New Student Orientation

2011

Stake Your Claim @SCCC

New Student Orientation

Tuesday, August 30, 2011 and

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

New Student and Family Orientation: August 30, 2011

Welcome to

Schenectady County Community College Your Gateway to Excellence!

Event Schedule: Tuesday, August 30, 2011 8:00 New Student and Family Check-In Location: Elston Hall, Student Center

Receive your orientation packet and other information about campus life at Schenectady County Community College. Visit with Student Government Association leaders to learn about SCCC clubs/organizations, find out how to become a student leader, sign up for a campus tour, and get information about voter registration.

8:45-9:00 Welcome Location: Begley Building, Carl B. Taylor Auditorium

Martha Asselin, Vice President of Student Affairs 9:00-10:10 Appreciating the Inherent Differences Among Us Presenter: Ellen Gootblatt, Nationally Recognized Speaker Location: Begley Building, Carl B. Taylor Auditorium

Ellen Gootblatt is a nationally known relationships expert. She presents an upbeat, humorous, entertaining, and motivational program. She was a nationally syndicated advice columnist and author, and the host of the #1 rated ABC evening talk show, Getting Together with Ellen Gootblatt. Her radio talk show was about just that: how to build and sustain the finest relationships one can in a positive, optimistic way. Her topics varied widely from program to program, and her shows unpredictability was part of its appeal. Ellen Gootblatt is a person who lives a full life and graciously shares her experiences with her listeners and guests. A former educator, her curiosity about people, common sense, and sense of humor set the tone for the show. Her personal warmth and her ability to draw out her guests brought to her program such celebrities as Steve Allen, Valerie Harper, John Denver, David Brenner, David Steinberg, Kris Kristofferson, George Carlin, Patricia Neal, Phyllis Diller, and Lucille Ball. Somehow, in her presence, each of these prestigious stars found new stories to share.


10:00-4:00 Community Agency Carnival Location: Elston Hall, Student Center What is the Community Agency Carnival?

Schenectady County Community College is committed to being a premier community college that empowers individuals to reach their greatest potential through exceptional and innovative education and training. As a campus community we strive to create a student-centered learning environment that supports your personal, educational, and professional goals. The Community Agency Carnival is designed to connect you with on-campus programs and services that will support your academic success, personal enrichment, and professional development. We have also invited a variety of off-campus agencies that can provide additional services that will support your success.

10:15 Campus Tour for New Students and Family

Tour departs from The Student Center in Elston Hall at the New Student Information Booth. Each tour is approximately 30 minutes.

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10:15-11:15 Special Parent Orientation

Supporting Your College Student: A Parent’s Guide to College Presenter: Ellen Gootblatt, Nationally Recognized Speaker Location: Stockade Building, Room 102

College is a time of tremendous growth and change where young men and women develop a stronger sense of autonomy and independence as adults. As a result college can test even the healthiest relationship. This program is designed specifically for parents dealing with the complexities of raising a college student. Enjoy a candid and open conversation with Ellen about the ups and downs of parenting through college and learn about how to best support your college student.

10:15-11:45 The following interactive programs are offered as one session…

Monster College Advantage Location: The Begley Building, Carl B. Taylor Auditorium

Monster College Advantage is a fun, dynamic and interactive presentation that will help you make the most of your time at Schenectady County Community College, both in and out of the classroom. Want a “real job” when you graduate? Come get the inside scoop on what to do throughout college to make yourself the ideal candidate when you graduate. Get the “Advantage” now so you can get the job you want LATER!

Ultimate Money Skills: Tips 4Success

Location: Begley Building, Carl B. Taylor Auditorium

The Ultimate Money Skills program looks at dollars, budgets and bills. College Students will be empowered to develop smart money management skills and ultimately achieve financial independence. This 45 minute, interactive, assembly style presentation helps students recognize that the choices they make about money while in college can have a direct impact on their future financial success and gives them the information they needs to make better decisions going forward. The program shows students and their family members how to:

Achieve the critical understanding of appropriate credit use Understand the basics of banking Design their own budget Take control of student loan debt Protect their identity and financial information Seek and apply for scholarships

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11:45-12:15 Choose one of the following Orientation Sessions…

Campus Tour for New Students and Family Tour departs from The Student Center in Elston Hall at the New Student Information Booth. Each tour is approximately 30 minutes.

Establishing Comfort within the Computer Lab (Drop-in Workshop)

Presenter(s): Nick Ltaif, Director of Academic Computing Kim Emerson, Senior Technical Assistant Location: Stockade Building, Second Floor, Room 203 and 205

Experience the resources available to all SCCC students in our college computer lab, meet the staff, establish your FREE College e-mail account before classes begin, and receive basic training instruction on the campus course management system. Learn about the SCCC Computer Usage Policy and how to access the SCCC website for many of your academic needs (i.e., registration, accessing your financial aid, checking office hours, etc…).

Community Agency Carnival Location: Elston Hall, Student Center

Take some time and explore the variety of on-campus and off campus agencies that can support your academic career. Find the right program or department to help cater to your individualized educational needs and personal academic goals.

12:00-1:00 Campus BBQ Location: Elston Hall, The Student Commons and Outside Catering provided by SCCC’s Prestige Services Inc.

Enjoy a BBQ and get to know members of our college community. College is a time to take risks, explore interests, meet new people and stake your claim in the community. Challenge yourself to meet someone new, discover who they are, where they live, and why they are attending SCCC.

Community Agency Carnival

Location: Elston Hall, Student Center

During your lunch break take some time and explore the variety of on-campus and off campus agencies that can support your academic career. Find the right program or department to help cater to your individualized educational needs and personal academic goals.

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1:00-1:30 After lunch choose one of the following Orientation Sessions…

Library Basics: A Walk-In Workshop Presenter(s): Lynne King, Director of Library Services

Caroline Buff, Librarian Location: Begley Library and Learning Resource Center

Did you know that many of the library’s resources are available online, and you can access them from off-campus? Stop by this workshop, and a SCCC librarian will assist you to set up your account to access library materials from home.

Establishing Comfort within the Computer Lab (Drop in Workshop)

Presenter(s): Nick Ltaif, Director of Academic Computing Kim Emerson, Senior Technical Assistant

Location: Stockade Building, Second Floor, Rooms 203 and 205

Experience the resources available to all SCCC students in our college computer lab, meet the staff, establish your FREE College e-mail account before classes begin, and receive basic training instruction on the campus course management system. Learn about the SCCC Computer Usage Policy and how to access the SCCC website for many of your academic needs (i.e., registration, accessing your financial aid, checking office hours, etc…)


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Life by Design: Using Personal Stories to Unveil Future Opportunities. Presenter: Robert Frederick, Career and Employment Services Location: Elston Hall, The Lally-Mohawk Room

People make career and life decisions based on multiple factors including existing information and circumstances, their mindset and personality type. But too many times, students are making career decisions that are incongruent to their core talents, interests and values which is why most graduates are working in jobs unrelated to their specific major. When supporting college students in their identification of career goals, we use a variety of approaches and assessments that connect students with their thoughts, personal identity and eventually opportunities that would use their core talents, interests and values. This interactive session will introduce an approach that can be used by anyone to uncover core character traits and values, stimulating work environments, future pursuits, and self motivating advice. Transition to College: A Resource Guide for Success.

Presenter: Dr. Ellen Wertlieb, ADA Transition Services Location: Stockade Building, Room 101

Members of the SCCC’s disabilities office will discuss issues related to transitioning to college as well as resources available on campus. You will learn about how you can obtain academic accommodations if they are appropriate and will be provided with some organizational tools that you can use as your pursue your coursework. Library Basics: A Walk-In Workshop

Presenter(s): Lynne King, Director of Library Services Caroline Buff, Librarian

Location: Begley Library and Learning Resource Center


Sessions in this block are continued on the next page…

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1:30-2:30 Sessions Continued...

Establishing Comfort within the Computer Lab (Drop in Workshop) Presenter(s): Nick Ltaif, Director of Academic Computing

Kim Emerson, Senior Technical Assistant Location: Stockade Building, Second Floor, Rooms 203 and 205




TechTalk: Using the MySCCC Portal to Enhance Your College Experience Presenter: Darren Johnson, Asst. Dean of Advancement Location: Begley Building, Carl B. Taylor Auditorium

Did you know that SCCC has a new web portal? Message boards, calendar of events, email, electronic voting booths, Angel and more -- all in one easy-to-use place. The portal became official on 9/1 at mysccc.sunysccc.edu. Learn how the portal can benefit student activities at this seminar with Assistant Dean Darren Johnson.

Library Basics: A Walk-In Workshop

Presenter(s): Lynne King, Director of Library Services Caroline Buff, Librarian Location: Begley Library and Learning Resource Center


Orientation Sessions in this block are continued on the next page…

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2:45-3:45 Sessions Continued…

Establishing Comfort within the Computer Lab (Drop in Workshop) Presenter(s): Nick Ltaif, Director of Academic Computing

Kim Emerson, Senior Technical Assistant Location: Stockade Building, Second Floor, Rooms 203 and 205


3:30-4:00 Campus Tour for New Students and Family

Tour departs from The Student Center in Elston Hall at the New Student Information Booth. Each tour is approximately 30 minutes.

4:00-5:00 Open Reception with the President Dr. Quintin Bullock, President Location: Elston Hall, The Lally-Mohawk Room

Come join Dr. Bullock and the orientation staff for a delicious dessert and the opportunity to meet the President of Schenectady County Community College. Dr. Bullock is a long time educator and the sixth President of SCCC. He is committed to building an educational community that empowers students to complete their personal, professional, and educational goals. This special presentation will provide you a variety of tools and insights that will help you succeed at SCCC.

5:00-6:00 Community Safety Forum Presenter: Martha Asselin, V.P. of Student Affairs Stockade Building, Room 101

Schenectady County Community College is committed to providing a safe learning and work environment that is maintained through the cooperation of all members of our campus and community. Common sense precautions will further enhance campus life and safety. Learn how a collaborative endeavor is a most effective approach.

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Event Schedule: Wednesday, August 31, 2011 8:00 New Student Check-In Location: Elston Hall, Student Center

Receive your orientation packet and other information about campus life at Schenectady County Community College. Visit with Student Government Association leaders to learn about SCCC clubs/organizations, find out how to become a student leader, sign up for a campus tour, and get information about voter registration. Student Veterans' and Military Dependents Breakfast and Orientation Presenter(s) Noney Grier, Patrick Tanella, and Matthan Bird Breakfast Catered by SCCC’s Prestige Services Inc. Location: Elston Hall, The Lally-Mohawk Room This orientation is designed to ease the transition into college for veterans and military dependents. The program will be facilitated by former members of the U.S. Armed Forces and will include a private breakfast. We will discuss educational benefits and all on campus services available including the ADA transition office. The orientation will also serve as an introduction to the leaders of the Student Veterans of America, a college club comprised of other student veterans and military dependents. Our goal is to raise awareness of veteran presence on college campuses across America and provide a strong support system for success as a student.

8:45 Welcome

Martha Asselin, Vice President of Student Affairs Location: Begley Building, Carl B. Taylor Auditorium

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9:00-10:30 Creating Healthy Relationships Presenter: Jacqui Williams, Independent Consultant Location: Begley Building, Carl B. Taylor Auditorium 10:00-4:00 Community Agency Carnival Location: Elston Hall, Student Center

As a campus community we strive to create a student-centered learning environment that supports your personal, educational, and professional goals. The Community Agency Carnival is designed to connect you with on-campus programs and services that will support your academic success, personal enrichment, and professional development. We have also invited a variety of off-campus agencies that can provide additional services that will support your success.


Campus Tour for New Students and Family Tour departs from The Student Center in Elston Hall at the New Student Information Booth. Each tour is approximately 30 minutes. RESTART: Balancing Family, Work, and School

Presenter: Margaret Williams, Non-Traditional Student Counselor Location: Elston Hall, The Lally-Mohawk Room

Are you a returning student worried about how your choice to earn a college degree will impact your family? As a parent and a student, the idea of attending class and completing assignments can be stressful and overwhelming. However, focus on the positive and view your commitment to college as an opportunity to teach your children about the importance of an education. Join the conversation, speak about your hope for the future, express your concerns, and learn how to overcome the struggles associated with being a parent and a student.

Orientation Sessions in this block continue on the next page…

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10:45-11:45 Sessions Continued…

STEP: Making the Transition to College Presenter: Stephan Fragale, Student Counselor Location: Stockade Building, Room 101

Making the transition from high school to college or returning to school from the workforce can be exciting and challenging at the same time. Learn how to channel your strengths, develop strategies that will help you achieve success, build an awareness of the challenges caused by change, develop the confidence to overcome obstacles, and discover the resources available to help you make the best of your college experience.


Meet Your Student Senate

Student Panel: Members of the Student Government Association Location: Stockade Building, Room 102

Schenectady County Community College is committed to empowering students to reach their greatest potential. The college experience is the first major step in ones career. Through an innovative curriculum and dynamic campus community students at SCCC can develop the skills to succeed in a 21st century workforce. Participate in a community town hall discussion with a panel of student leaders who will share their perspective on student life and field questions from the audience.





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12:00-1:00 Lunch Break Location: Elston Hall, Student Commons

Bring your lunch or enjoy the weekly menu powered by Prestige Services. Community Agency Carnival

Location: Elston Hall, Student Center

As a campus community we strive to create a student-centered learning environment that supports your personal, educational, and professional goals. The Community Agency Carnival is designed to connect you with on-campus programs and services that will support your academic success, personal enrichment, and professional development. We have also invited a variety of off-campus agencies that can provide additional services that will support your success.

1:00-2:00 Campus Tour for New Students and Family

Tour departs from The Student Center in Elston Hall at the New Student Information Booth. Each tour is approximately 30 minutes. TechTalk: Using the MySCCC Portal to Enhance Your College Experience

Presenter: Darren Johnson, Asst. Dean of Advancement Location: Begley Building, Carl B. Taylor Auditorium


I Don’t Know Where I Am Going But I’m On My Way!! Presented by Bernice Dunn Location: Elston Hall, The Lally Mohawk Room

CONGRATULATIONS on getting to SCCC!! The first step in the new you! Now do you need to have some career direction? What kinds of careers would be appropriate for YOU?? Don’t just blindly pick a major or career but come to this workshop and through The Party Game begin to explore who you are and careers that complement your Interests.

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2:15-3:15 Select one of the following sessions…

Intentional Decisions: A Guide to Your College Career Presented by Robyn Posson Location: Stockade Building, Room 101

Academic advisement is one of the most important components to a college student’s success. Every SCCC student needs to have a full understanding of what advisement is (and is not), and must learn how to take a proactive approach to completing your degree in a timely manner. Join us as we explain how to avoid advising mistakes that could delay your targeted graduation date and/or jeopardize your Financial Aid eligibility. We will also discuss transfer options and how accurate advisement is crucial for a smooth transfer.

Library Basics: A Walk-In Workshop

Presenter(s): Lynne King, Director of Library Services Caroline Buff, Librarian Location: Begley Library and Learning Resource Center






3:30-4:30 TechTalk: Using the MySCCC Portal to Enhance Your College Experience Presenter: Darren Johnson, Asst. Dean of Advancement Location: Begley Building, Carl B. Taylor Auditorium


Orientation Sessions in this block continue on the next page…

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3:30-4:30 Sessions continued…

Library Basics: A Walk-In Workshop Presenter(s): Lynne King, Director of Library Services Caroline Buff, Librarian Location: Begley Library and Learning Resource Center






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SCCC

Royals Pride

New Student Information Guide

Important Reminders

First Day of Classes September 6, 2011 By the second week of classes all students must:

1. Complete and submit immunization records on file with Student Affairs. Elston Hall, Room 222.

2. Present your Certificate of Residence to the Student Business Office. Elston Hall, Room 517.

3. Have a validated Student ID. To get your ID card you must bring your official class schedule and NYS photo ID to the College Bookstore. Your first card is free.

4. Obtain an official parking decal from campus security to park in all SCCC parking lots. To receive your parking decal, bring your validated Student ID and your New York State Vehicle Registration to the main campus security desk in the Student Center of Elston Hall. Parking decals are free for all students and must be properly displayed.

5. Receive a free Student Handbook. The Student Handbook contains information about college, rules, regulations, and policies. Students are responsible for all information contained in this publication including the Student Code of Conduct. The Student Handbook is available in e-format on the college website.

6. Set-up an official college email address, angel account, and MySCCC account. For technical assistance please contact the SCCC Computer Help Desk at ext. 1111.

7. Register to Vote. Schenectady County Community College does not require but strongly encourages students to participate in the political process by exercising their right to vote. As a SUNY Student, your college experience is directly connected to your “voice” on Election Day. For more information about Voter Registration contact the Student Affairs Office in Elston Hall, Room 222.

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Prepare… Meet with your academic advisor regularly and develop a positive relationship. Learn about and understand all college policies and procedures. Create a list of all your talents, skills, strengths, and assets. Be open and honest to yourself about your needs and connect with available services. Identify and focus on your strengths and talents and use them to overcome difficult tasks

or situations. Create sets of personal, professional, and educational goals that are clear and manageable. Limit your stress by becoming familiar with your surroundings. Schedule a campus tour,

explore downtown and practice driving to campus or taking the bus. Commit…

Be open to yourself and your advisor concerning schoolwork, study habits, academic progress, etc.

Schedule study sessions, build a study team, or secure a tutor and work towards academic success. Building positive relationships is the key to success!

Approach your education as if you’re a CEO of your own company; make intentional decisions concerning careers, your choice of major, and registration.

Work to your strengths, assess your performance, and make changes that create a foundation of success.

Be passionate about your academic work and manage your time accordingly. Explore connections between school and your life. Reflect on your personal, professional, and educational goals.

Engage…

Take risks! Try out new ideas and create new experiences. Interact with diverse groups of people, appreciate difference and break down barriers. Approach course electives as a way to explore possible career options. Use service learning opportunities and student clubs and organizations as a foundation

for your career development. Get involved on campus and participate in student activities; seek programs and activities

that will help you develop leadership skills and empower your professional growth. Build lasting relationships with colleagues, professors, and advisors. Constructing a solid

support system will help you cope with the stresses associated with college. Make a difference: Become a Student Government Association Senator. Work to improve

the campus community and bring meaningful change to SCCC.

Your Gateway to Excellence!

Stake Your Claim and Prepare Yourself for the 21st Century Workplace.


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Campus Pulse Upcoming Events @SCCC

Powered by Student Activities

September 6 First Day of Classes 7 Student Athlete Orientation 3:30pm-4:30pm in Stockade 101 Presented by David Gonzalez, Athletic Director 9 September 11th Day of Remembrance and Light Ceremony Light Ceremony begins at sundown Sponsored by SCCC Student Veterans of America. 12 Remembering 9/11: A Decade of Healing College Hour 11:30pm-12:30pm in Stockade 101

Presented by Robyn Posson, Counselor and Harry Buffardi, 9/11 First Responder Sponsored by SCCC Counseling Services

13-16 Destination Downtown Celebration 10:00am-6:00pm in the Student Center Sponsored by SCCC Student Activities 19-23 Blitz Week Campus Life and Club Week Powered by Student Government Association and Student Activities 20 Transfer Fair 11:00am-2:00pm in the Student Center Sponsored by SCCC Counseling Services 21 Rock the Quad: Featuring the Band “Spaceland” College Hour 11:30am-1:00pm at the Stockade Main Entrance Sponsored by the Faculty-Student Association and Student Activities

Documents

New Student Orientation