Starting in Sept. 2015, Washtenaw Community College students will have more ways to connect real-world experiences to their academic curriculum.
First, WCC is making plans to utilize new technology to link students to campus organizations, departments and programs. A new system will provide a record of a student’s engagement on campus and within the community—a vital piece of information for graduates as they look for employment.
The new resources include:
- A social network focused on student life/networking at the college
- An mobile app to keep students updated and in touch
- Co-curricular transcripts documenting learning experiences outside of the classroom
- A volunteer database that links students directly to local non-profits
- E-mail updates to each student as new opportunities roll out throughout the 2014-15 academic year
Students will be able to get more involved with campus activities and establish relationships with business and community leaders before they graduate, said Dr. Evan Montague, WCC’s newly appointed vice president of student recruitment and enrollment.
“Our number one priority is to provide WCC students with increased opportunities that combine their academic experiences in the classroom with skills and experiences that employers demand in the workforce,” Montague said. “With this multifaceted approach we will be able to offer our students every opportunity for success, which hopefully will guide them to big discoveries and lifetime pursuits.”
While the college is planning to offer students more resources to use to bridge their education to their career aims, it is also working on some internal restructuring for the same goal.
“Our staff will be working hard to transform our programming and systems in order to increase student engagement,” said Peter Leshkevich, director of student development and activities. “The goal is to connect with every incoming student at the beginning of their educational career and consistently provide educationally-purposeful activities that will help them succeed in the classroom and stand out in the workforce.”
Leshkevich noted that the increasing student engagement will take extra effort, energy and teamwork across campus.
“That spirit of collaboration will allow our faculty and staff to share ideas and learn from each other,” said WCC President Dr. Rose Bellanca. “Guiding a student through their degree or certificate program takes a team. This is a win-win for everyone involved.”