Apr 18, 2024  
2012-13 Catalog 
    
2012-13 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Student Services and Activities



Student Affairs

The mission of the Division of Student Affairs is to contribute to the intellectual, personal, professional, cultural and social development of students. This is accomplished, in partnership with all divisions of the college, by providing co-curricular programs, experiences and essential support services that fulfill the mission of the institution. For more information, call 860-512-3203.


Academic Advising

860-512-3320

The Counseling office offers comprehensive academic advising services for all new, returning and transfer students. Students have the opportunity to discuss their short and long-term goals, Accuplacer assessment test results, planned programs of study and degree/certificate program requirements with professionally prepared academic advisors/counselors. Students have the opportunity to access their academic division directors, program coordinators and faculty early on to provide appropriate academic mentorship. All students are highly encouraged to connect with advising services each semester of their college experience. Students may schedule appointments by contacting the Counseling office at 860-512-3320, or by contacting the appropriate faculty advisor.

Each semester, returning students are encouraged to meet with a faculty advisor from their selected program of study during Academic Advising Weeks. Academic Advising Weeks are scheduled each semester prior to the start of class registration. A list of Program Coordinators is available in the Counseling office, L108.

New students are scheduled for the Accuplacer assessment test and a follow-up New Student Group Advising Seminar. The New Student Group Advising Seminar is a recommended advising session prior to registering for classes. During the New Student Group Advising Seminar, new students are provided with assistance in course selection and the registration process. In addition, new students are able to connect with their respective program coordinators during New Student Orientation through the “Meet Your Program Coordinator” activity.

For more information on the Counseling Center can assist you with your academic and career plans, contact 860-512-3320. Academic advising information is also available on the web at: http://www.mcc.commnet.edu/students/advising

Academic Support Center

860-512-2610

The Academic Support Center (ASC), located in the Lowe Student Services Center, Room L282, offers many opportunities for academic support to students of all ability levels. Individual or small group tutoring, subject-related review sessions, ESL and foreign language conversation labs, and college survival skills workshops are some of the services offered to students to enhance their understanding of classroom material. ASC staff is available to collaborate with instructors on specific activities to complement or supplement classroom instruction. The Academic Support Center offers walk-in support for writing and mathematics in addition to individual tutoring appointments.

Computer-Assisted Lab:  Basic training in Windows, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access and the Internet is available by individual appointment. Computers may be used on a walk-in basis.

eTutoring: Students may register for free online tutoring assistance in writing (all subject areas), mathematics, accounting, statistics, biology, chemistry, general science, and anatomy and physiology. Students can submit writing assignments for feedback, receive live one-on-one mathematics help (subject to tutoring schedules), and leave questions for tutors. eTutoring is coordinated by the Connecticut Distance Learning Consortium, and tutors are based in participating academic institutions, including MCC. Visit the website at www.etutoring.org.

Individual Tutorial Assistance: Students may make day, evening, and Saturday appointments for coursework tutoring in the ASC. Subjects for one-to-one tutoring include English, math, science, social science, business, accounting and others. Tutors include faculty, professional staff, and trained peers. 

Writing Center: The Writing Center is equipped with computers and assorted reference materials. Students may use the Writing Center at any time; tutoring staff are available to assist during specific hours. The work area is a place for everyone; students, faculty and staff are welcome to write and/or talk about their writing and to meet in writers’ groups. The Writing Center does not offer extensive one-to-one tutoring, but students may be referred to an individual English tutor appointment for more comprehensive one-to-one assistance. Writing Center staff members will offer feedback about writing, answer specific questions, and direct writers to appropriate resources, including other writers.

Information about all of the services offered by the Academic Support Center is available at: www.mcc.commnet.edu/academic/asc.

Accident Insurance

860-512-3568

Enrolled students are carried automatically by group accident insurance while they are attending classes, or participating in–and while traveling directly to or from–an activity sponsored by the college. Students may purchase a 24-hour accident and sickness insurance through this policy. Insurance information is available in the Health and Wellness Resource Center, Great Path Academy, GP109 or in the Office of Student Life, L154, Lowe Student Services Center.

MCC Alumni

860-512-2909

The Manchester Community College alumni are committed to supporting the initiatives of the college and meeting the changing needs of its diverse alumni. MCC alumni support scholarships and alumni networking events. The Executive Committee of the MCC alumni coordinates the activities. The newsletter, Alumni News, is published twice a year. All persons who have graduated from Manchester Community College are members of the MCC alumni. Visit the MCC alumni on the web at www.mcc.commnet.edu/alumni.

Art

860-512-2693

Visual art, by professional artists and MCC students, is on display throughout the campus and at MCC on Main. The Hans Weiss Newspace Gallery, located in the SBM Charitable Foundation Building, hosts monthly exhibitions of work by local and international artists, both acclaimed and emerging. Additionally, student art and pieces from outside artists are continually on display throughout the campus.

Athletics

860-512-3353

MCC began its organized intercollegiate athletics program in 1971. Today, MCC has the most athletics teams – baseball and soccer for men, and basketball and soccer for women – of any of the state community colleges.

MCC student-athletes have the opportunity to participate in an educational environment where intrinsic values such as sportsmanship, discipline, cooperation and leadership are emphasized.

Manchester Community College is a Division III (non-scholarship) member of Region XXI in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA). For more information about the men’s and women’s athletic programs, please call the Department of Athletics at 860-512-3353 or log on to www.mcc.commnet.edu/athletics.

Fitness Center: The college’s fitness center has 3,700 square feet of everything you would want in a modern fitness facility. It is located on the first floor of the Lowe Student Services Center and open to students of the college, faculty and staff, and members of the community. The center features a fitness studio, a resistance and cardiovascular equipment room, and men’s and women’s locker rooms. The facility is handicapped-accessible.

Membership is required to participate in both group fitness classes and to use the weight/cardio room. Memberships in each of these programs have separate fees.

Career Services

860-512-3374

The Career Services office provides comprehensive programs, activities and services that assist students, alumni and community members to prepare for finding suitable employment by developing resume writing and interviewing skills, job-search strategies, and a deeper understanding of the fit between their competencies and the world of work. The office runs regularly scheduled job search skills workshops, organizes job and volunteer fairs, and coordinates alumni career panels, on-campus recruitment opportunities and various career-focused special events throughout the year.

In addition to developing and fostering positive relationships with recruiters both locally and nationally, Career Services offers an online job listing service that enables job seekers to post resumes and search full-time, part-time and volunteer positions as well as internships. Job seekers can also take advantage of online career information delivery and exploration resources (Focus 2 and Choices) designed to help users develop self-knowledge related to career choice and work performance by identifying, assessing and understanding their competencies, interests, values and personal characteristics.

Career Services recognizes the need for career development over the life span, and thus promotes a greater awareness within the institution regarding the importance of developing professional interests and competencies and exploring future career possibilities. To learn more about upcoming events and resources, make an appointment with a Career Services staff, or register for the online job listing service, please go to: www.mcc.commnet.edu/career. Job seekers are also encouraged to visit the Career Services office in the Lowe Student Services Center, L120.

Child Development Center

860-512-3272

The Child Development Center has been in operation since 1973. It is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 12 noon on Friday, throughout the fall and spring semesters and operates on the same schedule as the college. The experienced, professional staff provides a nationally accredited preschool program in a warm, safe and supportive atmosphere. Students in MCC’s Early Childhood Education program serve their internships in the Center with the guidance and support of the staff.

The preschool program is designed to stimulate and challenge the curious, creative preschooler. The environment is carefully prepared with a wide variety of activities, both group and individual. These include art, music, language, cooking, natural science, creative movement, outdoor play and the development of specific learning skills.

Children aged two years and nine months in September through five years of age are eligible to attend, with priority given to children of MCC students. Kindergarten-eligible children may not attend. Community residents may register children when space is available. Children may be registered for two, three, four or five half or full days to accommodate parents’ school or work schedules. Space is limited; parents should enroll their children as early as possible in the office of the director, room L140, Lowe Student Services Center. Registration for spring begins in December; for the fall, in May and August. A $25 application fee is required. A limited amount of financial assistance is available to eligible MCC students.

Counseling Center

860-512-3320

The Counseling Center provides a private environment in which students may discuss personal and/ or social concerns. Counselors are available for short-term counseling in dealing with issues such as stress, anxiety and academic difficulty. The counselors recognize that many students are trying to balance work, school and family responsibilities as well as personal needs. The counselors provide help with decision-making, problem-solving and personal adjustment concerns. Students who need more extensive therapy will be referred to appropriate community agencies. All counselors/client contacts are private and confidential.

Cultural Events

Throughout the year, MCC sponsors a wide variety of cultural programs on campus and at MCC on Main. Musicians, authors, speakers, poets and actors appear on campus to present examples of the diversity and richness within our culture. Programs include Cultural Diversity Day, poetry readings and professional dance performances. For the most up-to-date event listings, visit the MCC website.

Health and Wellness Resource Center

860-512-3262

The Health and Wellness Resource Center is open to all members of the college community for treatment of minor illness, referrals, medical excuses, accident reports, student insurance and counseling about health-related matters. Hours during which the coordinator is on duty are posted outside the Health and Wellness Resource Center, Great Path Academy, room GP109.

Housing

Manchester Community College is a non-residential college. Students are responsible for their own housing arrangements.

Institute of Local History

860-512-2770

The Institute of Local History stimulates interest in, and spearheads projects related to, the history of the region the college serves, as well as more broadly-based projects on Connecticut history. It serves as a service and resource center for local historical studies. Among its on-going projects are an oral history project for the town of Manchester, annual walking tour of the Cheney Brothers’ National Historic Landmark District, several non-credit courses and workshops, and a lecture series. It has also cooperated in the publication of two books about the history of Manchester.

Institute on Disability and Community Inclusion

860-512-2789

Established in 1992, the MCC/Communitas Institute on Disability and Community Inclusion is a cooperative institute that works to eliminate negative attitudes toward children and adults with disabilities. The Institute conducts conferences, seminars and think tank sessions, and augments the book, journal, video and computer holdings of the MCC library. Visiting scholar programs, focused research projects, and visits by international leaders help to present new stories and research that will reduce fear and misunderstanding concerning the inclusion of children and adults with disabilities into everyday community life.

MCC Police

860-512-3680

The mission of the MCC Police department is to provide a safe and secure educational environment for the college’s diverse and dynamic population. This is accomplished by providing professional police service, active crime prevention and proactive patrol.

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act of 1990 (34CFR668.46), also known as the “Clery Act”, is a federal law that requires colleges and universities to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses and to provide the institution’s policies concerning campus security. MCC’s Annual Security Report, prepared to meet the requirements of this act, can be accessed on the MCC website (www.mcc.commnet.edu/offices/police/ASR.php). A copy of this report is available, upon request, at the Campus Police department, room L174, Lowe Student Services Center.

Mentoring

860-512-3320

Brother-2-Brother and Sister-2-Sister are mentoring programs designed to provide additional support and encouragement to African American and Latino students, as they work towards their academic and professional goals. These mentoring programs are committed to the academic, cultural, personal and social development of African American and Latino students and:

  • Equip students with the necessary tools and resources to pursue, achieve and maintain academic excellence;
  • Encourage students to cultivate positive peer and adult relationships;
  • Help students engage in their life-long learning process;
  • Promote student leadership and service to the community.

For more information, please contact Ta’Shema Odoms or Robert Turner Jr. at 860-512-3320.

Music

860-512-2674

The MCC Vocal and Instrumental Ensembles give students the opportunity to develop their musical skills and to join others in presenting concerts on campus and in the community.

New Student Orientation

860-512-3283

When students participate in orientation programs, they increase their chances of academic success. Therefore, all new students, transfer students and students who are returning to college after a long absence are expected to attend New Student Orientation. Most first-year students find college life and class expectations complex, confusing and uncertain. Consequently, the program is designed to help ease transition into the college; to give basic information on how to be successful during the first-year; to familiarize students with their classes, campus facilities, resources and policies; and to equip students for the beginning of a very exciting, productive and positive experience. Parents, spouses and families are also invited. Entering students will have ample opportunity to meet and interact with other students from different backgrounds and cultures, as well as faculty/staff and administrators.

Orientation encompasses workshops and a guided campus tour; program coordinators, faculty and staff will be available to answer questions. Orientation programs are held at the beginning of each semester. Please check on-line to view information regarding New Student Orientation (www.mcc.commnet.edu/students/nso) or call the Office of Student Activities, 860-512-3283.

Services for Students with Disabilities

860-512-3325, 3326

Counselor for Students with Physical/Psychological Disabilities (860-512-3332)

Support services at MCC are designed to provide access and “even the playing field” for people with disabilities. Towards this end, MCC provides academic accommodations such as proctors, readers, and scribes; test accommodations; sign language interpreters; adaptive equipment; and assistance in locating and acquiring services from community agencies.

It is the sole responsibility of the student to disclose his/her disability and to provide appropriate documentation to a member of the disabilities team. It is only after this disclosure and review of documentation that accommodations can be determined. Accommodations are not provided retroactively; if a student is aware of his/her disability and discloses it after having already completed course requirements, he/she may receive accommodations, if deemed appropriate by a disabilities team member, from the time of disclosure and documentation going forward. The Services for Students with Disabilities: Policies and Procedures Manual is available in the Counseling Center, Lowe Student Services Center L108, and the Testing Center, Lowe L131.

Individual services are consistent with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Student Activities

860-512-3283

The Student Activities office administers co-curricular programs and minority student programs, oversees the Student Activity Fund and offers a variety of involvement experiences, leadership training, and social and cultural programs and services to meet the needs of MCC students. The Student Activities programs provide multiple opportunities for students’ personal growth and development outside the formal academic environment. Students are encouraged to participate in the variety of activities and services that the office provides in order to produce a more socially and culturally diverse learning environment. The Student Activities office is located in the Lowe Student Services Center, room L154c.

Student Activities Committee

860-512-3283

The Student Activities Committee is responsible for the coordination, planning and implementation of diverse programs at Manchester Community College. The committee, composed entirely of students, is funded by the Student Government Association through the activities fee. Any student may become a member of this committee, which sponsors films, concerts, speakers, Spring Fling, coffee hours, special events and travel programs each year.

Through active involvement, students develop practical leadership and programming skills while providing a diverse co-curricular activities program in response to student needs. The Student Activities Committee has an office in the Lowe Student Services Center, room L154c.

Student Clubs and Organizations

860-512-3283

Manchester Community College sponsors many clubs and organizations of an academic, social, political and professional nature (some are affiliated with their area and national counterparts): Administrative Professionals Club, Alpha Mu Gamma, Black Student Union, Chess Club, Computer Repair & Share, Dance Team, Drug and Alcohol Recovery Counselors (DARC), Drama Club, Environment and Sustainability Club, Habitat for Humanity/Habitat Club, Health and Human Rights Club, ICE Radio Station, Le Cercle Français, Manchester Political Union, Occupational Therapy Assistant Club, Outdoor Club, Paralegal Association, Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), Programming Club, PRIDE Club, Science & Engineering Club, Scrabble Club, Spanish Club, Supported Education Club, Upper Room Christian Fellowship Club, and Veterans Empowering Themselves to Succeed (VETS).

The Student Activities office encourages students to start new clubs and organizations based on their interest. For more information on when clubs meet, or how to start a new club, contact Student Activities.

Student Government Association

860-512-3292

The Student Government Association (SGA) is a governing body of elected and nonelected students who represent the entire student body. Funds collected via the student activity fee are used by the SGA to sponsor various clubs, organizations, activities, the student newspaper and student services. As the official voice of the student body, the SGA has the power to regulate the activity fund and member organizations, and to make decisions that affect all students. Any student may attend monthly meetings of the SGA. However, one needs a GPA of 2.5 and to have earned at least three credits at MCC to become an executive officer. The SGA office is located in the Lowe Student Services Center, room L154c.

Student Newspaper

860-512-3289

Students are encouraged to contribute to the student newspaper, The Live Wire. Published six times each year, The Live Wire is funded by the Student Government Association and advertising revenues. This student newspaper focuses on MCC news and events. The staff welcomes volunteers who can write, edit, proofread, take photographs, or help with layout and ad design. Members can gain journalism and leadership skills. Visit the Live Wire office, located in the Lowe Student Services Center, room L154j.

Transfer Services

860-512-3328

MCC has the following resources available to students and community members who wish to transfer out to other institutions (including baccalaureate colleges and universities):

  • Individualized transfer counseling
  • Transfer articulation agreements
  • General education articulation guides for local colleges
  • Transfer resources, including: college catalogs, viewbooks and brochures
  • Transfer fairs
  • On-campus visits from regional colleges and universities
  • Transfer workshops

For more information about MCC’s transfer program, please contact the Counseling Center, 860-512-3328.

Transitional Programs

860-512-3344

MCC’s Transitional Programs are designed to help students adjust to the demands of college. All of the programs provide workshops or courses that present the skills necessary for academic success. On-going support from peers and professional advisors is available.

Academic Success Program (ASP): Students enrolled in any developmental mathematics or English course may choose to join this program where they are provided with strategies to improve learning and study skills. A student developmental specialist works with students on a one-to-one basis and in small groups to help ensure college success.

Adults in Transition (AIT): Adults in Transition is a one-semester program created to help students cope with the stress and changes involved in returning to school after a long absence.

AIT is open to students who plan to start their first semester at MCC (including students who are returning to MCC after a long absence). Students who enroll in MCC through AIT are provided with special services that include:

  • an individualized interview to determine personal needs
  • personalized academic advising and registration services
  • a required one-credit study skills class that meets before the semester begins
  • a required two-credit transition development course that introduces all aspects of the College and provides assistance in career and curriculum planning
  • staff and peer support

Students are encouraged to take one or more courses in their degree or certificate program or field of interest along with the AIT courses. The AIT program is offered in the daytime and evening. Call 860-512-3344 for further information or to schedule an appointment for a personal interview.

Summer Training and Academic Retention Service (STARS): The Office of Transitional Programs also offers STARS, an intensive six-week summer bridge program for incoming students. Students must apply for the program during the spring and be eligible to receive financial aid and/or be a first-generation college student. There is no cost for the program and students earn four credits for successfully completing the program. For more information, call 860-512-3344.

Veterans O.A.S.I.S. Center

860-512-3307

The Veterans O.A.S.I.S. (Operation Academic Support for Incoming Service Members) Center is located in the Lowe Student Services Center, L108, and provides a dedicated, supportive space for veterans and military service men and women to network, socialize, study and share as they integrate into the college experience. For more information, please contact Ta’Shema Odoms at 860-512-3307.

Women’s Resources

860-512-3324

Women Resources offers information, workshops and programs on many topics including education, women’s health, sexual assault, battering, sexual harassment and stress management. For more information on Women’s Resources, please call 860-512-3324.