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Most colleges accept SAT and ACT assessments. Community colleges and technical schools may require a different standardized test, such as the ASSET test. Check with Text by MELODY PARKER each college you are considering to Illustrations by DAVID HEMENWAY determine which test is preferred. The ACT, the other college entrance test, based in Iowa City Someone with a bachelor’s colleges, schools with specific study and popular in the Midwest, is accepted by nearly all the same degree will earn 60 percent disciplines such as business. colleges and has one advantage more than a person with a high Some colleges are “open for nervous test-takers. If you don’t school diploma. admissions,” accepting students like your score on an ACT test, you What’s that mean? The gap on a first-come, first-serve basis. don’t have to show it to colleges. between a college graduate Other colleges are very selective The SAT rule is that if you send any with a bachelor’s degree and and admit only a small number of a high school graduate in applicants each year. Most colleges score to a college, you have to send them all. Most colleges promise to earning potentials is more than are in between. classroom generally translates into count only your best scores, but $800,000, according to a 2007 Let your fingers do the walking a higher percentage of grants and that rule makes some students College Board study. — use your computer to surf the merit scholarships and a lower uncomfortable. So, yeah, higher education is Web. percentage of loans. worth it. Take virtual tours and view videos Take SAT and ACT review courses: Whether you wanted to be an about campus life at potential Still bothered by those Raising standardized test scores astronaut or a ballerina when colleges and universities. Cruise the save families thousands of you grew up, education can U.S. News & World Report Web site, tests? Apply to a college can dollars by increasing the size make it happen — or at least www.usnews.com, and check out that doesn’t require them. of financial aid packages. If no give you a much better shot at their Student Center and College courses are offered in your area, realizing your career goals. Click TV links. The National Center for at least purchase one of the test In the past 20 years, higherpreparation books to bone up education options have Fair and Open Testing What a college wants before the exams. exploded. Satellite locations, The College Board says the high Take advanced placement (FairTest) has a list of remote classrooms, webschool record gets the most emphasis: classes. ucation and online options √ Courses taken √ Counselor/ hundreds of colleges and are the norm in today’s higher teacher recommendations universities where the Jump off and do learning landscape. √ Ethnicity √ Grades √ Application And if college isn’t the right questions and essays √ Geographic normal SAT or ACT is optional. something choice for you, there are location √ Grade point average High school students who technical and professional √ Personal interview √ Alumni feel every vacation must be You may also want to consider schools that can train you for relationship √ Rank in class academically significant should try specific careers. √ Activities outside the classroom √ taking the Preliminary ACT and an ordinary job instead, and maybe the Preliminary SAT/National Merit even have fun. A summer job might Nontraditional students Major/college applied to Scholarship Qualifying Test as — adults returning to college √ Admission test results √ Special even help some applications. practice for the actual assessment. talents and skills √ Extracurricular after an absence, attending Practice tests will give you a chance Don’t be a show-off activities for the first time or working to see where your academic weak While extracurricular activities fulltime while carrying college You need only two good spots are so you can focus on those extracurricular activities. Colleges courses — also are at home on can look good on a application, want to see you follow your dreams college campuses or in Internet schools mainly look at them to see areas. If you are unhappy with your and your passions, not show off if a student has shown a longclassrooms. score or feel you can do better, you how many clubs you joined. Pick term commitment to one or two may retake the test. Try to take the two things you really like, and give activities. Who gets in test for the first time by the spring them the time they deserve. The number of college of your junior year so you will have Don’t freak out over tests applicants is rising, according Entrance exams affect admission time to retake it if necessary. Check Have fun with your essay to college experts, and getting with your high school counselor or A little humor, particularly if it is into the college of your choice is and financial aid. self-deprecating, often works. Don’t admissions counselor before you Most colleges will require some more competitive than ever. overdo it, and keep it light. type of entrance exam, which may retake the test. Students and parents are encouraged to consider a range be a factor used in the admission Nothing is perfect of options, including community and/or financial aid process. Getting the edge Look for a place that fits you, Determine which test to take. colleges, small public or private High performance in the
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and remember that many colleges can meet your needs. There is no perfect college for any given field or student. Look for options. Remember: It is your character, not the name of your college, that is likely to bring success.
It’s a no-brainer
Getting into a selective school is a game of chance. It has little to do with your brains or talents. Selective college admissions officers admit that they reject or wait-list many students who are just as good as the ones they accept. If the school is short on engineering majors or Idaho residents or piccolo players, applicants with those characteristics will be accepted. The rest will have to go elsewhere.
Don’t fret about picking the wrong school
If you find it doesn’t suit you, you can always transfer.
Treat campus visits like trips to a theme park
Enjoy the scenery, listen to the guide and have lunch at the student union. After you know which schools have accepted you, you can make a more careful appraisal.
Be cool
Don’t risk a potential college scholarship by misbehaving in school or getting involved with drugs or alcohol. Colleges will steer clear of someone who could cause negative publicity.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2009
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College visits made simple
Ease college money worries; get prepared with helpful tips
Preparing for college visits are a major time commitment and expense. Don’t waste either resource. You don’t need to visit every college on your list to develop a clear sense of what fits. Make the most out of it.
Tuition doesn’t have to cause unwanted anxiety
1. Pick a reasonable number. See contrasting types, some larger, smaller, urban, rural and so on, to develop perspective.
For parents facing next year’s college tuition, tomorrow is already here, and it will soon be upon those with kids in high school. These last-minute moves can ease tuition stress and potentially save thousands of dollars.
2. Before each visit, review a college’s viewbook and Web site.
Consider the real costs
3. Make a list of questions to ask of your tour guide. Don’t be afraid to talk to students on campus. 4. See schools farther from home first if you will not be able to later in the year, or start close to home and see a select group of schools farther away during senior fall. 5. Develop a timetable to be prompt for tours or appointments. Study road maps, plane schedules; get directions from the college (these are often in the back of viewbooks, or on the Web site). 6. Talk to faculty, coaches and students involved in the activities that interest you. Many students visit campuses during the summer, because this is when they can get an interview and get away from school, sports or other responsibilities. If you visit in the summer and are very interested in the college, return during the fall to see the campus when students are there.
Ask-worthy questions ■ How long, on average, does it take students to graduate? Is it difficult to get the classes required for graduation? ■ What is the student/faculty ratio? Does the faculty include teaching assistants or do professors teach the majority of classes? ■ What is the placement rate? Do most students who graduate obtain a job in their field? Do they get admitted to grad school? Do employers do on- campus job recruiting? ■ What housing options are available? ■ Are there student employment opportunities either on or off campus? ■ Do I need a car? – Is there parking available, and if so, is there a charge to park? ■ Is there Internet and Wi-Fi service on campus? Does the college provide computers? ■ What types of meal plans are available? Is there a variety of food? If I have special dietary needs, can they be accommodated? What types of options are available besides the dining hall?
Grant aid from federal and state governments, institutional funds and private sources lowers the net price for a majority of college students, while benefits from federal education tax credits and deductions can reduce the costs students and their families incur. But many families may find that they earn too much to qualify for need-based financial aid, which is by far the most common source of all student aid. Need-based aid is most likely to be granted at a public university.
Apply to schools that really want your child
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Paying for College Parents: Be frank about what you can afford to pay toward your teenager’s college education. Discuss options for paying for college: you’ll pay, you’ll pay a portion and they’ll pay the rest; they’ll get a job and save their portion; what can be expected from financial aid sources, etc. What are your expectations of the student, anything from grade point expectations to graduate school? Get over the guilt if you can’t afford the full ride. Teenagers may value more what they have to pay for.
Families who are unlikely to qualify for need-based aid can still lower their bills through merit aid based on academic accomplishment. While top-tier elite private schools typically don’t hand out such aid, many wellknown colleges a notch or two down on the prestige ladder do. Schools that grant merit scholarships often outline qualifications and other details on their Web sites, and U.S. News & World Report (usnews.com) has a list of schools with the highest percentage of students receiving nonneed based aid. contribute something to their grandchildren’s educational expenses.
Look close to home
Most families know it costs less to attend a state Shop around for the best rates on student loans school than a private one, but a comparison of the costs If a school uses preferred lenders, ask the financial aid really drives the message home. office why those lenders are being used and if the school If your child is concerned about bumping into old high receives any benefit from using them. school faces at State U but high private school price tags Compare the deals offered by the school’s preferred are out of the question, investigate regional programs lender list against lenders with competitive rates. that offer attractive tuition discounts to students from Don’t sacrifice your retirement nearby states. Parents in their 40s with children going to college and Ask who can pitch in decades of working years still ahead of them are probProjected costs also come down if kids pitch in with ably better able to shoulder more expenses and borrow earnings from employment or loans. Getting children more than parents in their 50s or 60s who are nearing to foot some of the bill is a good idea even if money is retirement and have limited time to recover from colnot an issue, says Carpenter. At the other end of the age lege costs. Kids can borrow for school, but parents shouldn’t spectrum, grandparents are sometimes willing to step in. According to the AARP, 52 percent of grandparents borrow for retirement.
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By AMIE STEFFEN amie.steffen@wcfcourier.com
Social networking changing the face of reaching students
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t’s hard to get a hold of a college student. With spam blockers on their e-mail and caller ID on their cell phones, high school students and alumni are not likely to answer a college recruiter’s letter or call. And a flyer in the mail might never get into their hands at all. But no matter where a young person goes or what they’re doing, these days you can always find them on Facebook. And colleges are figuring that out. “To e-mail them isn’t to instantly get a response,” said Gail Zehr, recruiting coordinator at Hawkeye Community College in Waterloo. “Facebook gets an instant response.” Though social networking of several forms is available and utilized today, including MySpace, Twitter and LinkedIn, no other site boasts the membership, variety and current staying power of Facebook. Originally designed as a way for college students to keep in touch, Facebook opened membership to anyone. That includes high school students, a group area colleges are looking to attract. “In fact, this fall we have our first student who said the primary reason he’s here is because of a Facebook ad he saw,” said Todd Coleman, assistant vice president for admissions and alumni/parent programs at Wartburg College in Waverly. “It allows us to reach out to a global audience that we normally wouldn’t meet.”
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Current students and alumni also are more likely to “become a fan” of a college on the site simply because it’s as easy as clicking a button. That opens up a new audience that wants to get updates, participate in discussions and maybe become more involved in programming. But it also opens the door to negative comments from users. Moderators for those pages have the option to delete posts, but that should be done sparingly, said DeWayne Purdy, director of electronic communication in the office of university marketing and public relations at the University of Northern Iowa. “People aren’t used to that approach. They want us to control the message,” Purdy said. “But that’s the way it is. That’s reality, and you’ve got to respect that, and unless they’re being abusive or profane, you shouldn’t remove that post because that could cause problems down the road.” Overall, colleges aren’t shoving their message down students’ throats. Dave Ball, director of admissions and student life at Hawkeye, said social networking conferences he’s attended say if students feel like Facebook isn’t fun anymore or feels too much like work, they’ll move on to another platform and abandon all contact with the previous one. It’s not as if colleges themselves would abandon Facebook, just like they won’t abandon calling, e-mailing or sending flyers in the mail. But they know to reach students, they have to be where students are — and that’s online, checking their Facebook. “Who would have thought 10 to 12 out of 20 students in the computer lab (nowadays) would be on Facebook?” Ball said.
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Video lectures as learning tool sparks debate HACKENSACK, N.J. — Missed class? Catch the rerun. A number of colleges and universities have begun offering on-demand video of classes, and the use of this technology is expected to grow over the next few years. Video cameras capture classes, and an electronic tablet substitutes for the blackboard. Students can watch the class on their computers or listen to the audio on their iPods. Fans say the practice is another learning tool, but others are wary. They fear that attendance and the kind of learning that takes place in real time will suffer.
“It is an unsatisfactory replacement for face-to-face interaction,” said James Zimmerman, associate director of the Research Academy for University Learning at Montclair State University. “The object is not just to talk at your class,” he said. “Any way that you can get feedback during class will maximize learning. ... You can’t do that in the recorded medium,” Zimmerman said. But others are excited about the technology. Bergen County, (N.J.) Community College began using it in two classes this year and hopes to double that number next year, said Ed Pittarelli, director of technologies on the Paramus, N.J., campus. School officials also are thinking about using it for student orientation, he said. Pittarelli said it costs about $5,000 to outfit a classroom with the technology. The videos are an enhancement to the live classes, he said. The tool is especially helpful where there is a wide range of students and many of them are juggling work and home responsibilities. Pittarelli said the technology suits today’s students. “Today the kids are so tech-savvy. Instead of watching You Tube, they can watch a chemistry class.”
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Complete FAFSA for college financial aid FAFSA may also be used to apply for aid from other sources, such as your state or school.
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ollege financial aid encompasses four forms of assistance. scholarships, grants, work-study and loans. Students become eligible for aid from federal and state agencies and from colleges by filing the U.S. Department of Education’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The form is available at no cost at www. fafsa. ed.gov or by calling (800) 4 3 3 -3 24 3. Students may file the form without professional assistance. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is the federal application for financial aid. The form needs to be filled out soon after Jan. 1 of your senior year of high school and before your college’s financial aid priority deadline. Deadlines for your state or schools may be different from
the federal deadlines and you may be required to complete additional forms. Ask your school about their definition of an application deadline, whether it is the receipt date and time or the process date and time of the application. FAFSA needs to be filled out (by you and your parents) every year you want to be considered for financial aid. The information on this form is used to decide how much financial aid you qualify for from the federal government, the state and colleges. Check with your high school guidance counselor or a financial aid administrator at your school about state and school sources of student aid. Note: State forms do not replace filling out the FAFSA. You must fill out the FAFSA to receive federal student aid.
The form needs to be filled out soon after Jan. 1 of your senior year of high school and before your college’s financial aid priority deadline.
It’s all about oranges and apples
at Wartburg College More than 90 percent of Wartburg College graduates get their degrees in four years. They spend fewer years in college, start careers and earn money earlier. More than 90 percent of Wartburg students receive financial aid. 91 percent of Wartburg students who apply to medical school are accepted — nearly double the national average.* *Association of American Medical Colleges, 2005-07
Wartburg won three NCAA Division III team titles in 2008-09. A third of Wartburg students participate in intercollegiate athletics. Nearly a quarter of Wartburg students are involved in critically acclaimed music groups that tour nationally and internationally. More than 40 percent of Wartburg graduates studied abroad.
Visit us at www.wartburg.edu/admissions. Schedule a personalized tour by calling 1-800-772-2085 or request a visit online. Leadership | Service | Faith | Learning
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Ten reasons why it’s great to be a Hawkeye Iowa City offers opportunities of a major research industry. 1. OPTIONS: OPTIONS: With more than 100 areas of study in 11 colleges you can tailor your education to your interests and get an education that will help you stand out in the job market or at graduate school. 2. VALUE VALUE:: Iowa is a Fiske Guide to the Colleges 2010 “best buy” — the only one in the Big Ten — and our four-year graduation plan can help you start your career sooner while keeping costs down. 3. OPPORTUNITIES: OPPORTUNITIES: Iowa undergraduates conduct groundbreaking research with faculty members, engage in creative work, study abroad in more than 50 countries each year and find competitive internships nationwide. 4. DIVERSITY DIVERSITY:: Students come from every state and more than 100 countries to a campus that embraces differences in cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs. This diverse mix enriches the Iowa experience. 5. SIZE SIZE:: As the smallest Big Ten public university (about
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20,000 undergraduates and 30,000 students total), Iowa offers a comfortable learning environment. About 80 percent of classes have fewer than 30 students, and 92 percent have fewer than 50 students. 6. CAREER SUPPORT: SUPPORT: Iowa students get career guidance beginning their first year. Whether you want to be an entrepreneur or an entertainer—or you’re exploring all your options—advisors can help you research careers, assess your skills and practice interviewing. Job placement and graduate school acceptance rates within a year of graduation range from 91 to 100 percent. 7. TOP PROGRAMS: PROGRAMS: Recognized as the 29th best public university in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, The University of Iowa is home to top-ranked programs in the sciences and humanities, one of the nation’s best academic medical centers and the esteemed Iowa Writers’ Workshop. 8. VIBRANT STUDENT LIFE: LIFE: Iowa offers the excitement and school spirit of a Big Ten university, plus countless opportunities to get involved. You can choose from nearly 500 student groups, cheer on the Hawkeyes at one of more than 170 home games each year, join dozens of intramural or club sports or enjoy a thriving arts scene. 9. PERSONAL CONNECTIONS: CONNECTIONS: Living-learning communities, the University of Iowa Honors Program and an assortment of student organizations will connect you to smaller communities of people who share your interests. 10. LOCATION: LOCATION: Iowa City has been called one of the best
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places to live in the country by Outside and National Geographic Adventure magazines. Casual yet cosmopolitan, it’s known for recreational opportunities, shopping, restaurants and entertainment. Visiting campus is the best way to find out if Iowa is right for you. Call (800) 553-4692 or go to www. uiowa.edu/admissions to plan your visit.
EXCEL Hawkeyes push themselves— in the classroom and beyond. Iowa offers a unique chance for them to be their best. Top teachers from more than 100 fields of study One-on-one academic and career planning support Personalized research, creative, and internship experience A great university education at a great value 800-553-4692 www.uiowa.edu/admissions
It’s Great to be a Hawkeye!
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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2009
Find the right ďŹ t at UNI Cedar Falls university offers 120 majors, excellent faculty-to-student ratios and a winning Division I Panther Athletics program, among other things.
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rowing up in Waterloo, Dante Means often encountered the University of Northern Iowa, even when he wasn’t on campus. And even though UNI was always in his backyard, Means discovered there was more to it after he enrolled.
“The staff and faculty I’ve met and worked with have a true desire and passion for what they do, and they enjoy working with students,� Means said. “And I’ve been surprised by how many resources are available for minority students. I’m currently involved in enriching minority student life and work with students, faculty and administrators to accomplish this goal.� UNI was founded more than 130 years ago. It maintains a strong tradition of sending preK through 12 educational leaders to classrooms all over the world, but UNI students can now choose from 120 majors. From its academic programs and facilities to the size of the school, students say that UNI is
“just right.â€? UNI students can expect an excellent facultyto-student ratio, exceptional graduation rates, a winning Division I Panther athletics program, a vibrant campus life, 300 organizations and student activity groups from which to choose and outstanding internship and job placement assistance. Students have access to one of America’s best college dining services, outstanding health and wellness facilities, a 100,000-square-foot performing arts complex, venues for playing and watching sports, recording studios and much more. The campus is located on 915 acres in Cedar Falls, but the 12,900 students’ experiences aren’t conďŹ ned within its borders. Students learn to climb walls of ice on an icecovered silo made by instructor of physical education Don Briggs; they teach basic hygiene to Gypsies living on dumps in the Balkans with UNI associate professor of health promotion and education Catherine Zeman; they start successful businesses with guidance and expertise from faculty, staff and com-
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Discover how UNI is just right for you munity leaders; and UNI’s edu- others in the state, whether stuat www.uni.edu or call (319) 273-2281 cation majors spend more time dent teaching in Iowa or halfway or (800) 772-2037 to schedule a camin front of a classroom than any around the world. pus visit.
“UNI’s faculty and staff have a true desire and passion for what they do and enjoy working with students. I love the television and broadcast facilities and the theatre department. I’ve gained hands-on experience in a very open environment where I can showcase and express myself.â€? DantĂŠ, electronic media major Waterloo, Iowa
Call
800-772-2037 or visit
www.uni.edu COURTESY PHOTO
Students get hands-on work in laboratories.
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to learn more.
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Students at Simpson College enjoy casual gatherings on campus. COURTESY PHOTO
Simpson College Exceptional academic programs, a great location and quality out-of-the-classroom experiences are just a few of the many reasons Simpson College is a smart choice.
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impson has a reputation for providing strong academic experiences and personalized attention.
■ Write or design for a leading publishing company ■ Work or volunteer for a multitude of nonprofit organizations
Indianola also has charms of its own, ■ More than 50 majors, minors including a turn-ofand preprofessional programs the-century town square ■ 14:1 student to faculty ratio with boutiques and and small class sizes restaurants, a student■ Opportunities to conduct friendly population and independent research plenty of options for ■ Three-week May Term for in-depth study, internships and entertainment and outdoor recreation. international travel ■ Chances to study abroad in Simpson offers stulocations as diverse as Ecuador, dents many ways to get Madagascar, Germany, China, involved in campus life, Tahiti, England and Ghana including: Simpson’s location in Indianola, 12 miles south of Des Moines, gives students plenty of opportunities for professional development. In Des Moines, Simpson students can: ■ Work for one of the 3,800 business in the area ■ Clerk with a state senator or campaign for a political candidate ■ Experience cutting-edge science at world-class research facilities
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■ 19 NCAA Division III athletic teams ■ Student government ■ Greek life ■ Honor and professional societies ■ Religious life community ■ Theater, music and art programs ■ Campus publications ■ Community service organizations To learn more about Simpson, visit www.simpson.edu or contact the office of admissions toll-free at 800-362-2454 to schedule a campus visit.
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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2009
Wartburg College Offers a total college experience inside and outside the classroom.
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artburg College doesn’t just promise a good education, it delivers. The Wartburg experience isn’t confined to the classroom. It includes co-curricular opportunities: sports, music, media and community service, plus career-enhancing internships. “It’s hard to find a college that meets all of your expectations,” said sophomore Mackenzie Benson. “But, I promise you, Wartburg can.” Wartburg delivers on value. More than 90 percent of Wartburg graduates earn their degrees in four years. They begin their careers while many of their peers are still working on (and paying for) their degrees. Wartburg provides more than $37 million annually in financial aid. Students graduate with a debt load lower than at some public universities. The value is evident. The national average for acceptance at medical schools is 46 percent, but for Wartburg graduates it’s 92 percent (91 percent for dentistry). In many health-related disciplines, it’s 100 percent. Wartburg strives to achieve similar standards in its 50 majors, led by biology, business administration, communication arts, elementary education and music education. The faculty understands not all knowledge comes from lectures and textbooks. They emphasize handson learning and field experiences. The four-week May Term is an ideal opportunity to study abroad (40 percent of Wartburg graduates study abroad). “The faculty are very helpful,” said
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recent graduate Aaron Schutte.
“They send you out with the tools that you need.”
Wartburg is synonymous with service. It is one of five colleges honored as a “model” for community service by the Washington Center. Students initiated 20 national service trips during breaks last year. All that on a campus with firstclass facilities, including 10 buildings constructed or renovated in the past decade, a new student center, library, science center and residence halls. The crown jewel may be The W, a 200,000-square-foot recreation facility with a six-lane pool, water slide, five multipurpose courts, racquetball, climbing wall and 6,500square-foot fitness center. It all comes together at Wartburg, as Dr. Lindsay Diehl, a 2005 graduate, wrote to the alumni office. “I want to say thank your to Wartburg College for giving me the tools to pursue and achieve all my dreams in life, academically, professionally and spiritually,” she stated after earning her doctorate in physical therapy and receiving the Dean’s Award for the Highest Academic Achievement at Nova Southeastern University.
Wartburg also helps providing students with internships that prepare them for a career. Nearly two-thirds of third- and fourth-year Wartburg students complete a for-credit internship. Back on campus, Wartburg students take part in many activities: √ One-third participate in the No. 16 overall NCAA Division III sports program with three 2008-09 national titles (wrestling and women’s indoor and outdoor track and field). √ One-fourth are involved in a music program with national and international tours. √ The theater group has performed at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. √ The award-winning TV station and newspaper boast state-of-theart equipment, and the online news site was named one of the 20 best on any campus. To learn more about Wartburg, call the √ 80 student groups cover the admissions office at (800) 772-2085 or visit gamut of possible interests. www.wartburg.edu.
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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2009
AIB College of Business College’s tuition freeze means students can complete academic programs while keeping educational costs at a minimum.
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iven the high cost of education and a sluggish economy, AIB College of Business has established a Tuition Freeze program, aimed at students who would like to enroll fulltime and complete their academic programs while keeping educational cost at a minimum. Students who enroll fulltime at AIB can now earn their bachelor’s degree in three years, a one-year savings for the
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student. In addition, earned scholarships will continue on for the duration of the program, as long as students maintain a full-time status. The AIB Degree-in-3 program is a combination of the two-year associate and one-year bachelor’s degrees for students who enroll full-time. Bachelor’s degrees can be earned in accounting, business administration, court reporting and steno captioning. Some students who enter the court reporting and captioning program may require longer enrollment to reach the National Court Reporting Association speed requirements. AIB also offers online bachelor’s
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degrees in accounting and business administration. Earn a bachelor’s degree with the convenience and flexibility of an online program. AIB offers associate of applied science degree programs in accounting, business administration, communications design and management, general studies, sports and event management, transcription services, travel and hospitality management and voice captioning. Business administration degrees include the areas of leadership, financial services and sales and marketing. For more information, visit the Majors page at www.aib.edu. AIB’s business-focused programs provide
graduates with the education they need to be marketable in today’s competitive job market. AIB College of Business is an independent, nonprofit, coeducational college of business. Founded in 1921, AIB has a high reputation for its business education and graduate employment placement. The college has an enrollment of nearly 1,000 day, evening and online students. The campus features 17 buildings on more than 20 acres near downtown Des Moines. Make plans to visit the AIB campus in Des Moines. For event dates and to RSVP, visit www. aib.edu and click on “Admissions.”
La’James International College offers distance education, degree programs CEDAR FALLS — LJIC is the first in the nation to have a fully accredited distance education program for cosmetology theory. “Essentials of Cosmetology Theory” will be released this fall. The program will allow students to begin cosmetology theory training online while attending classes at one of the LJIC campuses or prior to the start of their practical training in cosmetology. “Essentials of Cosmetology Theory” is a part of the degree granting track offered through LJIC. Students can earn credit in cosmetology while completing courses towards health and beauty management and be guaranteed credit acceptance into a bachelor’s degree program through a select group of colleges/universities. An articulation with La’James International College and ICCC makes this opportunity available. Take college courses while completing your cosmetology or esthetics/massage training,
earning your degree and cosmetology or massage/esthetics license in about one year. La’James International College has seven NACCAS accredited locations in Cedar Falls, Iowa City, Davenport, Des Moines, Fort Dodge, East Moline, Ill., and Fremont, Neb. LJIC is an industry leader in concept, appearance and the ability to fulfill our mission to enroll, educate, graduate and place the most competent and successful salon and spa professionals. LJIC has many opportunities, including training from top educators, a one-time investment for professional equipment and free lifetime continuing education. Sudents also have the opportunity to take annual trips to New York, Chicago and San Francisco, as well as abroad to places such as Mexico, Spain, Australia, Germany and Italy. Call (800) 982-9535 or visit www. lajamesinternational.com.
YOURSELF... 1 EARNING a focused business degree in 3 years - not 4 or 5! 1 GAINING valuable career experience before graduation! 1 LIVING on-campus in a 1-or 2-bedroom apartment minutes from downtown Des Moines. 1 SAVING with AIB’s Tuition Freeze program.
VISIT CALL
1 www.aib.edu 1 800-444-1921
515-246-5358 TEXT E-MAIL
1“AIB”
to 68632
1 admissions@aib.edu 1“AIB
College of Business” @AIBCollege
1 follow
AT AIB!
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By BETH YOUNG Emmaus, class of 2009
Character shaped at Emmaus Bible College
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Northwestern College in Orange City is one of only five colleges named a Groundwater Guardian Green Site.
Northwestern College Gets high marks in national rankings by U.S. News & World Report, Forbes.com and PrincetonReview.com.
The President’s Higher EducaORANGE CITY — The 200910 academic year has brought tion Community Service Honor impressive recognition to Roll lists Northwestern as one of only 14 Iowa colleges among U.S. Northwestern College. institutions whose students disexceptional volunteerism. U.S. News & World Report play More than half of Northweststudents are involved in ranks Northwestern ern’s campus, community and global in a tie for fourth service each year. Recommendations on among 100 Midwestern theRugg’s Colleges touts 17 Northacademic programs as baccalaureate colleges. western among the nation’s best: actuarial science, athletic training, No other Iowa college ranks biology, business, chemistry, higher. Forbes.com includes ecological science, education, Northwestern in its select English, history, music, philosoAmerica’s Best Colleges rank- phy, physics, psychology, reliing. Northwestern ranks sixth gion, social work, Spanish and among the 14 Iowa schools rec- theater. And the Groundwater Founognized by Forbes. PrincetonReview.com lists dation has named Northwestern Northwestern among 158 insti- a Groundwater Guardian Green tutions selected for its “Best in Site in recognition of its care the Midwest” designation, based for the environment. NWC is on student opinion. North- among only five colleges nationwestern’s students praised the wide to receive this designation. college’s affordability, faculty, community life, integration of For details about Northwestern or to faith and learning and attitudes find out about visiting the campus, call toward diversity. 800-747-4757 or visit nwciowa.edu.
They say that your college years are the most formative of your life. I say with great confidence that my life was transformed by my time at Emmaus Bible College, mainly because of the individuals with whom I interacted. Because our professors work alongside us at church, sit with us in the dining hall, invite us into their homes and play intramural sports with us — our registrar is an incredible goalie — they are more than just men and women being paid to present information. While they pushed me to excel in the classroom, they also cared about me as a whole person and took time to invest in me. Our staff members are equally
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interested in serving the student body. During my time at Emmaus, I became good friends with the wife of our head custodian, and for 2 1/2 years every Tuesday I visited with her, played with their kids and did a load of laundry free of charge. I was hit with this realization within my first Beth Young few weeks of arriving at Emmaus: Life is not about me. Although our culture presents a demanding, egocentric lifestyle as the norm, my time at Emmaus loudly informed me that this is a terrible way to live. Emmaus emphasizes the importance of service as a lifestyle, focusing more on others than on self. My time at Emmaus more than prepared me for life. I entered Emmaus without the foggiest idea of a career path, and I left
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with confidence in my abilities and goals for my future. My program of study (Bible exposition and theology) is not one that has a direct correlation with a career path such as elementary education or business administration, but the life skills I learned and the abilities I acquired through my earning my degree have more than equipped me for working in the “real world.” I am now employed as enrollment services coordinator for the admissions department at Emmaus, and at least once a week I am struck with how my classes, professors and extracurricular activities have prepared me for this position. God has used my experience at Emmaus to give me the desire to invest in the lives of others and to serve my church and community in a variety of ways. My Emmaus experience has prepared me for life as God used my professors, classmates and courses to reveal my purpose.
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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2009
COLLEGE GUIDE
By DON McKINNEY,career consultant and Iowa Lakes administrator emeritus
Iowa Lakes the place to acquire job skills ESTHERVILLE — Do you have the abilities, personal traits and skills that industry wants for new employees? Before applying for a new job, ask yourself the following question: Do you have the personal traits and specific skills industry is looking for as a new productive employee? Industry is looking for people who have the following personal traits. Good communication skills — both written and oral start the list. They also want good people handling skills, good appearance, honesty, humility, a clean record and, of course, the necessary skills for handling the specific job. Surprisingly enough, industry tells us that about 80 percent of all job losses are due to people’s inability to work with and get along with supervisors and co-workers. Along with these abilities or skills, you also need a good understanding of computers. Such skills as spreadsheets, Excel, PowerPoint, e-mailing, Internet research, Web
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pages, Facebook, MySpace, Twitter and blogging are good skills to possess. They are all tools industry uses today to help them stay current and up-to-date. These abilities and skills are learned ones; if you have the desire, you may pick up courses at your local community college that are short in duration and not very expensive. If you do not presently have these skills or abilities, consider it ‘a must’ to bring you up to speed to meet the needs of industry. The community colleges are an excellent place to acquire these skills. Iowa Lakes Community College provides
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state-of-the-art education and is a college designed to meet your needs. Class size is small, and instructor help is easy to get. In today’s economy and financial state, it is even more important than ever that you are proficient in the above abilities and skills. It doesn’t matter if you are a new graduate or have been out in the world of work and plotting a career change or comeback, you must possess most of these skills to secure the type of job that pays well and offers the fringe benefits or perks necessary to make a decent living. Community colleges were designed with your needs in mind. One of their major missions is to fit your needs into their curriculum. This simply means making courses available to you at a time needed to fit your schedule. This is done by offering evening classes, weekend and e-college on the Internet. Another important mission of the community college is to offer lifelong learning experiences to anyone who has a need. If you have questions, need help or assistance in assessing your needs, you may contact your community college and talk to a professional to help you make the correct decisions. Now is the time to set your goals and chart your course at Iowa Lakes Community College, which has educational sites in Algona, Emmetsburg, Estherville, Spencer and Spirit Lake. For more information, call (866) 425-2537 or visit www.iowalakes.edu.
2009 FALL college planning guide | 2009 FALL college planning guide | 2009 FALL college planning guide Hawkeye Community College
Allen College Barrett Forum • 1825 Logan Ave. • Waterloo, IA 50703 Admission: 319-226-2000 Website: www.allencollege.edu
AIB College Of Business 2500 Fleur Dr. • Des Moines, IA 50321 Admission: 515-244-4221 or 800-444-1921 Website: www.aib.edu
Central College
1501 East Orange Rd. • Waterloo, IA 50702 Admission: 319-296-4000 or 800-670-4769 ext. 4000 Website: www.hawkeyecollege.edu
Indian Hills Community College 525 Grandview Ave. • Ottumwa/Centerville Admission: 800-726-2585 Website: www.indianhills.edu
Iowa Lakes Community College
Loras College 1450 Alta Vista St. • Dubuque, IA 52001 Admission: 800-245-6727 • Website: www.loras.edu
Luther College 700 College Dr. • Decorah, IA 52101 Admission: 800-458-8437 • Website: www.luther.edu
Northeast Iowa Community College PO Box 400 • Calmar, IA 52132 10250 Sundown Rd.• Peosta, IA 52068 Admission: (Calmar) 800-728-2256 Admission: (Peosta) 800-728-7367 Website: www.nicc.edu
Emmetsburg, Estherville, Algona, Spencer, Spirit Lake Admission: 866-IA-LAKES Website: www.iowalakes.edu
812 University St. • Pella, IA 50219 Admission: 877-462-3687 Website: www.central.edu
Iowa State University
Clarke College 1550 Clarke Dr. • Dubuque, IA 52001 Admission: 800-383-2345 Website: www.clarke.edu
Coe College 1220 First Ave. NE • Cedar Rapids, IA 52402 Admission: 319-399-8500 • Website: www.coe.edu
Ellsworth Community College 1100 College Ave. • Iowa Falls, IA 50126 Admission: 641-648-4611 or 800-322-9235 Website: www.ECCAdmissions.com
Emmaus Bible College 2570 Asbury Rd. • Dubuque, IA 52001 Admission: 800-397-BIBLE Website: www.emmaus.edu
Grand View University 1200 Grand View Ave. • Des Moines, IA 50316 Admission: 800-444-6083 or 515-263-6010 Website: www.grandview.edu
100 Alumni Hall • Ames, Iowa 50011 Admission: 515-294-5836 or 800-262-3810 Website: www.iastate.edu
601 North Main Street • Mount Pleasant, Iowa Admission: 800-582-2383 ext.6231 or 319-385-6231 Website: www.iwc.edu 7009 Nordic Drive • Cedar Falls, IA 50613 Admission: 319-277-0220 or 800-845-2307 Website: www.choosekaplanu.com 6301 Kirkwood Blvd. • Cedar Rapids, IA 52404 Admission: 319-398-5517 or 800-363-2220 Website: www.kirkwood.edu
La James International College
To request more information, check the desired box (es) and mail form or go online to www.wcfcourier.com ATTN: SHEILA KERNS • P.O. Box 540 Waterloo, IA 50704sheila.kerns@wcfcourier.com
3563 University Ave. • Waterloo, IA 50701 Admission: 319-232-6980 • Website: www.uiu.edu
Waldorf College
701 North C Street, Indianola, Iowa 50125 515-961-1624 or 800-362-2454 fax: 515-961-1870, email: admiss@simpson.edu www.simpson.edu
University of Dubuque 2000 University Ave. • Dubuque, IA 52001 Admission: 563-589-3000 or 800-722-5583 Website: www.dbq.edu
University of Northern Iowa
6322 University Ave. • Cedar Falls, IA 50613 Admission: 319-277-2150 or 888-880-2104 Website: www.lajamesinternational.com
Name: City: High School: Phone Number:
700 Bell Dr. • Cedar Rapids, IA 52404 Admission: 319-848-8488 Website: www.uiu.edu
Upper Iowa University - Waterloo Center
Simpson College
Kirkwood Community College
Upper Iowa University - Cedar Rapids
605 Washington Street, PO Box 1859 • Fayette, IA Admission: 800-553-4150 ext. 2 Website: www.uiu.edu/chooseuiu
101 7th St. SW • Orange City, IA 51041 Admission: 800-747-4757 Website: www.nwciowa.edu
Kaplan University
107 Calvin Hall • Iowa City, Iowa Admission: 319-335-3847 or 800-553-IOWA Website: www.uiowa.edu
Upper Iowa University - Fayette Campus
Northwestern College
Iowa Wesleyan College
University of Iowa
002 Gilchrist Hall UNI • Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0018 Admission: 319-273-2281 or 800-772-2037 Website: www.uni.edu
106 S. 6th St., Forest City, IA 50436 Admission: 800-292-1903 • Website: www.waldorf.edu
Wartburg College 100 Wartburg Blvd. P.O. Box 1003 • Waverly, IA 50677-0903 Admission: 800-772-2085 Website: www.wartburg.edu or admissions@wartburg.edu
William Penn 201 Trueblood • Oskaloosa, IA 52577 Admission: 800-779-7366 admissions@wmpenn.edu Website: www.wmpenn.edu
Address: State: Zip Code: Year of Graduation: Email:
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Kirkwood Community College: Start here, go anywhere
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ith global vision and innovative curriculum, Kirkwood is redefining the role of the community college. From the first-in-the-nation hotel that serves as an experiential learning laboratory to simple services that help our students do better in class and get better jobs when they graduate, Kirkwood sets the scholastic bar. Whatever you’re interested in studying, Kirkwood has a program for you. In fact, we have the most programs of any college in Iowa. Go for two years and transfer to a four-year college, or graduate and start your career. See all 120 of our programs at www.kirkwood.edu/programs. Once you’re on campus, you’ll find state-ofthe-art facilities no other college has. Just a few of the amazing resources that await you include: A brand new 32,000-square-foot horticulture center: featuring the latest “green” technology, including geothermal heating and cooling and a roof system that catches rainwater for use in the greenhouses and landscaping areas. A large student commons area, a small engine lab and an indoor soil floor used to teach patio building and other outdoor skills rain or shine are just a few of the amenities. High-fidelity computerized mannequins: at our new Healthcare Simulation Center that replicate reallife emergency situations. The sims range in body structure from adult to infant and can be programmed to succumb to a number of crisis-level health problems while the students working to save them are observed by instructors and peers. A 400-acre working farm: where students actively participate in all aspects of crop and animal production. The Iowa Equestrian Center: the Midwest’s premier equestrian facility. 90,000 square feet of new space: classroom and office opened just this year. Jone’s Hall: the center of industrial technology at Kirkwood, received an $8.5 million makeover this year, featuring a new precision sheet metal fabrication area. The 30,000-square-foot addition also made room for indoor working labs for our carpentry, HVAC and plumbing programs.
COLLEGE GUIDE
A 43,500-square-foot recreation center: our students use for free. The Hotel at Kirkwood Center: the largest and most comprehensive teaching hotel at a community college in the entire United States. The 71-room luxury hotel will include six suites and be staffed by professional managers assisted by Kirkwood hospitality arts students. But it’s our student services that truly set us apart. Kirkwood is there for you with a range of services and programs. We’ll take you to the next step with honors programs, study abroad, tutoring, student organizations, academic advising and career services. And what’s the best part about being a Kirkwood student? You get all of this for half the cost of attending some other schools. Come spend the day with us and learn more about Kirkwood. Go to www.kirkwood.edu/tgif.
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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2009
Looking for Direction?
Look to AllenCollege. Associate of Science in Radiography (ASR) Two-year program Graduates recruited nationally Bachelor of Health Science (BHS) Medical Laboratory Science program Nuclear Medicine Technology program Dianostic Medical Sonography program
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Upper Division BSN program 15-month Accelerated BSN option* RN-BSN track available Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) RN-MSN track available Nurse Practitioner tracks in four areas Nursing Education Nursing Leadership
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Basketball is just one of the sports students at Kirkwood College enjoy participating in as athletes or as fans in the stands.
For more information call 319.226.2000 or go online at allencollege.edu. * Applicants must either (1) have completed a minimum 62 semester hours of academic credit before beginning the program, including all prescribed coursework or (2) hold a baccalaureate or higher degree in a non-nursing discipline and have completed designated general education courses. Other requirements apply. Allen College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, marital status, sex, age, national origin, qualified handicap, sexual orientation or gender identity.
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Luther College Luther College will help define and achieve your “where to” goals for college.
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here do I want to go to college? To answer that question, ask yourself two more: Where do I want to go during my four-year college career? After graduation, where do I want to go with the college degree I will earn? Match life interest to studyabroad dreams and build an experience that will change your life and shape your future. Nearly 70 percent of Luther students study abroad during their four years of college. Each year, Luther offers more than 25 year long, semester and January-term study-abroad experiences. More than 65 countries have served as study-abroad program destinations over the past 10 years.
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More than 125 Luther faculty have led those programs, and they have some invaluable connections around the world. Luther professor Tim Schweizer created an opportunity for nine Luther business and economics students to discuss entrepreneurial business ideas with top executives of a global software services company during a January trip to India. The Luther group traveled to Bangalore for an applied-concept field trip that studied Indian entrepreneurship and globalization and provided opportunities to meet some of the county’s leading business executives. Luther students saw firsthand how multiple individuals work collaboratively on projects and create consortiums for product research and development. At MindTree, a global software services and consulting company, students viewed demos of products and other areas of product development in areas like Bluetooth technology and wireless LAN. “Luther has been a real lead-
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A group of Luther students on an applied-concept field trip visited the corporate offices of MindTree, a global services and consulting company based in Bangalore, India.
COLLEGE GUIDE
er in studying abroad, which is critical because actually going to see and live what you are learning makes it real for you,” said Schweizer.
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of Altshuller Institute for TRIZ Studies, an international methodology development organization with multiple institute branches around the globe. His TRIZ Studies connections with businessmen helped him “Anyone can read a book, Indian arrange the study-tour. “The trip was made possible by but to travel somewhere, friends who work in very welltalk to people and see takes known companies who were helpful and cooperalearning to a whole new enormously tive with our ideas and goals,” said Schweizer. level.” The companies and organizations the Luther students visited Schweizer is vice president included Infosys Electronics City
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campus, Neev Technologies, Aditi,24/7 Customer,Janaagraha, Wipro Electronics City campus, Infosys Global Education Center campus and MindTree. The trip emphasized face-toface interaction. Students met with business executives and asked questions of what works in India and why — a chance Schweizer believes would be impossible to replicate in the United States. The place to find out more about Luther College is www.luther.edu/ admissions.
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COLLEGE GUIDE
THE COURIER
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Loras: Four-year college of ‘be’
develop professional skills and learn to become part of the world beyond college.
College will help you discover who you are and who you want to become.
be experiential.
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oras is a Catholic liberal arts college nestled high atop the majestic bluffs of the Mississippi River, overlooking the states of Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin . Loras is about a three-hour drive from larger cities like Chicago, Des Moines and Milwaukee. Social, athletic and cultural events and activities are plentiful both on campus and within the Dubuque community. College involves more than attending classes, studying and earning a degree. College is a fouryear lesson in discovering who you are and who you want to become. That’s why it is so important to find a college that fits you, a place where you can be more. At Loras College, you’ll find the environment and the tools you need to grow — personally, professionally and spiritually. You’ll explore new ways of learning,
Loras students choose from more than 40 majors and 12 preprofessional areas of study. As a liberal arts college, regardless of your major, you will be exposed to a variety of subject matter providing you a wellrounded education. Students can take advantage of study abroad programs, discover the ways to serve others and get real-world experience with internships.
be empowered. As a Catholic College the faith journey is equally as important as the academic journey. Hundreds of students commit to weekly worship through music and other liturgical ministries, as well as numerous opportunities for volunteering at retreats, and serving local parishes. Loras students also continue to transform lives through nine student-financed domestic and international service trips.
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The focus of the service trips vary be involved. from doing home repairs to helpOne of the best ways to develing the homeless. op your character is by being involved. Loras offers a wide be Duhawks. variety of clubs and organizaLoras athletes and fans are tions, ranging from academic proud to be Duhawks. Loras offers clubs and faith groups to intra21 varsity sports — 11 for men and mural activities and Greek 10 for women. As an NCAA Divi- organizations. Each year, students on the sion III school, Loras participates in the Iowa Intercollegiate Ath- college activities board, stuletic Conference. Loras student- dent government, the interathletes are widely successful: cultural programs office and hundreds have been all-confer- other groups plan a multitude of ence, all-American, all-aca- entertaining and diverse events demic, conference and national and activities in which students can participate. champion athletes.
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be connected. Each full-time student receives a Lenovo ThinkPad laptop computer for academic and personal use, complete with software and full technical support. An extensive wireless communication network and creative use of technology in the classroom makes the Loras experience one that helps students succeed academically and in the workplace after graduation. Check out our visit days at www. loras.edu/visit or call the Office of Admission at (800) 245-6727.
Algona • Emmetsburg • Estherville • Spencer • Spirit Lake
SAVE MONEY and SAIL AHEAD at Iowa Lakes Community College At Iowa Lakes, we have something for everyone! Call 1-866-IA-LAKES -or visitwww.iowalakes.edu
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2009
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COLLEGE GUIDE
Make Coe College your story for the future Coe College offers superb academics and exciting social opportunities in a thriving urban setting that allows students to grow and succeed.
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stablished in 1851, Coe has a distinctive history of liberal arts excellence and a nationally recognized reputation for quality. The key to Coe’s tradition of excellence in academic quality relates directly to small class sizes and the interest shown by professors to make learning a personalized experience. At Coe, the average class size is 16, and the student-faculty ratio is 11:1. Along with quality instruction from outstanding faculty, Coe offers an abundance of out-of-class opportunities to provide students with a wellrounded experience and solid preparation for the future. Within six months of graduation, 98 percent of Coe graduates are working or in graduate school. Phi Beta Kappa, the most distinguished honor soci-
ety for college and university students, recognizes Coe for its academic excellence by including Coe as one of only five private colleges in Iowa and 270 institutions in the U.S. with a Phi Beta Kappa chapter. Coe is featured in college guidebooks such as the Princeton Review’s “Best 371 Colleges” and “Peterson’s Guide to Selective Colleges.” Forbes’ “Best American Colleges” ranks Coe as 182nd nationally. One reason for student success is because of the unique opportunities provided by the Coe Plan. The Coe Plan introduces students to a variety of experiences through internships, offcampus study and individual research with faculty, as well as special lecturers and personal career planning. Examples of recent internships include the Chicago Board of Trade, the Arizona
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Students gather in the shadow of the Sinclair Auditorium steeple on the Coe College campus. Cardinals and the Mayo Clinic. Research opportunities have taken students to laboratories in the United Kingdom, Germany, China and many other places.
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More than 90 percent of Coe students participate in co-curricular activities. Fine arts programs provide a cornerstone of activity at Coe, with a wide variety of music, art and theater opportunities. Coe College is a member of the Iowa Conference, one of the most active and competitive conferences in NCAA Division III, providing excellent opportunities for participation of student-athletes. Over the past few years, numerous new construction projects and facility upgrades have taken place at Coe College, enhancing the environment on the residential campus. Coe students enjoy classrooms and laboratories incorporating the latest technology, new apartment-style residences and an updated dining hall with something for every taste.
In athletics, FieldTurf, an all-weather surface used by many college and professional athletic teams, has replaced the grass at Clark Field. At Eby Fieldhouse, a new gymnasium floor, bleachers and lighting are in place, creating a modern arena for Coe basketball, wrestling and volleyball. Additionally, Coe students have access to a firstrate fitness center, racquet center and natatorium. Coe is one of just a few private liberal arts colleges in the nation located in a metropolitan area of 175,000 residents. The Cedar Rapids area provides an abundance of internship, cultural and recreational opportunities for students. To really get to know Coe College, see it in person. For more information or to schedule a visit, contact Coe at (877) 225-5263 or check out www. coe.edu.
See for yourself what Coe has to offer. Discover why Coe College is consistently ranked as one of the finest liberal arts colleges in the country. Check us out online or schedule a visit today.
1220 First Avenue NE Cedar Rapids, Iowa 1.877.CALL COE www.coe.edu
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college guide
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The College Board suggests preparing for the fair experience:
Students get face time with college reps By MELODY PARKER melody.parker@wcfcourier.com
The college fair hasn’t gone out of fashion. Students can plow through college sites on the Internet, but it doesn’t compare to the face-to-face exchanges that take place between prospective college students and college representatives. Each year, hundreds of thousands of junior and senior high school students attend college fairs across the country. All of those displays may look like a three-ring circus to innocent eyes, but it’s one of the most valuable experiences young people will tame. Admissions representatives from postsecondary educations are the ringmasters, offering information about their respective opportunities. Students
can ask questions about majors, course offerings, admissions and financial aid requirements. They also can ask about what it’s like to live on a college campus, what kinds of sports and co-curricular activities are available and much more. Reps can tell students how the selection process works and what you need to do to get accepted. It will also help to eliminate colleges. “I’m very supportive of the college fair. It allows all of our high school juniors to learn firsthand about the multitude of options available in Iowa and surrounding states. Our students would be disappointed if they didn’t attend the college fair,” said Waverly-Shell Rock High School counselor Barbara Davis. High school juniors are the audience at today’s college fairs, said Amy Schipper, assistant director of admissions at the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls. “We’re starting to see more juniors. Students are start-
ing earlier in the process of finding out what’s out there. College fairs definitely have value. There’s such a wide range of postsecondary options — colleges and universities, the military, community colleges, private colleges, professional schools, tech school — that these students might not have thought about. They may end up looking at some option they’d never heard of otherwise that might be a good fit for them,” she explained. By the time a student enters their senior year, their postsecondary plans are usually solidifying. Juniors are still exploring options, Davis said, and “that’s the appropriate time to attend the fair. It better prepares them for the college recruiting process.”
■ Before you set out, it will help to consider what you want from a college. Write down college characteristics that are important to you. Review Web sites and catalogs of colleges on your list and write down questions that aren’t answered in the materials. You also should ask questions about your own interests, such as activities you’d like to pursue and course requirements for the majors in which you’re interested. ■ Before you head out the door, don’t forget to bring a pen and small notebook, your questions and a bag to hold all the college brochures and information you’ll get. ■ Navigating a college
Upcoming college fairs September 21 ■ Upper Iowa University, Fayette 10 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. ■ Luther College, Decorah, 6 to 8 p.m. September 22 ■ University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, 9 to 11 a.m. ■ University of Dubuque, Dubuque, 6 to 8 p.m. September 23 ■ Kirkwood Community College, Cedar Rapids, 9 to 11 a.m. ■ Iowa Association for College Admission Counseling
Illustration by DAVID HEMENWAY / Courier Graphic Artist
fair can be challenging. There are many booths to visit and people to talk to. Review the list of colleges at the fair and plan to visit the colleges that interest you most. If the fair provides a map showing where colleges booths will be, plan out a route to avoid back-tracking. ■ If the fair has information sessions with experts, block out time to attend those that interest you. ■ After you visit a college’s booth, take a few minutes to jot down what you’ve learned. ■ Try to leave some time at the end just to browse through some of the booths you didn’t get to — you could stumble on to a great college you hadn’t considered.
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Allen College Diagnostic imaging degree will help students step out into the world with options.
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tudents enrolling in fall 2010 can be the first to major in diagnostic medical sonography in the health sciences program at Allen College in Waterloo. Also known as diagnostic imaging, DMS students are trained in procedures that aid in the diagnosis and assessment of a variety of medical conditions. An experienced DMS practitioner and educator, Evalene Martin, director of Allen’s new DMS program, said a variety of career options are available to sonography students. An imaging career can offer the best of both worlds to those who are interested in technology and helping patients. Career options extend well beyond the walls of a hospital
THE COURIER
COLLEGE GUIDE
Degrees from Allen College Diagnostic Medical Sonography ■ Admission: Must have a bachelor’s degree, an associate degree in radiography or three years of completed coursework, including certain science and math classes ■ Program: 21 months ■ Degree: certificate or bachelor of health sciences Medical Laboratory Science ■ Admission: Must have a bachelor’s degree, an associate degree or three years of completed coursework, including certain science and
to clinics, research departments and more. Sonographic technology is expected to evolve rapidly, creating many new sonography procedures, such as 3D- and 4Dsonography for use in obstetric and ophthalmologic diagnosis. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, DMS employment opportunities are favorable, because sonography is an increasingly attractive alternative to
math classes ■ Program: One year, full-time or two years part-time ■ Degree: bachelor of health sciences Nuclear Medicine Technology ■ Admission: Must have a bachelor’s degree, an associate degree in radiography or three years of completed coursework, including certain science and math classes ■ Program: One year full-time ■ Degree: certificate or bachelor of health sciences
radiologic procedures as patients seek safer treatment methods. The new DMS program is just the latest addition to the Allen College bachelor of health sciences program. The college added new medical laboratory science and nuclear medicine technology programs in the fall 2009. Allen’s Health Sciences programs are designed to be accessible to all students, even those who
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live out of town, have families or work full time. With online components and clinical affiliates for on-site training across the state, students may only have to be on campus in Waterloo for three or four months to earn their degrees. Contact Allen College directly at (319) 226-2000 or allencollege.edu.
at Grand View University
chart your career
on a vibrant metropolitan campus, with the personal touch and the programs you need for success. ✥
36 majors
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Dynamic internships
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Nearly 100% job placement for more than a decade and a half
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Affordable tuition
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Average class size of 14
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Financial aid to 99% of full-time students
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Choice of on-campus living styles
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Personal attention
www.nicc.edu
Transfer ... made easy! NICC is a great place to start earning your bachelor’s degree. Not only will you receive a quality education from award winning faculty … it’s a fraction of the cost of a four-year college! Better yet, with some smart planning and the articulation agreements NICC holds with many colleges and universities - transferring will be a breeze.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2009
Discover who you are and what you can become at Grand View.
Register Today! For more information on transfer options visit
www.nicc.edu/transfer
Des Moines, Iowa
515-263-2810 ✥ 800-444-6083 www.admissions.grandview.edu
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2009
Take the NICC path to a four-year degree Attending a community college gives you the time and financial space to consider different areas of study.
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ot all high school graduates are interested in heading directly to a four-year college. In fact, spending two years at Northeast Iowa Community College is a great way to save money and increase your chances of academic success. If this sounds like the right path for you, consider NICC’s associate in arts or associate in science degrees. Whether you live near NICC’s campuses in Calmar or Peosta or one of NICC’s six centers, you have an opportunity to get a first-
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rate education close to home and earn credits that transfer to the four-year college or university of your choice. Plus, you will find that NICC’s already established transfer agreements with fouryear colleges and universities make your life easier as a student. The Dubuque area provides a good example of these agreements. Transfer agreements are in place with three local colleges: Clarke College, the University of Dubuque and Emmaus Bible College. These colleges allow students to earn an associate degree from NICC and be jointly enrolled at the transfer college, allowing them access to the library, sports complex and other college facilities and events. NICC also holds transfer agreements with Iowa State University, University of Iowa and the University of Northern Iowa.
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“With the proper guidance, a student can easily come to NICC for two years, transfer to one of our partnering institutions and graduate with a bachelor’s degree within four years,” said Curt Oldfield, NICC’s vice president of academic affairs. The tuition for a full-time student attending NICC for two years translates into thousands in cost savings compared to tuition at the Regent universities or private colleges. Many students enroll at NICC unsure of what their major will be. NICC’s academic advisors help
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new students choose classes that highlight potential career options and will transfer to the college they are considering two years down the road. Unlike many lecture halls at larger universities, NICC class sizes are small, instructors take time to know you as an individual and extra assistance with coursework is readily available. The familiar storyline that it is easier to get a college diploma or degree at a community college is a misconception. “NICC is known for its quality faculty and excellent programs,” said Oldfield. “In fact, our trans-
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fer students graduate with higher grade point averages than do students who begin their studies at the Regent universities.” NICC’s online programs give students who have work and family commitments an opportunity to earn a college degree in a flexible setting. NICC now offers 13 programs completely online. Visit www.nicc.edu for more information on online programs. For more information on NICC’s transfer degrees, contact the Peosta campus admissions office at (563) 556-5110 or the Calmar admissions office at (563) 562-3263.
D ISCOVER YOUR F UTURE
MOUNT PLEASANT , IOWA
319.385.6231 800.582.2383 W W W. I W C . E D U
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of full-time faculty have a Ph.D. or other terminal degree in their ďŹ eld. Faculty at Central are your partners in learning. Affording Central College is a reality. Scholarships and grants are available, and more than 98 percent of students receive ďŹ nancial aid. All new students who sought ďŹ nancial assistance received some type of aid.
Challenge yourself at Central College Iowa college offers 36 majors and professional programs.
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entral College in Pella is a four-year, residential, liberal arts college affiliated with the Reformed Church in America. Go farther than you ever imagined in your journey at Central. Not sure of your major? Central has options for you to explore. Central offers 38 majors and has pre-professional programs and advising. The average class size is 20, with a student to faculty ratio of 14:1. Nearly 90 percent
There’s something for everyone with over 80 clubs and organizations on campus. Be a part of a team: Central offers 19 varsity athletics programs and is affiliated with the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division III athletics. Be a star in a theater performance or music concert. Run for student senate or join a fraternity or sorority. Central helps develop the whole individual. Service isn’t only part of the curriculum, it’s a part of everyday life. Over 87 percent of students sign up for either a service-learning academic experience or a community service
"UILDING MINDS
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volunteer opportunity before graduating. Participate in Central’s highly established study abroad program. Go for a semester, a year or a summer to one of eight sites: Mexico, Spain, the Netherlands, Wales, England, Austria, China or France. Or line up an internship in either Chicago, Ill., or Washington, D.C. Central College is one of the most beautiful campuses you’ll ďŹ nd and one that specializes in caring for our world’s precious resources. Environmental stewardship is one of Central’s strengths, and our students embrace environmental efforts by participating in monitoring their energy usage, recycling and tending to the campus garden. When you graduate from Central, you’ll leave with more than just a degree. Your liberal arts education from Central College will take you where you want to go — further than you ever dreamed. Central graduates work around
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Ninety-seven percent of Central College graduates are employed in the ďŹ eld of their choice, such as dentistry, or continue to graduate school. the world, study at top graduate schools and team up alongside other alumni professionals all across the country. Ninety-seven percent of Central graduates are employed in the ďŹ eld of their choice or have enrolled in graduate school within one year after graduation.
Central’s size and individual attention makes learning challenging and prepares students for life after college. Start your experience at Central College. Call 877-462-3687 or visit www. central.edu for more information about your future at Central.
Clarke College is one of America’s
“Best College Buys�*
"UILDING FAITH
At Northwestern, you’ll get an award-winning education—in an environment that supports your Christian faith.
College should be about having LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCES at an OUTSTANDING VALUE. That’s what you get when you
Experience College. By Clarke. Watch “Real. Northwestern.â€? on YouTube. www.nwciowa.edu • 1-800-747-4757 • admissions@nwciowa.edu
www.clarke.edu
* according to a recent ranking by the Center for College Affordability and Productivity
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Iowa. Nine buildings have been added to the IHCC main campus and the newest, the Rural Health Education Center, is a stateof-the-art facility that houses the college’s 19 health occupations programs. Indian Hills also has a newly renovated north campus at the Ottumwa airport where the school’s two aviation programs — aviation pilot train-
Indian Hills offers variety of tech education programs
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ndian Hills Community College has developed a reputation for outstanding programs, instructors, staff and facilities during the more than 40 years the college has been in existence in southeast
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ing and aviation maintenance — and three other programs are taught. In addition, IHCC has a campus in Centerville that offers unique programs in drafting/ virtual reality technology and construction management and agriculture-related programs in viticulture and sustainable agriculture/entrepreneurship. The wide variety of technical education programs available at Indian Hills provide the skills and knowledge essential for successful entry into an occupation. IHCC offers a four-
INtentional You’ll put your knowledge into action at Luther. From internships in major corporations, to study abroad in other cultures, to presentations of original research at conferences—your experiences will prepare you for a meaningful career and life. Luther students are intentional about developing a deeper understanding of themselves and their places in the world.
www.luther.edu
admissions@luther.edu
1.800.458.8437
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day academic week, which has proven to be very popular for students who are balancing their college schedule with a full-time or part-time job. The college sponsors more than 30 clubs and organizations that provide opportunities for student involvement and leadership. Scholarships are available for members of those clubs and organizations. Intramural sports are very
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popular, as is participation in the college’s chorus, jazz band and theatrical productions. Indian Hills has nine athletic teams: men’s and women’s cross country, men’s and women’s soccer, volleyball, basketball, golf, softball and baseball. Schedule a campus visit. Call (800) 726-2585 to arrange a visit. Learn more by visiting www.indianhills.edu.
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Clarke College experience built on qualilty The characteristics that deďŹ ne Clarke College can give you the ability to make an impact in the world.
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that can make you more appealing to employers who seek individuals with these skills. This year, in conjunction with being named one of “America’s Best Colleges� by Forbes, the Center for College Affordability and Productivity named Clarke one of “America’s Best College Buys,� fourth in the Midwest.
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t Clarke, we believe you 1,100 students) — and has big Get on campus. Visit www.clarke.edu will ďŹ nd a college experi- opportunities for students. to schedule a visit, learn more and ďŹ nd You’ll have the chance to be your admissions counselor. ence that’s different. The Clarke experience is built involved in extracurricular activon quality, which is why we’ve ities, ranging from academic long been known for superb clubs to intramural sports. teaching and academics. The Plus, Clarke is host to a varirelationships you form with ety of cultural events, includyour faculty members at Clarke ing art exhibits, drama producgo much deeper than a simple tions and music performances. “helloâ€? in the hallway. Instead, This year, national addiction the interactions you have will specialist Dr. Drew Pinsky and Celtic sensation empower you to do things you never The interactions Gaelic Storm are just a few of the thought possible. you have will renowned thinkYour faculty memers and performbers will be mentors empower ers who will be on and advisers who campus. will impact your you to do In athletics, the success as you work things you Clarke Crusaders hand-in-hand with for excelthem — that’s what never thought strive lence, in and out of a student:faculty competition. Our ratio of 11:1 means at possible. 14 varsity teams Clarke. This preparation is why Clarke continue to jump the ranks of was named to the fourth highest the Midwest Collegiate Conspot in the Midwestern category ference, and next year Clarke of “competitiveâ€? schools in a will add the Tri-State’s ďŹ rst recent report by the American and only intercollegiate bowling team. Part of the National Enterprise Institute. Clarke students have access to Association of Intercollegiate opportunities throughout the Athletics, varsity teams supcountry and across the world. port the “Champions of CharTake the nursing and physical acterâ€? initiative, promoting therapy students, who regularly sportsmanship and characcomplete clinical rotations at ter development. As an NAIA places like Mayo Clinic, or stu- school, students are eligible to dents in the education depart- receive athletic talent awards ment who travel to Ecuador to for participation in varsity experience what it’s like to teach athletics. Clarke is a Catholic, liberal in another country. But you don’t have to go across arts and sciences college. That
the country to have amazing means in addition to work in
learning experiences. Dubuque your major coursework, you’ll is at the center of the global develop a broader perspective marketplace, and attending of the world through additional Clarke will give you opportu- courses in a variety of discinities to work with leading plines. You’ll develop criticalemployers like IBM, John Deere thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as an appreciation and McKesson.
Clarke is a small college (about for the global society, all skills
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!" # $
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UIU offers quality and flexibilty
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For more information, call (319) 232tic university centers in Iowa, centers, an online learning divi6980, e-mail waterloo@uiu.edu or visit Wisconsin, Illinois, Kansas and sion and independent study uiu.edu/waterloo. Louisiana, five international programs.
Students proceed quickly to a bachelor’s degree with unique “2 classes per term” scheduling.
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ince 1985, working adult learners seeking a bachelor’s degree have found Upper Iowa University’s Waterloo Center to be the perfect fit. Most students are in class just two nights a week, leaving time for studying and home. This accelerated method fits the busy lifestyle of the adult student and provides the opportunity for steady progress toward a degree. With generous transfer policies and financial aid programs for those who qualify (and most do), students can earn their degree quickly and conveniently. Each classroom is equipped with a computer, DVD, VCR, full-room sound and a ceilingmounted bright LCD projector. The instructor can produce dynamic class sessions that take advantage of the full range of resources available on the Internet. New technology and redesigned curricula allow Upper Iowa University to offer hybrid courses (part faceto-face, on-ground and part online in a virtual classroom). This provides time, flexibility and opportunity for learners and instructors with optimum benefits from each delivery method. Another technology change in the Waterloo Center is the installation of a private video conferencing network to allow students to participate from three different Upper Iowa University locations. Alumni of Upper Iowa include the founder of the YMCA, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, a Dead Sea Scrolls scholar, the founder of Target Stores and many more. Upper Iowa University also is accredited by the
Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. NCA is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting association. UIU Waterloo features many majors providing students with opportunities in exciting and rewarding careers. The top majors at the Waterloo Center are elementary education, business administration, management, human resource management, accounting psychology and social service. The teacher education program at Waterloo continues to grow and prosper. Practicing teachers can obtain their reading endorsement during the summer months and the Strategist II DK/LD K-12 endorsement is now available. Upper Iowa University is Iowa’s largest private university with more than 6,000 students worldwide and more than 21,000 alumni all over the world. It reaches beyond a residential campus with 16 domes-
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This is l
Peterson’s Competitive Colleges, U.S.News and World Report and Forbes all recognize SIMPSON as one of the nation’s top colleges
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Located 12 miles from Iowa’s vibrant capital city
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Combines an energetic academic environment with personal attention; 14:1 student/faculty ratio
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Outstanding student organizations and activities including award-winning fine arts programs and nationally-ranked athletic teams
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Our 4-4-1 academic calendar provides for internships and study abroad
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Over 98 percent of Simpson students receive financial assistance
See it for yourself!
Schedule a visit today.
SIMPSON COLLEGE Indianola, Iowa I 800-362-2454 I www.simpson.edu
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Iowa State University
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magic that you’ll carry with you for the rest of your life. Iowa State is an experience. Mentors and magic found Total. Mind and body. Academic at school in Ames. and social. Work, fun, personal development, success and yes, hen you learn from the occasionally failure. Life and professor who wrote adventure. the textbook, it’s cool. After all, who can bring it to life You’ll become a part of better? When you grow to consider that professor your friend it and it will become a and mentor, then you really come permanent part of you. to understand the experience that is Iowa State University. Then when your course of study The friends you make will be becomes an important part of friends you keep. You will find who you are, you’ve found your some of those friends on the
W
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0ffice of admissions Facebook page. From the moment you walk onto campus, you’ll feel a vibe. People will go out of their way to help you. You’ll meet people from around the world and find out they’re different than you but somehow the same. And you’ll find countless options and opportunities. If you haven’t quite decided what you’d like to do for the rest of your life, we welcome you as an adventurous explorer. You’ll find 1,700 faculty members, 100 majors, 750 clubs and 27,000 students who will play a role in
your adventure. Your college adventure should be a wonderful experience that will prepare you, enchant you and become you. And it will at Iowa State. The campus is recognized as one of the 25 most beautiful campuses in the United States. Take time to enjoy the art. Plug your iPod in and take a moment to dream. Let your dreams be as big as you want, or as small as you want, but dream in color. It’s your college experience, and at Iowa State you can make it whatever you wish. It will be OK to feel a little nervous when you walk into your
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first class. Iowa State is a highly regarded academic institution. Be assured, you’ll be challenged. But you’ll find your rhythm. You’ll love to learn. And when you’re done, you’ll be able to compete with anybody, anywhere. The years will go by fast. You’ll graduate. And then suddenly realize how much you’re going to miss the place. The fun. The classes. The friends you’ve made. Then you’ll know for sure that you were a part of Iowa State. Schedule your visit online at www. admissions.iastate.edu/visit or call us at (800) 262-3810.
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Hawkeye Community College Student’s dream of law enforcement becoming reality at Hawkeye.
Find us on Facebook.
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rowing up in the small town of Eldora, John Weaver dreamed of becoming a police officer. Through Hawkeye Community College’s police science program in Waterloo, sophomore Weaver is now making that dream a reality. Weaver found out about the police science program when an admissions representative visited his high school. After just one visit, he knew it was the place for him — not only because Hawkeye is one of only two police academies in Iowa, but it is an affordable way to earn his degree. With the average class size around 22 students, Weaver finds it easier to develop student-teacher relationships that he otherwise wouldn’t have at a university. He said his favorite thing about Hawkeye is the dedication teachers make to their students and the real-world experience they pass on.
“I enjoy the fact that all of my teachers are either retired or active duty police officers,” said Weaver. “I’m learning from their actual experience and not just a text book.”
in the area. Hawkeye will help him reach his goals by offering hands-on training in reallife scenarios, such asridea-longs. They also have applications for police departments in Iowa available to the students. With less than a year John Weaver left in his program, Weaver will finish his degree and work to join a local police force. Thanks in part to Hawkeye Community College and their police science program, he is that much closer to obtaining his dream of becoming a police officer, and making a difference in his community, he said. There are 47 career programs at Hawkeye, and 50 percent of students plan to transfer to a four-year college to complete their education. A full-time student who transfers to a four-year public college or university after attending Hawkeye will save thousands of dollars over a four-year period. More than 87 percent of new full-time Hawkeye students receive some financial assistance. Financial aid is available to all students, and every year Hawkeye awards thousands of dollars in the form of scholarships, financial aid grants, work-study funds and loans.
For more information, call (319) To reach his career goals, Weaver has worked many 296-4000 or 1-800-670-4769 or different security positions visit www.hawkeyecollege.edu.
Your professor assigned a textbook? Or wrote the textbook?
Professor Steffen Schmidt, lead author American Government and Politics Today
When you look at the most widely adopted political science textbook, you’ll notice the lead author is a professor at Iowa State University. The same thing happens when you pick up a popular mechanical engineering textbook. And an innovative work on architecture. And an internationally acclaimed book in human kinetics. Which means when you go to school here, you learn from professors who are writing the textbooks used by top universities across the country. 100 majors. 750 clubs. 1,700 faculty. One amazing adventure.
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Students studying art participate in a drawing studio at Grand View University.
Empowering students for more than 100 years.
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By TINA HINZ tina.hinz@wcfcourier.com
To grad school or not to grad school
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Grand View
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soccer, softball, track and field, volleyball, and wrestling, as well as an active intramural program open to all students. With more than 30 clubs and organizations to choose from, students can get involved in academic competitions, leadership, service learning, spiritual exploration and a host of other experiences that empower them for lives of purpose and engagement in their communities. Nearly all students complete at least one internship, and many choose among the university’s options for study abroad. Grand View is one of the best values in the Midwest, with robust academic and campus-life offerings at a price that’s less than most private universities and that can come close to the cost of public institutions when financial aid is taken into account. First-year students typically receive an average of $22,000, with $11,000 of that in grants and scholarships.
liberal arts institution, Grand View University in Des Moines hosts 2,000 students in 36 undergraduate majors and master’s programs. Grand View is committed to a challenging academic experience and a rich residential life, preparing students for careers and a life of purpose. Nearly 100 percent of Grand View graduates find positions of their choice or enter graduate school within six months of graduation. Affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Grand View welcomes students from all walks of life. Grand View is small enough for students to get involved in just about anything they want and large enough to have. There are 16 sports for men and women, includTo set up a campus visit, call ing baseball, basketball, crosscountry, competi- (800) 444-6083 or visit www. tive dance, golf, football, admissions.grandview.edu.
he decision to continue your education past a bachelor’s degree can be difficult enough. Navigating through the maze of graduate school admissions and loan applications can be even tougher. Grad school is a big commitment, and like undergraduate work, it’s not for everyone. “Certainly, you have to like school because it’s more of the same,” said Sue Joseph, dean of the graduate college at the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls. Grad school is becoming a crucial next step in some professions to move into leadership roles, she added. From students who’ve recently finished their undergraduate degree to those with children and a job, tackling a graduate program is cerOnline resources tainly not impossible. www.wartburg. Consider short- and long-term goals edu/careers for both academics and your career, said gradschools.com petersons.com Derek Solheim, associate director of Pathways for Career Services at Wartburg College in Waverly. A physical therapist, for example, would likely have an undergraduate degree in the sciences and would know from the get-go that additional education is needed to reach that goal.
Talk to people While undergrads engage in a series of courses, a master’s program is more specialized with a culminating project, thesis or research paper. Someone interested in psychology, for example, may want to narrow the field into clinical, industrial organizational or social psychology. Establish connections and find a school with faculty members who share your interests, Joseph said. They can advise you early on to plan a course load that meets your professional goals and mentor you through your research or culminating project. Also utilize your undergraduate professors to get firsthand knowledge on schools they’ve attended. “The best thing you can do is visit the institution,” Solheim said. “See if it’s the right place for you.”
Applications Check with individual programs as application requirements vary. “Some programs have a deadline and will start what we call a cohort: a group of students move through the graduate program together,” Joseph said. “Others just
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kind of enroll people when they apply.” A year is not too early to begin checking on deadlines and finding out what’s needed, particularly if an entrance exam is required. Almost all graduate programs require some type of test, whether it be the Graduate Record Exam, Graduate Management Admission Test, Law School Admission Test, Medical College Admission Test, Pharmacy College Admission Test or others. Test preparation and study materials are available. “You want to take it far enough ahead of time that if you don’t get the score you like and want to retake it, you have ample time before the admissions deadline to do things like that,” Solheim said. “Some schools will average your two scores together. Others will take the high scores.” Solheim recommends looking at a spectrum of five or six schools, from Ivy League institutions like Harvard or Brown universities to strong programs that are more regionally based.
Economic effects When the general economy for entry-level jobs is tight or difficult, expect an increase in the number of students applying for graduate and professional school, said Steve Kravinsky, director of liberal arts and sciences career services at Iowa State University in Ames. “We find a lot of students think they want to ride out the bad economy by going to grad school,” he said. “They’ll graduate two or three years from now, still no work experience, demanding a higher salary because they have an advanced degree.” Going back to school to kill time until industry perks up isn’t necessarily the best thing to do, Solheim agreed. Plus, Iowa’s market has been faring better than other parts of the nation. “Many times people are overqualified for positions,” Solheim said. “When you think about the number of people that are unemployed right now, there are a lot of people with advanced degrees competing for the same jobs.” With more students continuing on, competition becomes fierce to get into some grad school programs, and students will have a few more years of debt to pay off.
Grad school questions Will grad school advance my career goals? What programs are most respected in my industry? When does grad school make sense for me? How do I pay for grad school? How do I apply for grad school? Source: Steve Kravinsky, Iowa State University
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William Penn University Challenges students to make the most of their college experience.
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world of opportunity is available at William Penn University. The college has excellent academic programs and a caring faculty along with extracurricular activities and athletics. When establishing William Penn University in Oskaloosa more than 130 years ago, members of the Society of Friends (Quakers) had a vision for the future. Quaker values of integrity, compassion, ethical practice, acceptance, tolerance and service continue to be the framework for the quality of education that Penn provides to students today. Penn has one of the most diverse student bodies in Iowa that includes students from more than 40 states and 12 countries. The university has experienced sig-
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nificant growth over the past decade. New facilities are being developed, including a huge student recreation center that opened last fall. The Musco Technology Center houses one of Penn’s newest programs, digital broadcasting, that is led by a 23-time Emmy-winning producer. Students in this program also have an opportunity to help produce news shows through the William Penn University Communication Research Institute. William Penn University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association and offers two 16-week semesters and optional summer sessions. The Leadership Core, the university’s general education curriculum, has brought national recognition to the university as a character-building college. Opportunities abound for students to get involved at William Penn, including student government, campus ministries, departmental clubs and organizations, intramural athletics and fine arts activities. As a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, William Penn University offers 17
athletic programs for men and women. Men compete in baseball, basketball, bowling, cross-country, football, golf, soccer, track and wrestling. Women compete in basketball, bowling, crosscountry, golf, soccer, softball, track and volleyball. Dance, cheerleading and athletic bands add flavor to sporting events throughout the year.
Ninety-eight percent of William Penn University’s students receive financial aid. Academic scholarships, performing arts scholarships, athletic scholarships, international scholarships, work-study, federal and state grants and government loans are available. To apply for assistance, students must first apply for admission and be accepted in a degree program. All students are strongly encouraged to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid after January 1. Iowa residents must file prior to July 1 to qualify for state student aid. The FAFSA can be filed electronically at
William Penn
www.fafsa.ed.gov. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and are reviewed as soon as they are complete. For more information, and to arrange a visit to campus, call (800) 779-7366 or e-mail: admissions@wmpenn.edu.
NEW FACILITIES $25 million invested in new recreation and academic space
is
GROWING!
NEW PROGRAMS
800.779.7366
Digital Broadcasting Human Services Music Education
OSKALOOSA IOWA
Courtesy Photo
Art classes are just one option at William Penn University.
Come grow grow with with us! us! Come
University
WWW.WMPENN.EDU
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*New majors in Computer Science
SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE
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When you work in criminal justice, you do more than provide for yourself and family. You Criminal justice careers on the provide for the welfare of the frontlines of freedom. community. Kaplan University in Cedar Falls could help preince 9/11, we’ve become pare you to work in this impora more security-con- tant field. scious society. Add that to increased population growth What you’ll find and an uncertain economy, and it’s easy to see why there’s ■ Career-specific skills that demand for more security employers are looking for ■ Critical thinking skills, problemservices. solving skills and communication Job prospects in criminal jusskills tice are promising for those ■ Core skills and technical with the right credentials. In competencies fact, employment of security, ■ Experiences you could apply private detectives and investiimmediately in your career gators is expected to grow at 11 percent through 2016, and In short, you’ll graduate with excellent opportunities exist for probation officers, correc- a degree and a portfolio of reletional treatment specialists, vant experiences — so you could and police officers and detec- pursue a position in an economy tives seeking employment in that demands it the most. Additional academy training local police departments.
Kaplan University
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may be required for law enforcement positions. High School Diploma or GED is required. Some universities make it hard. Limited start dates and traditional class schedules. Courses you don’t need. But at Kaplan University, we know you just want to get in, train for your career and get on with your life. That’s why we offer day and evening classes to fit your busy schedule. Financial aid is available for those who qualify. And career placement assistance can help you look for employment after you graduate. Talk to one of the admissions representatives at Kaplan University and you’ll see right away that they believe in the power of you and your amazing talent. And they’ll explain just how exciting it can be to get the education you need for a rewarding
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career. The opportunity is now and we want to make it happen. So what are you waiting for? Now is the perfect time to call. You’ll see just how easy it can be to train for a new career. Call (800) 982-2543 or visit us online at www.KUcampus.edu.
www.kirkwood.edu
EDUCATION Starts Here.
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Ellsworth Community College Equestrian Center set to open 20 2010.
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he Ellsworth Community College equestrian program has consistently been ranked in the top 10 horse schools in the nation according to HorseSchools.com, and soon the program will move into Iowa’s premier equine facility. ECC is nearing completion of the new 75,100square-foot Ellsworth Equestrian Center that is already booking 2010 shows and events in the new indoor arena. In 2006, ECC began the process of expanding its agricultural facilities for students by purchasing a 40-acre site just south of Iowa Falls, named the Robert and Arlene Hamilton Cam-
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pus. The land is home to the new Equestrian Center and a new Agricultural & Renewable Energy Center. ECC, operated by Iowa Valley Community College District, was named the 17th best community college in the nation by The Washington Monthly magazine, based on the Community College Survey of Student Engagement scores and ECC graduation rates. Much of this success is attributed to the college’s excellent instructors. Equine instructor Megan Gogerty, who was honored as an Iowa State University Young Alum for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences in 2007, said, “I love working with my students and observing the improvement of their skills and knowledge and knowing that I am making a difference in their lives. I truly enjoy planning creative lessons, as well as
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watching my students accomplish their goals.” Since its inception in 1988, the ECC equine program’s focus has been on experiential learning. With the new arena, students will have the opportunity to be involved with weekend breed shows and interact with equestrian professionals from across the country — combining their education with real world experience. “It’s about the whole barn experience,” explains Judy Miller, equine instructor. “The biggest thing is responsibility. We have a handson barn. The students do all of the care of the horses: grooming, feeding, providing first aid, stall cleaning, hauling water, etc. Even unloading hay when it is delivered. It’s all part of their responsibility. They come here to learn.” For more information, contact Judy Miller at (641) 6482809 or go to www.ECCAdmissions.com
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Ellsworth is one of the top 10 horse schools in the nation.
What’s new at Ellsworth Community College? More than you might think ...
New Dale Howard Activity Center opened in August New Agriculture & Renewable Energy Center opened in August New Engineering degree New Finance & Banking degree New football headquarters opened this fall New Ellsworth Equestrian Center under construction Ellsworth is ranked as the 17th best college in the nation, with the highest student success rate of any community college in the state! Take your next step and check us out.
r u o y e k p ta e t s t x ne
Ellsworth Community College 1100 College Ave. Iowa Falls, IA 50126 Ph: 641-648-4611 or toll-free 800-322-9235 W: ECCAdmissions.com E: eccinfo@iavalley.edu
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Waldorf is a small college that offers big opportunities
Waldorf offers a variety of opportunities for students to get involved. Personalize your college experience by being involved in activities you enjoyed in high school or ones you’ve always ig possibilities await you at Waldorf Col- wanted to try. lege in Forest City. Founded in 1903, Waldorf is a small, friendly, private four-year “Waldorf lets you figure out who you liberal arts school. Several popular bachelor’s degree programs are are and who you want to be,” said available including business, communication, senior Eric Villhauer. education, business, fine arts and more. The liberal arts curriculum challenges students to think critically by engaging in imaginative, “The smaller student body allowed me to constructive and thought-provoking classroom reach goals early on, like starring in theater discussions. productions.” Small class sizes allow you to quickly become Waldorf is committed to making high-quality part of the intiacademic mate commuexperiencnity. Waldorf es accesfaculty are here sible to all because they qualified want to teach students, students like regardless you. Passionate of income professors and levels. hands-on learnWhile the ing experiences financial help you choose a aid process career as unique may seem as you are. co m p l ex , “Students the college are nurtured is ready to to develop new assist in ways of thinktailoring a ing,” said Dr. Suzi financial Falck-Yi, chair aid plan to of the English meet your department. “At needs. COURTESY PHOTO Wa l d o r f Waldorf College students are not Students at Waldorf College have access to the latest technology in offers one just receiving classroom education. of the most career training, affordable they are developing as people and learning to educations in Iowa and also has one of the lowest serve the community.” debt-upon-graduation rates in the state. Students come from 25 states and 14 countries, You want college to be an engaging learning representing all types of nationalities, interests experience and the best years of your life. At and faith expressions. The diversity at Waldorf Waldorf, that’s exactly what they offer — a small enriches the educational environment as stu- college with big opportunities. dents challenge each other to explore and learn Plan a college visit to Waldorf. Learn more by visiting together. With more than 35 clubs and organizations, www.waldorf.edu or call (800) 292-1903.
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COURTESY PHOTO
Iowa Wesleyan College Space – not sky — is the limit.
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personal attention and a student-centered learning environment. More than 40 clubs and 14 NAIA intercollegiate men’s and women’s athletic teams keep students active and involved. Adding to the academic experience are two programs unique to Iowa Wesleyan: Servicelearning and field experience. Since 1968, Iowa Wesleyan has included a service-learning component in every student’s education. So far, IWC students have logged more than 1 million hours of service. The field experience program is an opportunity for students to gain professional, handson experience in their field of study through internships. Iowa Wesleyan is dedicated to making an excellent education affordable. More than 95 percent of all Iowa Wesleyan students who apply for financial aid receive some assistance. The college awards over $14 million annually in the form of scholarships, grants, work study and low-interest student loans.
n Iowa Wesleyan College education can take you anywhere. For 1981 graduate Peggy Whitson, that led to the International Space Station. Whitson, a NASA astronaut, is the first female commander of the ISS. Back on earth, Iowa Wesleyan graduates go on to careers in education, medicine, business, music, ministry and many other areas. Iowa Wesleyan College is located in the southeast Iowa community of Mount Pleasant. Students come from the local area, throughout the Midwest and around the world. Ranked first in diversity among all Iowa colleges, the Iowa Wesleyan student body includes 20 percent U.S. minorities and 9 percent international students. Students choose from five degrees offering more than 40 majors and pre-professional programs. With a student-faculty ratio of just 12:1 and averTo learn more, call (800) 582-2383 or age class size of 14 students, Iowa Wesleyan is known for visit www.iwc.edu.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2009
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University of Dubuque University’s Learning Institute for Fulfillment and Engagement will offer an accelerated baccalaureate degree program for adult learners.
T
he University of Dubuque began its 157th year by welcoming another record number of students and their families to the campus. The seminary began their year on Aug. 10, 1842, and the college began on Aug. 27. This year begins the introduction of a new academic calendar. The 4-1-4 calendar will consist of a four-month fall term (September-December), a one-month January term (Jterm), and a four-month spring term (February-May). The January term will make available structured time for off-campus (domestic and international) studies and innovative, accel-
erated on-campus courses. The new calendar is being phased in with a 4-1-4 fall semester calendar in 2009 and full implementation of the full-year JTerm in January 2011. Another change on campus comes with the reinstatement of the University’s adult degree program. The University’s Learning Institute for Fulfillment and Engagement will offer an accelerated baccalaureate degree program for adult learners, enrolling its first students for the fall 2009 session. Geared to adult learners age 23 and over, the UD LIFE program is designed to offer a flexible format, allowing students to
earn a bachelor’s degree in as few as three years. Classes are offered weekday evenings as well as online. The theological seminary opened the new school year with new students joining returning students for residential intensive courses in the distance master of divinity pProgram. This program, accredited by the Association of Theological Schools, enables students to earn a theological degree without moving away from their home community. Courses are offered primarily via the Internet, but twice a year the students come to Dubuque, thereby earning one-third of their credits in residency. On the horizon, we look forward to the goals set forth in a new Mission, Vision, and Action Plan: 2009-2015 — endowment growth, additional student housing, updated facilities for the seminary and the development of a fine and
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academic chairs each in mathematics, in the sciences, and in the theological seminary and the construction of a Fine and performing arts, worship, and campus center that will strengthen academic programs in fine and performing arts and create a place in which students and faculty can gather. Set up a campus visit at (563) 5893000 or www.dbq.com
Small College.
Big Opportunities.
INDIAN HILLS Community College Ottumwa
Centerville
You want
Excellence: Expect It...Experience It! Indian Hills offers transferable Arts and Sciences courses and more than 50 career-focused educational programs. Unique programs include: * Aviation Maintenance * Aviation Pilot Training * Bioprocess Technology * Digital Forensics * Drafting/Virtual Reality * Geospatial Technology * Laser/Electro-Optics * Physical Therapist Assistant * Renewable Energy Technology * Robotics/Automation
www.indianhills.edu
college to be an engaging experience and the best years of your life. At Waldorf, that’s exactly what we offer – a small college with big opportunities. Something new is in store for you every day at Waldorf. Discover new abilities by being involved in activities you enjoyed in high school or ones you always wanted to try.
Why Waldorf?
Degrees
• Dedicated Faculty & Staff • Small Classes • Hands-On Learning • Award-Winning Athletic Teams • Residential & Online Programs • Active Student Body
• Business • Biology • Communications • Music • History • And Many More!
Waldorf
COLLEGE
(800) 726-2585
Visit our website to learn more.
www.waldorf.edu | 800.292.1903 Forest City, IA
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YOU ARE
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