Guide to Getting into College by Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier

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• A college education opens doors to opportunities. • It teaches you critical thinking skills and helps develop your potential. • A college degree can boost your earnings and steer you into an exciting career or a technical ﬁeld ﬁlled with the promise of innovation and endless possibilities.

• Going to college is a bright idea!

Selecestiarevigettyting more selective. The number

Colleg ording to college experts, of applicants is rising, acc e of your choice is more and getting into the colleg competitive than ever. encouraged to consider Students and parents are ing community colleges, a range of options, includ leges and schools with small public or private col h as business. suc specific study disciplines admissions,” accepting en “op are es leg col Some first-serve basis. Other students on a first-come, and admit only a small colleges are very selective year. Most colleges h number of applicants eac en. we are in bet r? What do colleges conside se factor in for the s say ard Bo e The Colleg no agreement about admissions, but there is the most weight. The which factors are given most emphasis: high school record gets the ■ Courses taken ommendations ■ Counselor/teacher rec ■ Ethnicity ■ Grades and essays ■ Application questions ■ Geographic location ■ Grade point average ■ Personal interview ■ Alumni relationship ■ Rank in class classroom ■ Activities outside the to lied app e ■ Major/colleg s ult res t tes on ■ Admissi lls ■ Special talents and ski ivities important? act lar Are extracurricu see if a student has to m the at Schools look tment to one or two shown a long-term commi activities. Source: College Board

Application tips 1. Know what to do. Read and understand the materials and steps involved in the admission application. 2. Give yourself time. Remember, colleges are using this information to decide whether they should admit you. Don’t leave it until the last minute. 3. Give others plenty of time. Ask for letters of recommendation well before they’re needed. Ask as early as the beginning of your senior year. You’ll also need the letters to prepare scholarship applications. 4. Do it all. Answer every question and fill in every blank. If an item doesn’t apply to you, write “not applicable” or “n/a.” 5. Do it all well. You should proofread your application yourself and have at least one other person look it over as well. This step is very important because typos and sloppy handwriting will be noticed by admission counselors. 6. Stand up for yourself. This is your chance to show off your skills and point out the things that make you the best person you can be. 7. Be on time. Although many schools don’t have specific admission deadlines, don’t make any assumptions. You’ll regret missing the cutoff date because you aren’t aware of it. Check out types of deadlines. 8. Follow up. Allow three to four weeks for the school to receive and review your mailed application. If you haven’t heard anything by then, contact the college to make sure they received everything. For online and e-mailed applications, you should get a confirmation receipt within 24 hours.

Size matters Si

ze will impact yo experiences, includi ur opportunities and ng ■ Academic majors : offered ■ Extracurricular possibilities ■ Student-to-instru ct personal attention or ratio (how much will you get?) ■ How large is the ca ■ How extensive is mpus? th ■ How many dorm e library? s and how many st dents live on campu us? ■ Campus organiza tio Look beyond the ra ns w enrolled at the co number of students llege. Investigate ho accessible faculty m embers are to stud w ents, not just the numbe r of faculty and staf f.

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How do y ou

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The best college essays courses n behind the academic Some st unique about the perso s. These personal statements ud tie ivi act O lar cu t rri hers do ents prefer ou cu tra and ex inary achieveord tra ex or ics top e an consciou well attemptin tlines and not might cover mund ec sn g events. g gin an -ch life or es la ess ter. All s ess narrative t an initial strea ards. these ments, daily str ing low fol , t h m of can u u a d yo t ay e nts shou t tiple tim Write the best college ess rsities: ld revise hey will revis e s a n e ive d the s and adu tips from colleges and un ’t about what you’ve done lts, not hare them with ir essays mulisn ay to be re to be su trusted . 1. A college ess b -w wing them who you are tone, co jected to const ritten by thempeers — instead, it’s about sho ite in first-person and keep nte ructive l. Wr criticism , but Think fi nt and form. 2. Make it persona is isn’t a book report, “How as to r s t a b ou and wh your focus narrow. 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The sty is essential. sands of essays filled wi you the ing a con closer yo more you can Percliches. reveal n u will e ask l c y’l tion with nts a resume, the your coll be to establish 5. If the college wa on ati orm ege audie ay with inf nce. for it. Don’t pad your ess . ion contained in the applicat vel. Be succinct no a t no ay, ess an or 6. It’s UNIVERSITY OF IOWA PHOTO trusted family member a t Le . and edit, edit, edit. ism tic cri ve cti tru ns co er off d an ay friend read the ess cal errors. os, spelling or grammati 7. Proofread for typ ed your lanks, polishssible to b e th in d You’ve fille ve done everything po te. One of the best ways to ida ha essays and rself as a worthy cand scores, measure a school’s qualst u o te y aluate present ity and satisfaction of its ut they colleges ev And sure, d academic record, b wellstudents is to learn the t n n a a class rank for more. They w decrease a student’s percent of students who g are lookin dents. lar aid. return after the first u ic rr u u c a st tr d our ex rounde y r , e e d c ■ Be frank about what you can afford ■ Make plans to visit year and the percent of si n e n o ri c pe They also olunteer ex p a case v d n entering students who to pay toward your teenager’s college campuses they’re intera rk o lo activities, w wards. So don’t deve ard and ested in attending. remain to graduate. education. h a d rk honors an — get involved, wo ollege of ■ Discuss options for paying for col- ■ Make sure they’re Comparitively good c s ti e ri th t into of senio e g to retention and gradulege: you’ll pay, you’ll pay a portion keeping track of deads e d ra make the g ation rates are indiand they’ll pay the rest; they’ll get lines, documentations . your choice cators that respona job and save their portion; what required for application, sible academic, can be expected from financial aid etc. ■ Help your student deal social and financial sources, etc. support sysHigh performance in the class- with rejection. Sometimes tems exist room generally translates into a a college has more applicants for most higher percentage of grants and than it has space and staff to students. merit scholarships and a lower accommodate. ■ Talk to your student about the percentage of loans. ■ What are your expectations of possibility of attending a two-year the student, anything from grade college closer to home, then transpoint expectations to graduate ferring to another college for the remaining years. school. ■ Get over the guilt if you can’t ■ Talk about housing options. 1 Include one or two colleges where you’re (almost) positive afford the full ride. Teenagers may ■ Is there an orientation session you can get in (90-100 percent chance), places where you can get a good education, value more what they have to pay for students? Is there a fee? but perhaps not necessarily a good match. These are your back-up choices. ■ Is there a housing or tuition for. Be careful if your family stands deposit that needs to be made? Is it 2 List several colleges that fit your academic and social goals, a chance of qualifying for financial refundable? and that you have at least a 75-percent change of getting in. aid. Under the federal aid formu- ■ Have your student contact their 3 Add in one or two colleges that offer a challenge. You may la, earning more than $3,249 will new roommate. not get in, but it’s worth the effort to fill out the application.

get there ?

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Tips for parents

Three tips for deciding which colleges should hear from you

Measuring up

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Antidotes to college anxiety Feeling the stress? Parents breathing down your neck to “pick one already”? Relax and reduce the stress with these antidotes. 1. 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. 2. Don’t fret about picking the wrong school. If you ﬁnd it doesn’t suit you, you can always transfer. 3. 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. 4. You need only two good extracurricular activities.

Colleges want to see you follow your dreams and your passions, not show off how many clubs you joined. Pick two things you really like, and give them the time they deserve. 5. Freaked out by the SAT? Take the ACT. The other college entrance test, based in Iowa City and popular in the Midwest, is accepted by nearly all the same colleges and has one advantage for nervous test-takers. If you don’t like your score on an ACT test, you don’t have to show it to colleges. The SAT rule is that if you send any score to a college, you have to send them all. Most colleges promise to count only your best scores, but that rule makes some students uncomfortable. 6. Still bothered by those tests? Apply to a college that doesn’t require them. At Wake Forest, prospective freshmen can stop sweating over SAT and ACT scores. The school will no longer require them. The National Center for Fair and Open Testing (FairTest) has a list of hundreds of colleges and universities where the SAT or ACT is optional.

7. Have fun with your essay. A little humor, particularly if it is self-deprecating, often works. Don’t overdo it, and keep it light. Something like: “As I stepped to the plate, my teammates said they were praying the pitcher would hit me with the ball. There was no other way, they said, that I could get on base.” Or: “I began to read the poem that I thought was so like e.e. cummings, but I could tell my teacher thought I had copied it off a cereal box.” 8. Get off the resumebuilding treadmill and do something normal. High school students who feel every vacation must be academically significant should try an ordinary job instead, and maybe even have fun. A summer job might even help some applications. 9. Look for a place that fits you. Remember that many colleges can meet your needs. There is no perfect college for any given field or student. Look for options.

Competing for college acceptance HACKENSACK, N.J. — This year was the most competitive yet for college admissions as the sheer number of students — it’s the nation’s largest high school graduating class ever — made getting into colleges tougher for students. The most competitive schools announced their lowest acceptance rates ever — less than 10 percent of applicants to Princeton got in. And the crunch trickled down, reaching big state universities and small private schools, while ﬂooding community colleges with students, too. Panicked students hedged their bets by applying to more schools than ever in the hope of improving their odds.

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The average college-bound senior now applies to ﬁve to seven colleges, and upward of 32 percent send applications to seven or more schools, according to statistics compiled by the Kaplan Test Prep Co. Some students applied to as many as 15 schools, according to local guidance counselors. One admissions ofﬁcial said he recently spoke with a student who applied to 23 schools. On top of the “fear factor,” students are applying to more schools because it’s easier than it once was to do so. Many schools, mostly private, accept something called the Common Application, which can be sent to multiple schools with a few keystrokes. Regardless of ease,

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the practice of applying to many schools is unlikely to end. But overall it is harder and more competitive getting into a college of choice. Students with top-notch SAT scores, near-perfect averages and varsity sports records are often rejected from their ﬁrst choices. More students wind up on waiting lists, but those lists are more ﬂuid than in the past because so many students apply to so many more places. Experts say the waiting list is no longer a dead end. “For students, the big take-away is: If you do get on the wait list, it’s not a rejection,” said Kristen Campbell, direct of testing for Kaplan. Source: McClatchy Newspapers

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Remember: It is your character, not the name of your college, that is likely to bring success.

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Visiting colleges takes time and money Use your computer to take virtual tours and view videos about campus life at potential colleges and universities. With one click, you’ll be able to ﬁnd information and perspectives on campuses that will help narrow your search. Or cruise the U.S. News & World Web site, www.usnews.com, for their Student Center and College Click TV. You’ll save money and can use those resources to plan visits to colleges that have the programs and possibilities that will help you succeed. Here are a few tips to make your college visit count: 1. Review a college’s Web site before the visit. Write down any questions you might want answered on the tour. 2. See schools farther from home ﬁrst if you won’t be able to visit later in the year, or start close to home and schedule visits farther from home during senior fall. Know where you’ll stay overnight. Colleges usually have suggestions for local accommodations. Dress appropriately to show you take the college visit seriously. 3. Develop a timetable to be

College visit 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 facilities like a library, athletic center and health

prompt for tours or appointments. Don’t be surprised if you have to wait a few minutes to meet a counselor or tour guide. Use this opportunity to scan materials about the campus you’ll likely ﬁnd in the waiting area. Browse the student newspaper, if available. 4. Be observant. Check out the facilities, but also watch how students interact with each other and faculty members.

center for my needs? ■ 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? ■ Are there adequate computer labs? Are there computers in the residence hall or are the rooms equipped for 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?

5. Campus tours are often lead by students. Don’t be shy about asking questions like, “Why did you choose this college? What clubs or organizations do you belong to? What’s your major? How big are the classes?” If the tour includes lunch in the dining hall, ask other students the same questions. 6. Look around. Does the campus have a good vibe? Does it

feel like a place you would feel comfortable? 7. Check out the library, student activity center or student union, ﬁtness facilities and the university bookstore. 8. Make time to see the surrounding community. What does it offer for college students? Does it seem welcoming to the college community? Are there movie theaters, restaurants and part-time employment opportunities at businesses?

9. 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. 10. Take photos of the campus and write down at least one impression of each area you visit. Later you can compare campuses and see which one is a better ﬁt.

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Ask your school counselor

Make an appointment. Letting the counselor know ahead of time what you want to discuss means the appropriate information and materials are available. An appointment also is less likely to be interrupted. Act early. As soon as you have a good idea of what you plan to do after high school, meet with your counselor to make sure you’re taking the right courses. If you’re planning to attend college, your counselor can steer you to the classes universities require for admittance. They may be able to help you take Advanced Placement or dual-enrollment classes that will let you earn college credit. If you’re thinking about a technical or community college education, you can get information on those options from your counselor as well. Create a resume. You may not think a resume is necessary until it’s time to apply for a job or college, but such a list of accomplishments, community service, involvement in school or civic groups and other endeavors will let your counselor know what you’re interested in. When a scholarship or award opportunity crosses the guidance desk, your counselor is much more likely to nominate or alert you if they know you’re a good candidate. Allow plenty of time. If you need your counselor to write a letter of recommendation or ﬁll out an application, plan to give them at least two weeks. This allows them time to think about you and how to best represent you. Get involved. Counselors say that you should actively participate in planning your academic and professional careers to get the most out of high school and beyond. Source: Iowa College Access Network

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Getting minor help with major decisions By AMIE STEFFEN College Guide Staff Writer

Naiya Khushalani knew she wanted to be an economics major upon her arrival to Wartburg College. In fact, she had known she wanted to learn economics since high school. What she wasn’t prepared for was a surprising interest in something else as well. “I kind of knew where I wanted to go and what I wanted to do,” Khushalani said. “But some courses kind of pushed me toward carrying a double major — business.” Now a junior and still doublemajoring in economics and business, Khushalani is glad she got the opportunity to take courses outside of her ﬁeld. That insight comes in handy at Pathways Center on Wartburg’s campus in Waverly, where Khushalani now works as one of 17 “peers,” helping students who come in with questions about all aspects of campus life. A common concern is deciding what subject to major in, said Pathways Center director Vicki Edelnant, and that has a lot to do

Focus If you know what you want to study, research reputations of academic departments by talking to people in ﬁelds that interest you. If you’re undecided, relax and pick an academically balanced institution that offers a range of majors and programs.

with what the student considers most interesting, even though they might not see the job possibilities right away. “(Students) might say, ‘I love my history classes but I don’t know what I can do with a history major,’” Edelnant said. “They want to be sure their major is practical. One of our great joys is to help them see that any major can be practical.” Some students come in thinking if they choose the wrong major, employers will looks the other way, said Shirlee Krouch, director of admissions at AIB College of Business in Des Moines. But that’s not always true. “Part of that fear comes from

a misnomer that if you get the exact right degree you can get the exact right job,” she said. “If you’re going to be a surgeon, yes, you need to have a medical background. But you can be an accounting major and be the head of a department, or working in IT (information technology).” At AIB, students pretty much need to decide on a major right away so their courses can be planned. At other colleges, especially traditional four-year institutions, students should choose a major by the second year. For those who really are stumped, experts recommend talking with a counselor or other admissions personnel, taking personality surveys or, if they can, take an elective course or two to ﬁnd out what their interests are. “What are they really interested in — not what my mom and dad want me to be interested in, not what my friends are interested in,” Krouch cautioned.

Khushalani, the Wartburg student, said the main thing to remember is many students are in the same boat. Choosing a major is no minor process, and it’s good to have help. “What happens is a ﬁrst-year student is really confused, not sure what exactly they want to do or maybe they do know, but later there are changes in their plans and they want to explore,” she said. “You never have to know exactly what major you’re suitable for.” Contact Amie Steffen at (319) 291-1464 or amie.steffen@wcfcourier.com.

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Cost of Wartburg lower than expected By DR. EDITH WALDSTEIN Wartburg College

WAVERLY — The economic downturn has fueled conversations about the cost of college, yet as the return on investments dwindle in financial sectors, a college education maintains high value. It’s important to differentiate between price and cost. While the college “sticker price” has increased, the “discount” also has been rising, particularly at schools that devote a significant percentage of their budgets to financial aid. Wartburg College spends more than $20 million per year to share in the cost of students’ education. As a result, the actual cost of a Wartburg student’s education is often competitive with or less than other types of institutions. The initial perception of a higher “sticker price” may obscure a lower long-term cost — time spent in college. At Wartburg 95 percent of graduates obtain baccalaureate degrees within four years. Those students are not paying for a fifth or sixth year of college, which often is the norm. Instead, the vast majority of Wartburg graduates are gainfully employed or furthering their education at a graduate or professional school. Wartburg also delivers value. Once students graduate, they must be equipped for the next step. Within six months of graduation, 98 percent of Wartburg graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school. Wartburg’s acceptance rate for students applying to medical school is 91 percent — more than twice the national average. The rate is even higher for students applying to other health-related and professional schools. Wartburg will continue to keep tuition as low as possible and the financial aid budget high enough to award students who

Dr. Edith Waldstein

demonstrate financial need and academic merit. Because approximately 70 percent of Wartburg’s operating budget comes from tuition revenue, that’s a challenge — shared in varying degrees by schools nationwide. From the family perspective, financing a college education should start early, preferably when a child is born. No matter when planning starts, college costs should be part of a family’s investment strategy. College scholarships can help finance an education, and a conscious effort to keep debt to a minimum will help students and their families. This generation of students has more debt than its predecessors — not just for college, but for cars, credit cards and personal items. Borrowing only enough to cover the essentials of a college education will make the student’s future indebtedness more manageable. According to figures from “The Project on Student Debt,” average indebtedness of Wartburg graduates is $22,122 while the Iowa average is $26,208 overall and $24,642 at regents institutions. Wartburg graduates have a 1 percent loan default rate, compared to a national average of 13 to 14 percent. That’s attributable to an education that prepares gradu-

COURTESY PHOTO

Wartburg students listen to a lecture in the science building. Wartburg science students far exceed the national average in gaining admittance to medical and related graduate schools.

ates for the career of their choice, allowing them to pay off college loans in a timely fashion. Financial aid officers work with students on issues of college costs, debt and making good decisions. The Financial Aid Office is a good resource for families working through financial aid applications and considering financial aid options. College costs are rising, but good decisions and sound planning can lead to one of today’s best investments: an education that will serve students for a lifetime. Dr. Edith Waldstein is vice president for enrollment management at Wartburg College.

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You’ve been accepted! Now how are you going to pay for it? McClatchy Newspapers

Get familiar. ■ Look at the college’s academic offerings and general requirements. ■ Find out about classes in your major if you’ve decided on one. ■ Classes outside your major may be required; check them out. ■ Course offerings might give you an idea for a major, a minor or an emphasis. See what other interesting classes the school offers. ■ Find out if you can test out of any of the required classes. ■ Explore campus organizations and athletic teams. ■ Select two or three things that interest you the most. ■ Try to ﬁnd out who to contact about getting involved. ■ Travel to the area if you can. ■ Scout out local shops, restaurants and movie theaters. ■ Find out if transportation is going to be an issue. ■ Be on the lookout for highcrime areas. Source: Iowa College Access Network

Get transitioned. ■ Attend any orientation programs offered by your college. ■ Familiarize yourself with the campus, meet new friends. ■ Get answers to last-minute questions. ■ Contact your future roommates about who’s bringing what and get to know each other. Source: Iowa College Access Network

Get connected. ■ Get to know your roommate. ■ Keep lines of communication open with your parents on a consistent basis — and not just to put the squeeze on for money. ■ Become involved in activities outside the classroom. ■ Make new friends by joining social clubs and organizations. ■ Know your limits — don’t overload yourself or overcommit. ■ Make informed decisions about dating and relationships. Relationships should be consistent with your values and should not make you feel uncomfortable. Source: ICANsucceed.org

OAKLAND, Calif. — High school seniors rush home to check postal boxes for college acceptance letters. After that, students and their families will try to determine if they have enough savings, ﬁnancial aid, loans and scholarships to make their college wishes come true. Financing college is no small task, but ﬁnancial aid directors say money concerns should not discourage students from attending the college of their choice. Financial aid is offered to the majority of students at most colleges.

The key is to plan ahead by four or five years, financial aid directors say. “Start planning when your child is in about eighth grade,” said David Gin, director of financial assistance at Mills College in Oakland, Calif. But lots of other things need planning, too, for the student to be eligible for all the financial aid plans available. The student must take the right high school courses to qualify for certain financial aid, so Gin advises clearing up any unsettled issues that muddy the water. “I see more and more families not prepared with the paperwork of life,” he said, including those

who are carrying a lot of debt even though they could have paid it off, or those who leave divorce proceedings unfinished. Online resources for financial aid information include www. fafsa.ed.gov, which includes information on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid — which all students must submit in order to qualify for financial aid. General information on applying for financial aid is also available from the College Board at www.collegeboard.com and at finaid.org. Facts to consider: ■ Most colleges give financial aid to a majority of their students. ■ Financial aid can make private colleges more affordable than

state universities. About 70 percent of students at area private colleges receive financial aid. ■ Financial aid is based on a family’s income and assets. Before applying for aid, clear up anything that muddies your financial picture, such as a pending divorce. ■ Finalize immigration status. More grants are available to U.S. citizens and legal residents attending U.S. schools. ■ Students must take rigorous courses in high school to qualify for some grants, such as the widely used Cal Grant. Check with your college financial aid department for listings on grants and scholarships.

For student athletes: 1. 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. 2. Attending summer camps at a college you’re interested in can be beneﬁcial, but keep in mind that your performance will be

noticed. This means that if you do well, the recruiting process could begin then and there; do poorly and your chances of getting into that college could be jeopardized. 3. Focus on your high school career ﬁrst. It’s easy to get caught up in the recruiting process. Remember, you’ve got to be a successful high school student before you

can go to college. 4. Be realistic about your ability to compete in college. Play because you want to, not because your parents, coaches or signiﬁcant other think you should. 5. Prepare a 20- to 25-minute video of play highlights. Send it to coaches along with your game tapes.

6. Sell yourself to college coaches, but don’t be overbearing. 7. If a school is recruiting you, take time to learn about it. Make sure the college is a good ﬁt; don’t judge strictly on its athletic program. Make sure it offers a degree that will allow you to pursue the career you want.

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College of Hair Design offers career education

COURTESY PHOTO

Ashford is a wireless campus, affording students the ability to open their laptops and work on projects virtually anywhere.

Ashford University offers students experiences that will last a lifetime CLINTON — Choose Ashford University, founded in 1918, to provide unforgettable college experiences that will last a lifetime. You’ll get the personal attention you deserve thanks to the 12:1 student teacher ratio. Plus, with one of the lowest tuition costs in the Midwest, you can afford to advance your life at Ashford. You may even be eligible for ﬁnancial aid to help fund your education.

Program choices At Ashford, you can choose from more than 25 undergraduate programs, including accounting, business administration, clinical cytotechnology, computer animation and graphic design, computer information systems, education, organizational management and social science. If you’re looking for graduate studies, Ashford offers several programs including a Master of Business Administration.

Outside the classroom Outside of class, you’ll ﬁnd many opportunities to get involved in clubs and organizations on campus. Campus organizations include service organizations,

special interest groups, special event planning committees, support groups, honor societies and recreation clubs. Show your Saints pride when you play for or cheer on Ashford’s 13 intercollegiate teams including baseball, men’s and women’s basketball, men’s and women’s cross country, men’s and women’s golf, men’s and women’s track & ﬁeld, softball, men’s and women’s soccer and women’s volleyball. You’ll see “Champ,” Ashford’s St. Bernard mascot, at sporting events and around campus. Ashford is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics and the Midwest Collegiate Conference.

Residence life Your home away from home on campus will be in one of two residence halls. You can count on making the most of your learning opportunities in a high-tech environment where you can use your laptop computer throughout Ashford’s wireless campus.

Online courses In addition to classes at its Clinton campus, Ashford offers online courses for true educational

convenience.

Regional accreditation You can rely on Ashford’s commitment to excellence, because it is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools; the Iowa Department of Education accredits the teacher education program within the College of Education. For more information, visit www. ncahlc.org.

Clinton Enjoy the peaceful and charming environment of Clinton, the city that Ashford calls home. From the University’s location on a scenic bluff, you can take in the majestic Mississippi River below. Clinton is home to a minor league baseball team, a symphony orchestra, a pre-professional ballet company, summer stock theater, art shows and other cultural events. You’ll ﬁnd that Ashford allows for a perfect small-town American experience, while just a three-hour drive away is Chicago, one of America’s most exciting metro areas. For more information, visit www.ashford.edu or call (800) 242-4153.

WATERLOO— College of Hair Design has been graduating students since its inception in January 1957. From haircuts and shaves to highlights and lowlights; from therapeutic body massage to mud wraps and salt glows, CHD is preparing students for professional careers. Students who enter CHD receive specialized training in one of two technical careers. The hair design program offers career education in hair cutting and design, perming and texturizing, color techniques, retailing, nail care, hair replacement, salon management and much more. The artistic skill and training received will allow graduates to excel in the everchanging beauty industry. CHD’s massage therapy program offers training in the

healing art of therapeutic massage. Students learn and practice many different areas of massage, including anatomy, physiology, sports massage, spa services, eastern concepts and many more. CHD’s massage therapy program results in a satisfying, professional career choice. For more information, call 232-9995 or visit www.CHD. net.

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College fairs enable La’James, Iowa Central join forces prospective students see what’s out there By AMIE STEFFEN Courier Staff Writer

So many colleges, so little time. It can feel like that to high school seniors, who attempt to wade through dozens, or sometimes hundreds, of schools during that yearly ritual known as the college fair. It’s hard to get more than a brief look and a bag full of brochures at those things if you’re not careful. But it’s also a good way to scope out a lot of options. “For quite a lot of seniors, that fall college fair can be their first serious look,” said Jesse James, the dean of admissions at the University of Dubuque. “And we’re out there giving them that little peek at the college.” College fairs are just that — a first look, a brief glimpse. Most students use college fairs much like they use the mall: They shop around, stopping at the places that look interesting. Unlike the mall, there’s no buying. If anything, admissions counselors are trying to find out if students are a good fit for them, as well as if they’d be a good fit for the student; and if a student likes what she sees, she can schedule a campus visit. But students nowadays are also doing more research. “Big, small; urban, suburban or rural; how far away from home do they want to be — they have to do some preliminary questioning like that, because otherwise you can be all over the map,” said Scot Schaeffer, vice president of enrollment at Luther College in Decorah. Other things to look for are different academic programs a student is interested in, whether they want to attend a public or private institution and factoring in-state versus out-of-state tuition into the equation. “So if a student is interested in a private college and in aviation, they’re going to make a beeline for the University of Dubuque,” James said. Once that research is done, college fairs come down to more

serious conversations with admissions counselors at each booth, rather than just picking up a college logo pen. That, say experts, is to everyone’s advantage. “For a large percentage of each year’s incoming class, the conversation they had with the college began at the college fair,” James said. Contact Amie Steffen at (319) 291-1464 or amie.steffen@wcfcourier.com.

CEDAR FALLS — Be one of the ﬁrst to receive a health and beauty management associate degree in the beauty industry. An exclusive articulation with La’James International College and Iowa Central Community College makes this opportunity available. Only at LJIC can a cosmetology or esthetics/massage diploma earn you 52 credits toward an associate of applied arts degree. It is available at all LJIC locations. Start now and take college courses in high school, which could transfer to ICCC and be applied to the additional 18 credits needed to complete your degree. LJIC offers you the opportunity to take college courses while

you are completing your training. Many students can complete their cosmetology and degree courses at the same time. Imagine earning your AAS degree and cosmetology or esthetics/ massage license in your ﬁrst year out of high school. LJIC has seven locations each offering their own unique amenities in Cedar Falls, Iowa City, Davenport, Des Moines, Fort Dodge, East Moline, Ill., and Fremont, Neb. Apartment-style living spaces are available at the Fort Dodge and Fremont campuses. Become a professional in cosmetology, massage therapy, esthetics or nail technology at LJIC. La’James International

College’s curriculum is among the ﬁnest in the industry. LJIC is a Pivot Point Member School and offers the latest in education technology and training. LJIC is committed to helping students succeed, offering ﬁnancial assistance as well as student housing guidance. In addition, LJIC has a high placement rate after graduation. Annual trips to New York, Chicago and San Francisco are available to all students as is an annual trip abroad. LJIC has visited such places as Australia, London, Paris, Germany, Prague and Italy. Visit www.lajamesinternational. com or call (888) 880-2104 to arrange a campus visit.

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U of I students come from every state and more than 100 countries.

10 reasons to become a Hawkeye IOWA CITY —The University of Iowa offers the opportunities of a major research university along with the friendliness and support of a smaller college. Here are 10 reasons why it’s great to be a Hawkeye:

Options With more than 100 areas of study, including majors, minors and certiﬁcates, you can tailor your education to your interests and get an education that will help you stand out in the job market or graduate school.

Value Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine named Iowa among the top 55 public universities offering academic excellence at an affordable price.

Opportunities University of Iowa undergraduates conduct groundbreaking research with faculty members, engage in creative work, study and volunteer abroad, and ﬁnd competitive internships nationwide.

Diversity Students come from every state and more than 100 countries to a campus that embraces differences in cultures, backgrounds

and beliefs.

Size As the smallest Big Ten public university (with about 20,000 undergraduates and about 30,000 total students), Iowa offers a comfortable learning environment. About 80 percent of classes have fewer than 30 students, and 92 percent have fewer than 50 students.

Career support Advisers can help you research careers, assess your skills and practice interviewing for jobs. Job placement and graduate school acceptance rates are high. For example, 93 percent of UI Tippie College of Business students who graduated in 2008 found jobs or entered graduate programs (or were not seeking employment) within six months of graduation.

Programs Recognized as the 26th 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 universityowned teaching hospitals and the esteemed Iowa Writers’ Workshop. The Fiske Guide to Col-

leges has called Iowa “one of the most dynamic schools in the country.”

Lively student life Iowa offers the excitement and school spirit of a Big Ten school, plus many opportunities to get involved. You can choose from more than 400 student groups, cheer on the Hawkeyes at one of more than 170 home games each year, join one of dozens of intramural or club sports or enjoy a thriving arts scene.

Personal 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.

Location Iowa City has been called one of the best places to live in the country by Outside and National Geographic Adventure magazines. The area is known for its recreational opportunities, shopping, restaurants and entertainment. Visiting campus is the best way to ﬁnd out if Iowa is right for you. Call 800-553-IOWA (4692) or go to www.uiowa.edu/admissions to plan your visit.

Faculty mentor Sara England.

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HCC photography program prepares students

Kaplan responds to variety of learners CEDAR FALLS — For more than 100 years, Kaplan University’s Cedar Falls campus has served the greater Cedar Valley area with quality career-focused education. Serving more than 500 students, the campus offers bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas and certificates in the information technology, business, practical nursing, legal studies and allied health fields. Formerly known as Hamilton College, the school was founded by Ward Hamilton in 1900 and is the oldest continuously operating career college in Iowa specializing in business education. In October 2007, the campus merged with Kaplan University, providing campus students greater flexibility to pursue blended learning options — taking courses on campus and online — at a regionally accredited institution. Kaplan University is responsive to the needs of traditional and nontraditional learners, many of whom juggle work, family and other responsibilities. To support student success, the school provides financial aid advising, academic advising, study skills workshops, career services, time management skills building and more. Kaplan University’s flexible class schedule, blended learning opportunities and variety of programs allow students to better personalize their education to fit their goals. Shorter-term programs, like the practical nursing diploma and computer systems technician certificate, could be especially attractive to prospective students looking to quickly upgrade their skills

or change careers to a more employable ﬁeld. “As we speak with prospective students about their needs in a down economy, they soon realize that now may be the best time to go to college,” said Gwen BramletHecker, president of Kaplan University’s Cedar Falls campus. “With our student-centered and market-driven programs, we are one of the best places to gain career education and prepare students as the economy improves.” As a demonstration of their commitment to their community, Kaplan University works with many organizations, including the American Heart Association, United Way, Muscular Dystrophy Association, Junior League and the Eastern Iowa Food Bank. Kaplan University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

WATERLOO — As a senior at Waverly-Shell Rock High School, Tiffany Rushing loved photography. She chose to attend college at Hawkeye Communuity College after ﬁnding that the college offers a top-notch photography program that is recognized as Tiffany Rushing one of the best in the Midwest. Rushing also preferred to remain close to home during her studies, something that she was able to do by attending Hawkeye. She thoroughly enjoys the friendly campus atmosphere. “I enjoy the new student center and all the activities that are available to students, including Wii and pool. Hawkeye offers an atmosphere that aids in the development of students to become working professionals,” Rushing said. Rushing currently is attending Hawkeye fulltime and works part time as a photographer at The Courier. She is involved with the college’s photography club and volunteers to take family portraits for those who are less fortunate, a service offered by the club. She also serves as one of the college’s student ambassadors and enjoys visiting with potential students. Rushing is scheduled to graduate in May from Hawkeye in professional photography with an emphasis in photojournalism and commercial photography. One of her favorite experiences as a student at Hawkeye involved a study abroad trip to Ireland with classmates. She also is looking

HCC facts 47 career programs ■ 97 percent of Hawkeye graduates are employed. ■ 86 percent work directly in their ﬁeld of study or in a related ﬁeld. Transfer programs ■ Fifty percent of Hawkeye students plan to continue their studies and transfer to a four-year college or university. Cost ■ 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.

forward to an upcoming Jamaica trip with students from her class. Her goals include obtaining a job as a commercial photographer in California. The college’s professional photography program provides students with a working knowledge of the photography

Financial Aid ■ More than 87 percent of new full-time Hawkeye students receive some ﬁnancial assistance. ■ Every year Hawkeye awards thousands of dollars in the form of scholarships, ﬁnancial aid grants, work-study funds and loans. Housing Options ■ Hawkeye Towers and Hawkeye Village are both located across the street from Hawkeye. ■ UNI Residence Halls are located on UNI’s campus in Cedar Falls. Career placement ■ Hawkeye has an online career placement service for students and graduates.

industry. Students are trained for entry-level positions in the ﬁelds of commercial, photojournalism and portraiture photography. For more information on the college’s programs, contact the Admissions Ofﬁce at (319) 296-4000 or check the college’s Web site at www. hawkeyecollege.edu.

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Preparing for ﬁrsts during college life McClatchy Newspapers

As you prepare to start your college career, think back on your life and the “ﬁrsts” you have experienced thus far. Firsts are important parts of our lives, and they never stop occurring, especially in college.

First time away from home This fall may be the ﬁrst time you move away from your family. You’re probably both excited and a little scared about leaving, and that’s normal. “Missing what’s familiar is natural — but pretty soon new places and people will become familiar, too,” said D’Arcy Lyness, Ph.D., medical editor for the Nemours Foundation and an adolescent psychologist, in an e-mail interview. Lyness explains how you can adjust if you are struggling with being away from home: ■ Get comfortable in your new environment by getting involved and participating in activities you like. ■ Stick around on the weekends so you can get to know people and have new experiences. ■ Don’t concentrate on being away from home. Find out what you like about campus,. ■ Keep in contact with your loved

ones from home, but make sure you’re not giving them most of your attention. ■ Decorate your dorm room in ways that remind you of home. ■ Seek out friendships.

First part-time job Once you start paying for things on your own, you’ll realize it isn’t cheap to buy groceries or to go out. Emily Strader, the Student Employment Coordinator for University Career Services at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, ﬁlls us in on how to snag a good part-time job: ■ When you ﬁrst go to apply, make sure you dress appropriately, and ask to see the manager. ■ If you do not hear from the business within seven to 10 days after returning the application, go back and speak with the manager. ■ Restrict yourself to 12 to 15 hours of work a week, or only three shifts a week. ■ Consider working in the restaurant or baby-sitting/care-giving businesses. Servers tend to make good money in tips, and baby-sitters and care-givers are paid higher hourly amounts.

First credit card You should probably get your

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Outdoor cafe on the pedestrian mall.

first part-time job before you apply for your first credit card, or you could find yourself in a precarious credit situation. Opening lines of credit can affect your credit score — positively or negatively. Similar to a GPA, a credit score is a cumulative rating of your credit performance. Your score affects everything from the interest rates you are offered to whether or not you can buy a car or a home. Suffice to say, it’s important. Beth Kobliner, author of “Get a Financial Life,” provides some tips on what you need to know before getting your first card: ■ Research different credit card companies’ offers.

Social, emotional aspects of prepping for college McClatchy Newspapers

College advisers can tell students what colleges to apply to, how to ﬁll out their applications and how to apply for student aid. But there isn’t anyone students can go to for help with the social and emotional aspects of getting ready for college. While it is important to get through the bureaucracy and piles of paperwork, it also is important to know what to do in preparation for college on a personal level.

Shopping for college ahead of time is both beneficial and more cost-effective. If you wait until after school starts to fill up your dorm room, you will find yourself running around a new city trying to get everything you need, and when you need a microwave, it won’t matter the price you pay at the register. Try shopping ahead of time with your parents. Get the basics like bedding and technology, such as a laptop and printer. You probably don’t know the layout of your dorm or what your roommates are bringing,

so you’ll want to put off buying a TV or any large pieces of furniture. To really prepare, it is important to spend time with your friends. For the most part, students have been together for four or more years. It can be difﬁcult to head off to a new place without them, so get in as much time as you can while the school year winds down and into the summer. Facebook does provide a way for incoming freshmen to meet others who share their university.

■ Look for a card with low interest rates (also known as low APR) and no annual fees. ■ Make credit card payments on time. If you don’t, your credit score will suffer.

First budget In high school you may have had a lot more money to spend on whatever you wanted but in college you may ﬁnd you need money every month for things like your credit card bill. That’s why creating a budget is extremely important in college. “If you don’t budget, you will likely get into deep credit card

debt. Unfortunately, it’s just too easy to get in over your head fast,” Kobliner said in an e-mail interview. She gives some information to help you get started on creating a budget: ■ Keep track of all the things you purchase or put money toward for one month. This will help you realize where your money is going. ■ After you do the above, try out the budget exercises in the “Helpful Calculators” section on Kobliner’s site, www.kobliner. com. It will help you to determine what exactly you are doing with your money.

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Junior Calendar

AUGUST ✔Obtain dates and locations of college fairs and parent nights in your area. ✔Keep your grades up, review your college savings plan to see if you’re meeting your targets or start saving money if you haven’t already. SEPTEMBER ✔Study for and register with your high school to take the Preliminary Scholastic Assessment test. Scores are used to determine National Merit Scholars. ✔Determine what factors are important to you in a college (size, type, location, programs, costs). ✔Identify sources of college and career information at your high school (catalogs, computerized search programs, etc.) Write for brochures and catalogs. ✔Talk to your parents and high school counselor about where you want to go to college. OCTOBER ✔Take the PSAT. ✔Attend a college fair and talk with college representatives to start researching potential colleges. ✔If you’d like, apply for admission. Most colleges reserve this option for exceptional students with achievement levels sufficient for early entrance into college. ✔Visit your guidance counselor to discuss ways of enhancing your chances for college entrance. NOVEMBER ✔Review brochures and catalogs from colleges that interest you. ✔Make a list of 10 to 15 colleges that fit your requirements. ✔Use the College Planning Center College Checklist to track important deadlines (www.collegeplanning.org). DECEMBER ✔Start planning to take SAT and/or ACT exams. Become familiar with registration and test dates. Check entrance requirements of colleges to see which tests you need to take. ✔Attend a financial aid night, if possible, to become familiar with the technical process and the different types of assistance available. ✔Begin to research scholarships. Keep an ongoing file. ✔Use the College Planning Center College Comparison Chart to assist in narrowing college choices to 3 to 5. ✔Register if you plant to take the January SAT tests. JANUARY ✔Begin scheduling visits to 3 to 5 colleges on your list. ✔Attend a financial aid night if you haven’t done so. ✔Organize scholarship information according to deadline. Keep a calendar of application deadlines so you will not miss any. ✔Register if planning to take February ACT test. FEBRUARY ✔Investigate careers. ✔Become familiar with the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). ✔Make sure your senior year includes required credits to meet college entrance requirements. ✔Put together a resume listing activities, volunteer experiences, academic achievements and employment. ✔Register if you plan to take the April ACT test. MARCH ✔Attend college fairs and schedule college visits if you haven’t done so. ✔During college visits, be sure to meet with an admissions representative and a financial aid officer to find out what type of aid is available. ✔Talk to your counselor about AP courses and CLEP tests. Consider taking honors or college-level courses while still in high school. ✔Consider which teachers, employers or other adults you will ask to write letters of recommendation. APRIL ✔Consider taking the Advance Placement exams. ✔Compare your impressions of each college after your visits. Rank according to preference. ✔Continue to investigate scholarship opportunities, including church, fraternal and civic organizations to which parents belong and business groups in careers of interest. ✔Register if planning to take June SAT test. MAY ✔Finalize college choices and highlight important features offered at each. ✔Take AP exams. ✔Consider taking a summer course at a local college. ✔Obtain a summer job related to your career interest or do community service. ✔Register if planning to take the June ACT test. JUNE ✔Schedule college visits if you have not done so. ✔Be prepared to begin applying for outside funding during the summer or soon after. Write for private scholarship applications. ✔Look out for scholarship scams. Be wary of scholarship search and financial aid service organizations that charge a fee for service. ✔Save summer earnings toward college. JULY ✔Obtain and begin working on college applications. ✔Polish your resume and if required, assemble writing samples, portfolios or audio tapes. ✔Prepare to enjoy your senior year.

If you’re a high school junior, there are a number of things you can — and should —do to prepare for college now, according to the College Planning Center.

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Program at Ellsworth helps bring dreams to life IOWA FALLS — Hundreds of kids who grow up on a farm or with a household full of pets dream of being a veterinarian when they grow up. That’s what Kelli (Ritland) Nibe did. Ellsworth Community College helped make her dreams come true. It is helping high school students step up to a future career by taking college credit courses for free while still in high school. Dual credit enrollment is growing in popularity as more and more students learn how they can save hundreds of dollars on their college education. Kelli is the daughter of Julie and Steve Ritland of Hubbard. After graduating from HubbardRadcliffe High School in 2001, Kelli chose ECC because it was close to home, small and many of her friends went there, too. The bonus was enrolling in the tremendous biotechnology program. “By stepping it up in science and biotechnology courses at ECC, it launched me toward a career in veterinary medicine,” said Kelli. “I did an internship at the microbiology lab at the Iowa

State University Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, and my boss there wrote my recommendation for vet school.” Kelli said she was well prepared when she got to Iowa State in 2003. “I really liked my classes at ECC. I was able to talk to my professors, understand them and I got more one-on-one time with them. I had no trouble transferring all of my credits and I had the same background and entered at the same level as those who started at ISU, but I didn’t struggle as much. The biotechnology program gave me hands-on experience with analytical instruments and high-powered microscopes.” Kelli said that the biotechnology program helps students develop skills that are valuable in many advanced education programs and future careers. ECC students are prepared for any medical ﬁeld, veterinary medicine, research and all biologybased careers, including renewable energy. ECC also is looking toward the future. The college is building a new Agriculture and Renew-

able Energy Center and Equine Management facility just south of Iowa Falls that is projected to open in the fall of 2009. Kelli Nibe, D.V.M., graduated as a general practitioner veterinarian in May and began her profession at Garver’s Animal Health Center Inc. in Albia in June. She works alongside three other veterinarians, including her husband, Andrew Nibe, D.V.M. Kelli works with small and large animals in the clinic and makes farm calls. “There is great job satisfaction as a veterinarian,” said Kelli. “I love animals and helping them get better. It’s what I always dreamed of doing, but I also like interacting with the owners. I love that every day of this job is full of new challenges and opportunities to learn more.” For more information about biotechnology courses offered through dual enrollment at area high schools or the biotechnology program at Ellsworth Community College, contact your high school counselor or the ECC admissions ofﬁce at (641) 648-8519 or (800) 322-9235.

ICCC offers extensive associate degree programs FORT DODGE — Iowa Central Community College offers highquality residence life opportunities, total transfer options, affordable costs and a wide variety of two-year programs. Students who enter Iowa Central for associate degree programs and vocational-technical programs ﬁnd low student-to-teacher ratios, a campus-wide understanding of business and industry needs and quick response to student input and activity trends that keep its educational offerings on the cutting edge. Iowa Central’s newest programs include auto body collision, biotechnology, biofuels technology, culinary arts, dental hygiene, diesel technology, ﬁre science, logistics and transportation management, restaurant and hospitality management, sustainable energy and turf grass management. Medical coding and health care administration programs also are offered. Iowa Central offers 13 apart-

ment-styled residence halls, all constructed since 1996, with convenient access to classrooms, parking and activities. On-campus living is an attractive option at Iowa Central with modern, spacious and fully equipped apartments within easy walking distance to all campus activities. The residence hall apartments include a kitchen with range and refrigerator, a living room, bathroom and two bedrooms. They also include phone, cable and campus computer network operations including Internet access. Iowa Central also provides many opportunities for students in theater, music and athletics. The highly acclaimed music and theater departments stage two major productions per year involving many talented student actors and musicians. Theater students are able to participate in all areas of stage production — from set design to house manager. Vocal and instrumental musi-

cians take part in a wide variety of campus and community shows. Fort Dodge has a rich musical history and the college prides itself in contributing to the many high-quality musical performances throughout the year, many of them held right on campus in Iowa Central’s state-ofthe-art auditorium. There are 21 interscholastic sports for men and women offered at Iowa Central. With a rich tradition in athletics, student-athletes are held to a high academic standard by an experienced, dedicated staff of coaches. Iowa Central Community College maintains a strong scholarships program, which, combined with the possibility of need-based ﬁnancial aid, makes sure students are given the opportunity to receive a quality college education within their budget. To plan a visit or for more information, call Iowa Central Community College at (800) 362-2793 or go to www.iowacentral.edu.

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Kelli Nibe, D.V.M., is shown examining a puppy at Garver’s Animal Health Center.

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Big-town experience available on Loras College campus DUBUQUE — Established in 1839, the Loras College campus is nestled high atop the majestic bluffs of the Mississippi River in Dubuque, and overlooks the states of Illinois, Wisconsin and Iowa. The city has approximately 70,000 people and is full of opportunity and spirit. Loras is about a three-hour drive from larger cities like Chicago, Des Moines and Milwaukee, but there’s no shortage of things to do on campus or around town. With an enrollment of just under 1,700, Loras is small enough to be personal, yet large enough to provide students a well-rounded academic and cocurricular experience. Technology plays an integral role in how teaching and learning takes place at Loras. Each full-time student receives a 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. At the heart of our academics is a commitment to hands-on learning. There are more than 40 majors, minors and pre-professional programs to choose from. Our student-faculty ratio of 13:1 and small classes allow students to form working relationships with professors. Collaborative research between faculty and students provides a level of experience often not

Did you know? ■ Loras is a laptop campus; every student receives a laptop at registration. ■ Loras is the only private college in Iowa to house a DNA laboratory. ■ Loras is the oldest college in Iowa and the second oldest Catholic college west of the Mississippi river. ■ Loras is the only college in the greater Dubuque area to be highlighted among the 247 colleges for the ninth edition of Barron’s Best Buys in College Education.

available at the undergraduate level. Experiential learning at Loras College is planned and purposeful, allowing students the opportunity to reflect on what they have learned, not just what they have accomplished. Study abroad, January term courses and internships all provide creative ways of learning and an experience that prepares students for their future endeavors. If the spiritual life of Loras College is any indication, the future of the Church is very exciting. Students at Loras are charged to “be more” and deepening their faith is no exception. Hundreds of students commit to weekly worship through music and other liturgical ministries, as well as numerous opportunities for

Courtesy Photo

Students receive mentoring from professors. The student-faculty ratio is 13:1.

FOCUS, Bible study, retreats and serving local parishes as catechists. The gospel continues to transform lives through nine student-financed domestic and international service trips. Personal faith development is supported through daily Eucharistic Adoration, weekly Holy Hour, Benediction and Confessions. Regardless of religion, the Loras experience includes empowering students to own their faith. Loras has a longstanding history of athletic success. With 21 sports, it is one of the most broad-based athletics program in the Iowa Conference and one of the nation’s most respected and competitive NCAA Division III conferences. Within our athletic program you’ll not only grow as an athlete, you’ll also realize personal, academic and spiritual growth. For more information or to set up a campus visit, call (800) 245-6727 or visit www. loras.edu.

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What is the FAFSA? The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is the federal application for financial aid, and it may also be used to apply for aid from other sources, such as your state or school. 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.

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Making money work for college education DES MOINES — College is expensive, but there are ways to help get the education you’re looking for. College 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 www.fafsa.ed.gov or by calling (800) 433-3243.

Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants are awarded by different sources for a variety of reasons. Anyone planning to attend college should try to get as many scholarships and grants as they can. This is money that doesn’t need to be paid back, so it’s essentially free money for students. Besides ﬁlling out the FAFSA, students can ﬁnd scholarships and grants offered by local, regional and national organizations and businesses by using free searches online. Many searches match students’

FAFSA4caster will help you get a jumpstart on the financial aid process. This financial aid estimator will calculate your Expected Family Contribution — the indicator used by colleges to estimate your family´s ability to contribute towards the cost of your education. By using FAFSA4caster, you and your family will receive an early estimate of eligibility for federal student aid. It will increase your knowledge of the financial aid process and provide an opportunity to investigate other sources of aid. Parents of younger students can use the tool to receive early estimates, create scenarios based on future earnings, and then establish college savings strategies, while non-traditional college students (adult learners) also can use the FAFSA4caster to get an idea of how much federal aid they may qualify for. Other benefits include: ■ Information about the matches conducted with certain federal agencies, allowing you an opportunity to resolve issues prior to applying for federal student aid. ■ Estimated federal student aid eligibility information based on the answers provided in FAFSA4caster, to help you better understand the types and approximate amounts of federal student aid for which you may qualify. ■ Automatic generation and e-mail of Fedearl Student Aid PIN in time for use on FAFSA on the Web. ■ A streamlined and intuitive process — built-in logic that will serve up questions based on responses to earlier questions and tailored to your circumstances. ■ FAFSA4caster contains only the data elements required to determine federal eligibility.

qualiﬁcations to scholarship criteria. Students shouldn’t pay for such a service — the free searches are just as effective.

Work-study programs

Federal and state work-study programs pay students for part-time jobs on campus. Since money is paid out over time rather than awarded in a lump sum, students generally use work-study to cover personal expenses. Work-study is excellent because students earn much-needed money, and they can gain valuable job experience. Work-study positions often offer ﬂexible schedules and they go quickly. Apply for positions as soon as possible.

Loans Loans should be a last resort for students needing college ﬁnancing because they need to be repaid with interest. When borrowing, be careful to make sure you don’t get so deeply in debt that you can’t repay the loans. Federally guaranteed loans for students and parents are awarded based on information provided in the FAFSA. Generally, federal loans offer better interest rates and better terms

than private loans. Federal student loans don’t require repayment until after the student leaves school. With the Federal Subsidized Stafford Loan, the government even makes interest payments while the student’s in school. Private loans also are available to students and their parents, but again, use caution. Exhaust all federal loan options before considering private loans. Then calculate how many years it will take to graduate and how much in total loans is needed. Then decide if the student will be able to make the monthly payments after graduation. ICAN is the ofﬁcial Statewide College Access Network for Iowa, as designated by the National College Access Network. The ICAN College Planning Centers provide free information and assistance to students and their families as they plan their postsecondary education and apply for ﬁnancial aid. For more information, call (877) 272-4692 or visit www. ICANsucceed.org.

Applying for federal student aid Step 1 Get free information and help from your high school counselor, the financial aid office at the college you plan to attend or the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Federal Student Aid at www.FederalStudentAid.ed.gov or (800) 433-3243.

Step 2 Get a Federal Student Aid PIN. A PIN lets you electronically sign your online Free Application for Federal Student Aid, make corrections to your application information, etc.

Step 3 Collect the documents needed to apply, including income tax returns and W-2 forms. A full list of what you need is at www.fafsa.ed.gov/before003.htm.

Step 4 Complete the FAFSA. Apply online by going to www. fafsa.ed.gov.

Step 5 Federal Student Aid will send you a Student Aid Report — the result of your FAFSA. Review your SAR and, if

necessary, make changes or corrections and submit your SAR for reprocessing. Your complete, correct SAR will contain your Expected Family Contribution — the number used to determine your federal student aid eligibility.

Step 6 If you are selected for a process called verification, your college’s financial aid office may ask you to submit tax returns and other documents, as appropriate.

Step 7 Whether you’re selected for verification or not, make sure the financial aid office at your college has all the information needed to determine your eligibility.

Step 8 All students: Contact your college’s ﬁnancial aid ofﬁce if you have any questions about the aid being offered. First-time applicants: Review the award information from all of the colleges to which you applied to compare amounts and types of aid being offered. Source: FAFSA4caster

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Senior Calendar

AUGUST 4Determine career interests and decide which kind of college best suits you: large or small, public or private, cost. 4Write to the admission offices or visit the Web sites of colleges you’re interested in. Obtain information on admission, scholarships and financial aid. 4Use the College Planning Center’s College Checklist to keep track of admissions and financial aid deadlines for colleges you’re considering. SEPTEMBER 4If you are in the top 15 percent of your class, check with your guidance counselor about the State of Iowa Scholarship application. 4Register to take the SAT and/or ACT, if you haven’t already taken one or both. 4Visit with college admissions counselors when they come to your high school. 4Ask teachers and administrators to write letters of recommendation for admission and scholarship applications. 4Visit with your high school counselor about application deadlines for specific scholarships. OCTOBER 4Take SAT and/or ACT again or for the first time. 4Begin writing essays for college admissions applications, if necessary. 4Select at least three colleges and plan campus visits if you haven’t already. Call admissions office for an appointment; visit with students and faculty; find out which financial aid applications are required and deadlines; ask about specific application procedures required

NOVEMBER 4Narrow college choices. Use the center’s Comparison Chart to assist you. 4Begin submitting admissions applications to college choices (be aware of deadlines). 4State of Iowa Scholarship applications must be submitted to your counselor by Nov. 1. 4Obtain financial aid forms from the colleges, if different from the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). 4Attend a financial aid presentation during the next few months. DECEMBER 4Pick up a by the college.

copy of the FAFSA at your high school guidance office. This form is used to determine

financial aid eligibility. Begin working on it, but don’t sign or submit it before Jan. 1. You may submit electronically after Jan. 1.

4Finalize your outside grant and

4Stay focused. Grades in your senior year can affect your admittance to the college of your choice. 4Parents: Save year-end payroll stubs if

scholarship applications.

it shows your earnings for the year. You may need it for estimating information on the

JANUARY 4It is important to check priority dates for submitting FAFSA with your college choices. 4Submit completed FAFSA to the processor. 4Keep copies of forms you submit to colleges and agencies. 4Ask your high

FAFSA.

school to send your first semester transcript to the colleges where you have applied.

4Parents: Get your federal income tax refunds prepared early. Colleges may required copies to prove eligibility for financial aid. FEBRUARY 4Check to see if your first semester transcripts have been received by colleges you applied

4Submit FAFSA if you haven’t already. 4Begin making plans for a summer job. 4Watch mail for letters of acceptance from the colleges you applied to. 4Second semester grades are important and can affect your eligibility. MARCH 4Watch for Student Aid Report (SAR), which is the result of the to in the fall.

FAFSA you filed. If you haven’t received the SAR in four weeks, check the status.

4Contact financial aid office at each college listed on your FAFSA to see if they have received your SAR information. 4Be prepared to submit a copy of your federal tax forms to the college(s) of your choice. 4State of Iowa Scholars are notified of awards. APRIL 4Compare financial aid packages from colleges to which you’ve been accepted. 4Make a final decision about the college of your choice.

You’re a senior now and if you’re college-bound, it’s time to get serious about it. Here’s a checklist from the College Planning Center to help organize your preparations. For more information, visit www.collegeplanning.org.

Send required deposit and sign and return financial aid award letter if required. Note

4Notify other colleges you will not be attending. 4If you are borrowing a student loan, complete necessary promissory note. MAY 4Finalize summer job or college plans. 4Ask counselor to send a final grade transcript to the college you have chosen. 4Graduation! JUNE 4Notify the college about any outside scholarships you have received. 4Save money from summer jobs. JULY 4Be sure to attend orientation sessions offered at your other important deadlines.

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Clarke offers different, ‘powerful’ experience

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The installation of FieldTurf at Coe College’s Clark Field is one enhancement made to the campus in recent years.

Upgrades enhance Coe College experience CEDAR RAPIDS — 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 are now enjoying additional classroom space incorporating the latest technology thanks to the rejuvenation of Coe’s oldest building, Stuart Hall. In addition, the college dining hall — The “U” — has been completed with multiple food stations offering something for every taste. FieldTurf, an all-weather surface used by many college and professional athletic teams, has replaced the grass at Clark Field. FieldTurf uses a ground plastic and rubber base to mimic natural soil, and special plastic shafts are used to simulate soft blades of grass. The result is a superior surface for football and soccer. At Eby Fieldhouse, new gymnasium ﬂoor, bleachers and lighting are in place, creating a modern performance arena for Coe basketball, wrestling and volleyball. The facility also includes a state-of-theart Fitness Center, a challenging rock climbing wall and extensive athletic training facilities. Coe College is a selective, private, nationally recognized four-year coeducational liberal arts institution that has provided a superior education for students in a residential setting since 1851. The key to Coe’s tradition of excellence in academic quality relates directly to small class sizes and the interest shown by profes-

Coe College ■ INFORMATION: 1220 First Avenue NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402 ■ WEB ADDRESS: www.coe.edu ■ PHONE NUMBER: (319) 3998500 or (877) 225-5263 ■ WHAT KIND OF COLLEGE: Private, four-year, coeducational, liberal arts college ■ AVERAGE ACT: 25.8 ■ AVERAGE GPA: 3.6 ■ ENROLLMENT: 1,300 students ■ VISIT: To schedule a visit, email admission@coe.edu or call 877-CALL-COE.

sors to make learning a personalized experience. At Coe, 95 percent of professors have the highest degrees in their ﬁelds, the average class size is 16, and the student-faculty ratio is 13:1. Along with quality instruction from superb faculty, Coe offers an abundance of out-of-class opportunities to provide students with a well-rounded 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 society 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 368 Colleges” and “Peterson’s Guide to Selective Colleges.” Barron’s “300 Best Buys in College Education” ranks Coe as “very competitive.” 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 also is a member of the Iowa Conference, one of the most active and competitive conferences in NCAA Division III. For more information, call (877) 225-5263 or visit www.coe.edu.

DUBUQUE — If you’re searching for a college, you’ve undoubtedly been inundated with facts and figures. So many, that you probably wake up at night with ACT scores, student:faculty ratios, campus size, founding dates and placement rates dancing through your head. These numbers provide good comparative data, but your college experience is about much more than just numbers. The experience you’ll have at Clarke is different than what you’ll find elsewhere. “By Clarke” means something. It means that our people have demonstrated to the world the courage it takes to see a dream and go after it. That’s different. That’s powerful. That’s Clarke. Clarke College is a Catholic liberal arts and sciences college that will provide an academic experience that leads to success. Expert professors will push you toward your goals. They’ll be mentors, advisers and colleagues — and you’ll work with them hand-in-hand, not with a teaching assistant. When you graduate, you want to feel confident about your job prospects. According to a placement survey of 2007 Clarke graduates, 92 percent

of those responding reported being employed or continuing their education. But having a job and being prepared to excel at it are two different things. Imagine going to work at Mayo Clinic and feeling better prepared than your colleagues who graduated from larger schools. It happens to Clarke graduates. In addition to work in major coursework, at Clarke students develop a broader perspective of the world through additional courses in a variety of disciplines. You’ll develop criticalthinking and problem-solving skills, as well as an appreciation for our global society. . Clarke is a smaller college (enrollment just over 1,200), and we believe being a smaller community equates to big opportunities. You’ll have the chance to be more involved in extracurricular activities. You’ll develop relationships in class, on one of our 14 NAIA varsity teams or in a campus music ensemble. See for yourself. What’s the best way to get a feel for what it’s like to live the Clarke experience? Visit campus! Learn more and schedule your personalized campus visit at www. clarke.edu.

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Grand View helps lead students to great careers such as Meredith Corporation, Principal Financial and Wells Fargo.

DES MOINES — Deciding on a college can be overwhelming. But nothing is more important than a solid academic program in your area of interest, so you can get the education that will lead you to a great career. Whether you know exactly what academic path you want to follow — or you’d like to explore a variety of fields — Grand View has programs that will open a window to the world. Grand View is a private four-year liberal arts college located in Des Moines. It was founded in 1896 and is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

Lead for life Life outside the classroom helps students learn and grow as a whole person. As a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics and the Midwest Collegiate Conference, we offer eight sports for men and eight for women. Through more than 30 clubs, organizations and service projects, leadership opportunities abound.

Educational value

Opportunity to achieve We offer bachelor’s degrees in 36 majors, including business, education, nursing, graphic design, communication, journalism, human services, criminal justice, psychology, biology, computer science and more. Grand View is home to 1,900 students, with a studentto-faculty ratio of 14:1 and an average class size of 14. We provide a quality education at an affordable price, awarding financial aid that brings the cost for many students close to that of a public university.

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Students draw in an art class at Grand View University.

Hands-on experience Among the things that make Grand View special is an emphasis on hands-on experiences that truly prepare students for careers. With a population exceeding half a million people, Des Moines is the

perfect place for the internships that can lead to a job and create your ﬁrst career network. Grand View emphasizes handson learning that includes internships at major corporations and organizations in the metro area with premier companies

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 around $22 million each year in ﬁnancial assistance. The average assistance package for an entering freshman of approximately $22,000, with $11,300 is the total in grants and scholarships and the remainder in work-study and loans. For more information, call (800) 4446083 or (515) 263-6010 or visit www.gvc. edu.

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Central College offers opportunity to go farther, experience more PELLA — Central College is a four-year, residential, liberal arts college afﬁliated with the Reformed Church in America. Central was recognized in the 2009 U.S. News & World Report’s annual rankings of the best liberal arts colleges in the nation. Come explore your options at Central.

Academics Centraloffers 36 majors and has preprofessional programs and advising. With an average class size of 20, students thrive in a close-knit academic environment sharing ideas with exceptional faculty and classmates. Faculty are your partners in learning at Central and challenge you to reach your academic goals.

Activities Get involved in one or more of Central’s 80-plus groups and organizations on campus. Join a music group, star in a theater performance or write for the school newspaper. Intramurals vary from bowling to home run derbies. There’s something for everyone.

Athletics Central is afﬁliated with the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division III and Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference for men and women. Central ﬁelds 19 varsity teams. The Dutch have won 11 NCAA Division III team national championships. Central athletes also boast academic allAmerican status in several sports.

Central College abroad Central has a well-established study abroad program with

eight sites in Mexico, England, Wales, Austria, the Netherlands, France, China and Spain. Central’s study abroad program was included in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2009 “Programs to Look For” section. Central also offers metropolitan programs in Chicago and Washington, D.C.

Going green Constantly updating and continually improving its campus, Central is a leader in environmental stewardship in Iowa and the Midwest and is committed to building green. Construction of a new education and psychology building is under way with hopes of receiving the highest Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design rating from the U.S. Green Building Council. Central’s Vermeer Science Center was the ﬁrst LEED-rated building in Iowa, while Howard McKee Hall, an apartment-style residence, was the ﬁrst residential building in Iowa to earn an LEED rating, gold.

Check out Central Central is affordable. Approximately 98 percent of the student body receive ﬁnancial aid in the form of grants, scholarships, federal and state loans and work study. Take your journey to Central College, and go farther than you’ve ever imagined possible. To tour campus or for more information about Central College, call toll free (877) 4623687 or visit www.central.edu.

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Central College students have the opportunity to go abroad, such as these students photographed at Stonehenge in England.

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Photos by RICK CHASE / Courier Staff Photographer

UNI freshman Abbie Poort takes part in a work-study program working in the free weights room taking ID cards and monitoring the room’s usage at the UNI Wellness and Recreation Center.

UNI senior Heidi Swailes takes part in a work-study program where she works in the Wellness Research Lab at the UNI Wellness and Recreation Center.

Work-study gives life experience while paying the bills By AMIE STEFFEN College Guide Staff Writer

All jobs are not created equal when you’re in college. You could fold sweaters or run a cash register for minimum wage, wait tables for tips or baby-sit and do other odd jobs to pay the bills. Or you could make money for school and get career experience for doing it. That’s what happens with workstudy, a program students can qualify for after filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. Once they’re deemed eligible, they can get money for school working a variety of jobs on and off campus. At Central College in Pella, more than 750 students work in food service, the library and business and academic offices around campus. “Students find value in having a work-study job not only professionally but also in the personal interactions with people on campus,” said Beth Andersen, staffing and recruiting coordinator for Central College. “Those connections as we move forward in this employment environment are invaluable, and you can’t achieve that off campus.” At the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, students who work on campus, regardless of whether they were awarded workstudy, generally have more flexible working hours than those who work off campus, said Tim

Bakula, assistant director of financial aid. “Work-study students, on average, work only 10 to 15 hours a week,” Bakula said. “It allows them to fit (employment) into their schedule.” Bakula said around 750 students are granted work-study at UNI. Work-study students are paid through one or a combination of federal, state or institutional workstudy, such as a college. If one of those is allocated less dollars, like federal work-study, students still can take advantage of programs at the state and college levels. UNI students can work a variety of jobs in a variety of fields on campus. UNI also partners with nonprofit organizations off campus, like the Grout Museum or the Northeast Iowa Food Bank, so that work-study students have a broader range of options. It’s a good deal for the nonprofits, Bakula said, because work-study students are paid by work-study funds. That also makes it a good idea for tightlybudgeted academic departments on campus. “Another advantage if you’re awarded work-study is it gives you a leg up in finding a job most of the time, because departments are strapped for money,” Bakula said. “They’re all looking for work-study students.” In a time of economic uncertainty, that’s great for a college student to hear. “We’ve never really had a dif-

ﬁcult time ﬁlling work-study positions,” Andersen said. “We create a great experience for our

students on campus, and they are able to place those experiences on their resumes.”

Contact Amie Steffen at (319) 291-1464 or amie.steffen@wcfcourier.com.

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Innovative classroom experiences shape Waldorf College FOREST CITY — Innovative, hands-on experiences shape Waldorf College’s dynamic academic programs, regardless of the discipline. The college’s liberal arts curriculum emphasizes personal attention and dynamic learning experiences, as faculty engage students through creative teaching methods. The Waldorf faculty members, who teach the college’s more than 580 students, are regarded as innovative and dedicated by those who learn in their classrooms. Likewise, those same students regard the college as unabashedly small and uncommonly attentive. As student body president Eric Villhauer describes it, “There is absolutely no falling through the cracks.” Villhauer, a senior history/political science major from Wellman, tells of professors inquiring about his health when he’s had to miss class or engaging him in thoughtprovoking conversations — maybe continuing a class discussion or reﬂecting on issues related to that day’s news — while sharing a lunch hour in the student center. “It’s impossible to feel invisible at Waldorf,” said Villhauer. “Faculty and staff take a genuine interest in who you are and what you want to do in the future.” Villhauer is an example of what happens when a student has the chance to explore career options connected to his or her interests within the context of a liberal arts education. A former high school thespian, he arrived at Waldorf to study theater arts and spent his ﬁrst two years studying lines for roles nearly as often as chapters for tests. But then he felt an interest in politics ignite. “I’ve always been interested in politics,” said Villhauer. “I just hadn’t thought of it as a career option until I was at Waldorf.” Now he puts his oratory skills to use in classes like Political Parties and Elections where the professor requires her students to study issues and then volunteer for a political campaign. “I like to discover things about myself, and that has certainly happened at Waldorf, because of the way courses are taught and the way I was able to be involved in campus life,” said Villhauer. Kristen Grennan, a 2008 communications graduate from Fort Morgan, Colo., experienced a sim-

ilar journey of discovery. As the first person in her family to attend college, she is a little surprised to find herself now pursuing a postgraduate degree in educational administration. Yet, the way Grennan immersed herself in activities revealed her genuine love of learning. “I don’t think I could have packed anything more into my time at Waldorf,” said Grennan, who hopes to teach at the college level someday. “Because I had been president of my class and seven organizations during my senior year in high school, I wanted to find a college where I could continue to be involved while I got a degree.” At Waldorf, Grennan managed to finish her bachelor’s degree in three years while playing volleyball, serving on Student Senate and working as station director for KZOW, Waldorf’s studentmanaged radio station. An honors student, Grennan also was a resident assistant her final year on campus and represented the student body at Board of Regents meetings. “Waldorf gave me opportunities to get the most out of my college experience,” she said. “I learn best by doing, and I was able to develop leadership skills while discovering how much I enjoyed the learning process itself.” Both Villhauer and Grennan describe their feelings about Waldorf using terms that speak of relational experiences: long-lasting friendships, memorable classmates and unforgettable faculty. “I think the best thing I got from Waldorf is an education that will serve me a lifetime,” said Grennan. “I plan to use what I’ve learned to make a difference. I hope to teach at a college someday and engage students in learning experiences the same way Waldorf’s faculty engaged me.” The academic programs most in demand at Waldorf College include education, business, communications, psychology, history/ political science and wellness. Other growing areas of study include creative writing, theater arts and music. To learn more about Waldorf College and what it has to offer, visit www.waldorf.edu or call (800) 292-1903 and ask to speak to an admission counselor or a faculty member from a specific discipline.

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Every Waldorf student has a chance to fully immerse themselves in a learning environment that provides opportunities to explore their passions in a liberal arts environment.

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Students enjoy a 915-acre campus at the University of Northern Iowa, which also includes various artworks for excitement and beautiﬁcation.

UNI takes students around the world COURTESY PHOTOS

CEDAR FALLS — Teaching freshmen science at Iowa City High School, Jon Humston can’t see Mount Kilimanjaro. He doesn’t see 40 different nationalities and ethnicities represented by his students. What he sees are social teenagers who care about their education and the majority of whom want to go to college, which also is what he saw in his students at the International School Moshi on the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in northern Tanzania. Humston student-taught at the Tanzania school while getting his degree in chemistry at the University of Northern Iowa through UNI’s Out-of-State and International Student Teacher Program, the largest in the nation. For Humston, this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hone his teaching skills in a classroom, writing lessons and managing students, while learning to live independently and make the most of what’s available to him. “I put myself in a place out of my comfort zone,” Humston said, “And it gave me a truly unique perspective to bring to my classroom, no matter where I teach.” Science principles are the same whether in Iowa or Tanzania, but the resources aren’t. The technology available overseas was not up to the same standards as Iowa’s schools, so Humston learned to be creative in his lesson plans. He used everyday products, like soda and shampoo bottles, for demonstrations in Tanzania. Back in

Iowa, he still tries to use everyday materials to “reinforce that science is more a way of thinking about and approaching a problem than it is expensive equipment and fancy labs, and to show its application to real life.” Humston, who graduated from UNI in May 2008, is one of many who have beneﬁted from UNI’s strong tradition of sending preK-12 educational leaders to classrooms all over the world. UNI was founded more than 130 years ago as a teaching school, but students can now chose from 120 majors.

From its academic programs and facilities to the size of the school, students say that UNI is “just right.” UNI students can expect an excellent faculty-to-student ratio, exceptional graduation rates, a winning Division I Panther athletics program, a vibrant campus life 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-squarefoot performing arts complex, venues for playing and watching

Students ﬁnd UNI’s academic programs and facilities ‘just right’ and the opportunities numerous for broadening experiences.

sports, recording studios and much more. The campus is located on 915 acres in Cedar Falls, but the 12,900 students’ experiences aren’t conﬁned within its borders. Students learn to climb walls of ice on an ice-covered 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 community leaders; and UNI’s education majors spend more time in front of a classroom than any others in the state, whether student teaching in Iowa or half-way around the world. Discover how UNI is just right for you at www.uni.edu, or call (319) 273-2281 or (800) 772-2037 to schedule a campus visit.

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Variety helps prepare Allen College introduces new programs students at Indian Hills OTTUMWA — Indian Hills Community College has developed an excellent reputation for outstanding programs, instructors, staff and facilities during the more than 40 years the college has been in existence in southeast Iowa. IHCC’s main campus is located in a picturesque setting in Ottumwa. Nine new buildings have been added to the campus and the newest of those buildings, the Rural Health Education Center, is a stateof-the-art facility that opened just over a year ago and houses the college’s 18 health occupations programs. Indian Hills also has a newlyrenovated facility at the Ottumwa airport where the school’s two aviation programs — aviation pilot training and aviation maintenance — and three other programs are taught. IHCC is one of the few colleges in Iowa to offer aviation programs. In addition, IHCC has a campus in Centerville that offers unique programs in drafting/virtual reality technology and building trades and agriculture-related programs in viticulture and sustainable agriculture/entrepreneurship. Arts and sciences courses are available on both IHCC campuses, designed for students who want to complete a two-year degree and then transfer to a four-year school. Many students take advantage of the articulation agreements that Indian Hills has with more than 20 four-year colleges and universities. New agreements with the University of Iowa and Iowa State University have been finalized within the past year. The wide variety of technical education programs available at Indian Hills is designed to provide the skills and knowledge essential for successful entry into an occupation. Graduates of these programs often have a job waiting for them in their chosen field before they receive their diploma or degree. The Indian Hills campus in Ottumwa has five on-campus residence halls that have the traditional one- and two-person rooms as well as suites that can accommodate up to five students. There also is an on-campus residence hall in Centerville. IHCC offers a four-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. Indian Hills is affordable, boasting one of the lowest tuition rates of any college in Iowa. Last year the IHCC Foundation awarded nearly 600 scholarships totaling almost $1 million. The college sponsors more than 30 clubs and organizations that provide opportunities for student involvement and leadership. Scholarships are available to members of these clubs and organizations. Intramural sports are very popular, as is participation in the college’s chorus, jazz band and theatrical productions. There are nine athletic teams at Indian Hills that compete both regionally and nationally. They include men’s and women’s cross country and men’s and women’s soccer (both sports were added in the fall of 2007) as well as volleyball, basketball, golf, softball and baseball. The best way to learn more about Indian Hills is to schedule a campus visit. Call (800) 726-2585, ext. 5153 to arrange a visit or get more information. Indian Hills will add three new technology programs in the fall: renewable energy technology, geospatial technology and electronic engineering technology.

WATERLOO — Graduates with training in clinical laboratory science or nuclear medicine technology are needed — locally, regionally and nationally — and can enter the work force at starting wages of up to $25 an hour. Allen College’s new CLS and NMT programs are now accepting applications for fall 2009 and are the first of their kind in the Cedar Valley. Both programs are designed to be accessible to all types of students, even those who live out of town and have full-time jobs or families. With online components and clinical affiliates for on-site training across the state, students may have to be on campus in Waterloo for only three or four months to earn their degrees. Clinical laboratory scientists or medical technologists perform tests that analyze blood, urine, tissue or other body specimens. They perform, develop, evaluate, correlate and assure accuracy and validity of laboratory data. “The typical entry-level position is in a hospital laboratory setting,” says Brenda Barnes, CLS program director and assistant professor at Allen College. “But the laboratory profession is very diverse. There are a lot of opportunities.” NMTs are trained in complex procedures and equipment to use diagnostic imaging to better understand the body’s functionality. Simply put, they use images of the body to help diagnose and treat disease. “In nuclear medicine, we kind of mix all the sciences together,” says Jared Seliger, NMT program director and assistant professor at Allen College. “There’s a physics component to what we do, along with chemistry, biology, anatomy and physiology.” Barnes says there is an urgent local need for laboratory scientists. “I know of at least six positions in the immediate area that are open right now,” she says. “Plus, it’s a field full of Baby Boomers who are getting ready to retire. So those who get into the work force now can get into a management position in a few years,” Barnes says.

Jared Seliger

Brenda Barnes

Go and do Clinical laboratory science Admission: Must have a bachelor’s degree, an associate degree or three years of completed coursework, including certain science and math classes Program: One year, fulltime or two years, parttime Degree: bachelor of health science 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, fulltime or two years, parttime Degree: certiﬁcate or bachelor of health science For more information Contact Allen College at 226-2000 or www. allencollege.edu for speciﬁc pre-requisite and admissions requirements. Other requirements apply.

Seliger says NMTs are in demand in the Midwest, but there are even more opportunities on the coasts. And right now, those who enter the program with a radiography degree are even more marketable upon completing NMT training. “The way the economy is, more facilities are looking for people with dual certiﬁcation,” Seliger says. “People who can do multiple jobs in one department can alleviate stafﬁng concerns.”

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Luther College to host camp

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Nate Hovinga

Iowa Lakes offers opportunity By NATE HOVINGA Iowa Lakes Student

ESTHERVILLE — There are many different opportunities to begin your college education at different institutions. When my time came around at the end of my senior year, I knew where I wanted to go. Iowa Lakes Community College was the right place for me because it had a lot to offer. It included being able to live at home another two years and continue to work at my current job, thus saving me money. Another benefit was receiving scholarships — I was amazed at all the available scholarships. The application process was easy to do and understand. The scholarships and personal benefits are great. The staff and faculty also are always there to help you. After one semester at Iowa Lakes, I decided to join the broadcasting program. I’m able to do what I love. Because of the many Iowa Lakes opportunities available, I’m announcing sporting events with a talented group of individuals and meeting new people along the way. Through my time at Iowa Lakes, I also was fortunate enough to find out what an excellent sales and marketing program Iowa Lakes has to offer. After talking with high school friends and telling them about how well Iowa Lakes has prepared me for a four-year college, all the scholarships I received and the money I made by staying home and working parttime, all of them agreed on one thing: “We should have attended Iowa Lakes first.”

I will graduate from Iowa Lakes Community College this spring with an associate in arts degree and a broadcasting diploma. This fall I plan to transfer to the University of Northern Iowa and major in public relations and minor in marketing. My advice to future college students is, if you are looking for a college, check out Iowa Lakes Community College because it has a lot to offer with a wide variety of programs, degrees, certiﬁcates, diplomas and continuing education. Be sure to schedule a campus visit and meet with an instructor in your area of interest. For more information, call (866) IA-LAKES or visit www.iowalakes.

DECORAH — It may be the best time you ever have with a computer and a bunch of friends on a college campus. Luther College will host a computer science camp June 21-26 for high school students who will have completed 10th, 11th or 12th grade by May. Led by faculty and students of the Luther Computer Science Department, the six-day camp is an opportunity to learn computer skills with collegelevel instruction and hands-on experience. The camp is designed to provide students with the opportunity to explore many different areas of computer science. Mornings will be spent exploring topics like computer graphics, cryptography, fractals and image processing. Early afternoons sessions will include computer architecture, computer networking, artiﬁcial intelligence and video game development. Evenings will feature a weeklong study of robotics. Each student will receive a robot that they will program to solve an interesting problem. Each day also will include time for outdoor fun. Activites include hanging out at the pool, hiking at Dunnings Spring, canoeing and rock climbing at the Luther Climbing Wall. Evenings will include movies, a

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Professors who will be teaching at the Luther College computer science camp are Kent Lee, David Ranum and Brad Miller.

chance to tour Luther and downtime to spend with friends. Computer science is one of the most exciting, creative and wellpaying careers today, according to Luther College. It is also one of the fastest-growing career choices, according to a Bureau of Labor Statistics prediction. Professors directing the camp sessions will include: ■ David Ranum, professor and department head in the department of computer science, holds a bachelor of arts degree from Luther College along with a master’s degree from Iowa State University and a doctorate from the University of Utah School of Medicine. In 1998, Ranum received the State of Iowa Showcase on Educational Technology State Award of Excellence.

■ Brad Miller, assistant professor of computer science, holds a bachelor of arts degree from Luther College and a doctorate in computer science from the University of Minnesota. Miller developed the idea of personalizing product recommendations, now a trademark of Amazon, his company’s second client. ■ Kent Lee, assistant professor of computer science, holds a bachelor of arts degree from Luther College with a master’s degree and doctorate from the University of Iowa. Lee has written his own textbook, “Programming Languages: An Active Learning Approach.” ■ To register for the camp, visit www.cs.luther. edu/summercamp.

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UIU offers quality, ﬂexibility

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Sophie Eicher, who spent a Summer of Service in Ghana, is among Northwestern College students honored for exceptional volunteerism.

Northwestern College scores high in national rankings ● Listed among ‘best of

the Midwest’ based on student opinion. ORANGE CITY — The 2008– 09 academic year has brought impressive recognition to Northwestern College. U.S. News & World Report ranks Northwestern fourth among 100 Midwestern colleges, making the Orange City school the highest-ranking Iowa college in its category. Meanwhile, Forbes.com ranks Northwestern 211th out of 569 top U.S. colleges and universities. NWC ranked sixth among the 14 Iowa schools recognized by Forbes. Princeton Review.com lists Northwestern among 160 institutions selected for its “Best in the Midwest” designation, based on student opinion. Northwestern’s students praised the college’s affordability, community life and attitudes toward diversity. For the third year in row, the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll cites Northwestern students for displaying exceptional volunteerism. One quarter of Northwestern’s students are involved in campus, community and global service each year. Rugg’s Recommendations on the Colleges touts 17 Northwestern academic programs as among the nation’s best: actuarial science, athletic training, biology, business, chemistry, ecological science, education, English,

history, music, philosophy, physics, psychology, religion, social work, Spanish and theater. And the Groundwater Foundation named Northwestern a Groundwater Guardian Green Site in recognition of its care for the environment. NWC is the ﬁrst Iowa college, and only the second college nationwide, to receive this designation.

WATERLOO — Since 1985, working adult learners seeking a bachelor’s degree have found Upper Iowa University’s Waterloo Center to be the perfect fit. UIU students proceed quickly to a bachelor’s degree with our unique “2 classes per term” scheduling. 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 face-to-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 very exciting 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. “Diversity, flexibility and being able to use the instructor by not being limited by geographic location provide UIU students with the greatest opportunity to be successful,” said Michael Davidson, Center director. 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. “The quality is here. The flex-

ibility is here. The success is here,” said Davidson. 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 domestic university centers in Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, Kansas and Louisiana, ﬁve international centers, an online learning division and independent study programs. For more information, (319) 232-6980, e-mail waterloo@uiu. edu or visit uiu.edu/waterloo.

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NICC’s degrees prepare grads for the jobs of tomorrow CALMAR — Are you ready to get on board with the fastest growing occupations in Iowa? The hottest jobs out there — nurses, law enforcement ofﬁcers, computer tech professionals and welders — show tremendous annual growth rates and great pay, according to an Iowa Workforce Development survey. Employers will be looking to hire high numbers of these graduates in the coming years, and Northeast Iowa Community College offers all these programs at its campuses and centers. Iowa educators and NICC ofﬁcials also plan new programs to match employment opportunities in emerging industries such as biofuels, chemical lab technology and wind energy. Graduates who earn an associate degree at NICC will

be ready for these hot jobs in only two years. Whether you’re a nursing or a computer analyst graduate, NICC’s hands-on approach to teaching will keep you at the forefront of these employment trends. The tools of the trade go through changes, too. Because the medical and computer technology ﬁelds advance rapidly, NICC continually updates curriculum, instructional equipment and technology. New industrial technology buildings at the Calmar and Peosta campuses will ensure that students learn in state-of-the-art facilities. Two new Calmar campus programs that are scheduled to open in 2010 (pending Iowa Department of Education approval) have the future in mind. These programs are designed to address

workforce needs in the chemical and wind energy industries. The chemical technician program will prepare students to work in every aspect of the chemical process, from basic research to hazardous waste management. Chemical technicians play a key role in research and development experiments, product quality, routine process control for complex research projects and much more. Recognizing that alternative energy sources are not only environmentally friendly but also translate into numerous green jobs in Northeast Iowa, NICC is developing the wind energy technician program. The push for alternative energy sources such as wind energy creates an expanded need for new graduates who have a thorough grasp of the science.

Bachelor’s degree in three years, tuition freeze at AIB DES MOINES — Given the high cost of education and a sluggish economy, AIB College of Business in Des Moines has started a tuition freeze program aimed at students who would like to enroll full-time and complete their academic programs while keeping educational cost at a minimum. “As we all know, the cost for a college education keeps increasing each year along with student debt,” said AIB President Nancy Williams. “At AIB, I’m making the commitment to freeze tuition to those students who have completed their associate degree and immediately enroll in the bachelor’s program and maintain a full-time status.” What’s more, students who enroll full-time at AIB can now earn their bachelor’s degree in three years — not four or ﬁve. AIB offers AIB Degree in 3, an accredited bachelor’s degree in just three years. This means that a full-time enrolled student at AIB can earn a bachelor’s degree in 36 months. In addition, earned scholarships will continue on for the duration of the program as long as students maintain fulltime 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

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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 degrees in accounting and business administration. AIB offers associate degree programs in accounting, business administration, general studies, ofﬁce administration, sports and event management, transcription services, travel and hospitality management and voice captioning. Business administration degrees are offered in the areas of

leadership, ﬁnancial services and sales and marketing. AIB features four terms per year, offering day, evening and online degrees to students. AIB College of Business in Des Moines 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. For more information visit www.aib.edu, call (515) 2444221 or (800) 444-1921 or e-mail admissions@aib.edu.

In addition to required electrical system repair coursework, students will get an overview on the sighting of wind turbines, how the electricity is generated and stored and the economics of wind energy. NICC President Penny Wills believes that the state is positioned to be a leader nationally at a time when the country’s leadership wants to make the U.S. less dependent on foreign oil. “This new program identiﬁes a growing sector of Iowa’s energy

industry and trains our students to perform important maintenance and repair work at wind farms in Iowa,” Wills said. “The beneﬁts to developing wind energy are numerous and NICC wind energy technician graduates will play a major role in the growth of this alternative energy throughout the state,” said Wills. NICC graduates who earn twoyear degrees will be ready for hire in a variety of hot jobs and future industries. For more information, visit www.nicc.edu.

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William Penn challenges students OSKALOOSA — A world of opportunity is available at William Penn University. From excellent academic programs and a caring faculty to extracurricular activities and athletics, William Penn University challenges students to make the most of their college experience. When establishing William Penn University more than 130 years ago, members of the Society of Friends (Quakers) had a vision for the future. The Quaker values of integrity, compassion, ethical practice, acceptance, tolerance and service continue to be the framework for the quality of education 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 14 countries. The university has experienced signiﬁcant 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 — led by a 23-time Emmywinning producer. Students in this program also have an opportunity to help produce news shows through the William Penn University Communication Research Institute.

Academics and more William Penn University, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central

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Students at William Penn have opportunities to study digital broadcasting and produce news shows.

Association, offers two 16-week semesters and optional summer sessions. Opportunities for students to get involved at William Penn University abound, 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, bas-

ketball, cross-country, football, golf, soccer, track, wrestling and bowling. Women compete in basketball, cross-country, soccer, bowling, softball, golf, track and volleyball.

Application/financial aid Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and are reviewed as soon as they are complete. William Penn University seeks to make it financially possible for qualified students to experience the advantages of a college educa-

tion. Ninety-eight percent of William Penn University’s students receive ﬁnancial aid such as academic scholarships, performing arts scholarships, athletic scholarships, international scholarships, work-study, federal and state grants and government loans. To apply for assistance, students must ﬁrst apply for admission and be accepted in a degree program. For more information, call (800) 779-7366, e-mail admissions@wmpenn.edu or visit www. wmpenn.edu.

Kirkwood redeﬁnes role of community college ● Classes, events enable

students to stay involved. CEDAR RAPIDS — With global vision and innovative curriculum, Kirkwood is redeﬁning the role of the community college. The Cedar Rapids campus has been a mainstay in Iowa’s thriving “Technology Corridor” for 40 years, and their 11 center locations bring business and industry training, continuing education, high school support services and credit and noncredit courses to students across eastern Iowa.

With more than 100 major subject areas and 5,000 noncredit courses, Kirkwood is the comprehensive learning provider for more than 15,000 credit students in a seven-county area. Kirkwood supports speciﬁc transfer agreements with Iowa’s three regents universities and several private colleges, making Kirkwood a great choice for transfer students. Their well-equipped facilities, like the world-class Iowa Equestrian Center, Ballantyne Auditorium and the Kirkwood Training and Outreach Center, host classes and public events,

enabling community members and students to stay involved in athletics and the arts. Community members and students are encouraged to cheer on the Kirkwood Eagles in golf, basketball, volleyball, baseball and softball at the Johnson Hall gymnasium. Their top-notch educational opportunities and facilities aren’t Kirkwood’s only community contribution. A partner throughout the surrounding communities, Kirkwood is part of a nationwide network of training resources that serves more than 150 businesses

and trains more than 4,000 people annually. Kirkwood provides personal guidance and career information for adults facing career transitions, whether that be ﬁnding a new position or returning to school to pursue a new career pathway. At Kirkwood, the college has built a reputation for quality education, small class sizes, convenience and affordability. With Kirkwood, you really can “start here and go anywhere.” For more information, call (800) 363-2220 or visit www. kirkwood.edu.

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Grow in faith with Emmaus DUBUQUE — What are the top three reasons to consider Emmaus Bible College? 1. You want an authentic, growing relationship with Jesus Christ. Knowing Jesus intimately comes from knowing his word — his primary method of revelation today. That is what we do best. Read our theme verse, Luke 24:27, and imagine yourself on the Emmaus road with Jesus. Think how much you would learn and how you would be changed. 2. You want your career to count for God. Having a ministry focus means that every Emmaus graduate receives a major in biblical studies — but all of our double major programs are carefully shaped to provide students with career preparation and hands-on training. Emmaus provides a thorough Bible education at the same time, preparing your mind and your heart for a career that counts for God. 3. You want to build lasting relationships with people who encourage your faith and help you become the person you want to be. Small classes, a small student body and a focused list of majors helps Emmaus provide excellent education, intimate friendships and specialized training. Our faculty and staff invest in students, instructing them in the classroom, mentoring them in the churches and training them both in the community and across the world. We call this the “Emmaus Experience.” Come and see for yourself how God will change you with an experience for life. Planning a career in an area that we don’t provide? Fifty percent of our students come to Emmaus for our foundational Certiﬁcate in Biblical Studies program. Why not begin your education with us, making lifelong friends and learning to defend your faith while you earn some core credits? For more information, call the Admissions Ofﬁce today at (800) 397-2425 or visit www. emmaus. com.

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University of Dubuque: Welcoming decade of uncommon blessing DUBUQUE — Over the past 10 years, the University of Dubuque has been working to invest in both program development and facilities. We are tremendously grateful for how far we have come and for the gifts from trustees, alumni and friends that have made the journey possible. Students enjoy campus-wide state-of-the-art educational technology in the Jackaline Baldwin Dunlap Technology Center, Charles C. Myers Library, the new University Science Center and the Charles and Romona Myers Center. In addition, students are enjoying new undergraduate apartments, seminary family townhouses, newly renovated residence halls and, as of fall 2008, the new Chlapaty Recreation and Wellness Center and renovated McCormick Gymnasium and Stoltz Sports Center. Through 2015, the university will be working to complete a new Fine and Performing Arts, Worship and Campus Center; an additional residence hall; and a new seminary building. The student body enrollment continues to expand, approaching 1,600 for the 2009-10 academic year — more than doubling in size over the past 10 years. Increased arts, intramural and stewardship programming opportunities are meeting the needs of our richly diverse campus community. Science and nursing labs in the University Science Center contain stateof-the-art ,equipment, and new technology is regularly being acquired for programs such as computer information systems, computer graphics and interactive media. The university’s aviation pro-

Campus buildings ■ EDUCATIONAL: Jackaline Baldwin Dunlap Technology Center, Charles C. Myers Library, the new University Science Center and the Charles and Romona Myers Center. ■ RESIDENTIAL: new undergraduate apartments and seminary family townhouses and newly renovated residence halls. ■ UPCOMING: this fall, the new Chlapaty Recreation and Wellness Center and renovated McCormick Gymnasium and Stoltz Sports Center. Through 2015, Fine and Performing Arts, Worship and Campus Center, an additional residence hall and a new seminary building.

gram has taken delivery of the first five of 10 new glass cockpit Cessna 172 Skyhawks — just to name a few. To accommodate all of these changes, our number of full-time teaching faculty has more than doubled. The Mission, Vision and Action Plan has reconnected the university with its historic identity and is guiding our transforming journey. We are centered on the lodestar of our mission, seeking and believing God’s purpose for this place, confident that at the University of Dubuque “many gifts, one Spirit” are needed more than ever before in this complex and beautiful world. For more information about the university, visit www.dbq. edu.

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