By Holly Desrosier
Craven Community College (Craven CC) is currently registering new and returning students for the summer semester. Although advisors are unable to meet with students in person, they are utilizing virtual applications to meet with students via online conferences and phone calls.
The college’s Student Services staff are taking turns working in the office and from home to comply with social distancing measures, while also continuing to provide the same level of quality service and ensuring that students are still receiving any assistance needed.
“Craven advisors are still engaging students on a daily basis by phone, email and WebEx appointments,” said Bill Bondurant, director of advising and counseling. “We work closely, in remote fashion of course, with our Financial Aid, Admissions and Veteran Affairs teams to assist students in all of these vital areas.”
Advisors have been alternating their workdays from home and the office. When on campus, they work in shifts to minimize the number of staff in the office at the same time. Current and prospective students are encouraged to get in touch with an advisor by email to schedule a virtual conference. All advisors are on hand to answer any questions and address concerns about registering for the summer.
While students may be hesitant to sign up for classes right now, Zomar Peter, dean of student services, explained that it is a great time to earn some extra credits and get ahead.
“It is a perfect time to take online courses that will transfer to another college or university,” she said. “Also, there are many college students who are home from college that could take an online class while they are home.”
Craven CC has hundreds of certificates, diplomas and degree program options for students. From college transfer and health careers to technical training and continuing education, the college has a program to fit everyone’s educational aspirations. At just $76 per credit hour, tuition is about 40% less than public universities and 90% less than private universities.
Financial aid and scholarships are available for students who qualify. Those interested are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.
Students are still able to register for all courses normally offered during the summer term and are advised to check their student emails on a daily basis for any changes to how classes will be offered.
The summer semester is divided into three terms: Regular (10 weeks), A-Term (8 weeks) and Late Start (8 weeks). Regular and A-Term classes begin May 21 and Late Start classes start June 15. Registration for each term is open until the day before classes start.
Registration for the fall semester is also open through Aug. 18 with classes beginning Aug. 19.
Students can email advise@cravencc.edu to contact an advisor and set up a virtual appointment or phone call. Current students can go online and use WebAdvisor to view the current class listing and register quickly and easily. For more information, visit cravencc.edu/admissions/getready.
This article was originally published in the New Bern Sun Journal on April 15, 2020.