all students become successful in achieving their educational and career goals. Bridges understands that the “Road to Success� can be challenging as students balance their academic course work, responsibilities and personal life. An important element in a student’s success at Valencia is the connection with people and services that can assist them when they need it. BTS works within the college to provide programs and services of interest that benefit our diverse student population.

BTS, as a part of its action plan for minority recruitment and retention, maintains vital connections with colleges and universities, with minority churches, and other civic and ethnic groups in the community.

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4 Bridges to Success Programs ACHIEVE TO SUCCEED

This program is designed to provide tutoring, mentoring, service learning and community service for our students through opportunities at Elementary, Middle and High School. Valencia College Bridges to Success Achievers will serve as tutors, mentors and role models.

AFRICAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE ACTIVITIES

African-American Heritage Month was established in 1926. Although there is an international aspect to African-American Heritage Month (Black History Month), it is mainly an American celebration. Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson and others launched “Negro History Week” so that Americans could reflect on the history and contributions of African-Americans. In the 1970s, the celebration of African-American Heritage was expanded to include the entire month of February. Valencia Community College observes African-American Heritage Month through programs and activities.

BRIDGES TO SUCCESS SUMMER PROGRAM

The Bridges to Success Summer Program is designed to provide a positive foundation for the transition from high school to college for incoming freshman. Bridges students receive individualized personal attention from Valencia’s faculty and staff. These individuals are dedicated to assisting students in making a successful transition from high school to college and will help build leadership skills through community service and extra-curricular activities. Upon successful completion of the Bridges to Success Summer Program students will become a Bridges to Success Achievers Scholar in the Fall. Bridges Achievers Scholars receive a renewable full-tuition scholarship and book stipend that will be coordinated with financial aid to cover the full cost of attending Valencia College.

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP

The Office of Bridges to Success (BTS) work with community partners to recruit students for the Bridges to Success Summer Program and the Two plus Two Program. As a part of this partnership we have established a community-involvement partnership program with community agencies, and churches. BTS works with community organizations, and area churches to introduce college to potential students.

DAY OF SERVICE

All Bridges students are required to participate in the Day of Service community project each summer. Students will participate in service projects sponsored by community organizations that support the revitalizations of neighborhoods in the surrounding community.

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5 DYNAMIC FORMS

The Bridges to Success Program utilizes the online form submission program, that is designed to minimize time spent processing paperwork, and maximizes student interaction and create secure, online forms that simplify necessary tasks for students. Dynamic forms can be accessed at any time from home or on campus. Please see the forms sections on the Bridges website for additional information.

FACE BOOK

The Bridges to Success Program uses Facebook to stay in contact with students enrolled in the program. Student will be asked to join the online Facebook Community to keep informed of current events, deadlines, and due dates.

JUNETEENTH OBSERVATION

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is a holiday in the United States honoring African American heritage by commemorating the announcement of the abolition of slavery in the U.S. State of Texas in 1865. Celebrated on June 19, the term is a portmanteau of June and nineteenth, and is recognized as a state holiday in 37 states of the United States. In honor of this day Bridges to Success students are invited to participate in programs sponsored by the College.

MARTIN LUTHER KING DAY OF SERVICE

Valencia College annually observe the Martin Luther King, Jr., Federal holiday as a day of community service. Programs are designed to bring people together around a common focus of service to others. The purpose of the program is to help communities meet education, public safety, environmental, or other human needs through direct services.

MENTORING PROGRAMS

The Bridges to Success Mentoring Program aims to improve the lives of young people and enable them to become productive, responsible adults by creating one-to-one mentoring relationships between students and qualified adult volunteers. The mentoring program serves as a catalyst to assist students with building a positive self-image, contribute to their own culture, and build self-esteem. Members will participate in programming designed to develop appropriate moral values, while in pursuit of higher education, and continued learning..

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LATINA (Leading And Taking In New Achievements) East Campus MOSAIC (Men Of Success Acquiring Ideal Character) East Campus IMAGES (Influential Men Applying Gifts and Employing Strategies) West Campus REGAL (Remarkably Elegant, Gifted, Ambitious Ladies) West Campus ELITE (Empowering Leaders In Their Endeavors) Osceola Campus/Co-Ed

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6 PROGRAM EVALUATION

Bridges to Success uses the Qualtrics system to evaluate all program and services that are offered. These evaluations help to create better program and services for students. The evaluations are sent through ATLAS email and students are required to complete them in a timely manner.

PARENT/STUDENT SYMPOSIUM

Our research clearly shows that one of the greatest impacts on a student’s academic success is the involvement of parents. Bridges parents are required to attend the Parent/Student Symposium held during the Fall term. The meetings are generally held college-wide; East, Osceola, and West Campuses. Please note that attendance at one of these three meetings is a requirement to maintaining the Bridges Scholarship.

STUDENT CLUBS

The Office of Bridges to Success serves as advisor and support system to several student clubs with emphasis on minority student interests:

• Black High Achievers Club

• African American Culture Society

TWO PLUS TWO PROGRAM

Valencia College and several prestigious institutions have combined their efforts to facilitate the transfer of college credits earned at Valencia College into upper-division course work. The Two Plus Two is a scholarship program available to eligible high school students from Orange or Osceola County. Preference will be given to current Bridges to Success students. Selected students will receive a two-year (31 credit hours each year) academic scholarship from Valencia College and a two-year transfer scholarship from one of the Two Plus Two participating institutions (amount varies with institution). Please see website for additional information.

ELIGIBILITY FOR TWO PLUS TWO: • Be a graduating senior of a high school in Orange or Osceola County • Must complete a Two Plus Two Scholarship Program application • Submit a high school transcript (Post- Graduation) • Submit two letters of recommendation, one from your high school principal • Have a high school grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 • Must submit a Valencia College admissions application online

SELECTED STUDENTS:

• Must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and a 75% completion rate

• Must attend four Workshops/Skill Shops

• Must complete 30 hours of community service each Term

• Must enroll in a minimum of 9 credit hours (3 courses) per semester in Fall Term and Spring Term, including enrollment in the Student Success course (SLS 1122)

• Student will receive a two-year academic scholarship from Valencia College valenciacc.edu/bridges/

7 Upon receipt of the Associate in Arts degree from Valencia College students must meet the requirements of the participating institution; complete an admission application and transfer to the participating institution.

The scholarship will automatically be renewed the second semester if the students term GPA is at least a 3.0, and students completed at least 75% of their coursework. Additionally, students have to complete their workshop and community service requirements.

MINORITY TRANSFER SCHOLARSHIPS

The Office of Bridges to Success coordinates and distributes information about transfer scholarships that specifically target minority populations. BTS informs students of available resources at the college and provides them with the opportunity to participate in special programs designed to encourage minority students to graduate from community college and transfer to a four-year college or university. Additional scholarship information can be found on the Bridges to Success website at www.valencaicc.edu/bridges.

WORKSHOPS/SKILLSHOPS

The Office of Bridges to Success partners with the college to provide information about workshop/skill shops. These workshops are designed to motivate students and provide practical advice about managing college life. The workshops are free, and they’re offered at convenient times and locations college-wide, and they are jam-packed with knowledge that is useful for the student.

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8 Bridges to Success Achievers Program Introduction Valencia College invites High School Graduates to apply for the Bridges to Success Program.

The Bridges to Success Program is designed to enhance skills needed for academic success. The program will provide an academic, cultural, and social road map that has proven to be successful in graduating our ethnically diverse student population. The Bridges to Success Program begins with a six week summer program. Students, who successfully complete the summer program, will be invited to participate in the Bridges to Success Achievers Program.

Students interested in the Bridges to Success Program must complete a Bridges to Success Summer Program Application (this is not a Valencia College Admissions Application), submit two recommendation forms, write a personal statement, and submit an official high school transcript (before graduation). The Application must be received in the Bridges to Success Program office or post marked by the application deadline date. NO APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE DEADLINE. Applications are available at Valencia College Answer Centers (East, Osceola, West, and Winter Park Campuses), Office of Bridges to Success, school guidance offices, or online at www.valenciacc.edu/bts.

Eligibility for Bridges to Success Summer Program

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Student must be a resident of Orange or Osceola County Student must be a graduating senior (must graduate with a standard high school diploma, or GED, and be eligible to receive financial aid) Student must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and submit online by posted due dates for Summer Program Student must take the Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT) Student whose first language is not English must take the ELPA/LOEP SUBMIT ALL DOCUMENTS TOGETHER IN A COMPLETE PACKET

Eligibility for Bridges to Success Achievers Program

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Student must complete the Bridges to Success Summer Program with at least a 2.0 GPA and a 100% course completion rate Student must complete and process the online Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the next academic year at the same time as current year FAFSA Must be received by posted due dates (see Financial Aid Website)

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9 Bridges to Success Selection Process Selection Committee

Students selected to participate in the Bridges to Success Summer Program are chosen by a selection committee. The Bridges to Success Selection Committee will consider only completed application packets. The minimum requirement to participate in the Bridges to Success Summer Program is to be a current year high school graduate with a standard high school diploma or GED and be eligible to receive financial aid. A point system is used to select program participants.

Acceptance Form

Accepted students will receive a Letter of Acceptance and an Acceptance Form. The Acceptance Form must be signed by the student and parent if the student is under 18 years of age, and returned by the posted deadline. Failure to submit this form by the deadline is an automatic disqualification from further consideration for the Summer program. The form must be returned to Valencia College, Office of Bridges to Success, by mail-P.O. Box 3028, Orlando FL 328023028 Mail-Code 4-25, or it can be dropped off at The Office of Bridges to Success located at 1800 South Kirkman Road, on the West Campus, in the Student Services Building (SSB) room 248 or faxed to 407-582-1304.

Procedure Check List

Selected students to participate in the Summer program will receive a Procedure Check List which identifies procedures that newly selected Bridges to Success Summer Program students must complete and the corresponding deadlines.

The procedures are to: • Submit an official high school transcript by stated deadline • Take the LOEP Test (English is second language) • Sign and return the Acceptance Form • Attend the Mandatory Bridges Orientation and Counseling Advisement session • Attend the Mandatory Bridges to Success Parent/Student Orientation

Assessments

To evaluate a student’s level of academic preparation, the College requires entry assessment for initial placement in English, Reading, and Mathematics courses. Valencia will accept assessment scores from PERT, ACT, or SAT that are less than two years old. All SAT/ACT score reports should be the originals that are sent directly to Valencia College. Copies of score reports will not be accepted. Students participating in the Bridges to Success Summer Program MUST take the PERT. Students whose first language is not English MUST take the ELPA/LOEP and test at a level of 5 or higher.

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10 Fees

There is no fee to participate in the Bridges to Success Summer Program. However, there is a Valencia College Application fee of $35.00 that must be paid online using a credit card or through the Business Office on East, Osceola, or West Campus.

Deadlines / Due Dates

It is the responsibility of the student to meet all deadlines/due dates. The Bridges to Success Summer Program has posted deadlines/due dates on the Bridges Application, Procedure Checklist, and on the Bridges Website (www.valenciacc.edu/bts). Because there are a large number of students who apply for admissions into the Bridges to Success Summer Program and there is a short window of time to replace students if a deadline/due date is not met a student will be replaced without notice.

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11 Orientation-Registration Bridges Student Orientation

Bridges to Success Program students are required to participate in the Bridges Student Orientation before final acceptance into the program. The Bridges Student Orientation includes information on educational planning, college resources, and group advising. Accepted students will receive notification of Bridges Student Orientation by mail, or Atlas email, and it will be posted on Bridges to Success Website.

Bridges Student/Parent Orientation

The Bridges to Success Summer Program Orientation is MANDATORY for students and their parent/guardian to attend. The orientation is designed to acquaint Bridges students and parents with the Bridges to Success Program. This orientation will facilitate a partnership and bond between Valencia College, Office of Bridges to Success, Students, and Parents.

Students/Parents will learn: • The history of the Bridges to Success Program • Who the program staff are • What expenses are covered by the scholarship • Expectations of a Bridges to Success Summer Program student • Requirements for successful completion of the Bridges to Success Summer Program • What program and services are offered • Where the various support labs are on each campus

Academic Advisement

Bridges Advisors will provide developmental advising which includes educational and career planning, interpretation of assessments (CPT/PERT), strategies to address academic difficulties, programs to develop student success skills, preparation for university transfer, and work force preparedness. Students will meet a Bridges Advisor for assistance with educational and career plans.

Bridges students will be assigned an academic advisor that they will meet with at the beginning of the term to complete their Education Plan for the entire academic year (i.e., Summer, Fall, Spring). Students are NOT allowed to withdraw from courses or add additional courses without the permission of their assigned academic advisor. Students who do not comply are subject to have funds withdrawn or a hold placed on their account.

Registration

Bridges Advisors are responsible for assisting students with the registration process. Advisors will assist students with selecting courses and obtaining a class schedule for the upcoming term.

Updated registration information is available online through a student’s online Atlas account.

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12 Bridges participants must complete an Bridges to Success Advising Pre-Registration form and My Education Plan, and have it signed by a Bridges Advisor.

Life Map

My Education/Career Plan Bridges to Success Academic Achievers must develop an Educational/Career Plan in Atlas and review it with an Academic Advisor. An approved Educational/Career Plan is required before a student can register each semester. If a student registers without an approved Education/Career Plan, Bridges to Success will not pay for courses that the student has registered for. Students are required to have their Education/Career Plan reviewed by an advisor at the beginning of each academic year.

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13 Degrees Associate in Arts Degree (A.A.)

The Associate in Arts (A.A.) Degree is designed for the student who plans to transfer to a Florida public university as a junior to complete a bachelor’s degree. Through the A.A. Degree, Valencia offers lower division preparation for almost all of the approximately 200 majors in the State University System of Florida.

The A.A. Degree provides the courses of study equivalent to those offered in the freshman and sophomore years (lower division) of Florida’s State Universities; a student who earns an A.A. Degree from Valencia meets the lower division general education requirements of a Florida state university, but does not automatically meet the requirements for a particular major.

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) and Associate in Science (A.S.)

When a student decides to follow an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree or an Associate in Science (A.S.) Degree program, they are not necessarily preparing themselves for transfer to a State University. Earning one of these degrees prepares students for a successful and rewarding career in their chosen field. If a student later decides to attend a University, they may be required to do additional work at the freshman or sophomore level.

Bachelor Degree Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology (B.S.)

For the engineering program, students must have an A.S. in Electronics Engineering Technology or an A.A. with Pre-Engineering coursework. Pre-Engineering coursework should include completion of mathematics through Calculus II and science through Physics with Calculus II. There is no minimum grade point average required for this program.

Students with an A.S. in Electronics Engineering Technology must have completed a specific set of credit hours, including:

• 42 credit hours of discipline-specific courses

• 18 credit hours of general education

In their junior and senior years, they will be required to complete: • An additional 18 credit hours of general education • 52 credit hours of upper-division technical courses

In their junior and senior years, they will be required to complete: • An additional 18 credit hours of lower-division technical courses • 52 credit hours of upper-division technical courses

The grand total for the degree is 130 credit hours.

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14 The bachelor’s application will be available beginning May, 2011. Students must submit the application online at www.valenciacc.edu /admissions and pay the non-refundable application fee. The application priority date is one month prior to the beginning of a fall, spring, or summer term. Students must be admitted to the program prior to enrolling in courses.

Bachelor of Science Degree Radiologic & Imaging Sciences

Accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology ( JRCERT), Valencia’s bachelor’s program is designed to help students meet industry demands and employer expectations. This is a 2+2 program, which means students must first complete an Associate in Science degree before you can apply to the bachelor’s program.

Must have completed an A.S. degree in one of the following fields: • Diagnostic Medical Sonography • Nuclear Medicine Technology • Radiation Therapy • Radiography

Students A.S. Degree must have 68 credit hours, 18 of which should be in general education.

Must provide proof of national certification or equivalent in your respective imaging discipline.

Check the Bachelor degree program guide for specific course requirements.

6 Steps to a Bachelor’s degree

• Apply for the B.S. program; submit transcripts and proof of certification.

• Meet with a program advisor

• Once you’ve been accepted, attend orientation or view it online

• Enroll in classes. Must complete: – An additional 18 general education credits – 27 credits in upper-division core courses – 15 credits in an upper-division concentration area (includes practicum at local healthcare provider)

• Graduate with your B.S. degree

• Total credit hours for the program = 128 – 42 credit hours of upper division coursework

ATLAS/EMAIL

Valencia’s Web-based learning support system links all Valencia College’s students, faculty, and staff to information that supports student learning and career goals. Student enrolled at Valencia College will receive an e-mail account through Atlas. Atlas also gives the student the ability to register online, check grades and join online learning communities. Students are required to check their Atlas account daily as this is the official means of communication between the student and the Office of Bridges to Success.

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15 Bridges Online Learning Community Group

It is MANDATORY that students sign up for the Bridges Online Learning Community Group.

This group allows students and staff to communicate with each other. Important due dates/deadlines, workshop schedules, community services, and other information will be posted to the group Message Board throughout the academic term.

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16 Academic Requirements Mandatory Courses

It is mandatory that students complete all required College-Prep courses in consecutive terms.

All new Bridges students will be required to take SLS 1101 – Summer Term B, SLS 1201 – Fall Term, and SLS 1122 – Spring Term. These courses may be linked with other courses.

Bridges Math Lab

Bridges Math Lab is designed to assist College Prep Math students and other Non-Prep Math students who are having challenges in their math class. It is mandatory that all College Prep Math and MAT1033 students participate and student at college level math may be required to attend by their Bridges Program Advisor. If you are mandated to participate in the Bridges Math Lab or any other support activity or system and fail to do so you may be required to pay for your Math class and up to the full term based on failure to act in accordance with the mandate(s).

Attendance

Students are expected to attend all sessions of courses for which they have registered. Regular attendance and regular class participation are significant factors which promote success in college.

In the event of an absence students should contact their professor as soon as possible and indicate the reason they missed class and inquire about making up any missed assignments.

It is MANDATORY that Bridges to Success students attend EVERY class. If a student has three unexcused absences, they must submit a letter to the Bridges Manager explaining the circumstances that resulted in them missing class. The letter must be submitted to The Office of Bridges to Success within five days of their third unexcused absence. If a student fails to submit their letter or have more than three unexcused absences, they may lose their scholarship and must submit an appeal to be considered by the Appeals Committee for reinstatement.

Assignments

Students are expected to complete and submit all assignments in accordance with their course syllabus. If a student fails to submit their assignments or doesn’t submit them in a timely manner, they may be required to attend weekly academic support conferences, participate in tutorial sessions, or other appropriate activities as deemed necessary for continued academic success.

Mid-Term Evaluation

Bridges to Success Program conducts a mid-term evaluation each semester as a part of the Academic Success tracking system. The Bridges office sends Academic Progress Report forms to each Bridges to Success students’ professors asking them to complete the form and return it by a specified date. Students with below average evaluations will be placed on an Academic Support Plan, and will have to schedule appointments to meet with an Academic Advisors on a bi-weekly basis. Additionally, students may be required to participate in other activities as needed. valenciacc.edu/bridges/

17 Grade Point Average (GPA)

Bridges to Success Summer Program participants are required to complete the Summer program with at least a 2.0 GPA and 100% course completion rate.

Bridges to Success Achievers Program participants are required to have a 2.5 GPA at the end of the academic year and a 75% completion ratio of attempted course work. Students whose GPA falls below a 2.5 after the Fall term will have to submit an appeal and may be placed on an Academic Support Plan.

Grade Forgiveness/Repeated Courses

Agencies and organizations which provide financial assistance/scholarships (federal and state government, businesses, etc.) may have requirements relative to withdrawal, course repeats and grade forgiveness which are more stringent than those described below. It is your responsibility to verify the effects of enrollment and/or withdrawal upon your financial assistance (financial aid, scholarships, grants, etc.).

According to State Rule 6A-14.0301, you may attempt the same course only three times at Valencia including the original grade, repeat grades and withdrawals at any point in the term.

The same course usually means the subject prefix and course number are the same when posted on a Valencia transcript. Being enrolled in a course for credit beyond the Drop/Refund Deadline counts as an attempt. The Drop/Refund Deadline for each term is listed in the Academic Calendar in the online official catalog.

Notice to Students Seeking to Withdraw from a Course(s) Before you withdraw from a course, you should be aware that course withdrawals:

• Will increase the cost of your education

• May affect your financial aid status

• May affect your transfer grade point average

• May result in your having to pay the full cost of instruction fee to retake the course

• May affect your anticipated graduation date

• May result in your being denied access to limited access programs

• May affect your eligibility for the Honors Program

• May affect your immigration status if you are attending Valencia on a nonimmigrant visa

• Will result in your required repayment of course fees paid by a Bright Futures scholarship.

To withdraw from a course(s) you must access registration on Atlas. Each term you are required to withdraw prior to the Withdrawal Deadline. The Withdrawal Deadlines for each term are published in the Academic Calendar in the online official catalog. All requests for withdrawals must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on the Withdrawal Deadline date.

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18 Before you withdraw:

• Talk with your professor to discuss your progress in the course

• See a Student Services staff member to discuss how a withdrawal will affect your career and education plans and/or the status of your financial aid Conditions That Apply to a First or Second Attempt in a Course On or Before the Withdrawal Deadline: During a first or second attempt in the same course at Valencia, if you withdraw, or are withdrawn by the professor, you will receive a W (Withdrawn). You will not receive credit for the course, and the W will not be calculated in your grade point average; however, the enrollment will count in your total attempts in the specific course.

After the Withdrawal Deadline: A student is not permitted to withdraw after the withdrawal deadline. A professor may withdraw you up to the beginning of the final exam period for violation of the class attendance policy in which case you will receive a grade of “W”. If the professor does not withdraw you, your grade will be what you had earned.

Conditions That Apply to a Third Attempt in a Course You may have only three attempts at Valencia per course including the original grade, repeat grades, and withdrawals at any point in the term beyond the Drop/ Refund Deadline. Upon the third attempt, you will be charged the full cost of instruction fee; you must receive a grade of A, B, C, D, F or I (Incomplete); and should you withdraw, your grade will be changed to an F. If you receive an I (Incomplete) and complete the required course work by the end of term for the following full term, the professor will change your grade from I to the appropriate grade (A – F).

If you receive an I and do not complete the required course work by the end of term for the following full term, your grade will be changed by your professor in accordance with the syllabus. If no grade is submitted by the faculty member to replace the I, your grade will be changed from an I to an F (excluding Summer). Dual enrollment students may not attempt a class a third time.

Conditions that Apply to a Fourth Attempt in a Course College-Level or Technical Credit Course Permission to register for a fourth or subsequent attempt, based on major extenuating circumstances, may be requested through an academic appeals process. This appeal must be processed by the Fourth Attempt Deadline established by Valencia and listed in the Academic Calendar in the online official catalog. All conditions applicable to a third attempt also will apply to any subsequent attempt for which you receive approval through the academic appeals process. A grade of A, B or C from a fourth or subsequent attempt will forgive grades from previous attempts. The Fourth Attempt Appeal form can be found in Atlas under Student Forms. Further information about this appeal process is available in Student Services on each campus. valenciacc.edu/bridges/

19 College-Preparatory Course If you are unsuccessful in three attempts in the same college-preparatory course: You will be advised to contact public and/or private providers of college preparatory instruction to gain the required skills and lists of private providers are available in any campus Answer Centers. You will not be permitted to register for a fourth attempt in the course, but, after seeing a Student Services staff member, you may be permitted to register for another course(s) as determined by the Student Services staff member; and after you have gained the skills, you will be required to retake an entry test and score out of the course in which you have been unsuccessful.

Permission to register for a fourth or subsequent attempt, based on major extenuating circumstances, may be requested through an academic appeals process. This appeal must be processed by the Fourth Attempt Deadline established by Valencia and listed in the Academic Calendar in the online official catalog. All conditions applicable to a third attempt also will apply to any subsequent attempt for which you receive approval through the academic appeals process. A grade of A, B or C from a fourth or subsequent attempt will forgive grades from previous attempts.

Further information about this appeal process is available in Student Services on each campus.

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20 Non Academic Requirements Appointments Non-Bridges Students

Students who are not in the Bridges to Success Program will be given the Transition Services Steps to Enrollment Handout, in addition to being referred to the Answer Center for additional assistance with enrollment to Valencia College.

Community Service Hours

Bridges students are required to complete 30 hours of community service per term (Fall, Spring and Summer-Full Term) and 15 hours during the Summer Term A or B (Returning Students), as well as participate in the mandatory Service Learning Project for Summer Term. Bridges students must complete 3 hours per week beginning the second week after the start of each semester. Community service placement is determined by the Office of Bridges to Success Program.

At the end of the term students will be required to submit a Community Service Student Evaluation Form in addition to a Community Service Agency Evaluation form that must be completed

by Supervisor on record at the Community Service location.

Community Service Penalty Information

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Students who have previously submitted appeals for community service (repeat offenders) will be assessed 30 hours. These students will be required to complete 30 hours in addition to the 30 hours for the term for a total of 60 hours.

Students who fail to complete the 60 hours by the end of the term will have their Bridges funds removed (following term).

Students who submit an appeal for the first time will be assessed a flat 10 hours for any hours not completed.

Students who are graduating and have not completed their requirements (first deadline) and they do not bring themselves current (second deadline) will be referred to Bridges Manager for further action.

Students who fail to complete all requirements at the end of the term may have a hold placed on their record and will be required to repay Bridges for funds awarded during that term. The student will be responsible for paying their fees for the next academic term and they will have to submit an appeal.

Computer Lab Usage

The West Campus Office of Bridges to Success has an open access computer lab for Bridges students to use for Academic purposes only. The lab is ONLY open to Bridges students. Students using the lab will have to present their student ID to gain entry. Printing in the Bridges lab is free; however print jobs will be processed by the Print Manager System which will limit the number of pages that can be printed. This system is used to help monitor what is being printed and to prevent the abuse of copy paper and toner. Tampering with the Print Manager System will result in an automatic loss of Bridges funds. Students will be required to submit and appeal to be reinstated into the program. valenciacc.edu/bridges/

21 There is no fee for using the lab; however there are rules that must be followed to have continued access to the lab. Please adhere to the computer lab usage requirements below:

• Students must sign-in at the front desk prior to using the computer lab and present their student I.D.

• No eating, drinking, or cell phone use allowed

• Students are not allowed to print more than 10 sheets of paper per day

• No more than 8 students are allowed in the lab at a time

• Students are only allowed to use computer for 30 minutes (Per Session) and extended time must be approved by Bridges staff

• No profanity or inappropriate language allowed

• Appropriate noise level must be maintained

• No hats, du-rags, sagging pants, revealing clothing, or sunglasses allowed

• Students must retrieve their belongings before leaving the lab. All unclaimed belongings will be turned into Campus Security’s Lost and Found every Friday afternoon

• No music, games, videos, or nonacademic related activities allowed

• Other rules as posted in the office or communicated via Atlas email

Penalties for Violating Computer Lab Rules

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Students who violate any of the lab rules will receive a written warning signed by

Bridges staff and placed in their files.

Students who violate lab rules a second time will be suspended from the lab for 5

business days.

Students who violate lab rules a third time will be suspended from the lab for the

remainder of the semester.

Repeated violations of lab rules may result in loss of scholarship for term. Any money that has been disbursed by Bridges maybe subject to repayment.

Workshops/Skills Shops Bridges students must attend 4 approved workshop/skill shops each Term (Fall, Spring, and Summer Full-Term) and 2 during the Summer A or B (Returning Students). A list of workshops/skills shops is provided through the Office of Student Development.

At the conclusion of each workshop/skills shops, Bridges students are required to have the presenter sign the Certificate of Attendance. Students must also complete the workshop/skill shops evaluation.

The Workshop Certificate must be submitted to the Bridges to Success Program Office by the posted deadline on the Bridges website.

Workshop/Skill Shops Penalty

• Students are required to submit 4 Workshops/ Skill shops each term. valenciacc.edu/bridges/

22 The current penalty policy:

• Every 1 Workshop/ Skill Shops missed 1 Workshop/ Skill Shops must be made up.

Students will be placed on a penalty contract after they have missed the first and second deadlines. Students who are not current by the last deadline will have to go through the appeals process.

• Any student who does not complete a workshop/ skill shops will be assessed 4 additional workshops/ skill shops for a total of 8 workshops/ skill shops for the term.

• Students who do not complete the 8 workshops/ skill shops by the deadline will be referred to Bridges Manager and may be required to pay for a term.

Bridges Group

New Bridges students (first year students) will form groups with approximately 10-15 members.

Students will be placed in groups during Summer Term B which will become their presentation group for the academic year. Students will attend at least two Bridges presentations each term which will count as two of the four workshops/skills shops for Fall/Spring. Students are required to complete a total of 8 workshops for each academic year. Each group will have a student leader selected by their academic advisors who will be responsible for organizing the group to research the topic, and prepare for the overall presentation.

Bridges groups will be evaluated by an Advisor/Facilitator and must receive a satisfactory evaluation to receive workshop credit. Students will be required to keep a journal, and record their experience in working with the group. A group member evaluation will also be completed by all group participants.

Mentoring Program

The Bridges to Success Mentoring Program aims to improve the lives of young people and enable them to become productive, responsible adults by creating one-to-one mentoring relationships between students and qualified adult volunteers.

The mentoring program shall serve as a catalyst to assist students with building a positive selfimage, contribute to their own culture, and build self-esteem. Members will participate in programming designed to develop appropriate moral values, while in pursuit of higher education, and continued learning.

Group Meetings

Students are required to attend 2 mandatory meetings each term. The only excuse that is acceptable for not attending a mandatory meeting is class. Students who are in class during the scheduled meeting must submit their class schedule and meeting excusal form to their campus advisor prior to meeting. A student who does not attend mandatory meeting for any other reason must attend the next available meeting on another campus. Students who fails to attend any of the scheduled mandatory meetings will be referred to Bridges Manager for further action. valenciacc.edu/bridges/

23 Field Trips

The Bridges to Success Program sponsors and endorses academic and cultural enrichment field trips for its participants. Students will receive a list of field trips at the beginning of each academic year. Students should identify trips that they would like to attend and make sure that they have informed their instructors in advance. Field trips are NOT mandatory and should only be taken with the prior-approval of the professor with the understanding that any missed assignments will be submitted early or when the student returns. Students who wish to attend must have a 2.0 GPA to participate. In addition to meeting these requirements:

• Have not missed any classes

• Professor Approval (Progress Report/Evaluation)

• Have met all program requirements (i.e., community service, workshops) Students who are currently on an Academic Support Plan (ASP) will have to receive permission from their academic advisor to attend field trips/college tours.

College Tours

The Annual Spring Break College Tour is a weeklong tour of Colleges/Universities, and historical sites across the United States. Location and specific dates are determined in October of each year. Students interested in attending must submit their request and all travel documents by posted deadline in order to attend. A minimal fee is generally required with payment plan options available. Students who sign-up to attend field trips and decide they will not attend and they have not notified the Bridges office beforehand will be required to pay the cost of the trip.

Students who do not pay the fee will have a hold placed on their account. Students who wish to attend must have a 2.5 GPA to participate. Any disciplinary issues that arise from a student’s participation on the college tour will result in the student being sent home at their own expense.

Students who do not follow the rules as outlined during the college tour orientation are subject to disciplinary actions by Valencia College and Bridges to Success which may include:

• Not attending future trips sponsored by the college

• Probationary status

• Expulsion from program and school

• Other duties as assigned by Program Manager

Bridges to Success Summer Recognition Program

The Bridges to Success Program hosts an end of the term recognition ceremony. Bridges students and their parents are invited to participate in the ceremony to recognize the Bridges to Success students who have successfully completed the summer program. During the ceremony students will receive their academic award scholarship certificate to cover the next academic year.

It is MANDATORY for all Bridges students who will receive the academic scholarship for the Fall term. Students who are unable to attend due to a previously scheduled event must submit written notification and supporting documents to be excused. Those who do not attend must submit written excusal to Bridges Management. Professional dress attire is required. valenciacc.edu/bridges/

24 Expectations Class Room Expectation

Valencia College has a Student Code of Classroom conducts that students are expected to read, and abide by.

The student code of conduct can be found athttp://valenciacc.edu/pdf/studenthandbook.pdf

Bridges Expectations

The Bridges to Success Program also expects students to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner. Therefore, listed below are some of the important examples of activities that are not acceptable.

• Tardiness, leaving and returning during class, and early departure without authorization

• Interruption of the learning process

• Side discussions which are irrelevant to the subject matter of the class, that distract from the learning process, or impede, hinder or inhibit the ability of other students to obtain the full benefit of the educational presentation

• Utterances of “fighting words” or epithets directed specifically toward other persons with the purpose or effect of creating a hostile educational environment or which may reasonably be expected to incite imminent or immediate violence Valencia College and the Bridges to Success Program student expectations:

• Read and understand their course syllabi

• Build a “master calendar” or schedule and review it often

• Do not skip class (unless student has doctors excuse or a has a documented emergency)

• Complete all assignments on schedule

• Sit in the front of the class to minimize distractions

• Talk to his/her professor during their scheduled office hours

• Research the student support services that are available on campus

• Do not Add/Withdraw from a course without first talking to his/her professor and Bridges Advisor (MANDATORY )

• Set measurable, and realistic academic and personal goals each semester

• Accept personal responsibility for his/her academic progress

• Get to know your classmates

• Study his/her notes and review the text book frequently

• Check-in with Bridges to Success Office at least once every two weeks

valenciacc.edu/bridges/

25 Scholarships and Financial Aid Free Application for Federal Student Aid

Pell Grants may be awarded if students demonstrate a financial need based on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students are eligible for this program (PELL) if their Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) is below a predetermined level and they are seeking a degree in an eligible program of study. The annual award amount is determined by a student’s Estimated Family Contribution.

New Bridges students enrolled in the summer program must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form by the posted due date (see Financial Aid website for due dates) for each academic year the scholarship is awarded. Students must complete the FAFSA online (www.fafsa.ed.gov). It may take 4 to 6 weeks for the application to be processed. If the application has not been processed by the posted due date, students will be required to pay for their courses and fees. Students will be reimbursed, TUITION ONLY, if their application is processed no later than the posted due date. If a student does not pay for their courses and fees, they will be withdrawn from their courses and removed from the Bridges to Success program.

Students who are removed from the program may be required to repay the college for the courses that they registered for.

Bridges to Success Summer Program Scholarship

The Bridges to Success Summer Program pays the cost of tuition (7 credit hours) and books (up to $150.00). The scholarship is awarded to students who complete all requirements for selection into the program. If student is selected for the Bridges to Success Summer Program and decides not to participate it is their responsibility to submit a written notification that they will not be accepting the scholarship and the reason they are withdrawing from the program. If a student fails to notify the Bridges to Success Program Office that they are not participating in the Summer program they may be required to pay or reimburse the program for books, tuition and fees.

Bridges to Success Achievers Scholarship

Bridges to Success Summer Program participants who complete the summer program with at least a 2.0 Grade Point Average (GPA) and 100% course completion will be awarded the Bridges to Success Achievers Scholarship. This scholarship award covers the cost of in-state tuition and fees for up to 31 credit hours per academic year and is renewed if program requirements are met.

The total scholarship award for the Bridges Achiever Scholarship Program is 62 credit hours.

Students are required to sign their Bridges to Success Achievers Scholarship Agreement with their advisors each academic year. Bridges to Success Achievers in good standing with the college and the Bridges to Success Program may request additional hours to complete their degree.

The student must demonstrate satisfactory progress toward their degree program and that additional credit hours requested are necessary to complete the degree program.

valenciacc.edu/bridges/

26 The Bridges to Success Achievers Program participants are required to attend consecutive terms (excluding Summer Terms) until graduation to maintain eligibility. Participants who do not attend consecutive terms because of extenuating circumstances may submit an appeal to the Bridges to Success Appeals Committee.

Book Scholarship

The Bridges to Success Program covers the cost of books $150.00 for the first Summer Term only, and $300.00 per Term for Fall and Spring for all students.

Road Map to Success Award

This scholarship is awarded to students enrolled in the SLS 1122 Student Success Course.

Students must complete the best practices for being a successful student. Students work with an advisor to complete college-preparatory coursework, participate in developmental advising curricula, and attend elective programs whereby they earn points toward the award. Students have three academic terms to complete the requirements; those who complete the requirements successfully with receive a $500.00 scholarship.

Valencia College Foundation Scholarships

The Valencia Foundation offers a number of privately funded scholarships that are donated by organizations and individuals interested in supporting Valencia’s students.

Donor-Selected Foundation Scholarships Most scholarship donors choose their scholars without direct input from Valencia based on their own application process, usually in March or April for the upcoming academic year. If the donor notifies Valencia of the application process, an announcement will be posted in the Valencia Source and the campus newsletters.

Some donors will ask Valencia for recommendations. Valencia staff will choose students to recommend based on the donor’s requirements and the Valencia Foundation Scholarship applications on file.

Valencia-Selected Foundation Scholarships Some of the donors have asked Valencia’s Scholarship Committee to choose their scholar. The Committee will match the applicants with the scholarship criteria. Most of the scholarships have unique, special criteria such as graduation from a particular high school, or employment with a certain company. Additional preference will be given to students with financial need and a minimum GPA of 2.5. While good grades are important, the highest grades are usually not the first basis for selection. Valencia Foundation Scholarship’s are for in-state students and applications must be submitted to the Answer Center by the posted deadline to be considered for the upcoming academic year. Late applications will be accepted and held in the event a new scholarship is created during the school year. To view a complete listing of all Foundation Scholarships, visit the Foundation web site at http://www.valencia.org. valenciacc.edu/bridges/

27 Student Organizations Student Government Association

The Student Government Association (SGA) is the official voice of the student body in matters relating to the college's administration.

• SGA is a vital link in the college's endeavors to ensure a positive learning environment for our student body.

• Each year, the SGA plans a wide variety of programs and activities designed to enhance campus life as well as support college sponsored programs.

• Participation in SGA provides many opportunities for leadership, including involvement at the local, district and state levels of student government in Florida through the

Florida Junior/Community College Student Government Association (FJCCSGA).

Currently registered Valencia students are automatically voting members of the SGA. Each Spring, SGA officers are selected to make up the Executive Board. The Executive Board plans the SGA's activities and conducts its governance on behalf of all its members. All students have an opportunity to join the numerous SGA committees. Students who are interested in serving as an SGA officer should contact the Student Development office on their respective campus.

Student Organizations

Valencia College recognizes student organizations on campus that exist to promote the social, physical and educational well-being of students. Types of student organizations on campuses are:

• Career: Organizations established for students with an interest in a specific career.

• Honorary: Organizations established for students who have met certain prescribed standards, usually requiring a high academic average.

• Service: Groups which combine social activities with educational goals and service projects.

• Social: Groups which combine social activities with educational goals and service projects.

• Special Interest: Groups which seek to unite people who have common interests in areas such as politics, religion, hobbies, etc.

Student organizations are open to all Valencia College students and must have a college faculty or staff member as its advisor (see Student Handbook for specific organizations).

valenciacc.edu/bridges/

28 Suspension and Expulsion Suspension/Expulsion

Bridges to Success students who fail to make satisfactory progress may be suspended or expelled from the program. Student can be suspended or expelled for the following reasons:

• Grade Point Average is below the minimum required 2.5 GPA

• Completion ratio is less than 75% of attempted course work (except for Bridges to Success Summer Program-100% completion)

• Failure to attend required workshops

• Failure to complete required community service hours

• Failure to follow Bridges instructions, policies, and procedures

• Disciplinary issues on college sponsored trips (i.e., drinking, drug use, stealing, fighting, disrespect to staff, etc.)

• Other reasons as outlined in this document and or the Valencia College Student Handbook

Bridges to Success Appeal Process

Students who fail to meet program requirements listed above must submit a Satisfactory Progress Appeal or it will result in an automatic loss of scholarship and student may be required to repay funds or have a hold placed on their account. Appeal Form can be found on the Bridges to Success website at www.valenciacc.edu/bts.

valenciacc.edu/bridges/