Shoreline Community College International Programs Viewbook

Page 1

SHORELINE Community College

INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS

Put your world in motion


Shoreline

Table of contents

Table of contents 05 This is Shoreline 15 International Programs 29 Academics and faculty 39 The Seattle area


01

When you start at Shoreline, your destination is up to you

Shoreline Community College


Student profile

Queenie Chu

Queenie Chu Hong Kong

Recent graduate of the University of Washington where she majored in communications

“Shoreline is more than just a school. It’s like a big family.”

“ I learned about Shoreline from an educational agency in Hong Kong. Plus, I have an aunt who lives in Seattle. She told me great things about the region. The more I found out about Shoreline, the more I liked it. I was attracted to the Seattle area. It looked very green, with lots of trees. Shoreline is more than just a school. It’s like a big family. The International Programs staff is very supportive. When I was preparing to apply to the University of Washington, they helped me get organized and complete the application process. At Shoreline, you can also make new friends in one of the school’s many clubs. I always urge new students who come here to get involved and be active on campus. Another way to do that is to work on campus. It’s a great way to meet people and improve your language skills. Shoreline did a great job of preparing me for my studies at the University of Washington. I was able to complete all the classes I needed to become a communications major at UW. My bachelor’s degree is helping me pursue a career with broadcast and media companies, as well as compete in the Ms. Hong Kong pageant.”

02


Student profile

Queenie Chu

03

University of Washington

Queenie Chu at the University of Washington’s Suzzallo Library


This is Shoreline

Introduction

04

A place of infinite possibilities Shoreline’s campus is well known for its natural beauty


This is Shoreline

Introduction

05

This is Shoreline

Shoreline is a place of good beginnings. A place where, every year, approximately five hundred students from thirty different countries come to learn and grow. And a place that has one of the most successful university transfer programs in Washington State. Shoreline is a place of exceptional quality. A community college with renowned professors and leading-edge academics. A place where you will enjoy great classes, along with teachers and staff members who take a personal interest in you and your future. Shoreline is a place of energy and involvement. Whether you’re enjoying the scenic Shoreline campus, or venturing out into Seattle or our national parks just beyond, this is an easy place to live and call home.


This is Shoreline

Where is Shoreline?

06

Location: Seattle, Washington, in the Northwest region of the U.S., 113 miles (182 km) south of the Canadian border. Population: 570,426 (City of Seattle), 3,554,760 (Greater Seattle Region). Nickname: The Emerald City. Major Industries: software (Microsoft, Adobe), biotechnology (Amgen, Zymogenetics), aerospace (Boeing), coffee (Starbucks, Tully’s), and medicine and research (University of Washington, Harborview Medical Center).

122° 17’ West

47° 39’ North

Seattle from Queen Anne Hill


This is Shoreline

Our location

Our location Shoreline is located in Seattle, Washington, in the Northwest region of the United States. Along with Los Angeles and San Francisco, Seattle is one of the largest cities on the West Coast, with a population of well over half a million people (and many more in the surrounding region). And like the other big West Coast destinations, Seattle has become a truly international location, with all of the diversity that makes up a modern, urban city. Below are just a few of the pursuits that keep Seattle residents busy.

The arts. Within the last 20 years, Seattle has established itself as a premier center for arts and culture. In and around the downtown area, as well as throughout its many neighborhoods, Seattle has dozens of venues for music, theater, art, lectures, book readings, and more. Nature. Seattle is surrounded by natural beauty. To the west, the Puget Sound and the Olympic mountains.

07

To the east, the Cascade mountains and the high desert of central Washington. To the south, Mt. Rainier and Rainier National Park. And to the north, Mt. Baker and Canada. Within a short drive, Seattlites can visit any of these destinations and enjoy some of America’s most well-preserved forests and parks. Sports. Seattle is an outdoor-minded, athletic city. Our many parks and play fields host a variety of sports, from soccer to softball. And our professional sport venues are great places for those who enjoy basketball (the Supersonics), baseball (the Mariners), or football (the Seahawks). Above all, the Seattle area is a great place to get started. A place that has a long history of embracing people from far away. People who want to discover a new place, a new country, or a new way of life.


This is Shoreline

Campus map and facts

08

Campus map and facts

Year established: 1964 Student population: 10,000 International students Total number: 500 Countries: 30 Ethnic backgrounds of students African American: 6% Asian/Pacific Islander: 16% Caucasian or other: 72% Hispanic: 5% Native American: 1% When students attend Daytime only: 73% Evening and day/evening: 27% Median age of students: 24 years

Shoreline has 26 buildings on an 83-acre campus


This is Shoreline

Our campus

Our campus The Shoreline campus is unique. Its many trees, subtle architecture, and network of walking paths make it one of the most beautiful college campuses in Washington State. Different from other urban schools, Shoreline has a natural, open setting, with plenty of places to enjoy the outdoors. And every season brings something new, from changing foliage in the fall to a brilliant show of color in the spring and summer.

Our campus is ideal for the activities that make student life fulfilling. At the heart of the campus is the central plaza, where students gather year-round to talk, eat, study, and listen to music, including live bands and entertainment. Just beyond the central plaza is the student union building and International Programs Office, where students can drop in to ask questions, meet with an advisor, or research universities.

09

Shoreline’s well-established Ray W. Howard Library provides substantial information and reference sources for students. The library is also a popular gathering place for study groups, classes, and professors. In addition, the Shoreline Bookstore provides textbooks, as well as supplies and other student necessities. Shoreline’s fitness and athletic center gives students the opportunity to stay in shape, join a team, or simply take a break from studies. The center includes basketball and badminton courts, a track, and a wide range of exercise equipment. Another popular spot is the school’s cafeteria. Here, students enjoy many different types of foods, including hot meals, drinks, and snacks. The cafeteria serves American-style meals, and also a range of international dishes.


This is Shoreline

Our history

Students enjoying a sunny afternoon in the center of campus

10


This is Shoreline

Our history

11

“ Since the founding of the College in 1964, Shoreline has been dedicated to the success of our students. Our goal is to give each and every student rich opportunities to learn — through our excellent faculty, cultural diversity, and comprehensive services. For over 40 years, graduates of SCC have transferred smoothly to four-year universities and into rewarding careers.” Lee D. Lambert, J.D., President, Shoreline Community College

Our history Since 1964, Shoreline Community College has helped students make decisions about their future — setting and reaching their educational goals and moving into the workplace with the confidence and skills they need to succeed.

Founded in part by Dr. Ray W. Howard, Shoreline was immediately embraced by the community, answering a strong need for high-quality education in the area. By the mid-60s Shoreline’s programs were already receiving high praise, such as its popular Nursing Program, launched in 1966. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Shoreline founded its University Transfer Program, which would quickly grow, along with its ties to prominent schools such as the University of Washington. During this period, Shoreline also began numerous professional programs. By 1973, it was reported that foreign students preferred Shoreline. Approximately 120 foreign students from 40

countries attended Shoreline. Shoreline’s English Program grew its reputation for being one of the best in the state for helping foreign students adjust to English language. In the 1980s and 1990s, Shoreline continued to grow in size and prominence. School additions included a computer center, a Women’s Center, expanded athletic facilities, and the interdisciplinary studies. In the late 1990s, Shoreline’s International Programs became increasingly important to the school’s identity. International students, faculty, and curriculum added to a rich diversity on campus, while the founding of the Study Abroad Program gave more students the chance to learn about different cultures and explore the world. Today, Shoreline continues to thrive and grow. In addition to top-rate academics, professors, facilities, and students, Shoreline has also become a destination for a wide range of guest speakers, artists, and politicians, such as President Bill Clinton, Condoleezza Rice, and Bill Gates.


Student profile

Chak Yuen Pak

Chak Yuen Pak Hong Kong Transferring to the University of Michigan

“There are other community colleges in this area, but I think Shoreline is the best.”

“ When I see friends from Hong Kong, I definitely recommend they come here. From my own experience, I know that Shoreline helps students get into good four-year universities. Plus, it’s a great experience to live on your own. Most Asian teenagers won’t leave their parents, but they should. Independence is a good thing. When I first got here, I didn’t know what I wanted to study. But I started from the basic classes, and went through them step-by-step. I really enjoyed my classes. I learned a lot about writing from my communications professor, Professor Hai-Jew. She was also my English professor and helped me edit my personal statement for the University of Michigan. Choosing Shoreline was also a way for me to save time. I was able to start taking university classes immediately after finishing my O-level studies in Hong Kong. This allowed me to move ahead more quickly, and focus my energy on transferring to a top university. There are other community colleges in this area, but I think Shoreline is the best. Especially for the ESL courses. At Shoreline you can take regular classes along with ESL, so that you learn English faster. At other schools, the ESL program is more isolated and you don’t progress as quickly.

When I first came here, I was nervous. It was the first time I was far away from my family. I didn’t know anybody here. But it didn’t take long to get adjusted. I attended the orientations, and that was a great guide for me. I learned how to select and register for classes. I also met with advisors, and made some new friends.”

12


Student profile

Chak Yuen Pak

13

University of Michigan

Chak Yuen Pak at Shoreline


International Programs

Introduction

14

From the inside out, Shoreline is truly international Students attending an English writing class


International Programs

Introduction

15

International Programs

At Shoreline, being multicultural is the very essence of who we are. Hundreds of students from dozens of countries have embraced Shoreline as their home away from home. But having an international program means more than just bringing different people together. It also means having equally diverse faculty and staff members, academics, and study abroad opportunities that strengthen and add to our global perspective. These many aspects — from culture to curriculum — are what make Shoreline so vibrant. It is a place where foreign students will be challenged, and challenge themselves, in new and unexpected ways. In turn, with every international student that comes here, Shoreline evolves, reflecting the very diversity that we choose to embrace.


International Programs

International students

Joyce Fagel advising a university transfer student

16


International Programs

International students

17

“ I was born and raised in The Netherlands and came to the U.S. as an international student when I was 18. I moved to Seattle in 1989, and came to Shoreline after working at the University of Washington. I really enjoy helping students understand the educational system in the U.S. We discuss educational philosophies in the U.S. and around the world. Those are great conversations!” Joyce Fagel, University of Washington Science Advisor at Shoreline

International students Shoreline is home to almost 500 international students from 30 different countries. Many come from Asia, but we also have students from Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa.

Choose a path that’s right for you At Shoreline, you have many options. The important part is that it’s up to you, and we’re here to help. While here, you can:

International faculty Our faculty offer experiences and knowledge from locations all over the world, including Japan, China, The Netherlands, and England. International study abroad opportunities Many of our U.S. students enjoy studying abroad because it gives them the opportunity to experience a different culture while traveling and learning with fellow students. Shoreline students regularly study in England, Costa Rica, Italy, Jamaica, and other locations.

International students tell us they feel comfortable here, and welcomed by our staff, students, and the surrounding community. Together, we all play a role in making this one of the most popular destinations for students from around the world.

Complete the first two years required for a bachelor’s degree and transfer to a four-year university • Obtain an associate’s degree (AAS, AS, AAAS, AB, AFA) and begin your career • F inish your high school requirements while also taking college-level classes • S trengthen your language skills with English as a Second Language (ESL) courses •

No TOEFL requirement Shoreline does not require you to take the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). First, we do not believe that TOEFL is the most accurate way to measure a student’s potential. We prefer to assess your English once you arrive, and place you in the appropriate class. Second, with the right class placement, your academic performance is likely to be better, therefore improving your chances of being admitted to a top four-year university.


International Programs

The structure of education in the United States

The structure of education in the United States Postdoctoral studies/research

Doctoral studies Professional schools Graduate programs

Undergraduate programs Community college High school

Middle school/junior high

Elementary/primary schools

18


International Programs

University transfer

University transfer Over the years, Shoreline has helped thousands of students successfully transfer to four-year universities. Your two years at Shoreline are equivalent to two years at a fouryear university. Once you transfer, and complete two more years at a university, you can obtain your bachelor’s degree (although some highly specialized majors may require additional coursework).

What makes up a bachelor’s degree? • General university requirements: Breadth of knowledge in a variety of subjects • Major-specific requirements: Depth of knowledge in one or more fields • Electives (student-selected courses) • Approximately 180 total quarter credits What part of a bachelor’s degree can Shoreline provide? • Completion of most general requirements • Major prerequisites • Some major requirements • Electives (student-selected courses) • Half of the required quarter credits (90 credits)

19

What universities do Shoreline students transfer to? Our international students have been admitted to many top four-year universities, including:

University of Washington Seattle University Washington State University Columbia University New York University Penn State University

UCLA

University of Southern California Purdue University University of Michigan University of Wisconsin-Madison

We provide guidance every step of the way In addition to helping you with university applications, admission requirements, and language assistance, Shoreline guides your application process by maintaining strong relationships with admissions officers at some of the best four-year universities.


International Programs

Complete your studies or obtain a degree

Ann Loomis at the headquarters of Helly Hansen, North America

20


International Programs

Complete your studies or obtain a degree

21

“ My associate’s degree and specialized training from Shoreline helped me get my current job. I always recommend Shoreline because I think it is a great place to learn. My professors challenged me to do great work. And they didn’t try to fit me into a mold. Today, I oversee all of the U.S.-based retail stores, customer service, and distribution operations at Helly Hansen, an international maker of outdoor clothing and equipment with a presence in 26 other countries.” Ann Loomis, Director of Operations, Helly Hansen Shoreline Fashion Merchandising Program Consultant

Complete your studies or obtain a degree Associate’s degree. Whether you plan on attending a four-year university, beginning a career, or something else, Shoreline offers all its students the ability to obtain a two-year Associate’s Degree (AAS, AS, AAAS, AB, or AFA). Associate’s degrees give you a strong academic foundation for numerous pursuits. Please refer to the Academics and faculty section (p. 34) for a full overview of subjects and areas of study.

High school completion. International students can earn a high school diploma and an associate’s degree at the same time. The classes you take to complete your associate’s degree will also meet high school diploma requirements. For most students, this dual course of study does not require any additional time. For high school completion, you will need to submit the following:

Professional Programs. In addition to transfer degrees, we offer one- and two-year professional programs that provide training in a specific field. Some of our most popular programs include:

International Programs application Application fee of $35.00

Biotechnology Business technology • Computer information systems • Graphic design/visual arts • Web design • Music technology • Nursing

If applicable, your transcripts from high school (in English) • Completed and signed statement of financial support, found on the back of the application • Bank statement from your sponsor • Must be at least 16 years of age upon arrival •


International Programs

Academic English as a second language

The Ray W. Howard Library houses over 70,000 books

22


International Programs

Academic English as a second language

Academic English as a second language (ESL) Shoreline’s ESL program is unique. We emphasize an integrated approach. Once you reach the higher courses, you can combine regular classes into your schedule. The result? Shoreline students are more prepared, and do better, when they enter a four-year university or start a career.

Upon arrival, we will help you assess your proficiency in English. The assessment will help us determine which ESL course is right for you. In most cases, our international students place into one of the following: Academic ESL 1. An integrated reading, writing, grammar, and study skills course designed to assist students in the transition to regular college classes, with an emphasis on writing in an academic format and reading authentic, pre-college-level materials. Academic ESL 2. An emphasis on reading and writing for academic purposes, including appropriate grammar and vocabulary skills. Students read pre-college to introductory college level materials from a variety of sources.

23

Academic ESL 3. Preparation for English 101 and further academic coursework, continuing and refining the skills covered in Academic ESL 1 and 2. Students study more complex grammar and vocabulary and read increasingly complex pre-college to college-level materials. For students who are not ready to enter Academic ESL, we also offer five levels of pre-academic ESL courses which focus on the basics of English speaking and writing. Shoreline’s International Programs staff You might be nervous about leaving home. Or maybe you are eager to go. Either way, coming to a new country, with a different language and culture, can be challenging.

We put our students first. For over 40 years, we’ve been helping students begin their studies, adjust to the area, and make smooth transitions. That doesn’t mean being away from home will always be easy. But it means that our staff is always here to answer questions, offer advice, or discuss any concerns you might have.


International Programs

International Programs services

Shoreline has nearly 60 student clubs and organizations

24


International Programs

Internationals Program services

International Programs services Our services, listed below, were created specifically for international students:

25

advisors to help you select your classes. Staff members and student leaders will take you on a campus tour and introduce you to services and activities.

University transfer. Shoreline’s International Student Advisors have created a unique resource area with university catalogs, transfer planning handouts, and other useful information on in-state and out-of-state universities. Our “transfer experts� will guide you through the process of applying to four-year universities.

Academic advising. One-on-one academic advising is available to all of our international students. Our staff is here to help you make critical decisions, such as what you want to study and how you want to incorporate those studies into your future plans.

Peer mentoring. Shoreline has a very successful peer mentoring program that matches new students with those who have been here a while in order to smooth your transition to a new place, and give you an additional person to contact when you have questions or concerns.

Academic ESL placement. Once you arrive at Shoreline, we will help place you in the right ESL course(s). We make sure that the placement is appropriate so that your Shoreline academic record always reflects your best capabilities and performance.

Housing guidance. Shoreline offers information and advice on student housing, including homestays, or rental listings for houses and apartments in our area. See p. 43 for more details on housing.

On-campus employment opportunities. A limited number of paid positions on campus may be available for interested students. Opportunities may include working at the Bookstore or in one of our computer labs. For more information, please contact the Shoreline International Programs office.

Orientation. We have a comprehensive one-week orientation program, during which you will meet with


Student profile

Alvita Hamdja

Alvita Hamdja Indonesia

Recent pre-med graduate from UCLA

“My math teacher at Shoreline made a big difference.”

“ I grew up in Indonesia. My parents wanted me to come to school in the U.S. After looking at a couple of other schools in this area, I chose Shoreline. I think Shoreline offers the best program for international students. I had great professors who helped me focus on the future. My math teacher at Shoreline made a big difference. Actually, I hate math, but when I got into her class, I thought math was not as hard. She explained it clearly, and was also willing to help outside the class. I was excited to come to the U.S. I wanted to know more about another culture, and get a new kind of education. How does it compare? I like it here. It’s more organized. I decided to study biochemistry and then go on to study pre-med. My studies at Shoreline were a good foundation for what I’m learning now. Shoreline also did a very nice job of helping me get into UCLA. The International Programs staff helped me with my application. And the ESL courses made me feel more confident. As my English improved, I did better in my classes. Being at UCLA was great. There are many opportunities for undergraduates to do research so that we are well prepared when we go on. I’m planning on going to medical school the year after next. Soon I will apply to the medical school programs at MIT, Stanford, and UCLA.”

26


Student profile

Alvita Hamdja

27

UCLA

Alvita Hamdja on the Hollywood Walk of Fame


Academics and faculty

Introduction

28

Experienced professors, advanced academics Troy Wolff, professor of English, teaching an English 101 class


Academics and faculty

Introduction

29

Academics and faculty

You shouldn’t have to wait until you’re at a four-year university to work with experienced professors in the most current fields of study. The teachers at Shoreline are renowned specialists. They bring both theoretical and practical knowledge to the classroom, where students enjoy a collaborative setting. Year after year, international students do well here because our faculty takes a personal interest in helping them succeed. So whether it’s extra guidance on writing an assignment, evaluating a job opportunity, or preparing your written essay for a four-year university, our staff is always here to assist.


Academics and faculty

In the classroom

Professor Ernest Johnson, popularly known as Dr. J

30


Academics and faculty

In the classroom

31

“ Over 5% of the students at Shoreline are international students, and I have had many in my multicultural course, which is a requirement for most students. I believe this campus has one of the best and most active international programs in the country, and that anyone can feel comfortable here.” Ernest Johnson, Professor of Multicultural Studies

In the classroom International faculty. Shoreline has a distinguished faculty who enjoy working with international students. In fact, a good number of them were, at one point, international students themselves. Because of this, they know what it’s like to be students in a new country, and to be far from home. Shoreline faculty, whether international or not, go out of their way to help new students get comfortable and focused on academic success.

Small class size. One of the benefits of starting your education at Shoreline is that you are more likely to have small class sizes and more personalized attention from professors. Unlike the entry-level undergraduate classes at many four-year universities, each of which can have hundreds of students and may be taught by teaching assistants, Shoreline classes are small in size and taught by experienced professors.

A variety of class types. Depending on the type of classes you take, it’s likely that no two will be the same. There are lecture-style classes, labs, workshops, and seminars. The type of class is chosen to best suit the subject matter. Above all, classes are designed to encourage collaboration and a positive atmosphere for both students and professors. Learning Assistance Centers Shoreline’s Learning Assistance Centers are available to any student who needs help in a specific area of study.

Academic Skills Center. The Academic Skills Center (ASC) provides opportunities for students to learn study techniques and improve reading and/or writing skills in a lab environment. Students learn through a variety of media, including computer programs, audio and video


Academics and faculty

Learning Assistance Centers

Professor Bob Thompson during open office hours

32


Academics and faculty

Learning Assistance Centers

33

“ I have worked closely with several international programs offices and have never seen one as well run and organized as Shoreline’s…and one as pleasant and fun to work with. The staff and directors are warm, friendly, and highly professional.” Bob Thompson, Professor of Psychology

lessons, and traditional text materials. Learning Assistants are available for one-on-one instruction. Math Learning Center. The Math Learning Center (MLC) serves students in math courses from arithmetic through calculus. The MLC provides individual assistance and the opportunity for students to work in groups. Equipped with computers, graphic calculators, videos, and printed materials, the MLC is a supportive environment for students studying math. Biology Learning Lab. The Biology Learning Lab provides assistance to students 40 hours per week (Monday through Friday). The lab is staffed by Shoreline-trained students and graduates.

Business/Computer Study Center. Students enrolled in business technology or computer information systems can opt to receive additional learning assistance. ESL Center. The ESL computer lab provides students

with additional assistance towards learning English as a second language. The lab is equipped with computers and training modules to enhance the study of language. Students may drop in during open lab hours. Tutoring. Academic tutoring is available to assist students with special needs, including ESL students. Tutoring services are also available in the Transfer Student Tutoring office for students intending to transfer to a four-year university.


Academics and faculty

Academic listings

34

Two years at Shoreline are equal to the first two years at a university. 2 years at Shoreline + 2 years at university = 4-year university degree

Academic listings University Transfer Programs (AAS, AS, AB, and AFA degrees) Arts and sciences Anthropology Applied mathematics Architecture (pre-architecture) Art Ceramics Graphic design Industrial design Painting Photography Printmaking Sculpture Art history Astronomy Atmospheric sciences Biochemistry Biology Botany Chemistry Cinema studies Classics Communications Media studies Editorial journalism International communication Intercultural communication Comparative literature Computer science Drama

Economics English Environmental science Forest resources General studies Geography Geological sciences Geophysics History Humanities International studies Journalism Linguistics Mathematics Microbiology Music Neurobiology Philosophy Physical education/exercise & sports science Physics Political science Psychology Recreation Religious studies Sociology Speech & hearing communication Statistics Theater arts Women’s studies Zoology

Business administration Accounting Accounting information systems Business administration Finance Human resource management International business Management Management information systems Marketing Production/operations management Dentistry Dental hygiene Dentistry Education Elementary education Secondary education Special education Engineering Aeronautics & astronautics Ceramic engineering Chemical engineering Civil engineering Computer engineering Electrical engineering Environmental engineering Industrial engineering Materials science & engineering


Academics and faculty

Academic listings

35

Shoreline Community College can prepare you for careers in professional areas (AAAS degrees). Most of these two-year degree programs also have one-year certificate options.

Metallurgical engineering Mechanical engineering Health sciences Clinical health services Environmental health Medical technology Occupational therapy Pharmacy Physical therapy Physician’s assistant Physician Veterinary medicine

Marketing Retail management Business technology Purchasing & supply chain management Industrial technology Manufacturing Basic manufacturing CNC machinist

Social work Social welfare

Health occupations Dental business office specialist Dental hygiene Dietetic technology Health care information Health information technology Medical coding and reimbursement specialist Medical laboratory technician Nursing

Professional (AAAS) degrees Business Accounting Beauty salon management Cosmetology Business Technology Business administration Entrepreneurship Fashion merchandising General business administration

Humanities  Music technology Digital audio engineering Merchandising MIDI production Performance Visual communication technology Digital arts and imagery Digital image production Digital interactive media

Ocean and fishery science Fisheries Oceanography

Graphic design Graphic/print production Marketing Intra-american studies/social sciences Criminal justice Emergency dispatcher Education Bilingual/bicultural education Childcare professional Early childhood education and paraeducator In-home care provider Special education Speech language pathology assistant Science Biotechnology lab specialist Engineering technology CAD/drafting


Student profile

Tsuneo Yabusaki

Tsuneo Yabusaki Japan Transferring to Columbia University Teachers College

“I’m going to miss the open-minded atmosphere in Seattle and Shoreline.”

“ At first, I didn’t know if I would feel comfortable living in America. But when I flew into Seattle, over downtown, I saw a beautiful sunset over the Olympic mountains. And I saw the natural surroundings…trees and lakes. I’ve become attached to Seattle. There’s so much to do here. If you want to go hiking, you can go in just an hour’s drive. It’s so easy. You have access to lots of entertainment. If you want to kayak, you can do that. There are so many options. When I first came here, I felt so fantastic about the multicultural aspect of Shoreline. There are lots of people, from different places, and an emphasis on the development of cultural awareness. At the same time, I tried really hard not to only hang around with other students from my country. I didn’t speak Japanese for six months! In terms of the classes I had, I thought they were very advanced. And the faculty and professors that I talked with, they really listened to my future goals. If you show enthusiasm and desire to know more, faculty members are always ready to offer more. My professors were always welcoming to me, making arrangements, sitting down and talking. For example, after my ESL course with Vince Barnes, he asked us what we wanted to do. Then he wrote letters introducing us to the different departments, according to our interests. Since I already had an undergraduate degree from Japan, my focus was on transferring to a graduate program. I talked about it with different professors, including Bob Thompson, a psychology professor here, who was so supportive. Without their support, I don’t think I would have been accepted to Columbia. Shoreline was very important in creating a smooth transition from Japan to my life in America. I’m going to miss the open-minded atmosphere in Seattle and Shoreline.”

36


Student profile

Tsuneo Yabusaki

37

Columbia University

Tsuneo Yabusaki in Shoreline’s greenhouse


The Seattle area

Introduction

38

A city with a view Sunset over the Olympic Mountains at Alki Beach


The Seattle area

Introduction

39

The Seattle area

When you come to Seattle, you can enjoy a little of everything. It is a city where opposites not only attract, but live in harmony. East meets West, fast meets slow, and urban meets outdoor. You can enjoy the buzz of the big city. Or you can take a trek in the wilderness. The important part is that it’s all here. And whatever your preference, Seattle has something to offer. Over the years, our international students have frequently told us they feel comfortable here. They tell us that Seattle is welcoming and diverse. They like the fact that it is a gateway to the Pacific Rim and Asia, as well as a starting point for the rest of the U.S. And that as a whole, Seattle is very livable, with just the right amount of city and country.


The Seattle area

Inside Seattle

40

* Shoreline Puget Sound

Greenwood

Greenlake

Inside Seattle Seattle has many diverse and interesting neighborhoods. Just a few are described below:

Ballard

Wallingford Fremont

Queen Anne

Downtown Seattle. A vibrant, busy city which includes top restaurants, shopping destinations, business and financial headquarters, a scenic waterfront, Pike Place Market, libraries, museums, parks, theaters, and clubs.

Capitol Hill

Belltown Downtown Elliot Bay

Pioneer Square International District

West Seattle

Lake Washington

Pioneer Square. This historic neighborhood, just south of downtown, is well known for its art galleries (including the “First Thursday Art Walks” where galleries and museums are open for free, and have special events), cafés, shops, and taverns, and for being just steps away from two of Seattle’s major sports venues: Seahawks Stadium and Safeco Field. International District. Have a craving for a specific food item that you can’t find in the local grocery stores? The International District is where many Asian students go to feel closer to home, whether they come from Japan, Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, or Vietnam.

Shoreline is minutes away from Seattle’s many great neighborhoods


The Seattle area

Outside Seattle

Greenlake. Just a ten-minute drive from Shoreline, Greenlake is one the city’s most popular destinations. Located in the heart of North Seattle, Greenlake is circled by a three-mile path on which people walk, run, bike, and skate. In addition to shops and cafés, Greenlake is also just two short miles from the University of Washington. Fremont. Fun and funky, the Fremont neighborhood always has something to offer. Located between Greenlake and downtown, people come to Fremont to enjoy many of the small, independently owned stores and a variety of foods (from Greek to Thai), to watch an outdoor film, or to take part in the carnival-like atmosphere of the annual Summer Solstice Parade. Outside Seattle Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. The U.S./ Canada border is just a three-hour drive from Shoreline. Many of our students enjoy taking trips to Vancouver as it is well known for its diverse, international culture,

41

active city and nightlife, and its location just a short drive from Whistler, where people enjoy world-class skiing. Mt. Rainier and the Cascade Mountains. Just a oneto two-hour drive from Shoreline are some of the country’s most beautiful forests and parks. Alpine lakes, thousands of miles of trails, waterfalls, camp grounds, farms, and rivers offer limitless outdoor pursuits. The Olympic National Forest. The Olympic mountain range, visible from anywhere in Seattle, is the doorway to the coast of Washington and the Pacific. The Olympic National Forest has numerous places to hike, climb, and camp, including one of the most pristine rain forests in North America.


The Seattle area

Café in historic Pioneer Square

It’s easy to get settled here

42


The Seattle area

It’s easy to get settled here

It’s easy to get settled here International students find it easy to get the right kind of housing. Shoreline does not have student dormitories; however, there are plenty of options, including homestays or renting apartments in nearby neighborhoods. Many of our students and their families tell us that these arrangements are preferable, providing students with a quieter, family-like setting with homestays, or if they choose an apartment, the ability to select their roommates and determine their length of stay. Live with an American family The most popular choice for beginning students is to live with an American family — people who are friendly, know the area, and can offer guidance.

If you are interested in living with an American family, we will connect you with a local homestay organization ® called ABODE Homestay . More information about ABODE, as well as its application, will be included in the acceptance package you receive from Shoreline.

43

Or you may contact the organization directly at: ABODE Homestay

20126 Ballinger Way NE #84 Shoreline, WA 98155 USA P: 206.527.8654 F: 206.524.7780 E: info@abodehomestay.com www.abodehomestay.com Live on your own, or with other students Some students prefer to live on their own, or with other students. Our International Programs office can help you with your housing needs in a variety of ways:

We maintain information on local apartment buildings and available shared housing situations. • We provide information to international students about what to expect when looking for housing, such as questions to ask and neighborhoods to consider. • We can provide you with detailed information about the average costs of housing in the Seattle/Shoreline area. •


Conclusion

A message from the director/Why Shoreline?

44

“ International students are an important part of the Shoreline community. We are a place that celebrates diversity and values global perspectives — both inside and outside the classroom. Shoreline is also a place where people have fun together and respect one another. I welcome your interest in Shoreline Community College and hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you personally to our beautiful campus in the near future.” Thalia R. Saplad, Executive Director of International Programs

You can go anywhere from here

Why Shoreline? Because choosing a college is one of the most important decisions you will make. And when you’re ready to make that decision and define your own path, there’s no better place to do it than Shoreline. You will learn — both in and out of the classroom. You will grow ­— both individually and with others. And you will discover — as you set and achieve your goals. And best of all, you will do it in a safe, welcoming place. Where you are given the kind of individual, personalized attention you need to be successful, here at Shoreline and wherever you may go in the future.


Applying to Shoreline

Applying to Shoreline Please refer to our application form for step-by-step guidance on applying to Shoreline Community College. Please note that the following will be required in the application process: Completed application form and $35.00 application fee. The original must be signed by you and mailed to us. (Optional: an additional fee of $35.00 for express mailing) School records. Proof of high school completion and academic transcripts. If you have not completed high school, please provide transcripts to date. Statement of financial support. The U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service requires that all international students demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to pay for their academic and living expenses for one year. Please see our application form for more details. Student visa. Once you have been accepted to Shoreline, you will be required to obtain a student visa from your local U.S. embassy or consulate. Shoreline Community College provides equal opportunity in education and employment and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, age, martial status, gender, sexual orientation or disability. Š 2006 Shoreline Community College. All rights reserved.


16101 Greenwood Avenue North Seattle, Washington 98133 USA P: 206.546.4697 F: 206.546.7854 E: isp@shoreline.edu www.international.shoreline.edu


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.