College Guide - Fall 2017

Guide to Getting into College

Sunday, September 17, 2017

2 | Sunday, September 17, 2017

GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE

Take the right steps to simplify search process ‌The college search process can be stressful, frustrating and confusing. Why not take a step-by-step approach that will likely lead to better results and make the process easier and less hectic.

1. Ask yourself: What do I want? Exactly what do I expect from my education?

Once you have a rough idea in mind about where you want to go and what you want to achieve, start looking at schools that can deliver. You may already have a few schools in mind to start.

Your list may grow longer, but begin narrowing down choices in your junior year.

By the time your senior year rolls around, the list should be narrowed to your top two to five or six schools. The application process can take time and create stress, so relieve the pressure by NOT overapplying.

2. Take time to attend a college fair.

Nowhere else will you find so much information available in one location. It’s like a shopping mall for college candidates.

Students and their parents can visit briefly with college admissions representatives from participating colleges and universities, community and technical schools, military service branches. Gather up materials on the college and get a “feel” for what each college offers.

Go with a list of questions specific to your interests to ask at each booth. Introduce yourself to the admissions officers and get on their email and regular mail lists.

Take advantage of any workshops offered on the search process, etc.

3. Look at cost — but don’t freak out.

College costs money. Sometimes a lot of it, but don’t let that be a roadblock in your desire to attend college.

Financial aid is available for many students, but you have to fill out the FAFSA form to find out if you qualify, and for

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how much. And you’ll have to fill out those forms and reapply each year you enroll in an institution of higher learning.

Grant aid from federal and state governments, institutional funds and private sources, as well as scholarships can lower the net price for a majority of college students.

4. Making the grade is more than a grade point average.

Grades can measure success and focus, but taking college-level advance placement courses and completing challenging classes improves your potential. Find activities or sports that make you feel fulfilled and give them the attention they deserve. Don’t sign up for lots of extracurricular activities just to pad your application.

Keep track

Be responsible

1. List your chosen schools on your financial aid applications, ACT or SAT registrations, and other forms.

1. Learn to manage your time. Academic obligations should take precedence over social activities, but that doesn’t mean you can’t schedule some “me” time to hang out and have pizza and beer with friends.

2. Look at the admission requirements. Are you able to meet all of them?

3. Apply to more than one school — even if you think one school is perfect for you.

4. Fill out admission applications online or on paper (most schools offer both).

5. Visit the schools’ websites to get the forms you need.

6. Check to see if your school accepts the Common Application. The Common Application is a standard form accepted by more than 600 colleges across the country. Many schools that accept the Common Application also have supplemental forms you must complete. Visit www.commonapp.org.

7. Send applications as soon as you can. .

8. Check with your chosen schools about specific admission deadlines. .

2. Make new friends. Join a club, pitch in on a project, participate in an intramural sport to grow your circle of friends.

3. Explore the campus and community.

Read the local newspaper and area/ regional magazines. Put aside memories of high school and make some fresh ones!

4. Manage your money. You’re on your own now, and parents may not be around to bail you out if you get overextended. And even if they are, start budgeting and tracking your expenses.

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GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE

State’s largest college fair is Sept. 24 in Des Moines ‌DES MOINES — Students of all ages are encouraged to visit the annual Golden Circle College and Career Fair. Whether you’re a freshmen or sophomore just starting to explore career options, or a junior or senior narrowing your list of college choices, Golden Circle College & Career Fair is the perfect opportunity for you to gather knowledge, make connections, and begin to make informed decisions about your future.

The 2017 Fair takes place Sunday, Sept. 24 from 12:30 to 3 p.m. at the Iowa Center for Higher Education, 2500 Fleur Drive, Des Moines.

College and University Representation. As the largest college fair in Iowa, Golden Circle offers the most diverse list of exhibiting colleges and universities.

Career Cluster Representatives. Learn about emerging career fields and the education required by visiting the NEW Career Cluster booths. Each of the 16 Career Clusters will be represented by Central Iowa business and industry leaders, giving students the opportunity to discuss their career interests while visiting colleges about potential programs and majors.

Breakout sessions. Take the opportunity to listen in a free break-out session on topics like emerging industry, Iowa job growth, career planning, college selection, employer expectations, and the financial aid processs.

One of the sessions is “How to Pay For College: Understanding the Financial Aid Process,” by Erick Danielsen, vice president of programs for ICAN. The pro-

Nearly 2,000 students and parents attended the 2016 fair with more than 130 colleges and universities from across the country exhibiting.

Event sponsors are the Iowa Access Network ICAN, ACT, the Greater Des Moines Partnership and Hy-Vee. Golden Circle is automated, meaning exhibitors will have scanners to take down prospective student information. Students could register online and bring a barcode to the fair. Any college that piques their interest can scan the barcode directly from a smart phone or from a SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO‌ printed copy you brought to the A college and career fair allows students to gather materials in a one- fair. No more filling out information cards, one scan and the stop shopping setting. colleges will send you additional gram will cover the financial aid and college comparisons, aid information on their institution. process, understanding FAFSA options, the scholarship process To register, visit icansucceed. results, understanding costs and where to go for help. org

2017 Fall College Guide ❑ Ellsworth Community College 1100 College Ave. Iowa Falls, IA 50126 Admission: 641-648-4611 or 800-322-9235 Website: ecc.iavalley.edu

❑ Mount Mercy University 1330 Elmhurst Drive NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52402 Admissions: 319-368-6460 or toll-free at 800-248-4504 Website: www.mtmercy.edu

❑ University of Iowa 108 Calvin Hall Iowa City, IA 52242 Admission: 319-335-3847 Website: www.uiowa.edu

❑ Upper Iowa University - Fayette Campus 605 Washington St., PO Box 1857 Fayette, IA 52142 Admission: 800-553-4150 Website: www.uiu.edu

❑ Hawkeye Community College 1501 East Orange Rd. Waterloo, IA 50701 Admission: 319-296-4000 Website: www.hawkeyecollege.edu

❑ North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC) 500 College Dr. Mason City, IA 50401 Admissions: 1-888-GO-NIACC Website: www.niacc.edu

❑ University of Northern Iowa 002 Gilchrist Hall Cedar Falls, IA 50614 Admission: 319-273-2281 Website: www.uni.edu

❑ Upper Iowa University - Waterloo Center 3563 University Ave. Waterloo, IA 50701 Admission: 319-232-6980 Website: www.uiu.edu

❑ Iowa State University 2433 Union Drive Ames, IA 50011 Admission: 515-294-5836 Website: www.iastate.edu

❑ Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) 1625 Hwy. 150 South • Calmar, IA 52132 8342 NICC Drive. • Peosta, IA 52068 Admission: (Calmar) 800-728-2256 Admission: (Peosta) 800-728-7367 Website: www.nicc.edu

❑ Upper Iowa University - Cedar Rapids 700 Bell Dr. Cedar Rapids, IA 52142 Admission: 319-848-8488 Website: www.uiu.edu/standout

❑ Wartburg College 100 Wartburg Blvd.

Waverly, IA 50677 Admissions: 800-772-2085 Website: www.wartburg.edu

❑ Kaplan University 7009 Nordic Drive Cedar Falls, IA 50613 Admissions: 319-277-0220 Website: KaplanIowa.com

❑ Prairie Lakes Church 1907 Viking Rd. Cedar Falls, IA 50613 Admissions: 319-266-2655 Website: prairielakeschurch.org/cll

To request more information, check the desired box (es) and mail form or go online to www.wcfccourier.com

ATTN: SHEILA KERNS P.O. Box 540 Waterloo, IA 50704 | sheila.kerns@wcfcouier.com

Name: ___________________________ Address:_____________________ City:________________ State:________ Zip Code:_____________________ High School:________________________Year of Graduation:_____________ Phone Number:__________________ Email:__________________________

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GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE

Everything you need to know about FAFSA ‌The FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is the primary form that the federal government, states and colleges use to award grants, scholarships, work study and student loans.

The FAFSA determines how much financial aid (grants, loans, work study) a student can receive. To apply for federal student aid, such as federal grants, loans, and work-study, you need to complete the FAFSA. Grants and scholarships are free, but you have to earn the work study dollars and pay back the loans.

Completing and submitting the FAFSA is easier than ever, and it gives you access to the largest source of financial aid to pay for college or career school.

Starting with 2017-2018, the following changes have been put in place: Students are now able to submit a FAFSA earlier. The earlier submission date is a permanent change, enabling students to complete and submit a FAFSA cation processes and gives students more information. Beginning with the 2017–18 as early as Oct. 1 every year. This better time to apply for aid.

FAFSA, students are required to report Students now report earlier income income information from an earlier tax aligns the financial aid and college appli-

year. For example, on the 2017–18 FAFSA, students (and parents, as appropriate) must report their 2015 income information, rather than their 2016 income information. Families can use their prior-prior year tax information to complete the form instead of the prior year’s tax information. That means using 2016 tax information to complete the 2018-19 form. This allows families to file the FAFSA before they file their previous year’s taxes.

Many states and colleges also use it to determine how much state aid, like HOPE scholarships, and institutional aid to award. The FAFSA is also imperative for parents and students to determine how much of their own money they will have to provide and which colleges they can afford.

You can find more information about federal student aid through the following sources: Visit StudentAid.gov.

You can find the application at fafsa. ed.gov.

Source: StudentAid.gov, nerdwallet

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mtmercy.edu/visit

mtmercy.edu | 319-368-6460 | admission@mtmercy.edu |

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GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE

Services help college students deal wth stressful situations AMBER ROTTINGHAUS

amber.rottinghaus@wcfcourier.com‌

The transition from living ‌ at home to living at school can often be difficult for students to become accustomed to, and therefore can cause stress, anxiety or depression.

For this reason, the University of Northern Iowa, Hawkeye Community College and Wartburg College offer a variety of services to help their students within each school’s counseling or student life departments.

Wartburg College shows their students their support right from the beginning. Along with a presentation about having grit and working through difficult situations, Wartburg’s fresh-

More than 50 academic majors offered

men are also place with a first year seminar group, who will have classes together all of first semester.

The seminar classes do not only focus on academics, but also emphasize the importance of managing their stress and that not all mistakes are bad, but rather a learning opportunity.

“Students need to rely more on their survival skills,” Jette Irgens, Wartburg’s assistant director of the Pathways Center, said. “We try to address it from all different people.”

During orientation, Wartburg students also meet their academic advisors and fill out an incoming student survey to

pinpoint that student’s concerns with entering college, whether it is living away from home, specific subjects or finances. From there, the advisors can analyze their results and direct them to the necessary campus resources.

These resources include Pathways’ two full-time counselors who offer one-on-one sessions along with another employee who works with testing services and helps students overcome test anxiety or academic stress.

Students can also find help in

Travel the world during our Fall, Winter, or May terms

Get involved with one of our 17 vocal and instrumental groups

Please see STRESS, Page 11

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More than 600 students are DIII athletes

92% of all graduates finish in four years or less

EMBRACE YOUR PASSIONS. IT’S WORTH IT.

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WWW.WARTBURG.EDU

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GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE

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Begin your journey at Wartburg College ‌WAVERLY—Your journey toward success begins the moment you set foot on the Wartburg College campus. Through your coursework, involvement with on-campus organizations and experiences off-campus, like service trips, our Urban Studies Programs in Colorado and Des Moines, and internships, you will learn more about who you are and what you are meant to do.

Our 1,482 students hail from 28 states and 58 countries, including 131 international students. U.S. News and World Report considers Wartburg a first-tier National Liberal Arts College, and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching has included Wartburg on its list of exclusively baccalaureate colleges that foster ex-

periential learning and community engagement.

At Wartburg, you can choose from more than 50 areas of study, including numerous pre-professional tracks and new programs in public health, actuarial science, digital media and production, data analytics and criminology. If you haven’t decided your path, you will work closely with professors and Pathways Center advisers to find your passion and still graduate in four years.

Interact. Small colleges have big advantages, including personal access to your professors.

No matter your academic path, you will benefit from a low faculty to student ratio (11:1) and classes taught by a professor, not a graduate student.

Get involved. More than one

quarter of all students participate in one of the college’s 15 music ensembles, including the Wartburg Choir, Castle Singers and Wind Ensemble, which tour every year and alternate travel abroad on a rotating three-year schedule. More than 600 students are involved in our intercollegiate athletic program, which consistently ranks in the top 25 in NCAA Division III and has won individual or team national titles for the past 22 years. We also have nearly 100 student-run organizations focusing on academics, media and publications, sports and recreation, performing arts, service and spiritual life, as well as other general interests.

Network. Because we are a residential campus with a vibrant living and learning com-

munity, you will build a strong network of friends regardless of where you live or your major.

While on campus we will connect you with alumni across the globe who will help you build your network. When you graduate, you can join the ranks of the alums helping shepherd the next generation of Knights on to success.

Lead. Employers value a wellrounded employee. At Wartburg, students have the opportunity to lead in the classroom, on the field or stage, through a student organization or through service and in the community.

In addition, completion of our leadership program indicates to potential employers that you will be someone they can count on in the office and in the community.

Succeed. At Wartburg, 92 percent of our graduates complete their degree in four years or less. Our pre-health placement rates are more than double the national average, with students in pharmacy, nursing, medical/ clinical laboratory sciences and chiropractic medicine seeing 100 percent placement rates.

In our daily work to educate young people, Wartburg College strives to live its distinctive mission in bold, new contexts.

Our calling is to challenge and nurture students of tomorrow, who come to us from many places with many desires and aspirations.

To learn more about why Wartburg College is worth it, visit www.wartburg.edu, call 800-772-2085 or email admissions@wartburg.edu.

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GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE

Experience Ellsworth Community College ‌IOWA FALLS —What does it mean to experience Ellsworth?

This close-knit “family” atmosphere makes Ellsworth students feel right at home. Located in Iowa’s ‘scenic city,’ the beautiful 40-acre campus is located near the Iowa River, just a short walk away from downtown.

ECC has more than 55 degree programs to choose from, ranging from nursing to criminal justice and athletic training to agriculture. You can keep busy with an array of student clubs, activities and sporting events to attend.

With more than 70 percent of ECC students transferring to a four-year institution to complete a bachelor’s degree, ECC has one of the highest student success rates of any community college in Iowa. Another reason

so many students choose to start their college experience at Ellsworth and then transfer credits for a bachelor’s degree is because ECC has dual enrollment agreements with the University of Iowa, University of Northern Iowa and Iowa State University.

That means when you enroll at ECC, you can also be enrolled at one of the Regent universities at the same time. Dual enrollment gives ECC students access to academic advising, library resources, athletic events and all the other amenities of the state universities.

Many ECC students majoring in engineering, marketing or veterinary medicine choose dual enrollment because it also allows them to save money by earning credits before transferring to a big university. Other

ECC degree programs such as nursing, mobile service technology or equine management lead directly to a career after graduation. Many other programs are transferrable, so you can earn valuable (and transferrable) credits while you decide on a career path.

Want more? Ellsworth’s equestrian program is currently ranked second in the nation by HorseSchool.com; ECC’s is the only Iowa equestrian program listed in the Top 15. ECC’s program scored 96.8% out of 100, based on teacher/student radios, tuition, number of instructed rides per week, horse/student ratio and a variety of other factors.

And ECC’s agriculture program was recently named as one of six outstanding agriculture

education programs nationwide by the National Association of Agricultural Educators.

Here’s even more good news about Ellsworth …

Over $688,000 is awarded in ECC scholarships each year.

More than 70 percent of our students receive some type of scholarship or financial aid.

ECC isn’t the biggest — just the best! Our smaller class size allows you a more hands-on approach to learning and our instructors are outstanding.

ECC has the 17th highest student’s success rate (defined as graduation rate + transfer rate) in the entire nation! If you plan to graduate and/or transfer, why not choose the college where you’re most likely to succeed?

Our faculty and staff are

known (and appreciated) for their support of and commitment to their students.

Our intercollegiate athletic programs are among the best — football, volleyball, wrestling, basketball, baseball and softball.

There are a lot of activities, events, clubs and organizations for students. You can be highly involved, meet lots of people and build a great college portfolio at Ellsworth.

ECC offers Panther Preview Days for prospective students.

For Panther Preview dates/ times or to reserve a space for yourself and a parent or friend, contact the ECC Admissions Office at (641) 648-4611 or 800322-9235 or e-mail eccinfo@ iavalley.edu. There’s more information online at www.EllsworthCollege.com.

Ellsworth Community College An amazing experience!

ECC has more than 55 degree program options, from Agriculture and Criminal Justice to Equine Science, Graphic Design and Nursing.

ECC students graduate with $10,200 to $15,920 less debt than students at Iowa’s public universities or private colleges.

And ECC’s partnerships with UNI, Iowa State and Iowa make it easy to transfer your Ellsworth credits AND you have the same benefits as a student at those schools.

Ellsworth’s not the biggest ... just the best! Call or visit the ECC Admissions Office to apply for scholarships and EXPERIENCE ELLSWORTH!

ELLSWORTH Community College iowa valley community college district

For information contact ECC Admissions at 800-322-9235 or eccinfo@iavalley.edu

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GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE

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Why should you choose University of Iowa? ‌World-class academics.

Ranked among the top 35 public universities in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, the University of Iowa in Iowa City is home to leading programs in the sciences and humanities, one of the nation’s leading academic medical centers, and the esteemed Iowa Writers’ Workshop.

Online and distance-learning opportunities are available in the Waterloo area.

Create your own path. With more than 200 areas of study at Iowa—including majors, minors, certificates, and tracks—you can tailor your program to your interests and get an education that will help you stand out. Iowa is the perfect place for students interested in the health sciences,

business, engineering, education, and much more.

Commitment to success. As soon as you set foot on campus, you’ll see that the University of Iowa is dedicated to supporting new students. Events like Orientation and On Iowa! help get you started, building skills, teaching traditions, and introducing you to friends on campus.

Best value. Iowa has been named a Fiske Guide to the Colleges “Best Buy” for more than 10 consecutive years. Our FourYear Graduation Plan can help you start your career sooner while keeping costs down.

Perfect size. As one of the smallest Big Ten public universities (about 24,000 undergraduates and 33,000 students total),

Iowa offers the opportunities of a major university in an environment that feels more like a small college. About 78 percent of classes have fewer than 30 students, and our student-to-faculty ratio is 16:1.

Opportunities. Iowa undergraduates conduct groundbreaking research with faculty mentors, engage in creative work, study abroad in more than 70 countries each year, and secure thousands of competitive internships each year. These opportunities contribute to your education and provide the kind of real-world experience employers look for.

Career support. Students at Iowa can pursue career advising services at any time. Whether

you want to be an entrepreneur or an entertainer—or you’re exploring all your options—advisors can help you research careers, assess your skills, and practice interviewing. Once you start your job search, you can meet some of the 400-plus employers who conduct more than 4,700 interviews on campus every year.

Outcomes. Job placement and graduate school acceptance rates within a year of graduation average 95 percent. Recent Iowa grads are working for top companies like CNN, IBM, Google, Disney, ESPN, Rockwell Collins, US Bank, and more.

Vibrant student life. Iowa offers the excitement and school spirit of a Big Ten university, plus

countless opportunities to get involved. You can choose from more than 500 student groups, cheer on the Hawkeyes at one of more than 140 home games each year, join dozens of intramural or club sports, or enjoy a thriving arts scene.

Campus and community.

Iowa’s 1,700-acre campus is friendly and accessible, with most academic buildings and residence halls clustered within easy walking distance. Casual yet cosmopolitan, Iowa City is known for recreational opportunities, shopping, restaurants, and entertainment.

Come see for yourself what it means to be a Hawkeye. Schedule your visit at admissions. uiowa.edu or call (319) 335-1569.

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GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE

Career-focused education meets needs of students, employers ‌‌K‌aplan University delivers undergraduate and graduate programs with the flexibility to fit the schedules of students with lots of real-life responsibilities and little time to spare.‌ The school offers over 180 online and on-campus programs, all designed to develop the skills and knowledge to help students pursue a new career or advance in their current one.*

Making most of ‌‌ credits you have‌‌ It’s surprising how many students are unaware of the time and money they could save applying their previous college credit toward a college degree— and how close they may be to graduating. Kaplan University offers several paths designed to help students maximize previous credits, earn credit for what they already know, and map the most direct path to a degree.† Our relationship with community colleges can also help facilitate a smooth transition into a degree program, and may qualify the student for a tuition grant.‡

Flexibility ‌‌to fit schedule ‌‌

The access and flexibility offered by Kaplan University allows many students with families to continue working while they attend college. And because Kaplan University’s online courses are not restricted by geographic boundaries, students have an opportunity to interact and network with professors and students with varied experience and backgrounds.

Campus President Susan Spiveyy congratulates Jarrod Hogan, g gan, Bachelor of Science in Heath Care Administration

Support services ‌‌ready to assist you‌‌ Kaplan University offers a full range of support services to help students achieve their goal, including admission and education advising, campus tour and orientation, live tutoring, resource library, career services, and more.

B U I L D I N G YO U R

CAREER

Make your future a ‌‌ priority‌‌

If you are interested in learning about what Kaplan University has to offer, visit KaplanIowa. com, email midavis@kaplan. edu, call (319) 227-0220, or stop by the campus at 7009 Nordic Interactive, ‌‌ Drive, Cedar Falls.

For comprehensive consumer user-friendly learning‌‌ and gainful employment inforStudents interested in devel- mation, visit kaplan.edu/info. oping or enhancing the relevant skills and knowledge required Kaplan University cannot guarby employers today in areas like antee employment or career business, information technol- advancement. †Kaplan University ogy, criminal justice, legal stud- does not guarantee transferabilies, fire science, health sciences, ity of credit. See the University education, and nursing will find Catalog for the Prior Learning AsKaplan University offers a wide sessment policy. ‡ Must be an emrange of programs designed to ployee or member of an organization with which Kaplan University achieve that goal.

Classes are taught by industry has an educational relationship. professionals who bring first- Contact an Admissions Advisor for hand knowledge to the subjects details. May not be combined with they teach. Some courses offer scholarships, grants, military tuiinternships and an opportunity tion reductions, tuition vouchers, to acquire real-world experi- or other discounts or Kaplan University Tuition Cap pricing.‌ ence.

STARTS HERE.

Earn your degree on campus, online, or both. Gain the relevant career skills employers notice.

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Learn more at 319.277.0220 or visit KaplanIowa.com .

For comprehensive consumer and gainful employment information, visit kaplan.edu/info. Kaplan University cannot guarantee employment or career advancement.

10 | Sunday, September 17, 2017

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CAREER AND TRANSFER PROGRAMS

GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE

STATE-OF-THE-ART PATIENT SIMULATOR LAB

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Hawkeye’s career and technical programs, like Agricultural Power Technology, are led by industry-proven instructors with real-world experience that helps prepare graduates for an easy transition from classroom to career.

Hawkeye Community College lives up to expectations ‌Small classes, personal attention, hands-on learning — you often read these phrases whenever a college starts talking about the student experience. They’re all great things, but how do you know if the school really lives up to the hype? It’s simple: Ask its graduates.

“I knew I didn’t want to start at a university,” said Sarah Ludwig, who completed the Liberal Arts Transfer program at Hawkeye Community College in 2016. “At Hawkeye, you still get that college feel without it being too big.”

Like many Hawkeye graduates, Sarah saved money on tuition by starting at Hawkeye, before transferring credits to a fouryear university. Hawkeye’s credits transfer virtually anywhere, and partnerships with Iowa State University, the University of Iowa, and the University of Northern Iowa, mean Hawkeye students can transfer with junior status to stay on the path to a bachelor’s degree in four years.

An added perk of Hawkeye’s UNI partnership is that students can live in UNI residence halls.

Hawkeye’s campus is a 15-minute drive or bus ride from UNI, and students can take advantage of student life and activities on both campuses.

For students interested in career training, Hawkeye’s technical programs provide hands-on learning with industry-proven instructors. Izaak Miller, a 2016 graduate of the Agricultural Power Technology program, saw this first-hand.

A self-proclaimed “diesel junkie,” he was thrilled to find instructors who had been in the field and brought with them industry knowledge and connections. With just 15 students in the average class, having that personal connection wasn’t difficult.

“It was really nice for me,” he said. “You don’t have a hundred guys in a class all trying to do the same thing. You get more oneon-one and a lot more hands-on work.”

Hawkeye has a lot to offer outside of the classroom too, from an active student events calendar that includes free music, food, games, and giveaways, to intercollegiate athletics competing across the Midwest.

Each year, more than 5,300 students choose Hawkeye. To see if Hawkeye Community College is the right choice for you, schedule a campus visit at www. hawkeyecollege.edu/visit or call 319-296-4000.

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their Resident Assistants, who hold weekly floor gatherings where students watch movies, eat snacks or play games to help take their minds off school.

A similar technique is especially evident during finals week. Wartburg has a close relationship with Retrieving Freedom, a service dog training facility in Waverly, who brings in some of their dogs for a single session during finals week.

Faculty and staff also attend this session and students are able to ask last-minute questions about upcoming exams or projects. Otherwise, attending students can enjoy snacks, games or simply resting by the cozy fireplace in Clinton Hall.

The University of Northern Iowa’s counseling center also places high priority on the happiness of their students.

At orientation, UNI also provides a mental health presentation for students and their parents, warning them of what to expect during this transitional phase. Students can then pick from the various on-campus mental health programs.

This includes “Let’s Talk,” a program where a student can informally meet with a counselor to assess a need for further help. Other programs provide one-on-one and couples counseling and group services.

There are also several opportunities for students to learn about mental health by attending workshops, which discuss the steps that can be taken to overcome stress, anxiety or depression. Here, students can also fill out surveys to see if they suffer from any of these.

If on-campus counselors come to find a student needs medication, they can refer them to the psychiatric nurses on staff in the student health center and begin or renew prescriptions.

Even when the center closes for the day, students can still find help by calling after hours and speaking with a professional

counselor.

The counseling center and student life departments become even more busy when it comes time for final exams.

UNI helps students relax by providing therapy animals from the Cedar Bend Humane Society, massages, coloring and even a gaming trailer to produce the ultimate stress-free zone.

These “de-stress days” activities are offered three of the five days of finals week each semester and are held in Maucker Union.

A new position was also added to the counseling department.

Shantila Caston was hired as a mental health therapist and diversity outreach service provider, whose main focus is to get underprivileged students to also utilize the counseling center.

In order to encourage more students to take advantage of Hawkeye Community College’s student health clinic, all services remain free of charge regardless of a student’s insurance.

While the clinic’s counselors are employed through Black Hawk County, the needs of the students always come first and they are always available to talk.

In order to help students cope with stress, anxiety or depression, the counselors first do an overall assessment of the student and recommend therapy from there if needed. They also assist students with academic accommodations and fill out the necessary paperwork for that process.

“We touch on all spectrums of things from anxiety and depression to life transitions,” Caitlin Pixler, a counselor at Hawkeye’s clinic, said. “We provide help to students in any way that we can and we are always looking for ways we can improve our services.”

While classes for Hawkeye do not have a set final week, the health clinic and student life office bring in stress-free activities during the last few days of classes. These activities include visits from the Cedar Bend Humane Society’s shelter pets, free snacks and chair massages from a licensed professional.

40

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12 | Sunday, September 17, 2017

GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE

Iowa State University: In the blink of an eye ‌When you first set foot on campus, graduation and your first job seem a long time in the future. You’ll get so caught up in Iowa State and all it has to offer that ‘best time of your life’ will only begin to describe the experience.

Then you’ll graduate in a blink of an eye. Your parents will be totally proud. Your future is bright. And if you’re like 95 percent of Iowa State students who find work in their major or go on to graduate school after graduation, you’ll have a cool job… maybe a dream job. And you’ll be ready to grab the opportunity and make it big because of your potential and experience at Iowa State University.

But don’t get ahead of yourself…you’ll have the rest of your life for a career. Let’s talk about enjoying your adventure at Iowa State.

Day one at Iowa State, you’ll get a feeling of excitement and anticipation. You’ll be able to see yourself here, there and everywhere. You’ll imagine what the first day of classes will be like. What the first night in the dorm will feel like. You’ll expect surprising things. A four-year adventure.

Most importantly, you’ll feel welcome. From the moment you walk onto campus you’ll feel a vibe. People will go out of their way to help you. You’ll meet people from around the world

and find out they’re different than you but somehow the same. And you’ll find countless options and opportunities.

It will be okay to feel a little nervous when you walk into your first class. Iowa State University is a highly regarded academic institution. Be assured, you’ll be challenged. But you’ll find your rhythm. You’ll love to learn. And when you’re done, you’ll be able to compete with anybody, anywhere.

If you haven’t quite decided what you’d like to do for the rest of your life, we welcome you as an adventurous explorer. You’ll find 6,000 faculty and staff, 100 majors, 850 clubs and 36,000 students who will play a role in

your adventure.

Your college adventure should be a wonderful experience that will prepare you, enchant you and become you. And it will at Iowa State University. The campus is recognized as one of the 25 most beautiful campuses in the United States. Take time to enjoy the art. Plug your iPod in and take a moment to dream.

Let your dreams be as big as you want, or as small as you want, but dream in color. (Cardinal and gold, please!) It’s YOUR college experience and at Iowa State you can make it whatever you wish.

Four years will go by fast.

You’ll graduate. And then suddenly realize how much you’re

going to miss the place. The fun. The classes. The friends you’ve made. Then you’ll know for sure that you were a part of Iowa State University. And Iowa State University will always…always be a part of you.

If this sounds like a college adventure that fits you, visit Iowa State University. We’ll show you the campus, residence halls and what the university has to offer students just like you. We’ll talk about what you want and how we can help. If you need financial aid, we’ll help you with that too. Schedule your visit online at www.iastate.edu or call us at 800-262-3810.

Enjoy your adventure at Iowa State University.

Internships are good for both students and businesses KARRIS GOLDEN

For the Courier‌

‌W

ATERLOO — Bradley Kinsinger believes internships are essential to educational development and career readiness.‌ Kinsinger teaches at Hawkeye Community College’s Global Agricultural Learning Center. Part of his job is to ensure internships are beneficial to all parties.

“Internships are a win-win for students and the agricultural industry,” he said. “They help the students get experience in the career they want to go into, and they help the agricultural industry develop talent and gain much-needed employees.”

According to Forbes magazine, companies with formal internship programs can reap lasting rewards. Among the top benefits are the ability to try out prospective talent and learning from fresh perspectives.

Trace Steffen agrees. His startup, HowFactory in Cedar Falls, employs four college interns: two sophomores and two seniors.

“Doing internships right is difficult and expensive,” said Steffen. “If it’s well-planned and well-structured, that investment is absolutely worth it. … If we can engage (an intern) and get them to believe in the company’s vision, what they

COURIER FILE PHOTO‌

HowFactory intern Megan Jansen had a job waiting for her after she graduated form the University of Northern Iowa. lack in experience they more than make up for in enthusiasm and engagement.”

The National Association of Colleges and Employers has tracked rapid growth in the number of undergraduate students completing internships. Internships have been on the rise since 2007, with a record 68 percent of the Class of 2016 participating in at least one internship during college.

For the student, “test-driving” a chosen career is key, said Kinsinger. Such experiences help students develop goals, meet business contacts and make informed career choices.

Meghan Jansen, who graduated in May from the University of Northern Iowa in

Cedar Falls, zeroed in on the impact of internships. Prior to graduation, she worked part-time at HowFactory — her fourth internship in as many years.

When Jansen began at UNI, the marketing major said internships were encouraged for juniors and seniors.

Jansen wanted to buck that trend. The Des Moines native sought to intern in a variety of industries, try out a bigger city and get experiences at large companies and possibly a startup.

“I came in with a mindset that the idea that internships are supposed to happen when you’re older is a myth,” she explained. “My parents told me, ‘You’re not going to get an internship until you’re older.’ That made me stir crazy; there was a lot I wanted to do.”

Jansen did check off her wish list. Her first internship began during her freshman year at UNI. She worked part-time at John Deere in quality engineering. The position gave Jansen the opportunity to lead a project that created an online collaboration platform for the department’s engineers.

Jansen’s second internship took place during her sophomore year. She worked at HON Company in Muscatine, where she honed her sales and presentation skills.

Her third internship took her to Wells Fargo Consumer Finance in Phoenix.

There, she worked in the student loan division and created a training guide for employees who explain credit and other concepts to traditionally “under-banked” individuals.

At Wells Fargo, Jansen hit pay dirt: five job offers in different cities across the United States. When she graduated in May, became a project manager in the bank’s Early Talent Management Program and relocated to Charlotte, N.C. The ability to move from an internship into a job is an ideal outcome for students and businesses, said Kinsinger. Some ag students go to Hawkeye with a job already in mind, while others seek to explore what’s available.

“Many of our students grew up on farms, and they intend to return to those farms after they get their education,” he explained. “Internships are a chance for them to get a different experience and expand on what they learned on their farms and in the classroom.”

In turn, providing internship opportunities allows companies to regularly evaluate the emerging talent pool and determine what resources are available in their various market locations, Kinsinger said.

Hawkeye’s agricultural business and animal science students focus on coursework the first three semesters.

The remaining semester is divided into classroom and workplace experiences.

Sunday, September 17, 2017 | 13

GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE

COURTESY PHOTO‌

Students get hands-on experience in the John Deere TECH program at NICC.

NICC graduates get in-demand, good-paying jobs ‌CALMAR — Northeast Iowa Community College offers several of the most unique career and technical offerings available in the state of Iowa that train students for in-demand careers.

A new study released by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce shows that the concentration of well-paying, family-sustaining jobs is growing for employees who hold less than a four-year bachelor of arts degree.

The 2017 research report by the Georgetown Center, “Good Jobs that Pay without a BA,” indicates a 83-percent growth of these good jobs held by two-year associate’s degree earners from 1991 to 2015. The highest gains are in the trades, healthcare, skilled services such as information technology, financial and business services industries.

Many of NICC’s most successful students and graduates have earned two-year degrees in these fields and secured well-paying jobs that offer stability and opportunities for advancement.

Healthcare

Graduates of the Respiratory Care program, such as Lauren

Wheelock, transferred to the College after several years of career searching at the University of Iowa.

“When I graduated from high school, I had no idea what I wanted to do. I attended Iowa, but after two years I enrolled at Northeast Iowa Community College because the one-on-one environment was so much more career-focused,” Wheelock explained, who is employed as a respiratory therapist for University of Wisconsin-Madison Hospitals and Clinics.

Wheelock’s career and financial success are greatly enhanced in her professional healthcare career after having earned a twoyear associate of applied ccience degree.

Respiratory care professionals in the region are earning an annual income ranging from $42,997 to $58,833, according to labor market research by EMSI, Inc.

Power mechanics & transportation The John Deere TECH program Please see NICC, Page S14

. e c i o h Right C

MAKE THE

Northeast Iowa Community College is affordable, close to home and offers unique in-demand programs!

97%

of our students are employed or continuing their education one year after graduation.

Gas Utility Construction and Service • On-site Outdoor Lab with Excavation Equipment.

• Scholarships from Industry Partners.

Respiratory Care • Practice skills in Health Simulation Lab. • Earn degree in less than two years and start earning up to $42,997.

Visit campus and learn why NICC is the Right Choice for You! www.nicc.edu/visit

LEARN MORE.

Erin Powers Daley 800.728.2256, ext. 147

14 | Sunday, September 17, 2017

GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE

Upper Iowa education provides skills for success Since its inception in 1857, Upper Iowa University’s unwavering commitment to accessible higher education and lifelong learning ensures that current and future UIU students are provided with the skills they need to be successful in the classroom, career and life.

A private, not-for-profit university, UIU provides undergraduate and graduate degree programs to about 5,800 students worldwide. Students get a traditional college experience of excellent education, tradition and innovation within a comfortable and welcoming campus environment in Fayette, Iowa. However, as a UIU education is an “Education Built for Life,” the university also has 25 education centers across the United States — as well as multiple centers in Hong Kong and Malaysia — with the evening classes, expert faculty and supportive staff students need to advance their career while still tending to family, job and other day-to-day responsibilities. UIU is also a recognized leader in online and self-paced education, so students never need to go far for an exceptional education.

Students have more than 40 majors to choose from, and all utilize a unique, flexible course schedule. Each academic year consists of five eight-week sessions and one accelerated six-week summer session, so UIU students typically take less classes at a time. Many students blend their degree plan by taking both face-to-face and online courses. Other students get a jump on completion by easily transferring in up

NICC From 13

is unique in Iowa, and students travel from across the state to train for jobs with high-wages, benefits and financial security.

One of the program’s most unique features is its close partnership with John Deere and implement dealer sponsors.

As of this fall, nearly 30 dealer sponsors and companies have employed graduates of the program. When students complete requirements for the two-year degree, as well as a John Deere internship, they are hired by their sponsor and earn an estimated salary range of $31,388 to $43,691

to further lower the cost of their UIU education. Students who are completing a two-year degree at another college are encouraged to inquire about UIU’s new transfer tuition scholarship program; eligible students earn a scholarship of up to $19,250. In addition, UIU’s Corporate Advantage Program provides tuition grants and other benefits to employees of participating companies.

COURTESY PHOTO‌

to 90 undergraduate credits or 12 graduate credits from other schools. Credits may also be earned through an individual’s work experience via an experiential learning portfolio or various college examinations.

UIU is also a proud participating institution in the Principles of Excellence and Yellow Ribbon programs, having been repeatedly named a top Military-Friendly University by Military Advanced Education & Transition and Victory Media.

The university offers a wide variety of educational opportunities tailored to fit the dynamic lifestyle of today’s military personnel and their families. UIU’s military-based academic advisors help develop a flexible program of coursework that fits the student’s busy and often-changing lifestyle.

UIU has competitive tuition and highly skilled professionals to help students understand and make the most of financial aid. In addition, most students are eligible for endowed or institutional scholarships

to start.

Graduate Nathan Grell lived in Calumet, when he enrolled at the college — a 212-mile, four-hour drive from campus. Grell says the experiential, hands-on lab environment working on John Deere equipment was worth the journey.

“The hands-on experience in the John Deere TECH program at Northeast Iowa Community College is the biggest reason that drew me to this school. We studied the John Deere products in class and then spent time working on them in the labs,” Grell explained, who currently works full-time as a service technician for ICON Ag & Turf in Paulina.

Kathy Johnson, a human re-

Graduate programs

Many current graduate students take one class at a time to allow them to balance work, family, and other commitments in their busy lives.

Offered exclusively at the UIU-Waterloo Center, the master of science in counseling program meets CACREP standards to ensure that upon completion students are able to be licensed as a mental health counselor. The core classes that are required are an exact match to the Iowa Code rules for licensure. In addition to the core required courses, there are a number of hands on courses.

Meanwhile, the UIU master of education is tailored to the needs of classroom teachers and accommodates the tight schedules of working adults. The master of business administration is a forward-thinking curriculum providing students a perspective in leadership, functional department integration, ethical management and risk assessment. The program provides learners the opportunity to examine ethical and

managerial issues in a respected educational environment supporting life-long learning. In addition, the master of public administration degree provides learners with the current theories, concepts and learning models necessary to assume leadership roles with a nonprofit agency or in the public sector.

The most recent of the UIU graduate programs, the master of sport administration is an online degree program in a fast-paced curriculum. Each MSA student is required to complete a minimum of 36 credits with an emphasis in sport management or coaching and leadership education. An 18-credit leadership certificate also is available to students not seeking a college degree.

With a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio and a highly supportive and caring faculty and staff, the UIU experience helps students become confident in their abilities, challenges them to achieve their educational and career goals, connects them with professionals within their desired field and inspires them to reach their full potential. This kind of hands-on learning is a key reason why 92 percent of graduates are employed or continuing their education shortly after commencement.

For additional information about Upper Iowa University, visit uiu.edu or call 800-553-4150. To learn more about evening courses and the Upper Iowa online and self-paced programs specific to the UIU-Waterloo Center, visit waterloo@ uiu.edu or call (319) 232.6980.

program’s hands-on training curriculum draws students and interest from employers from across Iowa and neighboring states Wisconsin, Illinois and Nebraska.

Brett Swanson, business agent for Local Union 25-Plumbers and Pipefitters in the Quad Cities, highlighted the college’s equipment and field training as major reasons that graduates are well-prepared for employment.

“The heavy equipment and the modern fusing equipment students train on in the outdoor lab is absolutely one of the Gas Construction technology Utility Construction and Service The Gas Utility Construction program’s greatest strengths. I and Service one-year diploma cannot say enough good things program is unique to NICC. The about this program,” expressed sources professional for Iowa-based Van Wall Equipment believes that the College’s John Deere TECH program is the best conduit of talent and knowledge for company’s skilled employee needs.

“Our best plan to find a great technician is to put students and prospective employees through the John Deere TECH program at Northeast Iowa Community College. That’s how they obtain the experience we are looking for, and this is how we fill the technicians for our workforce,” Johnson said.

Swanson. “It’s a major program in the state of Iowa and one of the only places to recruit people with the knowledge and training needed.”

Gas Utility Construction and Service graduates can expect to earn $26,187 to $40,863 in this high-demand field, working for major utility companies such as Black Hills Energy and Infrasource in locations throughout the state.

Explore a career in one of Northeast Iowa Community College’s unique programs and learn more about employer partnerships. Discover for yourself why NICC is the Right Choice for You! Schedule your visit today! www. nicc.edu/visit

Sunday, September 17, 2017 | 15

GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE

Determine your path Understand true costs of college EMILY KITTLE

Brittany Muntz, Relationship Management Specialist at Dupaco Community Credit Union.

Dupaco Community Credit Union ‌

‌Student debt is a major issue in America and will likely become one of the largest financial obligations of a student’s life, impacting future choices and opportunities.

“High student loan payments are causing people to fall behind because they can’t afford them,” said Brittany Muntz, Relationship Management Specialist at Dupaco Community Credit Union. “Missed payments lead to bad credit. Bad credit also prevents them from doing things like purchasing a home or a car.”

While some high school students know what they want to do after graduation, fewer than half across the country feel they’re ready for college. Even though a college degree is still one of the greatest assurances of future success and employability, students that head off to college because that is what they are “supposed to do” or enroll in a school because their friends are attending, will often realize, far too late, that the amount

SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO‌

they’ve borrowed is impossible to pay back quickly given their major and job prospects.

Because the choices being made at this stage of life are big decisions — often with even bigger price tags — today’s high school seniors need to view their post-graduation options more as a business decision and less as a life experience. Unfortunately, financial aid hasn’t kept up with tuition increases, making college more expensive for students and parents. It is very easy for students to lose focus on repayment of loans after college if it is not factored

into their planning process. It is important to compare the realistic costs of a college education against the projected employment opportunities and salary potential of a desired career.

“The average rule of thumb is that you shouldn’t have more total student loan debt owed when you graduate than what you are going to make the first year in your profession,” said Muntz.

Visit dupaco.com/exploreyouroptions to download the free toolkit to provide guidance surrounding the education planning process.

Acing your essay on Common Application ‌The Common Application is well-known to most high school seniors. It’s a convenient clearinghouse that lets them apply to over 600 schools via a single online file of essays, recommendations and records.

It is also an elephant of a meal, impossible to complete in a single sitting. Applicants should visit early and often to assemble their materials over time, and tailor bids to selected schools. A foundational part of the package, of course, is the personal essay.

“High student loan payments are causing people to fall behind because they can’t afford them. Missed payments lead to bad credit. Bad credit also prevents them from doing things like purchasing a home or a car.”

Essay? What essay?

How do you set yourself apart from other students who are furiously writing their own essays that reflect their own successes in chess club, sports or band?

1. Draft an outline. Arrange your ideas in logical order. It’s important to develop a theme or major idea to make your point.

2. Write a rough draft. Remember to show, don’t tell. Include examples and little stories and add your own character to the words.

3. Review and edit the draft.

Then set aside the essay for a few days.

4. Make any revisions or changes you need to make. Then give the essay to two or three adults to review and edit. Make corrections.

5. Don’t rely on Spell-Check for corrections and spelling errors. Double-check grammar, spelling, sentence structure, etc.

6. Have someone proofread your essay.

7. Make changes or corrections, and prepare a finished essay.

Explore Your Options Planning for life after high school Student debt is a major issue in America and will likely become one of the largest financial obligations of a student’s life, impacting future choices, such as buying a home or starting a family.

As a credit union, it’s our mission to help improve our members’ financial positions.

Our Education Planning Toolkit can help students make better financial decisions and explore options as they prepare for life after high school.

Download the FREE Toolkit at dupaco.com/ExploreYourOptions

16 | Sunday, September 17, 2017

GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE

Prairie Lakes, Wesley Seminary collaborate on grad program ‌The Prairie Lakes Church Center for Learning and Leadership has launched a cutting-edge graduate program that offers a relevant, practical and affordable seminary degree through a partnership with Wesley Seminary at Indiana Wesleyan University.

Graduate students have the opportunity to earn a master of arts in ministry degree from an Association of Theological Schools accredited program.

This streamlined 36-hour program is designed to equip leaders with advanced degrees and practical skills that can be utilized in or out of the local church.

The Center for Learning and Leadership allows students to achieve an advanced seminary degree without requiring them to leave their current job and home.

Center for Learning and

Leadership classes are offered through a convenient combination of online and onsite venues, allowing students to continue full-time work. Both online and onsite classes are taught by a blend of respected Wesley Seminary professors and experienced Prairie Lakes Church ministry leaders.

This graduate program is not only for future church leaders, but is also a strategic step for anyone interested in positioning themselves as a strong leader.

Current student occupations range from pastors to app developers and University of Northern Iowa employees.

Student Paul Gibson is nearing the end of his 35 year career with John Deere. As retirement approached, he knew he wanted to continue his education in order to make an impact on others. The adaptability and convenience

of the Center for Learning and Leadership graduate program allows him to continue working full-time as an engineer while also preparing for his next phase of life.

All Center for Learning and Leadership graduate courses are taught in a cohort model, meaning students begin and progress through their degree together until graduation. This model allows students to collaborate, motivate and build relationships with one another.

The first seminary cohort of 20 students began their degrees in August 2015 with the anticipated graduation date in April 2018. The ministry emphasis of the first cohort is leadership.

Their coursework includes classes such as Spiritual Life and Leadership, Power, Change and Conflict Management and Strategic Leadership and Man-

agement.

The cohort will complete their degree with a capstone project where students choose a problem within their area of interest and conclude with a practical solution.

The Center for Learning and Leadership will be launching its second cohort in September 2017. While the first cohort emphasized leadership, the second cohort will allow students to study under the specialization of their choosing. Potential emphases include worship arts; leadership; children, youth and family; spiritual formation; church planting and multiplication; and church health and revitalization.

Having the option to choose an emphasis allows students not only to have the option of an adaptable and affordable degree, but they are also able to

focus their studies around their unique leadership area.

Prairie Lakes Church Senior Pastor John Fuller says, “We are going to reach Iowa with a generation of Iowa leaders. The Center and our partnership with Wesley Seminary will allow us to train these leaders to get after Iowa”. This innovative program allows leaders to be launched with the knowledge base and contextualized experiences needed to impact our organizations, communities and world.

The Center for Learning and Leadership is currently recruiting students for the launch of a second cohort in September 2017. If you are interested in taking a step into the graduate program in September or beyond, please visit prairielakeschurch. org/cll or contact Academic Dean, Connie Erpelding, at (319) 266-2655, ext. 132.

Sunday, September 17, 2017 | 17

GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE

Your education and success is our top priority at NIACC ‌Whether you have already mapped out a plan for your life or are considering many possibilities, an education at North Iowa Area Community College in Mason City, will provide you with the opportunities and support to learn more, do more, and become more. Small class sizes and supportive faculty ensure that you will never feel lost in the crowd.

Innovative: Brand new facilities on campus ensure a top-notch education.

This summer we broke ground on a brand new Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) wing. The remodeled STEM facility will feature spacious, flexible classrooms, innovative laboratories, and emphasize connectivity between spaces. The entire project has been thought through to provide as much energy conservation as possible and create a healthy learning environment.

Recent completion of a brand new Health Care Simulation Center and a new Diesel Technology Center provide students with state-of-the-art, real-world

learning opportunities and experiences.

It’s an exciting time on the NIACC campus!

Affordable: We believe that your education should be affordable. Beginning a four-year college degree at NIACC will save your family over $8000 in the first two years. Additionally, NIACC and the NIACC Foundation award over $1,000,000 in scholarships each year!

Quality transfer programs: Transfer agreements with more than 40 fouryear institutions make it easy for NIACC graduates to transfer and complete their bachelors’ degree.

Get a job doing something you love: Our career and technical programs are designed to get you into the workforce in one or two years. 97% of our graduates are emCOURTESY PHOTO‌ ployed in their field. In fact, many finish at NIACC with multiple job offers!

Committed to your success: We are also been placed in the top 10 percent of committed to helping our students suc- all community colleges by the Aspen Inceed. In fact, NIACC was ranked No. 14 in stitute College Excellence Program. the nation for student success. We have Home away from home: If you are

hoping to stay close to home – but still have the complete college experience — our brand new Campus View Student Housing Complex fits the bill beautifully.

The new housing complex features floor lounges with large screen TV’s, gorgeous lake views, a convenience store, computer lab and access to a Success Coach. Individual rooms have a loft fe and tile showers.

Fun! Student clubs and organizations will keep your free time fun and interesting. Choose from things like ski and snowboarding club, shooting sports club, vocal music, anime club, Phi Theta Kappa, disc golf club, and many others. Don’t forget to cheer on the home team — go Trojans!

See what our students have to say at http://niacc.college-tour.com. Then, schedule your campus visit — we would love to show you around!

Whatever your educational goals are and wherever you are in your journey, we will help you get there. Make NIACC your first choice!

At NIACC your success is our top priority.You will receive the personal attention you deserve at a price that is significantly less than what you will pay at a four-year university. Whether you are working toward a bachelor’s degree or completing a technical program, we’ll help you get there.

18 | Sunday, September 17, 2017

GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE

Discover where you belong at UNI ‌At the University of Northern Iowa, students have the opportunity to discover the right major for their success, student life, their interests, academic resources and so much more. From the size of the campus (around 12,000 students) to the academic freedom (more than 160 areas of study), there are a variety of reasons why students have chosen UNI. Discover an education you can afford. No one should have to break the bank to further his or her education. UNI prides itself on being one of the most affordable four-year institutions in the state for Iowa residents. With more than 12,000 scholarships awarded annually, UNI students owe less many when they graduate than students who graduate from any fouryear public institution in the state. It’s no surprise that UNI ranks in the top third of all U.S. institutions in Money Magazine’s “2017 Best College for Your Money” list.

Discover a campus where you can live and work. With more than 260 student clubs and organizations to get involved with, you’ll have no trouble

COURTESY PHOTO‌

finding your niche at UNI. There are also more than 5,600 students working on campus, so you won’t have to go far to find employment opportunities. As your new home away from home, UNI will strive to

provide everything that you need to live, learn and have fun.

Discover a university that prepares you for success after graduation.

You need a university that will help you

succeed both before and after graduation. With 95 percent of UNI graduates finding employment or furthering their education within six months after graduation, take comfort knowing you’ll be well prepared for life after college. With internship, study abroad, research and leadership opportunities readily available, you’ll receive an education both in and out of the classroom.

Discover a national reputation for academic excellence. With a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio, you won’t feel lost in the crowd when you step into a classroom at UNI. Our faculty members are dedicated to providing an outstanding education to each and every one of our students. And having been consistently ranked second in the U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Regional Universities (Midwest)” category for public universities, we’re not the only ones who believe that UNI offers a student experience unrivaled by other universities.

Discover where you belong at UNI! Learn more at uni.edu.

6 tips to help you to succeed as a college freshman ‌Now is the time to start think- ferent personality. If you know ing about how you can succeed your professors, you can: as a college freshman. Here’s Adjust your style to suit theirs, some expert advice on making which can mean better grades. the grade in college.

Let your professor know if you’re having trouble. If you’re 1. Attend class. struggling with the work or If you’re in class, you: tests, schedule an appointment Get information straight to get some help. from the professor. Along with in-class exercises and handouts 3. Take good notes that aren’t available in the textNot just notes, but good notes. book.

Effective notes will reflect what Show the professor that will be on tests and what is you’re willing to participate. needed for projects.

Might be able to find a mentor Be an active listener. Learn in one of your teachers. how to listen in class instead of May get participation or bo- passing the time with text messaging or chatting. nus points.

Have a chance to sit close to Focus on the main ideas. Your the front – studies show stu- professor may repeat the most dents up front get better grades. important points or even tell you what will be on the midterm.

2. Get to know your Rewrite your notes later, if that helps you learn the inforprofessor mation. Rewriting notes has Every teacher has a different been shown to help students resystem and, of course, a dif- member and understand better.

4. Use your textbook

Your professor chose this book to go along with the discussion points and to help you study for tests.

Read all the assignments.

Skim the headers, charts, graphics and callouts; then read the entire assignment.

Highlight. Take notes or use a highlighter to pick out the important points. This will help you find them later when you review.

Outline. Outlining the information will help you see how it all fits together and increase your understanding.

5. Study effectively

Try to study at least two hours outside of class for each hour you spend in class. Some other suggestions include: Study early and often.

Last-minute cramming rarely works. Break your study time into small segments so your

mind can absorb the material.

Develop good study habits.

The earlier you begin, the easier it will be to stick with them.

Find a system that works. Try different methods (and combinations of methods) until you find a system that’s effective for you. You can: Buddy up. Find someone who is doing well in the class and ask them for help, or ask your professor to help you find a tutor.

Make studying job one.

Schoolwork is your top priority in school.

6. Prepare for tests

Many times, test scores will make up a large part of your grade. These tips can improve your test-taking ability.

Know what to expect. Learn the professor’s test style by asking students who have already taken the class about the types of questions that are asked and what content will be covered.

Think it through. Read test directions carefully and come up with a plan. You may want to tackle essay questions first, for example, to make sure you don’t run out of time and miss sections worth more points.

Set the pace. Your professor created a test that students who know the material can finish in the time allowed. Estimate where you should be halfway through the test period and aim for that.

Clarify during the test. If you have a question about a test item, ask. Don’t wait until you get the exam back to find out you misinterpreted the question.

Keep going. If you find yourself really struggling with a question, try moving on. It may be easier to answer the challenging item when you’ve finished the rest.

SOURCE: Iowa College Access Network

Sunday, September 17, 2017 | 19

GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE

Tips for allimportant campus visits

COURTESY PHOTO‌

Mount Mercy University is home to 1,900 traditional and nontraditional students from around the globe.

Success follows Mount Mercy Mustangs ‌Begin your higher-education path at Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids, and success will follow. Mount Mercy emphasizes hands-on, real-world skills that easily open the doors to professional opportunity.

More than 96 percent of our students start careers or enter graduate school within nine months of graduation, thanks to the time they spent working on in-depth research alongside professors, learning on studyabroad trips, or participating in other unparalleled experiences.

Alumni launch careers at places like Google, Kellogg’s, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Milwaukee Brewers, PricewaterhouseCoopers, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Academic excellence and career preparation Among all Iowa colleges on MONEY magazine’s “2017 Best Colleges for Your Money” list, Mount Mercy was ranked No. 1 in 2017. Our dedicated faculty

members inspire students to lead fearlessly by blending an outstanding liberal arts education with superior career preparation. Our students participate in internships with international corporations like Transamerica, Quaker Oats, and Rockwell Collins, often resulting in full-time employment after graduation.

Athletics and clubs

The Mount Mercy Mustangs compete in the NAIA Division I as part of the Heart of America Athletic Conference. Our 18 intercollegiate athletic teams own more than 40 conference championships and have made numerous NAIA national tournament appearances. Intramural sports like basketball, volleyball, golf, flag football, and softball provide students with opportunities to compete in a less structured environment.

Students can also choose from several campus clubs and organizations, including Biology Club, Student Government

Strategic Leadership Association, and Black Student Union. Mount Mercy also offers Online: BBA: Business a cardio room, a weightlifting BBA: HR Management room, an outdoor volleyball BBA: Management court, racquetball and basket BS: Health Care Adminisball courts, and fitness classes. tration MA: Criminal Justice Community service MBA: Master of Business Service learning and social justice are the backbones of a Administration RN to BSN Mount Mercy education, and are core to the curriculum. We infuse community service into Total cost all aspects of campus life, pro Tuition & Fees 2017-18: ducing students who are driven $30,582 Room & Board: $9,166 to help others and alumni who Total Cost: $39,748 are ethical leaders.

Degrees

Undergraduate: 45+ programs of study Accelerated (evening and weekend classes): 12 majors and 5 minors Graduate: Business Administration Criminal justice Education Marriage & Family Therapy Nursing

Financial assistance

All of our first-time freshmen receive financial aid, and all students are eligible for institutional scholarships and grants that do not require repayment.

Mount Mercy is proud to offer free-tuition scholarships to qualifying students. Workstudy opportunities, state and federal grants, and low-interest loans are also widely available.

Apply today at mtmercy.edu.

College applicants need not ‌ visit every college to which they will apply, but they should see enough to develop a clear sense of their preferences.

See schools farther from home first if you will not be able to later in the year, or start close to home and see a select group of schools farther away during senior fall.

Develop a timetable to be prompt for tours or appointments.

Know where you will stay overnight. Colleges will usually have suggestions for local accommodations.

Dress appropriately. Show that you take the college or interview seriously.

Talk to faculty, coaches and students involved in the activities that interest you.

These are just a few questions that you may want to ask when visiting a prospective college: How long, on average, does it take students to graduate?

What is the student/faculty ratio? Does the faculty include teaching assistants or do professors teach the majority of classes?

What is the placement rate?

Do most students who graduate obtain a job in their field? Do they get admitted to grad school? Do employers do on-campus job recruiting?

What housing options are available?

Are there student facilities like libraries, athletic center and health center for my needs?

Are there student employment opportunities either on or off campus?

Do I need a car?

What types of meal plans are available? What types of options are available besides the dining hall?

20 | Sunday, September 17, 2017

INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE. EXCEPTIONAL EDUCATION. UNBEATABLE VALUE. The opportunity of a lifetime is just around the corner. Learn from award-winning professors.

Experience the college atmosphere. Do the research that changes the world. And, do it all in your backyard at an affordable price.

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