Press release submitted by Mount Wachusett Community College
Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC) is offering free workshops this spring for adult learners interested in earning a college degree.
MWCC’s Adult College Experience (ACE) program features hands-on workshops designed to guide adult learners through the steps of applying for college and financial aid, selecting courses, managing coursework, and balancing school with work and family life. Participants attending all four workshops will be eligible to win a free, three-credit course.
“Each year, millions of adult students return to college to expand their career options, change careers, or fulfill a long-held dream of earning a degree. We developed the ACE program at Mount Wachusett to provide students with a roadmap to follow to make their transition to higher education as seamless as possible,” said Marcia Rosbury-Henne, Dean of Admissions and Enrollment.
The four-session ACE program, geared toward adult learners age 24 and above, begins Thursday, March 17, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. with the workshop “Beginning Your College Journey.” During this workshop, students will be admitted to an academic program for the summer or fall 2016 semesters. This workshop will also include a session on accessing library and academic support, as well as a panel presentation by MWCC alumni who returned to college as adult learners balancing work, family, and studies.
The second session, “Navigating the ‘Net for College Success,” will take place Thursday, March 24 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Participants will learn about digital tools, including iConnect and Blackboard, that connect to courses, faculty, and campus resources. Students will learn about the components of their financial aid package, including knowing the difference between loans, grants, scholarships, and work study aid, and receive assistance completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form.
The session, “Foundations for Success,” will take place Thursday, March 31, from 5 to 8 p.m. Participants will have the opportunity to take their Accuplacer placement test, review previous college transcripts with an advisor, and plan their academic path.
The series concludes on Thursday, April 7, with the session “Build Your Future” from 5:30 to 7 p.m. During this final session, students will register for fall semester courses. The session will end with a pizza party celebration and a drawing for a free, three-credit course.
