SEPTEMBER 15, 2010
Easing the transition
PVCC’s Lifelong Learning Seminar Series helps adults re-entering college
PHOENIX – Returning to college doesn’t have to be a daunting experience for adults who haven’t cracked a textbook in years or now have to juggle a job and family responsibilities along with their studies. Paradise Valley Community College, a Maricopa Community College, provides specialized support for older students to help them successfully transition back to college life.
The number of adults returning to college – or enrolling as first-time college students – continues to rise at Maricopa community colleges and across the nation. This growing trend is attributed to a weak economy, soaring unemployment and increases in university tuition prices.
PVCC’s Division of Counseling and Personal Development offers many adult re-entry services, including the bi-monthly Lifelong Learning Seminar Series, which is free and open to the public.
The seminars address topics of interest for re-entry adults, such as memory and study skills, communication, self-esteem, money management and stress reduction.
The next seminar in the Fall 2010 series is “Improve Your Memory!” from 11 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Sept. 28, in the Kranitz Student Center, Room 208. Richard Morales, coordinator of the PVCC Learning Support Center, offers strategies for improving short- and long-term memory to enhance learning and retention.
Education research has shown that adult re-entry students have different needs than traditional students and commonly are motivated to return to college by life transitions and altered career path. PVCC has counseling and learning services designed specifically for adult students in transition, such as personal, academic and career counseling and personal growth college courses. In addition, the college AWARE Club (Adults Who Are Returning to Education) offers mentoring, support and networking opportunities for re-entry students.
Upcoming Lifelong Learning seminars at PVCC include:
• Thursday, Oct. 7, Noon to 1 p.m.
Health Communication KSC208
Cathy Rosick, M.Ed., certified counselor
• Wednesday, Oct. 27, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Finding Your Hidden Talents KSC208
Nicole Chilelli, adjunct counselor
• Wednesday, Nov. 10, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Show me the Money! Tips on Money Management
Jim Rubin, Ph.D., division chair, PVCC Counseling
Southeast corner of the PVCC Library
• Tuesday, Nov. 30, 11 a.m. to noon,
Preparing for Finals KSC208
Richard Morales, coordinator, Learning Support Center
As tuition at Arizona’s four-year universities continue to rise, college courses at PVCC remain affordable at just $71 per credit. Many classes are offered online for adults trying to fit classes into their busy schedules.
For more information about these seminars or other adult re-entry services, contact the Division of Counseling and Personal Development at 602-787-6540.