College Guide: Fall 2015

Guide to Getting into College Fall 2015

September, 13, 2015

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Sunday, September 13, 2015

Contents COLLEGE GUIDE COLLEGE OR NOT 2 ACE THE ESSAY 4 COLLEGE MAJORS 6 FAFSA 8 CAR COLLEGES 10 AWARD LETTERS 16 IOWA STUDENT LOAN 18

COLLEGE PROFILES UNIVERSITY OF IOWA 3 UPPER IOWA UNIVERSITY 5 HAWKEYE COMMUNITY COLLEGE 7 KAPLAN UNIVERSITY 9 IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY 11 ALLEN COLLEGE 12 INDIAN HILLS 13 GRAND VIEW UNIVERSITY 14 KIRKWOOD COLLEGE 15 IOWA LAKES COMMUNITY COLLEGE 16 ELLSWORTH COLLEGE 17 DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY 19 NORTH IOWA COMMUNITY COLLEGE 20 LA’JAMES INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE 21 CENTRAL COLLEGE 14 UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN IOWA 23

Learn how to map out best course for your future “Should I go to college?”

That’s the big question for high school students, particularly juniors and seniors, who are figuring out if college is the right choice, or if studying and preparing for a technical or professional career is their heart’s desire.

U.S. News & World Report suggests that colleges want to enroll students who are focused on getting the best possible education, beginning in their freshman year – of high school! That means high school shouldn’t just “happen,” you need to map out the best course (and courses) to make the most of those four years.

Colleges view grades as the most important way to measure focus, but the courses you choose also are part of the equation, experts point out. Successfully completing challenging classes or taking advance placement (college-level) courses can help prove your potential.

Don’t panic if your school record has a blemish, such as a bad grade. In your college application, personal essay or through teacher recommendations, ‘fess up and provide an explanation of why your grade was low or how you made a misstep in behavior, but have worked hard to improve

your scores or actions.

Colleges want well-rounded students, not just the academically brilliant or athletic stand-outs. That’s a given. But does that mean you should sign up for a bunch of clubs or extracurricular activities because they look nice on your college application? No. Instead, find activities or sports that make you feel fulfilled and give them the attention they deserve. It will show, and college admissions officers will notice.

Apply yourself

Research potential colleges and universities. Your list may be lengthy, but begin narrowing it down in your junior year. By the time your senior year rolls around, the list should be narrowed to your top two to five or six schools. The application process can take time and create stress, so relieve the pressure by NOT overapplying.

Take virtual tours and view videos about campus life at potential colleges and universities. Cruise the U.S. News & World Report Website, www.usnews.com, and check out their Student Center and College Click TV links.

Consider cost

A college education is a large financial investment, but it’s also an investment in your future. There are lots of options when it comes to choosing a school or program that’s right for you, but they all cost money, right? Don’t let that be a roadblock in your desire to attend college.

Footing the bill

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. Needbased aid is most likely to be granted at a public university.

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

See FUTURE, page 4

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COLLEGE GUIDE

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University of Iowa IOWA CITY — IOWA CITY |You’ll discover a way of life at the University of Iowa — making connections and building trust, embracing change and leading innovation, seizing opportunities and pulling together for the greater good.

Iowa is one of the best places to pursue a degree, especially for students from the Hawkeye state. Here’s why: The University of Iowa will prepare you, challenge you, and change you. In turn, you’ll change the world. Read on to learn why so many students think Iowa is right for them.

Top programs. Ranked highly among the nation’s 600-plus public universities by U.S. News & World Report, the University of Iowa is home to leading programs in the sciences and humanities, one of the nation’s best academic medical centers, and the esteemed Iowa Writers’ Workshop. Online and distance-learning opportunities are available in the Waterloo area.

Majors, minors, and more. With

Information LOCATION: Iowa City PHONE: (319) 335-1569 WEBSITE: www.admissions.uiowa.edu

more than 200 areas of study at Iowa— including majors, minors, certificates, and tracks—you can tailor your program to your interests and get an education that will help you stand out in the job market or at graduate school.

Commitment to success. Iowa takes undergraduate education seriously. Events like Orientation and On Iowa! build skills, teach traditions, and introduce friends.

Living-learning communities make a big university feel smaller, while first-year seminars help you discover college academics.

Best value. Iowa is a Fiske Guide to the Colleges 20165 “Best Buy”—one of only twohree in the Big Ten—and our Four-Year Graduation Plan can help you start your

Iowa City is a scenic setting for the University of Iowa. career sooner while keeping costs down.

Perfect size. One of the smallest Big Ten public universities (about 22,000 undergraduates and 31,000 students total), Iowa offers the opportunities of a major university in an environment that

You@UI is the University of Iowa’s largest, most in-depth campus visit experience. Join other future Hawkeyes for a day of sample lectures and interactive sessions designed to offer a real sense of what it’s like to be a University of Iowa student.

Visiting campus is the best way to discover whether Iowa is right for you. Find all the options at admissions.uiowa.edu/visit, or call 319-335-1569.

COURTESY PHOTO

feels more like a small college. About 7780 percent of classes have fewer than 30 students.

Opportunities. Iowa undergraduates conduct groundbreaking research with

See U of I, page 4

Saturday, Oct. 3 Register online admissions.uiowa.edu/youatui

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FUTURE

Schools that grant merit scholarships often outline qualifications and other details on their Web sites, and U.S. News Merit scholarships, & World Report, www.usnews.com, has a application tips list of schools with the highest percentage From page 2 of students receiving non-need based aid.

Sources: Iowa College Access Network, such aid, many well-known colleges a notch U.S. News & World Report or two down on the prestige ladder do.

8 steps for applications 1. List your chosen schools on your financial aid applications, ACT or SAT registrations, and other forms.

2. Look at the admission requirements. Are you able to meet all of them?

3. Apply to more than one school – even if you think one school is perfect for you.

4. Fill out admission applications online or on paper (most schools offer both).

5. Visit the schools’ websites to get the forms you need.

6. Check to see if your school accepts the Common Application.

The Common Application is a standard form accepted by nearly 300 colleges across the country.

Many schools that accept the Common Application also have supplemental forms you must complete.

7. Send applications as soon as you can. It’s a good idea to send your applications no later than March if you want to attend college in the fall.

8. Check with your chosen schools about specific admission deadlines. Many colleges have a rolling admissions deadline, which means you can apply anytime throughout the year.

Sunday, September 13, 2015

Ace the college essay with these 8 tips Essay?

What essay???

That’s the general, panicked reaction potential college students have when told they actually have to write an essay as part of the college application process.

For many colleges and universities, the essay is included in the evaluation process conducted by colleges. Not all colleges require an essay; some colleges are returning to essays as a way to learn more about potential students.

That process also includes academic record, coursework, grades, class rank, extracurricular activities, volunteer experiences, honors and awards. The essays also give admissions officers a glimpse of the applicant’s writing skills.

Not all institutions request essays, and some schools are reinstituting the requirement as part of their application process.

And while there are colleges that may accept video statements from applicants, the written word still rules.

Trouble is, how do you set yourself apart from other students who are furiously writing their own essays that reflect their own successes in chess club, sports or band? Same experiences, same essays. And pretty boring to college admissions officers who must read them by the hundreds, if not thousands.

So how do you fill those five or so paragraphs? Do you have a special skill? Worked

at a part-time job? Traveled somewhere, either in the U.S.A. or abroad? Whatever it is, describe it, but find a different angle than “this is how it made me feel.” What exactly did you do? Who did you meet?

Or mine your family for material. Did your dad or mom build a business from the ground up? Did you work there and have a funny or rewarding experience to share?

Don’t write an essay bragging about your accomplishments. Write a good story — just make sure it isn’t fiction.

1. Remember to put your name on the essay.

2. Draft an outline. Arrange your ideas in logical order. It’s important to develop a theme or major idea to make your point.

3. Write a rough draft. Remember to show, don’t tell. Include examples and little stories and add your own character to the words.

4. Review and edit the draft. Then set aside the essay for a few days.

5. Make any revisions or changes you need to make. Then give the essay to two or three adults to review and edit. Make corrections.

6. Don’t rely on Spell-Check for corrections and spelling errors. Double-check grammar, spelling, sentence structure, etc.

7. Have someone proofread your essay.

8. Make changes or corrections, and prepare a finished essay.

U OF I

grads are working for top companies like CNN, IBM, Google, Disney, ESPN, Rockwell Collins, US Bank, and more.

Vibrant student life. Iowa offers the excitement and school spirit of a Big Ten university. Choose from nearly 500 student groups, cheer on the Hawkeyes at one of more than 140 home games each year, or enjoy a thriving arts scene.

Campus and community. Iowa’s 1,700-acre campus feels a lot smaller, with most academic buildings and residence halls clustered within easy walking distance. Iowa City has been called one of the nation’s best places to live by Outside and National Geographic Adventure magazines—a classic college town.

Visiting campus is the best way to find out if Iowa is right for you. Call (319) 335-1569 or visit admissions.uiowa.edu to plan your visit.

Did you know?

With a college education, you can earn up to $800,000 more over your lifetime than you would only with a high school diploma. That’s according to a 2007 College Board study.

With costs rising, seemingly on a yearly basis, a semester of college costs less now than it will later on.

There are scholarships and grants offered through organizations and foundations that can help you achieve your goals.

Savings and earnings can help pay for tuition, fees, housing and daily expenses like shampoo and cell phone bills. Weigh your spending decisions carefully.

Financial aid is available for many students, but you have to fill out the FAFSA form to find out if you qualify, and for how much. And you’ll have to fill out those forms and reapply each year you enroll in an institution of higher learning.

Graduates work for top US companies

From page 3 faculty mentors, engage in creative work, study abroad in more than 780 countries each year, and find competitive internships nationwide.

Career support. 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. More than 400 employers conduct more than 4,200 interviews on campus every year.

Outcomes. Job placement and graduate school acceptance rates within months of graduation average 950 percent. Recent Iowa

Sunday, September 13, 2015

COLLEGE GUIDE

Upper Iowa University

Fun fact

An education to fit all schedules FAYETTE — From flexible class schedules and accommodating methods of course delivery to small class sizes and convenient locations, Upper Iowa University is continuously working to meet the needs of all students.

Whether a new high school graduate, non-traditional student or a member of the U.S. military, you will discover the academic program best suited for you at the UIU traditional campus in Fayette, or any of its 25 U.S. or two international locations.

One of those education centers has been serving the Cedar Valley since 1985. The UIU-Waterloo location, 3562 University Ave., includes a 27-seat computer lab open daily when there is not a scheduled class.

Six additional computers are also available in the lobby. As part of UIU’s tutoring services, students have access to Smarthinking.com and general writing and math resources.

With flexibility and a commitment to high standards and quality, UIU strives to meet the student needs with convenient daytime, evening, and weekend classes.

Upper Iowa’s unique academic year consists of six 8-week terms.

Students usually take one to two courses most terms and still graduate on schedule. Online classes can

Information LOCATION: Fayette PHONE: (800) 553-4150 WEBSITE: www.uiu.edu

also be added to allow a student to aggressively work toward a degree.

Many students blend their degree plan by taking hybrid (both face-toface and online) courses.

Other students get a jump on completion by easily transferring in up to 90 college credits from other schools. Up to 12 credits can also be transferred at the graduate level.

Credits may also be earned through an individual’s work experience through an experiential learning portfolio or various college examinations.

UIU encourages hands-on experience, and required field experience is built into most majors.

Upper Iowa consistently connects students with the opportunity to interact with professionals within a desired field.

Companies may also have educational agreements with universities or colleges. UIU has developed a Corporate Advantage Program, which includes tuition discounts and other benefits. All academic advantages apply to all modes of study; however, tuition discounts only apply to programs

➡

“University” is a shortening of the Latin universitas magistrorum et scholarium or “a community of masters and scholars.”

UPPER IOWA UNIVERSITY

Changing lives one student at a time!

You decide how you want to earn your degree.

• On campus • At one of 25 centers in local communities

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DUAL ENROLLMENT (PSEO)

CLASSES ASSES PER TERM

TAKE COLLEGELEVEL COURSES WHILE STILL IN HIGH SCHOOL

2

1000

• Online

STUDENTS

AVERAGE CLASS SIZE

17

Fayette Campus

• Self-paced • Or combine learning options to fit your busy schedule

WEEK TERMS

25%

GO ANYWHERE!

DIVERSITY

IOWA'S

STUDY

MOST DIVERSE

ABROAD

PRIVATE COLLEGE

ATHLETIC TEAMS ONLY

DIVISION II SCHOOL IN

IOWA

See UIU, page 6

89%

UIU GRADS ARE EMPLOYED OR IN GRADUATE SCHOOL SHORTLY AFTER GRADUATION 2013-14 Academic Year, University Wide Graduate Employment Survey

800-553-4150 uiu.edu/courier2015 UIU encourages hands-on experience for students.

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CAREER SERVICES RÉSUMÉ BUILDING INTERNSHIP ASSISTANCE CAREER COUNSELING JOB FAIRS INTERVIEW PREPARATION PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

College programs help students choose their fields of study EMILY EPPENS emily.eppens@wcfcourier.com

WATERLOO — Majors have been and will continue to be the hot topic of incoming college freshmen. Many students choose a major as soon as beginning their first year on campus — but not as many know why they chose that field of study.

Lucky for students, colleges usually have services set in place to help these students choose a major that’s the best for them and help them understand why they chose that major.

Sometimes the key to a potential major is experiencing what a day on the job would be like.

Rachel Evans, the career center coordinator at Hawkeye Community College, suggests that students start job shadowing potential major options in high school to give them a better idea of what they might want to pursue in college.

“It’s a great way for [students] to find out what they’re interested in,” Evans said. “Something I will ask them in turn is ‘why are you here?’ It begins them on a path of self-discovery.”

Evans said she sits down with students to discuss their likes and dislikes.

She also encourages them to use the website onetonline.org to explore various job options to help them achieve the job field they are looking for. In addition, taking student assessments and volunteering are able to help decide on a major and are highly encouraged.

“It’s not something that is necessarily going to happen overnight,” Evans said.

“Sometimes it does take a little time, a little bit of exploration to help figure out what it is that they want to do.”

In addition to online research, Iowa State University also offers a variety of different venues for the students. One of the more unique things ISU offers is a class to help students explore areas they may want to major in.

University Studies 104, personal career development, is a career exploration service the university offers to its

UIU

“Ninety-four percent of students who take the class don’t change their major after the end of the semester,” CariAnn Bergner, staff psychologist at Iowa State University students. During the semester, students will find new ways to explore their interests and values while receiving potential career advice from people working in different fields of study.

“The career making progress isn’t just a test to take,” said CariAnn Bergner, a staff psychologist from the student counseling service department. Bernger said she encourages students to try internships to see the application of the job carried out and so they can fully engage themselves in a potential future career.

The class coursework begins with an autobiography of students as a start-

UIU centers.

A recent realignment of majors at Upper Iowa means even more choices for you.

Programs are tailored If you have your sights set on earning to fit tight schedules an MBA, you can get it by completing From page 5 up to six hours of master’s courses as an offered as online education or through undergraduate before enrolling in Upper Iowa’s Master of Business Administration

a lot of different people and things. We talk a lot about passion,” said Marchesani. “When you talk about choosing a major, you have to talk about choosing a career.”

UNI presents to students an explore, engage, experience model approach to choosing a major. Structured, formal and informal opportunities as well as individual and group opportunities in the exploration process are offered.

Marchesani said that events are often set up for younger and undecided students to learn about the major from other upperclassman students. Students are also highly encouraged to form a relationship with their advisers.

“Whenever you go to college, it should be a lot about relationship building. StuSHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO dent advisers are the people, whether you’ve decided on a major or are still ing point and then exploration of varisearching, who are going to help you ous majors and occupations, reflection papers and interest assessments are navigate and make connections in possible areas of study.” said Marchesani. taken throughout the semester.

Other resources ISU provides are sessions with trained career coaches and most valuable one-on-one career counseling.

“Ninety-four percent of students college majors who take the class don’t change their and growth potential major after the end of the semester,” 1.

Biomedical engineering, 61.7% Bergner said. “I enjoy sitting with them 2. Biochemistry, 30.8% through the whole exploration process 3. Computer science, 24.6% and helping them figure out what they 4. Software engineering, 24.6% really enjoy and care about and how that 5. Environmental engineering, 21.9% relates to a career.”

6. Civil engineering, 19.4% The biggest question David Marche7. Geology, 19.3% sani, associate director of academic advising, wants to answer for students 8. Management information systems, 18.1% is why they chose their major.

9. Petroleum engineering, 17% A study in the 1990s showed that 35 10. Applied mathematics, 16.7% percent of the incoming freshman class 11. Mathematics, 16.7% were a still deciding on a major but 90 12. Construction management, 16.6% percent of the students who did declare 13. Finance, 16% a major didn’t know why they chose that 14. Physics, 14.2% field of study.

15. Statistics, 14.1% “We want to know what are your priGRAPHIC by DAVID HEMENWAY orities? Many students are influenced by Source: Forbes.com

Top 15

program.

The UIU Master of Education is tailored to the needs of classroom teachers and accommodates the tight schedules of working adults.

Want to be a lawyer? Prepare yourself for law school with the new pre-law minor, added to the major of your choice.

Add these to over 40-plus majors, and you realize the many options available to UIU students!

For additional information, visit www. uiu.edu or call 800-553-4150. Persons wishing to set up a personalized visit at the UIU-Waterloo Center should call 319-2326980 or email waterloo@uiu.edu.

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COLLEGE GUIDE

DISCOVER WHY HAWKEYE IS RIGHT FOR YOU RIGHT SIZE.

15:1 student-faculty ratio

RIGHT OPTIONS.

50+ career and transfer programs

RIGHT NEXT DOOR.

Located in Waterloo, 15 minutes from UNI COURTESY PHOTO

Sarah Ludwig

Hawkeye Community College

Right fit, class size and price tag WATERLOO — When it came to choosing the right college, Sarah Ludwig had certain criteria. It had to be close to home. It had to have small class sizes. It had to provide a university atmosphere, but not the university price tag.

She found all that and more at Hawkeye Community College.

“I felt Hawkeye was the right fit for me,” Sarah said. “It’s more affordable than a university and you’re still getting that ‘college feel’ without it being too overwhelming.”

A g ra d u a te o f We s te r n Dubuque High School, Sarah came to Hawkeye for the Liberal Arts Transfer program. By completing the first two years of her bachelor’s degree at Hawkeye,

Sarah receives a high-quality college education while saving more than $6,600* in tuition and fees. Eighty-eight percent of students who apply for financial aid receive assistance and more than $355,000 in scholarships are awarded annually.

Sarah plans to transfer to Iowa State University for a bachelor’s degree in family and consumer science, a process made seamless thanks to Hawkeye’s articulation agreements with Iowa State, the University of Iowa, and the University of Northern Iowa.

Hawkeye also offers more than 50 career and technical programs. More than half of students choose Hawkeye to gain the skills

See HAWKEYE, page 8

EXPERIENCE HAWKEYE

VISIT DAYS FALL 2015

Friday, October 23 a Saturday, October 31 — Senior Saturday Friday, November 6 a Saturday, November 14 Friday, December 4

www.hawkeyecollege.edu/go/visit-day 319-296-4000

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HAWKEYE

Student activities, housing among options

From page 7 and knowledge for a great career in two years or less.

Hawkeye’s state-of-the-art facilities are part of what drew Sarah to campus.

The Health Education Services Center (HESC) offers fitness classes, personal training, and exercise facilities.

Hawkeye’s classrooms are wired with innovative technology, including a patient simulator lab, 3D BodyViz imaging software, driving simulators, police training simulators, and other advanced technologies in transportation, advanced manufacturing, and information technology. Students are able to gain real world experience through internships, clinical, and field experiences.

One of Sarah’s favorite places is the Brock Student Center, where she can spend time with friends, have lunch, or just relax between classes. The student center is also home to Student Life, which plans everything from large campus events like Fall Fest to weekly activities like grocery bingo.

Sarah is active with Student Ambassadors and Student Leadership Council, two of the more than 30 clubs and orga-

Information: LOCATION: Waterloo PHONE: 296-4000 WEBSITE: www.hawkeyecollege.edu

nizations on campus.

New for fall, Hawkeye is now offering intercollegiate sports. Competing as the Hawkeye RedTails, athletes compete in co-ed sports shooting, with men’s and women’s soccer beginning in fall 2016.

Club sports like golf and dance team and intramurals provide activities for students with all levels of interest and skill.

Sarah enjoys the convenience of living in Hawkeye Towers, one of the privatelyowned apartment complexes across the street from campus.

Hawkeye Village apartments are also located across from Hawkeye, and there are many housing options in the Cedar Valley just minutes from campus. Students can also live in the University of Northern Iowa dorms – just 15 minutes from Hawkeye’s campus – where they can participate in clubs, organizations, marching band, ROTC, and more. *Cost based on the 2014-2015 tuition and mandatory fees for 30 credit hours per academic year, The Chronicle of Higher Education, Tuition and Fees, 2014-2015.

Things to consider when choosing a college The idea of going to college is exciting — the freedom, the independence and answering to no one but yourself. (OK, if Mom and Dad are paying the bills, you probably do answer to them, but they’re not likely to call every single day, right?)

But to make the college experience worthwhile, the school you choose needs to be able to give you what you want — besides a degree. So, what do you want?

Think about what you need; that’s what will make the college experience truly valuable for you.

Things to Consider

You should think about specific answers to the questions below.

Location ‌Where do you prefer to live geographically? ‌How far from home do you want to be? ‌Do you want a campus in a big city or smaller town?

Type ‌Do you need to go to a particular type of school to get the degree you want? ‌Do you prefer a two-year or four-year

college? ‌Have you considered community college or a vocational/technical school?

Academic programs ‌Is the major you want offered? ‌Is the school strong in your chosen academic area? ‌If you aren’t sure what to study, are there a variety of majors available?

Campus life ‌What types of social events are popular? (Check out online social media entries for that school to get a true glimpse.) ‌Are you interested in any clubs or organizations offered?

Cost and financial aid ‌How much will your entire education at the school cost? ‌How much financial aid is offered? ‌Will you be able to pay off your school debt with the job you’re planning?

Facilities ‌Are the library, career counseling and other academic resources adequate? ‌What about the fitness center and health center?

Sunday, September 13, 2015

Fill out FAFSA for assistance in paying for college tuition The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the single most important thing you can do to get assistance paying for college.

The U.S. Department of Education uses the FAFSA to determine students’ eligibility for federal student aid. Every year, the federal government awards about $150 billion in the form of grants, low-interest loans, and work-study funds to help millions of students pay for college.

Many state governments and colleges also use the FAFSA to determine eligibility for nonfederal aid.

To apply for federal student aid, such as federal grants, loans, and work-study, you need to complete the FAFSA. Completing and submitting the FAFSA is easier than ever, and it gives you access to the largest source of financial aid to pay for college or career school.

In addition, many states and colleges use your FAFSA information to determine your eligibility for state and school aid, and some private financial aid providers may use your FAFSA information to determine whether you qualify for their aid.

Go to http://studentaid.ed.gov/eligibility/basic-criteria for information on eligibility.

The U.S. Department of Education awards about $150 billion every year to help millions of students pay for college.

This federal student aid is awarded in the form of grants, low-interest loans, and work-study funds.

Grants are typically awarded on the basis of need and generally do not have to be repaid.

Many types of federal student aid, such as the Federal Pell Grant or subsidized loans where the government pays the interest while you are in college, also require you to have financial need.

Additionally, once you have a bachelor’s degree or a first professional degree, you are generally not eligible for Pell or Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG).

Other requirements may apply. Contact the financial aid office at your college for more information.

Other forms of financial aid that might be available to students include: state government aid, aid from the college; scholarships; tax credits for education expenses; and aid for military.

To apply for federal student aid, you must complete and submit the Free Appli-

SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO

Raid the piggy bank? Or fill out the FAFSA? For federal aid to pay for college, choose the FAFSA.

cation for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

You can find more information about federal student aid through the following sources: ‌Visit StudentAid.gov. ‌Get updates and information from the Federal Student Aid Facebook page and @FAFSA Twitter feed. ‌Visit the Federal Student Aid YouTube page. ‌ Download the free publication, Funding Your Education: The Guide to Federal Student Aid by visiting http:// studentaid.ed.gov/resources. ‌ Contact our Federal Student Aid Information Center through any of the options listed under the “Contact Us” section of our “Help” page. ‌Visit the financial aid office at the college you plan to attend. ‌Because of the variation in state and college deadlines, it is highly recommended that you fill out the FAFSA as soon as you can after January 1 to ensure that you do not miss out on available aid. ‌One thing to consider, however, is that the FAFSA asks for your tax return information for the current year. Often, this information might not be available until the end of January, at the earliest.

Keeping this in mind, you can choose to either wait until you or your family files income taxes for the year or complete your FAFSA using estimates derived from the previous year’s tax returns and other documentation. (Note: If you do this, you will need to return later and correct any discrepancies between the estimated values and the current year’s tax returns.)

Sunday, September 13, 2015

COLLEGE GUIDE

Kaplan University Top five strategies to have a successful return to school CRYSTAL FORD Director of Campus Operations‌

Have you been thinking about returning to school or already have plans to do so? It can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be.

During my tenure working at Kaplan University at the Cedar Falls campus, I have been fortunate to work with a number of students who are returning to school. Their reasons for coming back are varied — they didn’t finish what they started, they need a degree to further their career, or they simply have a hunger to learn more.

Below are five ways to position yourself for success when returning to college.

1. Find the right fit. Not every school is the right fit for you. It’s best to find the one for you that has the support or modal-

ity (how a course is offered – online, in a classroom, or a combination of both) YOU need. Be sure to ask yourself what kind of support you need and how much of it. Is it hands-on or would you prefer to be selfsufficient? Your classes need to fit within your lifestyle and offer a convenience that allows you to get the studying done.

2. Find support. Each institution of higher learning offers different types of support. But, you also need to have a support system outside of school. Finding the right people to be your cheerleaders is key so that when you are having a bad day (they are inevitable), they can give you the push you need. Co-workers, family members, close friends, and classmates can be part of your team.

3. Don’t panic on the first day or any day after. It’s natural to be worried about big changes. It is common to go back to school in this day and age. At Kaplan University, we specialize in working with students like you who may not be

on a traditional path to completing your degree or who haven’t been in a classroom in a while. In short, don’t fret! You are not alone.

4. Set a schedule. There is a time for everything. It is important to schedule time for work, enjoyment, classroom, and study sessions. Doing so will help you get into a healthy routine. A student advisor can assist with the development of your schedule should this ever be a hurdle.

5. Enjoy being in school. You’re going back to learn something you need or have an interest in. Use that to your strength and enjoy the experience. By maintaining a positive outlook, you will find that satisfaction will come easily.

Need help getting started? Kaplan University Cedar Falls Campus is here for you.

We have our roots in Mason City, where the main campus of Hamilton College has operated as a business career college since 1900.

The Cedar Falls campus was added as the fourth branch campus of Hamilton College in 2000, and in 2007 all seven Hamilton College campuses became part of Kaplan University.

For more information, please visit www. kaplanuniversity.edu/cedar-falls-iowa. aspx or call (319) 277-0220.

IF YOU HAVE THE SPARK, WE CAN HELP YOU SHINE. EARN YOUR DEGREE ON CAMPUS, ONLINE, OR BOTH

MAKE YOUR FUTURE A PRIORITY, CALL 319.277.0220 OR VISIT KAPLANIOWA.COM. For comprehensive consumer information, visit www.kaplan.edu.

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DAN PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHY

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Sunday, September 13, 2015

4 top technology degrees for today’s career seekers The career outlook for technology professionals remains highly promising. The United States has about five million open jobs today, which is more than at any point since 2001. Over half a million of those job openings are in information technology fields like software development, network administration and cybersecurity, many of which did not exist just a decade ago.

As an added incentive for Americans to pursue tech careers, the average salary in a job that requires information technology skills — whether in manufacturing, advertising, retail or banking — is 50 percent higher than the average private-sector American job.

Here are some of the most valuable tech specializations and degree programs available to career seekers today: 1. Cyber security Cyber security has been listed by The World Economic Forum as one of the top five global risks in terms of likelihood, and has been ranked as a top concern in federal chief information officer surveys.

Demand for cyber security professionals continues to rise, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 37 percent increase in information security analyst jobs through 2022.

To meet this demand, colleges and universities are starting to offer degrees in cyber security.

2. Health Information Systems The North American healthcare technology market is predicted to grow significantly to more than $31 billion by 2017, up from approximately $22 billion in 2012, according to Research and Markets’ North American Healthcare IT Market Report.

Demand for health informatics specialists is partly driven by the growing complexity of healthcare operations, government initiatives to promote IT in hospitals and the shift toward paperless billing and payment environments.

3. Systems Analysis and Integration According to a new market report, the global market for system integration is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of nearly 11 percent from 2014 to 2020.

4.Web development and administration The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects BRANDPOINT PHOTO about 20 percent employment growth for The expansion of e-commerce is expected code problems, help expand their online Web developers by 2022. During that period, about 28,500 new jobs will need to be filled in to fuel this high job growth in the coming retail presence and safeguard the site and end an industry that already has roughly 141,400 decade. Companies need web developers users’ privacy. who can design webpage layout and solve Source: Brandpoint positions.

Wheel nice Restoration students go for a spinpin at classic car college

HERSHEY, Pa. (AP) — Eugene Toner stomped on the foot-operated ignition. The engine sputtered and coughed, but wouldn’t catch. Uh oh. Here at The Elegance, one of the nation’s most prestigious gatherings of antique automobiles, the exquisitely restored town cars, coupes and convertibles don’t just sit pretty. They’re expected to run.

Toner’s instructor lifted the hood to adjust the choke linkage. A few tense moments later, the 1916 Scripps-Booth Model D roared to life, allowing Toner, a 24-year-old auto restoration student from the Philadelphia suburb of Quakertown, to pull out of his spot and begin a triumphant circuit around the show grounds.

You have to expect some car trouble when your ride is a one-of-a-kind classic like the Scripps, which, after all, hadn’t been driven since 1959 — until students at Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport took it out of mothballs this spring and got it back on the road.

“I can’t say enough about our students’ passion,” said restoration instructor Roy Klinger.

Passion is what the hobby desperately needs from young people right now.

When Penn College revved up its vintage vehicle restoration major in 2012, it became one of just a handful of degree programs around the country teaching young people how to help refurbish and maintain North America’s fleet of more than 10 million classic cars.

“We have a huge void,” said Earl Mowrey,

who heads youth development at the Antique Automobile Club of America. “There’s been a generation or a generation and a half of missed opportunity.”

Mowrey and others worry that vital skills like metal shaping and upholstering might be lost unless young people with a penchant for old cars are enticed into the field. The multibillion-dollar industry recognizes the problem of its aging workforce and has been throwing money at training programs and scholarships.

The efforts are beginning to pay off. The first graduating class at Penn College had eight students; 23 are on track to complete the program next year. McPherson College in Kansas, whose much larger program has been around for nearly 40 years and is the only school that offers a bachelor’s degree in restoration, also reports increased student interest.

With demand high, graduates usually have a job or paid internship waiting for them at a shop, museum or private collection.

“There are jobs everywhere, because people are retiring,” said Diane Fitzgerald, national director of the Hagerty Education Program at America’s Car Museum in

AP PHOTO

When Penn College of Technology revved up its vintage vehicle restoration major in 2012, it became one of just a handful of degree programs around the country teaching teens and 20-somethings how to help refurbish and maintain North America’s fleet of more than 10 million classic cars.

Tacoma, Washington, which has provided $2.7 million in training and scholarship money since 2005.

Sunday, September 13, 2015

COLLEGE GUIDE

Iowa State University

Fun fact

Graduate in the blink of an eye When you first set foot on campus, graduation and your first job seem a long time in the future.

You’ll get so caught up in Iowa State and all it has to offer that ‘best time of your life’ will only begin to describe the experience.

Then you’ll graduate in a blink of an eye. Your parents will be totally proud. Your future is bright. And if you’re like the more than 90 percent of Iowa State students who find work in their major or go on to graduate school after graduation, you’ll have a cool job…maybe a dream job. And you’ll be ready to grab the opportunity and make it big because of your potential and experience at Iowa State University.

But don’t get ahead of yourself…you’ll have the rest of your life for a career. Let’s talk about enjoying your adventure at Iowa State.

Day one at Iowa State, you’ll get a feeling of excitement and anticipation. You’ll be able to see yourself here, there, and everywhere.

You’ll imagine what the first day of classes will be like. What the first night in the residence hall will feel like. You’ll expect surprising things. A four-year adventure.

Most importantly, you’ll feel welcome. 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.

It will be OK to feel a little nervous when you walk into your first class. Iowa State University 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.

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

➡

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Public high school counselors spend 23 percent of their time on college advising.

Information LOCATION: Ames PHONE (515) 294-5836 or (800) 262-3810 WEBSITE: www.admissions. iastate.edu EMAIL: admissions@iastate. edu.

admissions.iastate.edu

ONE INCREDIBLE ADVENTURE College is just the beginning. The first step on a journey to achieving your dreams. And nothing will prepare you like an education from Iowa State University. Learn from award-winning, nationally recognized professors. Perform hands-on research in some of the nation’s best labs. Try something completely new, like Skydiving Club or rock climbing, and change your perspective on the world. Spend a semester in Europe. Invent the next big thing. Meet your best friend.

Start a company. Find a cure.

And remember, this is just the beginning!

FILE PHOTO

ISU’s basketball team has plenty of student support, along with other team and intramural sports.

find 1,700 faculty members, 100 majors, 800 clubs, sports teams and more than 30,000 students who will play a role in your adventure.

Four 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 University.

And Iowa State University will always…always be a part of you.

If this sounds like a college adventure that fits you, visit Iowa State University. We’ll show you the campus, residence halls and what the university has to offer students just like you. We’ll talk about what you want and how we can help. If you need financial aid, we’ll help you with that too. Schedule your visit online at www.iastate.edu or call us at 800262-3810.

Enjoy your adventure at Iowa State University.

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Sunday, September 13, 2015

Allen College Occupational therapy program continues tradition of growth, adaptation The addition of an occupational therapy program beginning this fall will only serve to expand the identity and reach of Allen College, said Dr. Cindy Hahn.

Dr. Hahn is the program director and, along with two other faculty members, is eagerly awaiting the arrival of the first class of 14 students this month.

“The OT program will expand the educational opportunities at Allen College,” said Dr. Hahn. We want to make people aware of the increasing number of healthcare programs we offer that lead to careers and meet growing needs.”

The process

A workforce need for occupational therapy services in the state, particularly in rural areas, was recognized early, and the formation of Allen College’s new program has been several years in the making. Dr. Hahn and academic field work coordinator, Margo Kreger, have been on staff for a year developing the curriculum while Denise Dermody has recently come aboard to complete this year’s faculty team.

The accreditation process is still underway with the final review slated to begin in December. The program’s accreditation self-study will be reviewed and a site visit will be conducted by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education in the fall of 2016.

“We hope for full accreditation to be achieved approximately a year before the students are ready to graduate,” said Dr. Hahn.

The program

The master of science program will consist of 80 semester hours of credit and require 27 months of study, including six months of Level II Fieldwork in community settings. Once the program is accredited, graduating students will be eligible to sit for the

COURTESY PHOTO

Allen students can take advantage of the expanded occupational therapy program and many other programs.

Information LOCATION: Waterloo PHONE: (319) 226-2000 WEBSITE: www.allencollege. edu

national certification examination to become a registered occupational therapist.

St. Ambrose currently houses the only other occupational therapy program in the state of Iowa while Drake University is in the beginning stages of launching its program.

Occupational therapy differs from other programs offered

by Allen College by the holistic nature of the profession itself.

“We don’t just look at an arm that is not working. We look at how loss of function in that arm affects a person’s job or how they hold a baby or how they wash their dishes, and then we look at how that affects the person emotionally as well,” said Dr. Hahn.

“We figure out how it affects the things that they are used to doing and help them learn to adapt.”

The suites building, known as Alumni Hall across the street from

Allen College, is in the final phase of renovation to provide a working OT lab in a natural environment. Existing classrooms will be used for lectures and the community has already stepped forward with opportunities for field work.

“We have, probably, over 180 field work sites already – people are calling us to offer field work, which is wonderful,” said Dr. Hahn.

The future

Dr. Hahn hopes to add two additional faculty members next year and increase the enrollment each year to 24 new students.

Additional construction may also be a part of the future as the occupational therapy program plans to turn more of the housing suites building into lab space and possibly add more classrooms further along down the road.

“It’s a win-win for the community and the college together,” Dr. Hahn added. “The college is recognized for being very community focused. And, as a profession that is greatly involved in community-based practice, we’re able to develop a

program that complements the nursing and other health science programs Allen College already offers. The OT program expands the college’s ability to develop and educate a greater variety of

qualified practitioners to meet the growing healthcare needs of the community.”

More information about the new programs is available by calling (319) 226-2014.

Looking for Associate of Science in Radiography (ASR) Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHS)  Medical Laboratory Science  Nuclear Medicine Technology  Diagnostic Medical Sonography  Public Health  Dental Hygiene Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)  Traditional, Upper Division  Accelerated Option  RN-BSN Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy (MS in OT)

Direction

Look to Allen College

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)  Nurse Practitioner tracks in four areas  Nursing Education  Nursing Leadership  Community/Public Health Nursing Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Doctor of Education in Health Professions Education (EdD)

(319) 226-2014 or go online at allencollege.edu.

Sunday, September 13, 2015

Indian Hills Community College Unique programs, four-day academic week Indian Hills Community College is proud to have been changing the lives of its graduates for nearly five decades.

The college’s Main Campus, located in Ottumwa, has added many new buildings over the years. One is the Rural Health Education Center, a state-of-theart facility that houses over 20 health sciences programs including Dental Assisting, a program that started enrolling students two years ago.

The Dental Hygiene program, the newest addition to the health sciences’ offerings, began with general education classes this fall, with core classes in the program beginning in 2016.

Indian Hills has a North Campus at the Ottumwa airport where the college’s aviation programs and three other technical education programs are taught. IHCC is one of the few colleges in Iowa to offer aviation programs and was the first school in the state to utilize a full-motion flight simulator in its flight training program.

The rest of the nearly two dozen Indian Hills technical programs have their instruction on the Main Campus.

The IHCC campus in Centerville offers unique programs in construction management and sustainable agriculture/entrepreneurship. The agriculture-based program has benefited from a new greenhouse that was completed in 2014 and will be a model for food production, offering hands-on experiences and training for students.

Arts and sciences courses are designed for those who want to complete a two-year degree and then transfer to a four-year school. Many students take advantage of partnership agree-

Information LOCATION: Ottumwa PHONE: (641) 683-5153 or (800) 726-2585, ext. 5153 WEBSITE: www.ihcc.cc.ia.ua

ments that IHCC has with over 20 four-year colleges and universities, which allow for a seamless transfer of Indian Hills credits.

Indian Hills has a robust online learning program with more than 250 online courses offered in subjects related to the arts and sciences, advanced technologies and health sciences.

The Main Campus in Ottumwa has five residence halls with the traditional one- and two-person rooms as well as suites that can accommodate up to five students.

IHCC features a four-day academic week which has proven to be very popular with students who are balancing their college schedule with work or family commitments.

More than 80 percent of all Indian Hills students receive some form of financial assistance. The Financial Aid staff is committed to finding the most affordable way to get an education.

The college sponsors more than 40 clubs and organizations that provide opportunities for student involvement and leadership. Scholarships are available for members of those clubs and organizations. Intramural sports are also popular, as is participation in the college’s chorus, jazz band and theatrical productions.

Indian Hills boasts 11 athletic teams: men’s and women’s soccer, men’s and women’s cross country, volleyball, men’s basketball, golf, softball, baseball and the newest additions – men’s and women’s track and field.

To see all that Indian Hills has to offer, schedule a campus visit.

Arrange a campus tour by calling (641) 683-5153 or (800) 726-2585, ext. 5153.

COLLEGE GUIDE

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EXPLORE Indian Hills What day will you explore hills?

Thursday, September 24 Wednesday, October 7 - Ag Day Monday, October 12 Thursday, October 29 Thursday, November 19 Thursday, December 10 Thursday, January 28 Thursday, Feburary 18 Friday, March 18 Thursday, April 21 Thursday, May 5 Thursday, June 23 Thursday, July 21

www.indianhills.edu/explore

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Grand View University Learn to lead and achieve with valuable education Knowing when and where to transfer is a huge decision. It’s important to find a college and a degree program that fits you.

Perhaps you have many credits or have earned a degree from another college. Or maybe you’ve decided you want to pursue your education at one of Iowa’s exceptional private colleges.

Either way, you’re ready for an opportunity that will enhance your life and have a significant impact on your future. That opportunity is Grand View.

Opportunity to achieve

We offer bachelor’s degrees in 40 majors, including biology,

Hands-on experience

Among the things that make Grand View special is an emphasis on hands-on experiences that truly prepare you for your career.

With a population exceeding half a million people, Des Moines is Information the perfect place for internships LOCATION: Des Moines that can lead to jobs and create PHONE: (515) 263-2810 or your first career network. Grand (800)-444-6083 View has working relationships WEBSITE: www.admissions. with many major corporations grandview.edu and organizations in the metro area, including premier compabusiness, education, nursing, nies such as Meredith Corporagraphic design, human ser- tion, Principal Financial, and vices, criminal justice, psychol- Wells Fargo. ogy, computer science, social Learn to lead Life outside the classroom work, digital media produchelps you learn and grow as a tion, and more. Grand View is whole person. As a member home to 2,200 students, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1 of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and an average class size of 17. and the Heart of America Athletic We provide a quality education Conference (HAAC), we offer at an affordable price, awarding twenty-four sports for men and financial aid that brings the cost women. Through more than 40 for many students close to that of clubs, organizations, and service projects, leadership opportunia public university.

ties abound.

Educational value

High academic standards, personal attention, hands-on education, leadership opportunities and a true commitment to your success are important parts of the quality Grand View offers.

That translates into value. Grand View typically awards more than $36 million each year in financial assistance.

At Grand View, we know mak-

Sunday, September 13, 2015 ing a transition can be overwhelming. That’s why we keep our process simple and our transfer policies friendly. Our transfer admissions counselors are happy to help you complete an application and answer questions about the transfer process. They will also unofficially evaluate your transcripts, explain financial aid options, and provide one-on-one academic and career planning assistance.

Des Moines, Iowa

YOUR CAREER

CHART on a vibrant metropolitan campus, with the personal touch and the programs you need for success.

• Average class size of 17 • 40 majors • Financial aid to 99% of • Dynamic internships full-time students • Nearly 100% • National Championship job placement for athletic teams two decades • Personal attention • Affordable tuition

SCHEDULE A CAMPUS VISIT TODAY! COURTESY PHOTO

A group of students gather in front of the Charles S. Johnson Wellness Center, which houses the nursing and health and wellness departments, as well as offices, sports practice areas, workout facilities, 1/10 mile track, field house and Sisam Arena gymnasium.

Sign up online or give us a call! www.admissions.grandview.edu • 515-263-2810 • 800-444-6083

Sunday, September 13, 2015

COLLEGE GUIDE

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Kirkwood Community College Start here, go anywhere!

CEDAR RAPIDS­— With 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 — the choice is yours. See our array of programs at www.kirkwood. edu/programs.

Once you’re on campus, you’ll find state-of-the-art facilities no other college has. Just a few of the amazing resources that await you

Information LOCATION: Cedar Rapids PHONE: (800) 363-2220 WEBSITE: www.kirkwood.edu

include: ‌A 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 Healthcare Simulation Center that replicate real-life 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. Each simulation is reviewed, so students can hone their emergency responses. ‌A 600-acre working farm, where students actively participate in all aspects of crop and animal production. ‌ Jones Hall, the center of industrial technology at Kirkwood, has incredible features including a precision sheet metal fabrication area as well as indoor working labs for our Carpentry, HVAC and Plumbing programs. ‌ The Hotel at K irkwood Center, the largest and most comprehensive teaching hotel at a community college in the entire United States. Opened in 2010, the 71-room luxury hotel includes six suites, and is staffed by professional managers assisted by Kirkwood Hospitality Arts students.

But it’s our student services

that truly set us apart. Regardless if you’re the valedictorian or you need a little academic help, Kirkwood is there for you with a range of services and programs. We’ll take you to your next step with honors programs, study abroad, tutoring, student organizations, academic advis-

ing 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.

#BeAnEagle Kirkwood students gather on the steps at the community college.

COURTESY PHOTO

WWW.KIRKWOOD.EDU

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Sunday, September 13, 2015

Here’s how to understand college award letters After months of searching, filing applications for admission, financial aid and scholarships and waiting for responses, the time will come for college-bound students to see what financial aid colleges will offer and to make some decisions on where to go. As mail arrives, students will eagerly open it up and … blink in confusion.

Award letters come in many different formats, and financial aid packages are made up of different types of aid that don’t necessarily match up from school to school. Students and parents often have a hard time determining which school is offering the best financial aid package for them.

Experts at the Iowa College Access Network regularly help students straighten out the confusion without recommending any particular school. Students can call or visit one of the ICAN College Planning Centers and compare packages.

Consider all costs. Some award letters provide only the direct costs of tuition and room and board, while others include estimated amounts for transportation, books and supplies, required fees, and other indirect costs. Make sure you plan for all expenses, whether they’re listed in the letter or not, as you weigh your

options.

Compare gift aid to self-help aid. A higher percentage of gift aid (like scholarships) than self-help aid (like loans) probably means you’ll graduate with less debt to repay from that particular school. As you compare different schools, also think about what percentage of the overall cost is picked up by gift aid. ‌Keep timelines in mind.

After you’ve considered the offered financial aid packages, take these steps. ‌Follow directions. Read each letter to see what you need to do to accept or decline the package. Even if you haven’t decided which school to attend, you may need to sign and return your letter to reserve the financial aid package in case you decide to attend. ‌Accept only what you need. A letter may offer only “yes” or “no” checkboxes for a total loan amount, but you don’t need to accept the entire loan. Carefully read the Master Promissory Note enclosed with the offer. You don’t want to take on more debt than necessary, so if you can get by with less funding, accept only the amount you think you’ll need. ‌Stay in contact with the schools. If you are awarded additional scholarships or take on an additional job, notify the schools you’re considering as soon as possible. Each

Iowa Lakes Community College Not all careers follow traditional path Emily Blanchard’s path to Iowa Lakes wasn’t exactly a ‘straight’ road.

She took all her prerequisite credits at a college close to home and made plans to attend another surgical technology program.

Shortly before she was due to start there last fall, she found out the program was not accredited.

“Accreditation was a huge priority for me,” Blanchard said, “because it is a requirement to take the national certification exam.”

So, she began her search for a new program.

When she met with Iowa Lakes Surgical Technology program advisor, Dana Grafft, Blanchard got the direct answers she was looking for.

Grafft explained her expectations and the program requirements.

Blanchard saw the facilities — two new state-of-the-art surgical suites — and was impressed.

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Information LOCATION: Emmetsburg, Estherville, Algona, Spencer, Spirit Lake PHONE: (866) 425-2537 WEBSITE: www.iowalakes.edu

Finally, she learned that the program was not only accredited but that she could also take her national certification exam right on the Iowa Lakes campus, a real benefit for someone who expressed some test anxiety.

Blanchard plans to work as a surgical technologist while she completes her bachelor’s degree, and ultimately plans to enter a physician’s assistant program.

school will need to reevaluate your need and its financial aid package. You should also notify the school if your situation has changed for the worse; if your parent lost a job, for example, you might qualify for more aid. ‌Ask questions. Contact the financial aid office if you have any questions about the deadlines, direct or indirect costs of attendance, changes in your situation, or how to accept only part of a package.

YOUR FUTURE STARTS @ IOWA LAKES 1

Emily Blanchard

SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO

100+ areas of study to choose from.

2 Save $4,936 per year.*

3

Over $800,000 in scholarships available.

1-866-IA-LAKES WWW.IOWALAKES.EDU ALGONA • EMMETSBURG • ESTHERVILLE • SPENCER • SPIRIT LAKE *Compared to Iowa Public Colleges & Universities. Source: Iowa College Student Aid Commission.

For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website at www.iowalakes.edu.

Sunday, September 13, 2015

COLLEGE GUIDE

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Ellsworth College German trip was students’ experience of lifetime IOWA FALLS — Ellsworth Community College sophomores Laura Toben of Parkersburg and Colin Johnson of Eldora were busy cramming for the experience of a lifetime prior to their ECC graduation last May. They traveled for separate two-month agricultural work/study trips this spring in Germany. Toben and Johnson were recipients of the first-ever Todd Welden Memorial Scholarships awarded through the Ellsworth College Foundation, which financially supported their educational and cultural exchanges.

They traveled to and from Germany together, but Toben stayed at the Denis Pfaff farm in Oederan Gahlenz, while Johnson stayed with the family of ECC exchange student Johannes Ben Kockert in Wittichenau/Saxony, about an hour

Information LOCATION: Iowa Falls PHONE: (800) 322-9235 WEBSITE: www.EllsworthCollege.com

away.

The students also visited agricultural schools and attended meetings in Dresden and Berlin with Dr. Peter Jahr, a representative of the Parliament of Saxony and the European Union, who introduced them to other European dignitaries.

“The opportunity that Ellsworth provided me to travel abroad was amazing,” says Toben.

Johnson, who had never flown in an airplane, echoed Toben’s enthusiasm.

“It was a life-changing opportunity!”

ECC social science faculty member Joerg Rochlitzer, a native of Germany, has been involved for several years in

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Laura Toben of Parkersburg, left, and Colin Johnson of Eldora, right, are shown with ECC faculty member Joerg Rochlitzer, a German native who coached the students prior to their study trip abroad. bringing Jahr to Iowa Falls and the ECC campus, where he has visited and lectured with local and state officials. Their efforts have resulted in educational exchange opportunities for German and ECC students, which have now have expanded thanks to the scholarship gift

from the Welden family.

Spring 2015 marked the fourth year that one or more ECC students traveled to Germany.

For more details on international travel and work/study abroad, check out Ellsworth Community College.

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Sunday, September 13, 2015

Iowa Student Loans offers financial tools, resources and advice to college students Iowa Student Loan is a nonprofit that has been helping Iowans make smart financial college decisions for more than 30 years.

We offer a variety of free educational tools and resources that help students and parents make responsible borrowing decisions before, during and after college. These tools and resources also are used to educate registrants in Iowa Student Loan’s giveaway programs: the Save Now, Save Later: College Savings Plan Parent Giveaway and the Iowa Financial Know-How Challenge: Senior Scholarship program for high school seniors.

Registration for the Save Now, Save Later program is currently open through Nov. 30. Parents can enter for a chance to win one of 30 $1,500 deposits to a College Savings Iowa account. The senior scholarship registration opens Nov. 2. High school seniors can enter for a chance to win one of 30 $2,000 scholarships. Both programs are open to Iowa residents.

Registration is available free online at www.

IowaStudentLoan.org.

Parents and students can find Iowa Student Loan

on Facebook, or visit the Student Loan Coach blog at www.StudentLoanCoach.info for more great articles and tips about planning, preparing and paying for college. Iowa Student Loan’s financial literacy and college planning tools and resources can be found online at www.IowaStudentLoan.org.

Student Loan Game Plan

Student Loan Game Plan is an innovative online resource that educates borrowers on ways to reduce the amount they borrow for college. Student Loan Game Plan is intended to help reduce student debt by educating students about responsible borrowing decisions and providing customized action plans.

Users see actual starting salaries of graduates from their major and compare projected borrowing to recommended student loan limits. Student Loan Game Plan also offers stories from actual borrowers, descriptions of potential problems caused by overborrowing, strategies to reduce the need for student loans and more.

COURTESY PHOTO

measure whether their investment of time, money and effort into a college degree allows them to meet their personal financial goals. By using ROCI Reality Check, users can select a major that offers a clear career track and identify jobs that pay well enough to cover expenses and debts; focus on a job that is proROCI Reality Check jected to have openings by the time they graduate; ROCI Reality Check is all about the return on a col- and gain the skills they need to set themselves apart lege investment. The tool is designed to help users from other candidates for the job they want.

Enter to win one of 30

$1,500 savings plan deposits

Thirty Iowa families will receive a $1,500 savings boost through the Iowa Student Loan Save Now, Save Later: College Savings Plan Parent Giveaway. $ $

If you are an Iowa resident and a parent or legal guardian of an Iowa high school student, visit www.IowaStudentLoan.org/SaveNow2015 to find out how to enter to win one of 30 deposits into a College Savings Iowa® account and learn valuable financial aid information to help your student succeed.

www.IowaStudentLoan.org/SaveNow2015 Facebook.com/IowaStudentLoan

www.IowaStudentLoan.org/blog

All About Your Success

Sunday, September 13, 2015

Dakota State University

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COLLEGE GUIDE

Fun fact

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High school counselors spend 23 percent of their time on college advising.

Media, B.S. Exercise Science, B.S. General Studies, B.G.S. Health Information Administrat B.S. Network and Security Administration, B.S. Physical Science, B.S. espiratory Care, B.S. Biology, B.S.E. Business Education, B.S.E. Computer Ed y Education, B.S.E. English, B.S.E. Mathematics Education, B.S.E. Physical Ed Science in Information Systems (D.Sc. IS) Masters of Business Administration (MBA) Masters of Science in Analytics (MSA) Educational Technology (MSET) Masters of Science in Health Informatics MADISON, S.D. — At Dakota State University, we LOCATION: Madison, S.D. infuse technology into all that we do.

(MSIA) Masters of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) General Studies, A.A. Business Management PHONE: 888-378-9988 At DSU, we inspire students to build their , A.S. Respiratory Care, A.S. Accounting, B.B.A. Business Technology WEBSITE: dsu.edu Apply to strengths, insights and skills in IT, digital arts and eting, B.B.A. Biology for Information Systems, B.S. Computer Game Design, B.S. Computer Science, B.S Dakota State University design, science, math, English, healthcare, education Digital Arts and Design in Computer Graphics, B.S. Digital Arts and Design and business to become the creators, and not just the nized by the National Security Agency as a Center Digital Arts and Design in Web Design and Production, B.S. English for New Med today to of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations with consumers, of our collective digital future.

Administration, B.S. Information Systems, B.S. Mathematics for Information enhance your future!

With a placement success rate of 95-percent for graduates going on to work with the National Secu- rofessional Accountancy, B.S. Professional and Technical Communication rity Agency, Navy Space and Naval Warfare System all graduates in 2014, and with 100-percent place, B.S.E. Computer Education, B.S.E. Elementary Education / Special Education, B.S.E. Elemen ment in many programs such as health information Command along with banks, hospitals and securityEducation, B.S.E. Doctor of Science in Information Systems (D.Sc. IS) Masters administration, respiratory care, network and sys- firms all over the nation.

Masters of Science in Applied Computer Science (MSACS) Masters of Science in the Masters of Science in Information Assurance (MSIA) Masters of Science in tem administration, information systems, biology, ‌We have students completing research work at (MSHI) nation’s top physics labs and with the EPA. elementary education and special education the Management, A.S. Health Information Technology, A.S. Network and System Administration opportunities with a DSU degree are immense. DSU’s ‌Our education grads go on to teach elementary inance, B.B.A. Management, B.B.A. Marketing, B.B.A. Biology for Information technology-infused degrees give you the platform to and high school students with the latest technology Cyber Operations, B.S. Digital Arts and Design in Audio Production, B.S. Digital Ar in education. immerse yourself into today’s hottest careers. ytelling, B.S. Digital Arts and Design in Production Animation, B.S. Digital Ar go onto Our technology infusion goes beyond computer ‌A wide-variety of our graduates Media, B.S. the Exercise Science, B.S. General Studies, B.G.S. Health Information Administrat science and cyber security, it is involved in every healthcare and wellness industry, including respiraB.S. Network and Security Administration, B.S. Physical Science, B.S. major from audio production to elementary educa- tory care, health information management, exercise espiratory Care, B.S. Biology, B.S.E. Business Education, B.S.E. Computer Ed science and biology for information systems. tion, biology and beyond. y Education, B.S.E. English, B.S.E. Mathematics Education, B.S.E. Physical Ed At in DSU, we want Systems to enhance yourIS)future with of a Business Administration (MBA) Masters of Science in Analytics (MSA) Here are few examples of what our students and Science Information (D.Sc. Masters choice of over 40 degrees that are infused with tech-Educational Dakota State University(MSET) | Madison, SouthofDakota | 888-378-9988 graduates accomplish: Technology Masters Science in Health Informatics ‌DSU has the only undergraduate degree recog- nology.

(MSIA) Masters of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) General Studies, A.A. Business Management

Degree enhances your future

Information

42 majors enhanced with technology

dsu.edu/apply

TECHNICALLY, WE’RE BETTER.

2015 Fall College Guide ❑ Allen College

Barrett Forum • 1825 Logan Ave. • Waterloo, IA 50703 Admission: 319-226-2014 Website: www.allencollege.edu

❑ Central College

812 University St. • Pella, IA 50219 Admission: 877-462-3687 Website: www.central.edu

Emmetsburg, Estherville, Algona, Spencer, Spirit Lake Admission: 866-IA-LAKES Website: www.iowalakes.edu

❑ Iowa State University

❑ Dakota State University

820 N. Washington Ave., Madison, SD 57042 Admission: 888-DSU-9988 Website: www.dsu.edu

❑ Ellsworth Community College 1100 College Ave. • Iowa Falls, IA 50126 Admission: 641-648-4611 or 800-322-9235 Website: www.ECCAdmissions.com

❑ Grand View University

1200 Grandview Ave. • Des Moines, IA 50316 Admission: 800-444-6083 or 515-263-2810 Website: www.admissions.grandview.edu

❑ Hawkeye Community 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 Ia 52501 641-683-5153 www.indianhills.edu

❑ Iowa Lakes Community College

Ames, Iowa 50011 515 294-5836 iastate.edu

❑ Iowa Student Loan

6775 Vista Dr. West Des Moines, IA 50266 (855) 811-9849 www.iowastudentloan.org

❑ Kaplan University

7009 Nordic Drive • Cedar Falls, IA 50613 Admissions: 319-277-0220 Website: www.cedarfalls.kaplanuniversity.edu

❑ Kirkwood

6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW Cedar Rapids, IA 52404 319-398-5517 www.kirkwood.edu

❑ La’ James International College

6322 University Avenue, Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613 888-880-2104 press 1 for Admissions www.ljic.edu

To request more information, check the desired box (es) and mail form or go online to www.wcfcourier.com

❑ Northeast Iowa Area Community College

❑ Upper Iowa University Waterloo Center

1625 Hwy. 150 South • Calmar, IA 52132 8342 NICC Drive.• Peosta, IA 52068 Admission: (Calmar) 800-728-2256 Admission: (Peosta) 800-728-7367 Website: www.nicc.edu

3563 University Ave. • Waterloo, IA 50701 Admission: 319-232-6980 Website: www.uiu.edu/waterloo

❑ University of Northern Iowa 002 Gilchrist Hall • Cedar Falls, IA 50614 Admission: 319-273-2281 Website: www.uni.edu

❑ University of Northern Iowa US Army ROTC West Gymnasium, Room 209 319-273-6225 www.uni.edu/rotc

❑ University of Iowa

107 Calvin Hall • Iowa City, IA 52242 Admission: 319-335-3847 Website: admissions.uiowa.edu

Guide to Getting into College Fall 2015

❑ Upper Iowa University Cedar Rapids 700 Bell Dr. • Cedar Rapids, IA 52142 Admission: 319-848-8488 Website: www.uiu.edu/standout

❑ Upper Iowa University Fayette Campus

September, 13, 2015

605 Washington Street, PO Box 1857 • Fayette, IA Admission: 800-553-4150 Website: www.uiu.edu/standout

Name: City: High School: Attn: SheilA KernS • P.O. Box 540 Waterloo, IA 50704 | sheila.kerns@wcfcourier.com Phone Number:

Address: State: Zip Code: Year of Graduation: Email:

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Sunday, September 13, 2015

Northeast Iowa Community College Take lead for your future CALMAR — Everyone who understands a budget tends to look for a better value in return for their investment.

As one of the most affordable options in the Calmar area, Northeast Iowa Community College delivers on other key factors that influence thousands of money-savvy community members who invest in their college education by enrolling at NICC. In 2013 and within six months of graduation, 94 percent of NICC graduates were employed or continuing their education. And the college supports our students’ goals and backs it up: From 2014-2015, the 79 percent of students eligible for financial aid received $19.6 million in assistance!

The affordability of earning a degree at NICC makes an impact on a student’s college selection, as it did for Thea Meyer, a May 2015 Waukon High School graduate. Meyer decided to pursue an associate of arts degree with an emphasis in education at NICC after complet-

Information LOCATION: Calmar and Peosta PHONE: (563) 562-3263, Calmar; (563) 555-5110, Peosta WEBSITE: www.nicc.edu/ collegeprograms

ing 36 general education, social science and communications college credits while still in high school.

By enrolling in the concurrent enrollment program through NICC, Meyer saved money on the cost of tuition and knows her career path is off to a great start in a comfortable college setting.

“I really like the small community college environment, and there is more one-on-one interaction with instructors at NICC,” said Meyer, who originally planned to immediately transfer to Upper Iowa University (UIU) after graduating from high school, but decided to finish her associate’s degree coursework at NICC. Other recent NICC graduates, such as Jacob Schafbuch of Victor, completed a

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Get the attention you deserve at Northeast Iowa Community College with an average student to faculty ratio of 16 to 1. career and technical degree at NICC to enter the workforce after graduation.

“The Beef Science program offers you a great experience to get away from home, see new things and meet new people. At some point, classroom learning can only

take me so far; the program offered many hands-on lessons and trips off campus,” Schafbuch said.

For more information on the more than 85 programs available at NICC, visit www.nicc.edu/academics.

It’s your future. Take the Lead.

Northeast Iowa Community College is the smart choice to start your education and career training.

Be Social.

/neiowacc

Where will your degree take YOU. • Transfer your degree to a four-year college or university.

• Earn your degree and start your career.

TAKE THE LEAD. APPLY TODAY. www.nicc.edu/apply

CALMAR 563.562.3263 • PEOSTA 563.556.5110

Our Graduates are in Demand!

94% of our graduates are employed or continuing their education six months after graduation.

Sunday, September 13, 2015

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COLLEGE GUIDE

La’James International College Educating successful salon, spa professionals La’ James International College has been educating for over 75 years and has eight accredited locations in Cedar Falls, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Davenport, Des Moines (Johnston), Fort Dodge, East Moline, Ill., and Fremont, Neb. Students learn in dynamic facilities complete with elite spas. 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 in cosmetology, massage therapy, esthetics and nail technology.

What sets us apart? LJIC has several distinctively different opportunities available to students including 3- Day Online Education, Health and Beauty Management Degree, professional

Information Locations: Cedar Falls, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Davenport, Des Moines (Johnston), Fort Dodge, East Moline, Ill., and Fremont, Neb. Phone: (888) 880-2104 Website: www.lajamesinternational.com.

equipment, training from top educators, and free lifetime continuing education.

Our lavishly furnished Tuscan inspired Iowa Day Spa’s consists of private treatment rooms under a fiber optic star field that prepares our students for any direction they would like to go in the spa/beauty industry upon graduation. LJIC students also have the opportunity to take annual trips to New York and Chicago for advanced education as well as advanced education and certification on campus with Satin Smooth, Sebastian, Wella, Rusk, Repechage and CND.

J L IC

Massage is just one of the many spa classes offered at La’James’ locations.

LJIC is the first and only in Iowa to have a fully accredited 3-Day Online Education program for cosmetology. This program will allow students to begin their Cosmetology theory training online simultaneously while attending 3 days at

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the college in practical training of cosmetology.

On behalf of the staff and stud e n ts a t LJ I C ; we we l co m e yo u to b e co m e a pa r t o f o u r fa m i ly and be Distinctively Different at LJIC.

Be Distinct Be Differentt Be YOU! Cosmetology • Massage Therapy Esthetics • Nail Technology

La’ James International College

Call Today!

888.880.2108 Visit us at www.ljic.edu

Cedarr F Falls | Cedar Rapids | Davenport | Des Moines | Fort Dodge | Iowa City | East Moline, IL | Fremont, NE

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Central College PELLA — Founded in 1853, Central College focuses on educating undergraduate students. An education here puts you front and center and helps you to excel, whether you’re partnering with professors on research, starting a business or preparing for medical school. ‌Central’s 73 academic programs include pre-professional tracks. ‌76 percent of students complete internships, either as part of programs in Chicago, New York or Washington, D.C., or at hundreds of sites around the world. ‌Engineering, the college’s newest major, offers a bachelor of science degree in four years with time for study abroad, activities and a comprehensive liberal arts education.

Learn. With an average class size of 18 students, you’ll have the chance to interact closely with professors and classmates.

Go. Looking to gain a global perspective?

Information LOCATION: Pella PHONE: (641) 638-9000 WEBSITE: www.central.edu

Among Central students, 55 percent have an international experience. Choose from programs around the world and still graduate in four years or less. In addition to semesterlong experiences, there are numerous summer programs abroad and opportunities through classes.

Play. Whether you’re playing a sport, a role in a theater production or an instrument, at Central you will find your niche. More than 100 student organizations include everything from the Rugby Club to Student Senate, and among the 18 musical ensembles is the unique Flying Pans Steel Drum Band. Central’s 19 sports programs have won 11 national NCAA Division III team championships.

Connect. Form the relationships that last a lifetime. From the best friend you meet at

Central graduates are ready to take the next step in their careers. orientation to the alumni contacts you create through internships, professors and job shadowing, the people you connect with at Central will support you as you enter the job search or take your next steps academically.

Achieve. Central College sets you up for success. Among our graduates, 92 percent

GET CONNECTED

CENTRAL COLLEGE

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complete their degree in four years or less.

Central’s commitment to affordability, combined with the fact 99 percent of students receive financial aid, means you’ll start your future with the edge you need to achieve your dreams.

Visit www.central.edu.

“

I’m grateful to Central alumni who helped me land an internship at Aegon overseas.

This experience opened my eyes to the ease and great reward of networking — a 20-minute conversation turned into an opportunity of a lifetime.

“

Education puts you front and center to do more

Stormi Peterson ’15, Accounting Exira, Iowa

PELLA, IOWA www.central.edu

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COLLEGE GUIDE

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University of Northern Iowa We’re the right fit “It’s the right fit.” That’s how students describe the University of Northern Iowa.

Our right-size campus (around 12,000 students), right-size classes (23 students on average) and right faculty-student ratio (16:1) are just a few reasons to get excited about becoming a Panther.

The right fit also means keeping more money in your pocket. UNI is one of the most affordable four-year institution in the state for Iowa residents. And because of the more than $19 million we offer in financial aid each year, UNI students owe less money when they graduate than students who graduate from any four-year public institution in the state. Our low tuition, fees and housing costs consistently earn UNI a spot on the Best Values in Public Colleges list published by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine.

Let’s also remember the reason you’re going to college: to get an education.

UNI has more than 160 majors, areas of emphasis and pre-professional programs

Information LOCATION: Cedar Falls PHONE: (800) 772-2037 WEBSITE: www.uni.edu

to fit any interest. (We’re especially well known for our outstanding programs in accounting, education, speech pathology and athletic training). You don’t have to declare a major right away, so if you’re not sure what you want to study, our experienced advisers can help you find your passion.

Speaking of academics, and your future, 97 percent of our 2013-14 UNI graduates are employed or attending grad school within six months of receiving their degree. Employers know UNI students are well prepared because of the internship, study abroad, research and leadership opportunities that are readily available.

In addition to these out-of-class activities, UNI has more than 300 student clubs

TC the UNI Panther huddles with the stand-out basketball squad. and organizations where you can become a leader, explore and develop new interests, and make new friends, all at the same time. Our most popular clubs and activities focus on leadership (student government), community service (Dance Marathon), academics (honor societies),

athletics (intramurals) and just plain fun (all 300-plus).

If finding the right university fit tops your must-have list, register for one of our upcoming Panther Open Houses at uni.edu/admissions/visit. We’ll see you soon!

START ReAching higheR. Start growing.

START CHALLENGING YOUR STRENGTHS.

START puShing youR limiTS.

START SHAPING YOUR FUTURE.

START mAKing A DiFFeRence.

START BUILDING CONFIDENCE.

START STRong.

Sm

There’s strong. Then there’s Army Strong. Enroll in Army ROTC at University of Northern Iowa to complement your education with the training, experience and skills needed to make you a leader. Army ROTC also offers full-tuition scholarships and a monthly stipend to help pay for your education. And when you graduate, you will have an edge in life as an Army Officer.

For more information on the University of Northern Iowa Army ROTC program, visit goarmy.com/rotc/uni15 or contact: Mr. Jonathan Thompson at jon.thompson@uni.edu or 319-273-6225.

Like us on Facebook @ UNI ROTC Follow us on Twitter @ UNIROTC ©2008. paid for by the united States Army. All rights reserved.

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Sunday, September 13, 2015

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR PANTHER OPEN HOUSES! • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

The best way to see if UNI is right for YOU is to meet us in person. Schedule an individual visit or sign up to attend a Panther Open House. See and experience firsthand how our small university delivers big results.

To learn more, visit www.uni.edu/admissions/visit

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