NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION GUIDE
Welcome Welcome to Volunteer State Community College and to the start of your outstanding academic experience. I am glad that you selected Vol State as your college destination and I take seriously our commitment to provide an opportunity for you to succeed. We call this orientation session Campus Connect because we want to make you aware of all the ways to “plug-in” at Vol State. There is an outstanding network to support your academic efforts and a multitude of opportunities to engage in campus life and activities. You will be in the classroom with excellent faculty who are dedicated to teaching. From our library to our computer labs to our classrooms, you will find spaces designed to enhance learning. I hope you will become involved in one of the more than 20 organizations and clubs or that you will participate in the Student Government Association or in intramural sports. I also want you to know that the entire campus is dedicated to your success. At Vol State every student matters. Any time you have a need, you can reach out to any member of our campus community and we will be happy to find assistance for you. I look forward to seeing you on campus this Fall. Please stop in the café for regularly scheduled Coffee with the Prez’ events. I would love to talk with you. Sincerely,
Jerry L. Faulkner
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CAMPUS CONNECT: New Student Orientation Guide
About the New Student Orientation Guide The New Student Orientation Guide is intended to provide you with helpful information and points of contact no matter what location you are attending. Offices and Locations in the new student orientation guide are specific to the Main Campus in Gallatin, Tennessee. Students attending Vol State at Livingston can contact Livingston at 931-8237065 or toll free at 1-800-563-8220. Students attending Vol State at Highland Crest in Springfield can contact Highland Crest at 615-433-7030 or toll-free at 1-855-724-8722. Volunteer State Community College serves a twelve-county region that includes Clay, Davidson, Jackson, Macon, Overton, Pickett, Putnam, Robertson, Smith, Sumner, Trousdale and Wilson counties. In addition to the Main Campus in Gallatin, the college teaches at several satellite campuses and degree granting centers.
CAMPUS CONNECT: New Student Orientation Guide 2
2015-2016 Academic Calendar Fall Semester 2015 August 13, 2015 Fee Payment Deadline August 17, 2015 Convocation (Campus closed) August 22, 2015 Pioneer Preview for new students August 24, 2015 Fall classes begin September 7, 2015 Holiday: Labor Day (Campus Closed) October 12-13, 2015 Fall Break (Classes do not meet, Offices are open) October 30, 2015 Last Day to Withdraw October 30, 2015 Priority Graduation Application Deadline: Spring 2016 October 30, 2015 Last day to withdraw: Full term courses November 9, 2015 Spring 2016 Priority Registration: Students with 30 credit hours or more November 10, 2015 Spring 2016 Priority Registration: Currently Enrolled Freshman November 23, 2015 Spring 2016 Registration: New & Readmit Students November 25-27, 2015 Thanksgiving Holiday (Offices Open on 25th, Campus Closed Nov. 26-27th) December 7, 2015 Full term classes end December 7-11, 2015 Exams: Full term classes December 24-30, 2015 Christmas Holiday (Campus Closed) Spring Semester 2016 January 1, 2016 New Year’s Holiday (Campus Closed) January 12, 2016 Professional Development Day (Campus Closed) January 18, 2016 Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday (Campus Closed) January 19, 2016 Spring classes begin February 1, 2016 Final Graduation Application Deadline: Spring 2016 February 15, 2016 Priority Graduation Application Deadline: Summer 2016 February 15, 2016 Diplomas Available for Pick Up: Fall 2015 Graduates March 7-12, 2016 Spring Break: Classes do not meet however, offices are open March 25, 2016 Good Friday Holiday (Campus Closed) March 28, 2016 Last Day to Withdraw April 4, 2016 Summer/Fall 2016 Priority Registration: Students with 30 credit hours or more April 5, 2016 Summer/Fall 2016 Priority Registration: Currently Enrolled Freshman
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April 15, 2016 Fall 2016 Scholarship application deadline April 18, 2016 Summer 2016 Registration: New & Readmit Students April 29, 2016 Priority Graduation Application Deadline: Fall 2016 April 29, 2016 Student Services Graduate Awards May 2, 2016 Full term classes end May 2-6, 2016 Final exams for full term courses May 6, 2016 Commencement Rehearsal May 7, 2016 Commencement June 1, 2016 Final Graduation Application Deadline: Summer 2016 June 15, 2016 Diplomas Available for Pick Up: Spring 2016 Graduates Maymester 2016 May 6, 2016 May 19, 2016 May 27, 2016 Summer Semester 2016 May 30, 2016 First Five Weeks May 31, 2016 June 22, 2016 July 1, 2016 July 4, 2016 Second Five Weeks July 5, 2016 July 28, 2016 August 8, 2016
Maymester classes begin Last day to withdraw (Maymester) Maymester courses end/final exams Memorial Day Holiday (Campus Closed) 1st 5 week Summer classes begin Last day to withdraw: Summer 1st 5 weeks 1st 5 week Summer classes end Independence Day Holiday (Campus Closed) 2nd 5 week Summer classes begin Last day to withdraw: 2nd 5 week Summer classes 2nd 5 week Summer classes end Full Term Summer Semester
May 31, 2016 10 Week Summer classes begin July 19, 2016 Last day to withdraw: 10 week Summer classes August 8, 2016 10 week Summer classes end September 15, 2016 Diploma pick up for Summer Graduates
CAMPUS CONNECT: New Student Orientation Guide
Academic Advising You will be assigned an academic advisor according to your program of study. Advising is a joint responsibility between the faculty and student. The advisor’s task is to guide the student toward accepting responsibility for mature academic decision making. An appointment with your advisor will be a time for you to discuss goals, schedule for upcoming semester, and opportunities available to you in your major. Academic Advisors do the following: • Assist students in planning an educational program consistent with their interest and abilities • Help you clarify career goals • Monitor the student’s academic progress • Clarify degree requirements • Assist with registration process • Provide information on course substitutions and transfer requirements • Provide an unofficial graduation audit and assist with the graduation application • Serve as a student advocate Academic Advising takes place before the beginning of priority registration each semester and throughout the official registration period. Currently enrolled students are strongly encouraged to speak with their advisor by appointment prior to priority registration. Academic Advising and Registration for new first-time freshmen at the college takes place during Campus Connect: New Student Orientation. New first-time freshmen are required to attend new student orientation for fall and spring semesters only. Students are encouraged to meet with their advisors on a regular basis to discuss interest, goals, educational plans, and special needs. Through communication and information exchange with their academic advisor, students engage in the decision-making process to realize their maximum educational potential. It is the students’ responsibility to: • Set personal and professional goals • Select a program of study • Fulfill program requirements • Complete necessary paperwork • Make their own decisions
CAMPUS CONNECT: New Student Orientation Guide
Academic Divisions Advising Center Mr. Terry Bubb Director of Advising and Testing Ramer Administration Building, Room 174 615-230-3702 Business and Technology Division Mrs. Patricia Anderson Dean of Business and Technology Mattox Building, 101-B 615-230-3301 Health Sciences Division Mr. Elvis Brandon Dean of Health and Science Division Wallace North, 102-O 615-230-3330 Humanities Division Dr. Alycia Ehlert Dean of Humanities Division Ramer Administration Building, Ramer 101 615-230-3200 Mathematics and Science Division Ms. Nancy Morris Dean of Mathematics and Science Division Warf Building, Room 100 615-230-3261 Social Science and Education Division Mrs. Phyllis Foley Dean of Social Science and Education Division Caudill Building, Room 222 615-230-3231
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The Advising Center
Hours of operation are 8:00am to 4:30pm Monday through Friday. Students may visit or phone (615) 230-3702. No appointment is necessary for the Advising Center. An evening Advisor/Counselor is available by appointment (615-230-3494) Monday through Thursday from 5:00pm to 7:00pm in Wood Campus Center, Room 217.
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Academic Advisors are assigned to all students enrolled at Volunteer State Community College. The Advising Center is available to serve the advising needs of the Non-Degree-Seeking and Undeclared student. Students with declared majors will be assigned to advisors in the academic divisions. The Advising Center is located in the Ramer Administration Building Suite 174.
CAMPUS CONNECT: New Student Orientation Guide
Degree Works: 24/7 Advising 1
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After logging in t you My Vol State account, select the “Academics” tab, then select “DegreeWorks.”
DegreeWorks automatically opens a degree audit for your current major. Pay attention to the Legend to know what courses you have completed, courses you still need to complete, and courses that are in progress.
CAMPUS CONNECT: New Student Orientation Guide
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24/7 Advising 3
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Click on individual courses for more information such as course descriptions, pre-requisites, and a snapshot of when the courses are being offered to plan your schedule. (You can also see if seats are still available!)
Thinking about changing your major? Use the “What If” function to view the same type of degree audit for every program that we offer. Select your “Catalog Year”, “Program” of choice, and “Concentration” (if concentration option is available), the choose “Process What-If”.
CAMPUS CONNECT: New Student Orientation Guide
Withdrawal Process There is a very short time frame with which students can drop/add classes online via their MyVolState portal once classes begin. Typically, it is the first three days of a semester but that is not always the case. Students wishing to withdraw after this deadline has passed should follow these instructions: Before dropping a class • Students should remember that sometimes merely speaking with the instructor might ease their minds and there may not be a need to drop it at all. • Students may be doing better academically than they think OR after conferring with the instructor they may mutually decide on some strategies that may help them improve their performance. • There are many student support services available. [Refer to College Success Section.] • Contact the Office of Retention Support Services at 615-230-3390.
It is extremely important for students who are receiving financial aid (grants, loans, lottery funds, scholarships, etc.) to notify the Financial Aid Office prior to dropping a class or withdrawing from the College.
Students who wish to drop a full-term class (while still remaining enrolled in at least one other class) must obtain a signature from their professor and complete a DROP/ADD/WITHDRAWAL FORM. After completion, this form should be taken to the Records Office. Students who wish to drop all of their classes, however, must speak with an Advisor/Counselor in the Advising Center. The student should pay close attention to the last day to withdraw and receive a “W” for a full-term semester class.
Fall 2015 Refund & Withdrawal Deadlines Part of Term 100% Refund 75% Refund 25% Refund
Last Day to Withdraw
Full Term
Aug 23
Sep 06
Sep 18
Oct 30
1st 5-Week
Aug 23
Aug 28
Sep 01
Sep 15
2nd 5-Week
Sep 28
Oct 03
Oct 07
Oct 21
3rd 5-Week
Nov 02
Nov 07
Nov 11
Nov 30
1st 7-Week
Aug 22
Aug 30
Sep 04
Sep 25
2nd 7-Week
Oct 14
Oct 21
Oct 27
Nov 19
10-Week
Aug 31
Sep 09
Sep 18
Oct 16
RODP (Full Term)
Aug 23
Sep 06
Sep 19
Oct 30
RODP 1st 7-Week
Aug 23
Aug 28
Sep 04
Sep 25
RODP 2nd 7-Week
Oct 18
Oct 22
Oct 31
Nov 19
CAMPUS CONNECT: New Student Orientation Guide
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File the FAFSA Every Year
Always remember to file as quickly as possible.
Step 1: Complete and sign the FAFSA: • Go to www.fafsa.gov – this is a FREE application, never pay to complete your FAFSA. Vol State’s Federal School Code is 009912. • Both the student and parent (if dependent) must sign the FAFSA. Get your PIN number to E-Sign the FAFSA at www.pin.ed.gov. • Remember, you will need to complete a new FAFSA each year. The FAFSA is available January 1st each year. The FAFSA will determine your aid eligibility for the fall, spring, and following summer terms. Step 2: Submit ALL Requested Paperwork to the Financial Aid Office: • You may be selected for the Verification process. This means that you may have to complete a few extra forms before any financial aid can be awarded to you. • If you are selected for verification, you will receive an email from the Financial Aid Office to your Vol State student email account. • If your tax information is requested, we recommend that you use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool through your FAFSA. (Go to www.fafsa.gov and click on “Make FAFSA Correction” then select IRS Data Retrieval). If you are not able to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool then you may submit a copy of your IRS Tax Return Transcript. You can obtain this by going to www.irs. gov. • Students must be fully admitted to the college before any financial aid will be processed. If you have questions about your Admissions, please contact the Admissions Office. Step 3: Review Your Offered Aid: • Check your Vol State email often. Here you will receive notice of any aid awards made to you. Step 4: Do you need to use a Student Loan? • If so, you will need to complete a Direct Loan Request Form which can be found on our website at www.volstate.edu – Financial Aid – Forms. – Once a loan request has been submitted you will be sent directions on completing any additional paperwork required for processing of your loan. – In order to use student loans you must be eligible for Federal Financial Aid and be registered for a minimum of six credit hours for each term you wish to use loan funds. Find out more about Vol State Financial Aid by visiting http://www.volstate. edu/FinancialAid/index.php.
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CAMPUS CONNECT: New Student Orientation Guide
Tennessee Promise at Vol State If you are receiving the Tennessee Promise while at Vol State please remember these important rules when registering for classes. • You must take at least 12 credit hours of classes each semester. • Tennessee Promise covers five consecutive semesters, if you maintain qualification. • You are required to maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 at the end of each academic year if enrolled in an associate’s degree program or maintain satisfactory academic progress. • Complete eight hours of community service each semester while participating in the program. Service shall be performed prior to the beginning of each academic semester, including the initial fall semester, in which the scholarship is received.
IS KEEPING THE
Community Service Reminders Any service performed by a student which benefits the community may be counted, except: • Community service performed prior to high school graduation • Work resulting in payment or remuneration of any kind • Work directly benefiting family members. How are funds distributed? Students will never directly receive cash from Tennessee Promise. Once all financial aid sources have been applied, scholarship funds covering the remaining costs of tuition and mandatory fees will be sent directly to institutions for students who have met all eligibility. Books and materials are not covered by Tennessee Promise. Tennessee Promise only covers remaining tuition and mandatory fees after Pell, TELS, and TSAA have been applied.
CAMPUS CONNECT: New Student Orientation Guide
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Business Office
Business Office Ramer 181 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday 615-230-3585
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Fees payable to the Business Office include registration fees, parking tickets and other fees. Acceptable methods of payment include cash, check, money order, American Express, Discover, Visa or MasterCard. Payment may be made in the Business Office during regular office hours. In addition, students may make a credit card payment by phone by contacting the Business Office. To make a credit card payment by phone, the student ID number (“V number�) is required. The Business Office cannot accept checks by phone. Please be aware that specific student account information can only be discussed with the student because of the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Deferred Payment Deferred payments may be made in the Business Office or online. If the deferred payment is paid in the Business office (at the cashier window, by mail or payment by phone), the student must complete a deferred payment contract and submit to the Business Office. The Deferred Payment contracts are available in the Business Office or on the link at the left of this web page. The contract requires the student signature. For deferred payments not completed online, the installment charge will not appear on the student account until 10 days prior to the due date. If you want to pay the installment early and the charge is not showing on the student account, please contact the Business Office at (615) 230-3585.
CAMPUS CONNECT: New Student Orientation Guide
COLLEGE SUCCESS
RESOURCES
Adult Learners and Evening Services OfficeContinued Wood Campus Center, Suite 217 This office is available to students during the academic term Monday through Thursday until 7:00 p.m. This office coordinates services for Adult Learners and students who attend classes in the evenings. The staff provides information, makes referrals and assists students in various levels related to achieving educational success. Students and prospective students can pick up or submit a variety of forms which include: applications, drop/add/withdrawal, transcript requests, change of major and some financial aid forms. In addition, transactions such as making deferred payments, getting parking decals and photo ID cards are also available through this office. The Office of Adult Learners and Evening Services also coordinates services with various outside state and federal agencies. These agencies sponsor students enrolled in VSCC by providing financial assistance for tuition costs, books, training materials and supplies. Students qualify for services based on income eligibility and employment barriers, such as being laid-off from a job or needing to improve job skills through retraining. The Office of Adult Learners and Evening Services functions as a resource center for students during this period of transition. The Coordinator, who serves as the primary contact, is located in the Wood Campus Center, room 114 and can be reached at 615-230-3449.
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College Success RESOURCES
College Success Zone
Tools to Help You Succeed in College The most important step in college success is getting the help you need before you get swamped. Talk to your class instructor, talk to your academic advisor or visit the Advising Center. Your Class Instructor Make sure you let your class instructor know if you are having problems. They should be your first stop for academic questions. Your Academic Advisor Your academic advisor can help with many things, including information about your program or major, class selection, registration and academic issues. The Advising Center Visit the Advising Center if you have not declared a major, are not sure about what career to pursue, or are experiencing some personal struggles that are impacting your academic success. Advising Center advisors can give you a fresh perspective on an academic problem and provide you with some tips that might help you improve your situation.
Location: Ramer Building 174 Phone: 615.230.3702
The Learning Commons The Learning Commons is home to many Co-Requisite Skills Classes and many other classes and labs. Math tutoring assistance is provided. You can also ask Learning Commons staff questions about these College Success Zone tools and other student support services.
Location: Thigpen Library, first floor Phone: 615.230.3676
Math Assistance Get extra help in most math courses in the Learning Commons. This includes individual tutoring, homework assistance, and some testing. See the Learning Commons front desk for course availability, tutor schedules, and hours of operation.
Location: Learning Commons, Thigpen Library
Language Center If you need extra assistance when it comes to writing or foreign languages, the Language Center is the place to go. Tutors are available to assist students with every aspect of writing, from homework assignments to class projects. The Center offers speech outline and preparation assistance. Computers are available with word processing programs. If foreign language is the issue, the Center has Rosetta Stone software.
Location: Ramer Building 157 volstate.edu/LanguageCenter
College Success RESOURCES
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Supplemental Instruction Supplemental Instruction (SI) provides students study support with a peer who has completed and earned a B+ or higher in the course. SI Leaders attend class sessions with the students and hold two 50 minute study sessions outside of class. SI is currently offered in courses such as anatomy and physiology, chemistry, history, Spanish and many others. Students who attend SI are more likely to complete the course successfully and earn up to a full letter grade improvement. Visit the SI web page to learn more about the courses served by SI, and the SI Leader contact information by course.
Location: Warf Building 122 volstate.edu/ SupplementalInstruction
Thigpen Library What can the Thigpen Library do for you? Don’t know where to start when researching a topic? The library staff offers personalized service and librarians can provide instruction on methods to search for books, eBooks, journal articles from databases, streaming videos, and other resources.
volstate.edu/library librarian@volstate.edu Phone: 615.230.3400 Normal Hours of Operation (Fall/Spring): Monday – Thursday: 7:30 a.m. – 8:50 p.m. Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Would you like access to technology? The IT department maintains a computer lab on the library’s first floor that is open in conjunction with the library. Use one of the many computers available in the lab, including printing and scanning. The library also has laptops available for check-out and use anywhere within the library. Do you need to access a specific textbook? There are a variety of textbooks on reserve for two hour use within the library. Just ask the staff at the circulation desk for assistance. Would you like a peaceful place to study? There is a silent study room on the second floor of the library and additional study space throughout the second floor. Do you need a meeting place for a group activity? There are study rooms on the second floor for group study and a practice-presentation room.
IT Help Desk The IT Help Desk can help anyone with problems that may occur with online registration, student login, etc. You will need your student V-number to get help. If you don’t know your V-number, please contact Records at 615-2303680. If you are having problems with your My Vol State password, visit My Vol State, and look for the “change or activate your password” link. You can change your password. You will need your V-number to do so. For more information and hours visit www.volstate.edu/IT and click on the Help Desk button. 3
Location: Learning Commons, Thigpen Library Phone: 615.230.3302
College Success RESOURCES
Computer Lab The Computer Lab has computers with Internet access and Microsoft Office software. They are open to all students.
Location: Thigpen Library, first floor
Vol State Wireless Vol State has a campus wireless Internet system. For help in configuring your laptop, tablet and phone for Vol State wireless, please visit or call the IT Help Desk. For more information visit www.volstate.edu/IT and click on the Student Wireless button.
Location: Learning Commons, Thigpen Library Phone: 615.230.3302
College Success RESOURCES
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Disability Services OfficeContinued Wood Campus Center, Suite 108 Volunteer State Community College, in an effort to assess its facilities, programs, activities and services, seeks to identify, prevent and/or remedy discriminatory barriers and practices related to the reasonable accommodation and equal access of qualified disabled students in College programs in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act/ Amendments Act of 1990 and 2010 (ADA/AA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Consistent application of the policy will ensure the institution’s compliance with state and federal laws. Volunteer State Community College prohibits discrimination against students with disabilities and encourages full participation in all college programs, physical facilities, activities, and events. The College seeks to provide reasonable accommodations, which may ensure that “no otherwise qualified student with disabilities� shall be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination in college programs and activities. The Office of Disability Services has the primary responsibility of implementing services for students with disabilities. To receive services students need to: 1. Self-identify/disclose with the Office of Disability Services. 2. Provide current documentation of a qualified disability. The Office of Disability Services promotes institutional integrity and academic standards in working with instructors, students and others. For further information and to register for services contact 615-230-3472 or visit online at www.volstate.edu/disability.
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College Success RESOURCES
Honor’s Program Dr. Merritt McKinney (615) 230-3236 Merritt.McKinney@volstate.edu The Honors Program offers high academic achievers opportunities to interact with other students who have similar academic standards, small classes to ensure individualized attention, faculty who are caring and supportive, a strong academic program, and an enhanced academic record. It also provides opportunities to enhance regular courses through specialized projects. In order to enter the program, a student must meet the following requirements. High school students must have either a) a 3.5 GPA, b) a composite score of 26 on the ACT, or c) two letters of recommendation from instructors. Enrolled Vol State students must have at least a 3.5 GPA or letters of recommendation from two faculty members. If a student is interested in doing Honors work, but does not meet the criteria, they may join the Honors Auxiliary. This program is designed for students who take courses by contract but are not officially in the Program. The Honors Auxiliary students will be invited to Honors meetings and be able to use the Honors room in the library. They will not be eligible for the Honors Scholarship until an appropriate grade threshold is achieved. Performance standards will be defined in the Honors contracts for these students.
College Success RESOURCES
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Veteran’s Affairs The Volunteer State Community College Veterans Affairs Office is here to assist our veterans, military or their dependents to begin your process as a student at our college.
Veteran’s Affairs Veterans.affairs@volstate.edu Phone: 615-230-3444 www.volstate.edu/veterans
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For assistance with any of the following steps please contact or make an appointment with Vol State’s Coordinator of Veterans Affairs
College Success RESOURCES
Student Life and Diversity Initiatives Student Life & Diversity Initiatives (SLDI) handles all selection and coordination of student activities which includes events, speakers, novelties, and diversity activities. Through involvement with the various clubs/ organizations on campus, SLDI offers leadership and other opportunities. Clubs/Organizations: 1. Student Government Association (SGA) 2. Association of Campus Events (ACE) 3. The Settler 4. African American student Union (AASU) 5. Spectrum 6. Volunteer State International Student Association (VISA) 7. Returning Student’s Organization (RSO) 8. Vol State Student Veterans of America (VSVVA) 9. Geocaching Club (Livingston Campus) 10. Vol State Cheerleaders 11. Collegiate Ministry 12. Delta Psi Omega 13. National Society of Leadership & Success (NSLS) 14. Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) 15. Psychology Club 16. Music Club 17. Service Learning Club 18. Artisan’s Alliance 19. Student Paralegal Association (SPA) 20. Team Change
Student Life and Diversity Initiatives Wood Campus Center, Room 215
Intramural Sports Voluntary participation of students at various levels of ability in structured seasonal sports which build a sense of community and provide a recreational outlet. Fall Semester 2015 • Co-Ed Flag Football • Co-Ed Soccer
College Success RESOURCES
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Campus Police
Campus Police Wood Campus Center, Room 105 Phone: 615-230-3595 Services Campus Escorts Vehicle/Motorist Assistance Lost and Found [Not all items are accepted] Assistance Call Boxes
At Vol State Main Campus in Gallatin, Campus Police officers are on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and are available to provide assistance. If you have an emergency, please call 3-911 from an on-campus telephone or (615) 230-3595. Off campus site officers are available during campus operating hours. If you have an emergency, please call - Highland Crest Campus – extension 7041 from an on-campus telephone, or (615) 433-7041; and Livingston Campus – extension 5216 from an on-campus telephone, or (931) 462-5216.
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The Vol State Campus Police Department has the overall responsibility for security and safety on the Volunteer State Community College campuses. The Vol State Campus Police Department enforces an alcohol and drug free campus. The department consists of full-time and part-time patrol personnel which includes sworn and non-sworn officers. The department also employs a full-time office supervisor and full-time dispatcher. All full-time Vol State Campus Police Officers meet the standards of the Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission (POST), and have received at least 320 hours of formal training at a Tennessee Police Academy. All calls directly to 911 made from cell phones or landlines are answered by the Sumner County Sheriff’s Department dispatch unit if the call is made within the Sumner County area; by Overton County 911 Center, if called in the Overton County/Livingston area; and by Robertson County 911, if called in the Robertson County/Springfield area. Students are required to have a parking decal properly displayed on their vehicle when on campus. Students who need to utilize a temporary tag [ex. driving someone else’s car, etc.] can obtain a temporary tag through the Campus Police Department. Emergency Notification In accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, the Vol State Campus Police Department is responsible for issuing timely warnings. These warnings are provided to keep the campus community informed about safety and security matters on an ongoing basis and in an effort to prevent similar crimes from occurring. Notification will be made using one or more of the following: Text Message Alerts Campus Wide Emails Overhead Public Announcement System Facebook Twitter
College Success RESOURCES
Frequently Asked Questions Below are some frequently asked questions so, if you don’t see your question answered, please feel free to contact the Office of Retention Support Services at 615-230-3390 or email us at college.success@volstate.edu. What is MyVol State? The My VolState portal provides access to several different web-based systems with a single log in. The portal also includes targeted “channels” designed to streamline common tasks such as: • Checking your Vol State student email account • Registering for classes---PRIDE online [Your registration account] • Logging in to your online classes--- eLearn • Checking grades--- PRIDE online • Looking at your degree audit and finding your Academic Advisor--Degree Works. • Paying your bill For more information, go to MyVolState. What is my Username? Your username is the logon ID used to check email and log in to the portal. Each student has a unique username that is a combination of the first letter of their first name and all or a portion of their last name. Some usernames also contain a number depending on the number of students who have the same combination of first letter and last name. [ex. mvolstate1@volstate.edu] Your username is assigned to you by the Office of Admissions. You received this information in your Welcome Letter from the college. What is my V#? Your V# is the primary identifier assigned to you by the college. These ninedigit numbers that begin with “V00” are used by the college in lieu of Social Security Numbers (SSNs). You received this information in your Welcome Letter from the college. If you do not have a V#, please contact our Records Office at 615-230-3466. The college’s primary communication with you is through your Vol State Student email account. You should check your student email account daily. Your email account name is in the form “mvolstate1@volstate.edu” where “m” is your first initial of your first name, followed by your entire last name, and potentially a unique number to differentiate your account from others that may have the same last name. You cannot change your email address unless it is done through the Records Office.
College Success RESOURCES
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If you have problems with your email account, you should contact the IT Help Desk at (615) 230-3302. When will I meet with an Academic Advisor again? All students should contact their Academic Divisions to make an appointment with their assigned academic advisors. Students can also find their assigned academic advisors through Degree Works. If you have your Academic Advisor’s information we encourage you to email your advisor and phone your advisor requesting to schedule an appointment. If you are unsure of whom your Academic Advisor might be or have received an “Out-of-Office” response, please contact the Academic Division that houses your major or you may contact the Advising and Testing Office at 615-2303702. For more information about Advising and Testing Office hours, please visit www.volstate.edu/advising. What exactly is a credit hour? Great question! This is the amount of time you spend in one class for a semester. Example: English 1010 is a 3 credit hour course. You will be in English 1010 for three hours a week for the entire semester. My schedule says “TR”. What does this mean? This means that you have enrolled in Tuesday/Thursday class(es). Can I change my schedule? Class schedules cannot be adjusted past the add/drop deadline once a semester begins. This period is typically three days after the semester begins. You should pay close attention to deadlines within the semester. These deadlines are typically announced via email, posted on the monitors in each building, announced in classrooms, published on the website and in the college catalog. My schedule says I am taking a class in Livingston, but the rest of my classes are on the Main Campus in Gallatin. Red FLAG! Our Livingston Campus is about 2 ½ hours away from the Main Campus in Gallatin. Likewise, Highland Crest is our Springfield Campus, which is located about 45 minutes away from the Main Campus. The class schedule should be fixed. For assistance with this, you may wish to visit the Advising and Testing Office in the Ramer Building.
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Do I need a computer? The college has computer labs available for students to utilize if they do not have a computer of their own. Students should always plan accordingly and prioritize their assignments. Some classes utilize computers more than others so students should be aware of this. Technology use is a necessity and an expectation. Are there extracurricular activities that I can get involved with? We encourage student involvement. Students who become involved are more likely to be more successful and perform better academically. Students should also be building their “academic resume” as soon as they start their higher education career. What sets you apart from every other student with the same GPA and major? Employers and four year intuitions are looking to see how “well rounded” your student is when applying for jobs and/or scholarship opportunities. Do I have to be full-time in order to receive Financial Aid? If you are unsure about your Financial Aid requirements, please contact the Office of Financial Aid. You may also visit the Office of Financial Aid website for the most up-to-date information and Quick Reference guides. How many classes should I take? This question is tough to answer. Many of our students have outside commitments and priorities that must come first. Typically what we advise students to do is prioritize their needs and wants. Example: If you work a full time job to pay bills, support a family, etc. then we strongly encourage you to go part-time. Take a couple of classes just to get accustomed to college. Students whose number one priority can be school, without other outside commitments, are usually encouraged to take a minimum of 12 credit hours (about 4 classes) in a semester. Students should also talk with Financial Aid about their course loads and how that may impact their financial aid. This includes TN Promise and Lottery Students. I have a job and have to work. Is this okay? Many of our students are in this same group. Taking a full course load is NEVER a good idea with other pressing commitments. Initially, if you can attend classes part-time, you should probably do so to see what your time management strategies should be as a full-time student.
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Students should also talk with Financial Aid about their course loads and how that may impact their financial aid. This includes TN Promise and Lottery Students. Can my parents or support persons have access to my account information? Yes, but you must provide that information to them. By law, most academic information cannot be released to anyone but the student. The college is restricted by a federal law known as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA). We can and will give information on general policies and practices that are not directly related to your student account and academic records. Will I get my grades in the mail? Grades are not mailed. Students receive grades at the end of the semester via their Vol State Portal. Students should regularly log in and check their Vol State student account and email. Will I receive progress reports throughout the semester? The college has an Early Alert system. This system is designed for Faculty and Staff to “alert� the Office of Retention Support Services and College Success to any students who may not be on a successful path to complete the course. Students are responsible for being aware of how they stand in their classes. We encourage students to meet with their instructors and thoroughly understand the course syllabus. ALERTS are sent to students through their Vol State student email accounts. Students will also receive phone calls and text messages from the college. My insurance company needs proof to show that I am enrolled at the college. You can visit the Office of Records and Registration and request that an Enrollment Verification be submitted to your insurance company. Do I have to have a Student Id card? Yes. The Office of Student Life is responsible for the production and administration of your Vol State Student Identification card. Vol State Student Identification cards are only made for a student once the student can show that fees have been paid or that the student is receiving Financial Aid. To receive your Vol State Student Identification card, please have the following:
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Photo Identification: This would be government issued in the form of a driver’s license or passport. Fee statement showing classes paid or receipt of Financial Aid.
For more information, please contact the Office of Student Life at 615-2303343. Do I have to have a parking decal? Yes. Parking decals can be picked up in the Office of Student Life and Diversity Initiatives, Evening Services and temporary tags can be obtained with Campus Police. All Volunteer State Community College students, employees, and foundation trustees must display a VSCC parking decal. Volunteer State Community College distributes two types of parking decals: • Exterior decals adhere to the outside of the vehicle’s driver-side back window in the lower corner. • Interior Decals are pressure sensitive and utilize static cling to stick on the inside of the vehicle’s driver-side back window in the lower corner. Vehicles with tinted glass are not allowed to use interior decals. Jeeps and convertibles may display either an exterior or interior parking decal on the driver-side lower corner of the front windshield. Motorcycle operators are not required to obtain or display a parking decal. A VSCC parking decal is valid from August 31 to August 31 each year. A “guest parking” permit is properly displayed when it is face up on the dashboard of the parked car. Guest permits may be obtained from the Campus Police Office. It is the responsibility of the student or employee to notify Campus Police if a vehicle will be left in a campus parking lot overnight. It is the responsibility of the student or employee to notify Campus Police when using a rental car without a parking decal. Those individuals may obtain a day pass from the Campus Police Office. A lost or stolen decal must be reported immediately to Campus Police.
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I don’t like my major and I want to change it. What do I do? Our Office of Admissions will change your major one of two ways---going to their office and filling out the Major Change Form or emailing them at admissions@volstate.edu from your Vol State Student Email account with your new major and student V#. I’m getting a refund back from my Financial Aid. Can’t I just have this money applied to the bookstore so I can purchase my books before class? Eligible students who meet the criteria with the Financial Aid Office will receive an email that is sent to their Vol State student email accounts with information on the specific dates and times to charge your textbooks at our bookstore. Typically this is 7 to 10 days before the first day of class but all students who are eligible will receive an email with instructions. When should I get my textbooks if I have to buy them myself? Textbooks should be purchased within the first few days of class. Students should NOT wait to buy textbooks or expect the professor to have extra copies. How do I find out what books to purchase for my classes? Students can go to the Vol State Bookstore’s website and search for their books by class schedule. Students can print off their class schedule and take it to the Vol State Bookstore for assistance. Where should I buy my textbooks? This is entirely up to you. Some students purchase their books from a retailer on the Internet and some students will rent their textbooks through the Vol State Bookstore instead of buying them. Whatever you decide to do, just make sure that you get the right edition of the book and thoroughly investigate the “return policy.” Word of caution---Keep your receipts and DO NOT BREAK the sealed wrapping until you absolutely know you need the book. How do I change a class on my schedule? If you wish to change your class schedule, the best thing to do is talk with an advisor in the Advising and Testing Office or your Academic Advisor. You want to make sure that you cover every possible situation before you adjust your 15
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schedule. Sometimes, changing your class schedule can be harmful---staying on track to graduate, adjusting your financial aid status, etc. If you know that changing your class schedule will not be harmful, you may add and drop classes throughout the listed add/drop deadline. After a certain time frame, students are no longer permitted to add or drop classes online and must have special permission. When do I have to pay my tuition and fees? Students should check their Vol State student email accounts for information regarding their fee payment deadlines. Students can also obtain this information by checking Vol State’s website, the Business Office website, and posted bulletins throughout the campus. Failure to pay fees within the noted deadline can cause class schedules to be “purged” or deleted. My classes got dropped for non-payment. What do I do? If your classes were dropped due to non-payment of tuition and/or fees, you will need to re-register for classes. It is highly unlikely that you will be able to obtain your previous class schedule. Students who are purged from classes and re-register must pay the same day they register or they will be removed from classes again. When will I get my Financial Aid refund? You need to check your Vol State Student email account for this information. You will receive very specific instructions about refund deadlines, etc. You can also check the Office of Financial Aid’s website for information and/or the Business Office. Do you offer meal plans? No. We do have the Vol State Grill that offers a wide variety and selection of food and beverage. Students also hang out in the Cyber Café adjacent to the Vol State Grill. Do you have residence halls? No. We do not have housing available on our campus.
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Schedule Planner: Scheduling Made Easy
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Online Learning: eLearn Essentials What You Need to Know How do I log in? What do online courses consist of? - eLearn.volstate.edu All online courses will have: - Use your MyVolState Portal login - Course Content (what you’ll be studying, what to read, information video lectures, links, etc.) - Discussion Boards (a way to interact within your class How do I change my password? and talk about various topics) - Use the Portal Login Page to - Dropboxes (where you’ll turn in assignments) Activate/Change your Password - Quizzes (Mid-Terms and Finals may also appear here) - Grades Check out the Online Student Readiness course Now! Visit http://elearn.volstate.edu Username: VSGuest Password: Guest123 Click on the course and get started!
How do I check my email within a class? - You have two ways to email: a Student Gmail account and an internal eLearn Course Mail (We know, it can get confusing!) - Check your Gmail through the MyVolState Portal
Dropbox? Assignments? How do I do that? You’ll get an assignment from your instructor (let’s say an essay). You will need to write the essay using a word processor like Word, OpenOffice, or Google Docs. Save your essay as a “.doc” or “.docx” file type. Go to the dropbox in your course, upload it, and submit! You MUST click Submit once you upload the file, or else it’s not actually IN the Dropbox!
Check your eLearn Course Mail by clicking Course Mail on the eLearn homepage or the Message Notifications in the minibar. 19
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Quizzes? Do I need something special for them? Not always! But some courses use Respondus Lockdown Browser. You’ll find the link to download Respondus Lockdown Browser when you go to take a quiz that needs it. You’ll need to install Respondus Lockdown Browser, and then open it. It will bring you to the eLearn login page, and once you go back to the quiz, you’ll be able to start it!
But what if something doesn’t work? Never fear! We’re just a couple clicks away! - Phone: (615)230-3665 - eMail: eLearn@volstate.edu Please include your name, V#, Phone Number and email, and as detailed a description as possible of what’s going on, and we will get back to you as soon as we can! And if I just need to talk about how to do something? Feel free to email/call us and set up an appointment to stop by! We’ll walk you through anything you need help with!
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Notes
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15723-403 Volunteer State Community College, a Tennessee Board of Regents institution, is an AA/EEO employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status in its programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: Director of Human Resources, Affirmative Action Officer, Title IX Coordinator, 1480 Nashville Pike, Gallatin, TN 37066, 615-230-3592.