Monday, October 28, 2013

Spook-tacular

 


Current degree-seeking students begin registering for winter term November 18-22nd. If you need academic advising clearance for winter term, best time to fly over and meet with your advisor is BEFORE Halloween.

Monday, October 21, 2013

Help Through the Storm

When students struggle in school, some try to hide their challenges from instructors, staff and those around them.  They think somehow the situation will just work itself out or they try to avoid the problem until its too late to protect their grades and/or completion.

However, help may be just around the corner.  Instructors and staff are often knowledgeable about resources and strategies that may help.  For instance, we may refer you to financial aid to inquire about the impact of dropping a class, disability services to assist you with accomodation for a learning disability, free tutoring to help you through a tough assignment, or  free personal counseling to help you through a rough period in your life.

Don't avoid instructors if you are struggling.  Instructors may offer you additional help during office hours. Discuss concerns and seek input on ways you may improve your grades.  Their contact information (and usually office hours) are found in the online campus directory (upper right-hand corner of the COCC home page).

If you need help, also consider meeting with an academic advisor to assist you in navigating resources that may help.  Advisors may also assist you in deciphering policies and procedures that may otherwise seem a little overwhelming.  Don't wait until its too late.  Early intervention and prevention are key to success!

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Hot Tech Tip for Better Grades



Monitor your grades early in the term.  By monitoring your grades early and regularly, you are better prepared to strategize ways to improve grades or protect your GPA. Communicate errors or concerns with your instructor and follow-up with your academic advisor if you need further support.
Many instructors use a program called blackboard to track grades, which among many useful applications, it allows you to monitor your progress and ensure your grades are accurate.  The blackboard student account is located at the student log-in page on the COCC website.
If you are uncomfortable navigating Blackboard or logging into the account, computer lab attendants are available in each campus to help. Consider visiting a COCC computer lab, as needed.

Are you interested in learning how to use Blackboard more effectively? Here is a link with videos and information to help you get started: https://help.blackboard.com/en-us/Learn/9.1_SP_12_and_SP_13/Student





Monday, October 14, 2013

Fall into the Pathway to Success



Take advantage of COCC’s FREE academic support services:



  • Academic Advising
  • Career Services
  • Computer Labs
  • Counseling
  • Services for Students with Disabilities
  • Library
  • Multicultural Center
  • Native American Program
  • Study Abroad Program
  • Testing and Tutoring
Find out more information about these services on our website,  in your catalogue or call 541-383-7700 to be directed to appropriate department

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

Fall Term - Week Two Tips





Do check your class schedule in your Bobcat account to ensure accuracy before tuition is due. 
Do drop any unwanted courses before tuition deadline
Don’t  assume classes are dropped from your schedule.   Financial aid department does not drop classes for you.  Not attending does not constitute an official drop.   
Do check the balance due for courses to ensure you have enough funds (or financial aid) to cover the costs
Do ensure you have met all requirements for financial aid (if applicable to you) and/or made other payment arrangements to avoid late fees