By Holly Desrosier
Craven Community College (Craven CC) will host a Spring Open House for new students Tuesday, March 12 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Student Center on the New Bern Campus. The open house will have information relevant to all types of students, ranging from those embarking on a college journey or looking to take the next step in their career.
“People are always surprised to learn about all the programs we offer at Craven Community College,” said Zomar Peter, dean of enrollment management. “Spring Open House gives us a chance to show off all the programs we offer in a low-pressure, informative setting that also gives people a chance to ask questions and find out what program is the right fit for them.”
This event will give students the opportunity to tour classrooms, get a feel for the campus and meet face-to-face with instructors from Craven CC’s career programs, health programs and workforce development departments. Interactive booths will demonstrate the college’s many opportunities and provide a better understanding of what each program entails. Students can explore course offerings for the summer and fall semesters, with classes available on both campuses and online.
Academic, admissions and financial aid advisors will be on hand to personally assist students with navigating the application and financial aid processes. They will also show students how to apply for various scholarships and answer questions.
Campus Life will also be at the event to let students know how they can enjoy their college experience beyond classrooms, textbooks and computer screens. Student volunteers will explain how to get involved in scholarship programs like the Student Government Association and Hurst Student Ambassador Program, as well as the college’s many clubs, organizations and events.
Information about Craven CC’s university transfer programs through NC State, NC Wesleyan and ECU will also be available. Several programs will be on display, including flight and maintenance, nursing, physical therapy, construction, information technology, basic law enforcement, firefighting and emergency medical services.
Workforce Development will have tools of the construction trades on site to show prospective students the extensive opportunities for career training, enrichment or job changes. The Craven CC barbering program will also provide free haircuts.
The Career Programs department will have information on various programs such as computer-aided drafting (CAD), cosmetology, information technology, automotive, welding, machining and early childhood education.
“These are programs that are in high demand,” said Ricky Meadows, dean of career programs. “If students come in here and complete the two-year program, they have no problem getting a job.”
Props and demonstrations will be set up for many of them, including a handheld 3D scanner and printer to show students about the CAD program.
“Companies need skilled workers and that’s what we’re providing,” said Meadows. “The skill labor and expertise gained through our programs will provide lots of opportunities both locally and globally.”
In addition to financial aid and scholarship opportunities, Craven CC is continuing to provide financial assistance for students who have ongoing financial struggles due to Hurricane Florence but wish to continue their education. Students affected by the hurricane are eligible to receive support from the Disaster Recovery Fund through June 30, 2019. Funds are available to students who were enrolled at Craven CC or resided in a major disaster area as of September 10, 2018. Funds may be utilized for assistance with tuition, fees, transportation, textbooks and living expenses.
Applications for the Hurricane Florence Disaster Recovery Fund are available for download at CravenCC.edu/florence. For more information, call Peter at 252-638-4597.