Thursday, September 24, 2009

Fall 2009 E-Newsletter Issue #2

New IP Office Hours- to better serve the needs of our students
Advisors will be available for
New Student Appointments Only (NSAs)
Wednesday mornings 9:00-12:00
Thursdays all day
Friday afternoons 1:00-5:00
For other questions, please see an advisor on walk-ins
Walk-in Hours
Monday and Tuesday 9:00-12:00; 1:00-5:00
Wednesday 1:00-5:00
Friday 9:00-12:00; 1:00-5:00

New Academic Students must schedule a New Student Appointment (NSA)

If this is your first academic quarter, schedule your NSA with your assigned advisor at the IP office. During this appointment your advisor will answer your questions and help you make an academic plan for your time at GRCC and beyond. If you do not complete your appointment by November 6, your registration account will be blocked. Yikes! Check the IP Office Hours above and go to the Front Desk of IP to get your appointment time right away.


Important Dates
 

Oct 5th- All late enrollments require an instructor’s signature. $35 late fee applies to each course addition.
Oct 9th- Last day for 40% refund of tuition only (fees are non-refundable)
Oct 9th- Last day to withdraw and not have class(es) posted to permanent transcript
Oct 19th- In-Service Day (no day classes)



Preparing for Fall 2010 Transfer?
- You probably need TOEFL scores with your application. Register for TOEFL Now! Test dates are almost filled up in WA State. Check what’s still available and register online with ETS today. You can order additional TOEFL Score to be sent to the universities.
- Start writing your personal statements early. Get started using this helpful website or another. You may also get some help in the Writing Center.
- Request High School Transcripts to be sent. They will need to be translated if not already prepared in English.
- Register for SAT (with ETS) if you are completing your high school diploma at GRCC. Some Universities require SAT for all transfer students. Check your schools admissions requirements online.
- Attend upcoming Transfer Workshops to get additional resources.


Transfer Workshops


University Application Workshop Oct 15th, 1-3pm, SC 101
Learn how to make your application as strong as possible
University Transfer Panel Discussion Oct 22nd, 2-4pm, PA 125
Q&A time in the Performing Art building! Save the date!
Transfer Basics with Alvin coming in November
Check future E-News issues for dates and details

Your Transfer Angel is Here!

Log on to Angel and check out all the helpful links and tips on making a successful transfer to the university of your dreams! Go in and explore IP Advising under Community Groups. There you will find many student resources, but the section on transfer will be especially useful to you. Log in instructions to ANGEL can be found here.

The Writing Center is Open

Fall hours are M-Th 9-4pm and F 9-3. No appointment is necessary. We are located in RLC-174. Offering:
-Focused 20-25 minute tutoring sessions
-Access to computers to draft and revise writing assignments
-Access to online grammar exercises
-A resource library
-A supportive, welcoming environment
-Online tutoring. Students may submit their work for feedback at http://owl.waol.org/.

Applying to UW?

- Applications are already Available Online for fall 2010
- The New Application Deadline is Feb 15th
- All four sections of TOEFL are now required
- Application fee has been increased to $75
Read more about applying to UW on Facebook and in Angel

Sat Oct 24th is Open House at Central WA UniversityFREE RIDE TO Central Washington University1 7:45 am Pre-departure Check-in at your International Offic (IP) 8:00 am Van leaves International Office 5:00 pm Van leaves Central Washington University (CWU) FREE FOOD & PRIZES!
  • Free Eat-All-You-Can Lunch!
  • Raffle Prizes
JOIN THE FUN!
  • Football game tickets!
  • Pre-game Tailgate Party!
DISCOVER!
  • CWU Campus Tour
  • Scholarships & Housing options
  • Meet CWU's Academic Faculty & Student Services
  • Meet CWU Student clubs
  • Ask a CWU Academic Advisor questions
HURRY! SIGN UP EARLY! Transportation seats are limited. No sign-up, No seat. Sign-up Deadline : Oct, 2009 To sign-up, call or email Clarice Tan at (509)963-3638 or TANCL@CWU.EDU. Mention your name and school.

Peer Volunteer Applications are available now in the IP Office

Help welcome new international students to Green River and assist students and Advisors with quarterly advising activities.
Requirements:
· Must attend new student orientation during winter and spring quarter (see volunteer description in IP for dates)
· Be outgoing and open to meeting new people
· Have attended GRCC for at least two quarters by the time winter quarter begins
· Be a current GRCC student and commit to volunteering during winter and spring
· Are currently and actively involved in the GRCC campus community
· Prefer previous volunteer or work experience
Complete volunteer descriptions and applications are available at the front desk of the IP Office. Applications are due by Friday, October 16 at 5:00pm to the IP Office.

Have you Moved Recently? Changed your Phone # or Email?

Update your address, phone and email using online services today. Keeping your contact information current is required by law and it also helps you from missing any important communication.


12 Credit Minimum

Are you registered for at least 12 credits? F-1 students are required by law to carry at least 12 credits per quarter. If you are having trouble picking up enough classes you must meet with your Advisor right away to discuss your options.



Tips to Avoid a Flu Outbreak

Tip #1: Stay home if you're sick.
Tip #2: Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Tip #3: Wash your hands often and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Tip #4: Cover your mouth or nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
Tip #5: Keep up with health information in your own community.
For more information at GRCC follow this link.



Important Insurance Tip

Avoid going to the Emergency Room (ER) at the hospital unless you have a serious life threatening emergency. Your student insurance will not cover the high cost of an ER visit. It's best to use a walk in clinic like the various Multi-Care clinics during daytime, even for broken bones and other non-life threatening emergencies. Come into the office if you have questions and/or want to pick up a list of nearby clinics.



IESL Information

Institutional TOEFL
TOEFL sign up is October 6, 2009 in the Glacier Room (Spaces are limited).
Institutional TOEFL test is on October 17, 2009.
IESL Tutoring
The IESL tutoring Department is processing tutoring request for IESL students. If you are an IESL student and would like a tutor please talk to your instructor and ask them to recommend you for tutoring.
It is the IESL tutoring policy that If you are 5 minutes late or miss one tutor session unexcused you can be dropped from tutoring for that quarter.
ATTENDANCE POLICY & PROCEDURE
In-class participation is crucial to the nature of the Intensive ESL program; therefore attendance is very important in learning English. In-class activities cannot be duplicated; therefore there are no excused absences. Absent is absent. Ten or more minutes late will also be considered absent. The attendance policy and procedure is as follows:
1 - 3 absences The students must study the work they missed in their own time and do all of the homework; however, any tests or quizzes or in-class assignments or in-class activities cannot be made up. If such assignments or quizzes/tests are missed, the student’s grade will reflect those missed scores.
4 - 5 absences Three (3) or more absences may reflect the student is not taking responsibility for their own learning and actions. Significant in-class participation activities are not being met; thus, a student’s grade will reflect that this learning outcome has been drastically and negatively impacted. The students must study the work they missed in their own time and do all of the homework. There will be no make-up tests for missed classes.
6 absences Student will fail the class. Student may be asked to withdraw.
There is no “permission or excused absences” given for late arrivals, early finals or early departures. All students are expected to attend each day of the quarter. If you arrive late or depart early, attendance and quite possibly the grade will be affected.
Plan to arrive at the beginning of the quarter and don’t leave until the quarter ends.
Student Success Series of Workshops- This Week

All workshops start at 12 pm and end at 12:50 pm.
Mastering Time and ProcrastinationMonday, October 5, 2009, Rainier Room
Even the smartest students have to figure out how to make the clock work in their favor. No more cramming for tests or missed assignments.
Study Skills of Successful StudentsTuesday, October 6, 2009, Olympus/Baker Rooms
Why reinvent the wheel? Come find out how the best students make getting good grades look easy.
Test Anxiety is in the PastWednesday, October 7, 2009, Rainier Room
When you take tests do you get the shakes, bland out, or have sweaty palms? After this workshop you’ll be acing tests in no time.
Self-Care for the Busy StudentThursday, October 8, 2009, Rainier Room
You will learn how to get better sleep, eat brain foods, get your body moving, and keep connected with friends (all part of a great college experience) to be the best student you can be.
Five Secrets of Great RelationshipsFriday, October 9, 2009, Rainier Room
Come find out why some relationships last a lifetime and others fizzle before the icing dries on the wedding cake.

Practice English @ Talk Time

Meet other students and make American friends!
Safe, relaxed and fun!
Friday nights at Family of Grace Lutheran Church
31317 124th Ave SE, walking distance from GRCC
For more information call Mark or Chris at (253) 833-8910
Sponsored by various local churches

ISA Writing Contest “Imagine and Write”

Sign up begins on 5 October at Student Life office or email jhendrawidjaja@greenriver.edu
- Write an essay answering this question “What super power would you like to have and why?”
- Maximum of 400 words
- 12 pt, Times New Roman, Double spaced
- On top left : name, student id, email
- Email the essay to jhendrawidjaja@greenriver.edu with subject “ISA Writing Contest – Your Name”
- Essays are due on 13 November, 4PM
- FREE! Open for all GRCC students
The Weight Room is Open!

Pumpkin Carving Contest

29 October 2009 2-5PM
- Open for All
- Students : $1, Non-students: $3
- Tools and pumpkins are provided
- Free food and drinks for participants
- Photo booth available after the contest
- Winners will be announced at the Halloween Party
- Sign up at Student Life office!
- Contact jhendrawidjaja@greenriver.edu
for more information

Halloween Party 2009

Date: Friday Oct 30th 7pm – midnight
Location: LSC, MDA

Campus Safety

* GRCC Safety Alert- Subscribe to GRCC Safety Alert and keep informed of Campus emergencies, safety issues and inclement weather emergency closures. This is a FREE service available to all GRCC students. Click here to learn more and to subscribe.
* Send a Red Flag- GRCC has an information reporting system. Please click here to report any suspicious behavior or security threats on campus. In a true emergency please call 911 first to contact the police, the fire department or to get emergency medical help.

Campus Resource Links
IP Advising on ANGEL

C
ounseling Services

Contact Information
IP Telephone 253-288-3300
Alvin Tai: ttai@greenriver.edu
Jessica Galán: jgalan@greenriver.edu
Sarah Hamilton: shamilton@greenriver.edu
John Tankersley: jtankersley@greeniver.edu

If you have any feedback or comments regarding this newsletter, please email ipadvising@greenriver.edu
Disclaimer: Green River Community College has made reasonable efforts to provide in this schedule information that is accurate at the time of publication. However, the college reserves the right to make appropriate changes in procedures, policies, calendars, requirements, programs, courses, and fees. When feasible, changes will be announced prior to their effective dates, but the college assumes no responsibility for giving any particular notice of any such changes. Nothing contained herein shall be construed to create any offer to contract or any contractual rights. Green River Community College does not discriminate against anyone based on race, ethnicity, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, age, religion, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, or status as a disabled person or veteran of war, in accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990, Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Students needing an alternative medium for communicating must contact Disability Support Services in Educational Planning, ext. 2631. Limitation of Liability: The college's total liability for claims arising from a contractual relationship with the student in any way related to classes or programs shall be limited to the tuition and expenses paid by the student to the college for those classes or programs. In no event shall the college be liable for any special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages, including but not limited to, loss of earnings or profits.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Fall 2009 E-Newsletter Issue #1

Welcome to Your E-Newsletter!

E-News gives you the most up to date information about what's happening on campus. Bookmark this link to stay informed about everything that's going on: important deadlines, student activities, helpful workshops, job postings, volunteer opportunities, university transfer info. and more!

International Programs Office Hours (during the next two weeks)








In an effort to serve students better, the walk in schedule has been adjusted as follows:
Week One 9/21-9/23 -Extended walk in hours (no appointments) from 8 am to 5 pm
9/24-9/25 - 9 am to 5 pm
Week Two 9/28-10/2- Walk in available Mon-Fri from 9 am to noon and 1-5 pm

Tuition Fee










Tuition fee is due by the first day of the quarter (9/21/09). There will be a $95 late fee for students who still have a balance due by the end of the business day. If you are still finalizing your schedule, you are still required to pay your outstanding balance by 9/21/09. Once your schedule is finalized and you have added new courses that were not paid for, you can pay for those classes at that time.
Avoid the line at the cashier's office! Pay
Online.

Important Dates (refer to page 3 of the fall schedule for more)













9/21:- Last day for 100% refund on tuition and fees
9/23:- Last day to register for fall quarter without instructor signature
9/24:- All registration adds require instructor signature
9/24:- No web registrations
9/25:- Last day for 80% refund of tuition only- fees nonrefundable
10/5:- All late enrollments require instructor signature
10/5:- $35 late fee applies to each course addition
10/9:- Last day for 40% refund of tuition only (fees nonrefundable) and last day to drop and not have the class posted on your permanent transcript

12 Credit Rule








All academic students must register for a minimum of 12 credits to be in compliance with the immigration regulations. If you are having problems getting registered for enough credits you must speak with your advisor to find the best solution.

Tips to Avoid the Spread of Illnesses like Swine Flu











Tip #1: Stay home if you're sick.
Tip #2: Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Tip #3: Wash your hands often and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Tip #4: Cover your mouth or nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
Tip #5: Keep up with health information in your own community.
For more information link to this helpful article.

How to Overload into Classes













If you are on a wait list on the first day of class and you still want to be enrolled in that class, you must attend the class and get permission from the instructor. Sometimes they "Overload" their class with extra seats. Classes are particularly full this quarter and there is high demand, so there is no guarantee that you will get in. Be polite with your request and you may have a chance! Bring your permission form(s) to an advisor to get registered.

Class Schedule











Don't know where to go for your classes? View your classes here.

Safety Alerts











Subscribe to GRCC Safety Alerts and keep informed of campus emergencies, safety issues and inclement (severe) weather emergency closures.

New Student Appointment (NSA)











If this is your first academic quarter, please schedule your NSA with your assigned advisor at the IP office. If you fail to complete your appointment by the 8th week of the quarter, your registration account will be blocked. Yikes!

Address Update









If you recently moved or changed your phone number or email, please click here to update this information. The immigration law requires that you update your new address within 10 days of your move.
How to Find Your Instructor?











Click here for the GRCC staff directory.

Facebook







We are on Facebook.

Female Athletes Wanted!













GRCC women’s soccer and cross country teams have already started, but there is still room to join these teams. Interested? Contact GRCC's Athletic Director Bob Kickner at bkickner@greenriver.edu.

Transferring to California?








If you are planning to transfer to a university in California in fall 2010, applications may be due in October or November. Check school websites for admissions information.University of Southern California (10/15)
University of California (11/30)
San Diego State University (11/30)
Cal Poly (11/30)

TOEFL











Most universities require TOEFL scores for admission. Register now for your TOEFL to get a test date before your application deadline.
GRCC Student Email Address








If you have not set up your GRCC student email account, please click here.

Foundation Scholarship










The Scholarship Application for 2009-10 academic year is available on-line and in the Financial Aid Office.


Compass Test Fee Increase











The Compass test fee went up during the summer to $20.00 for initial tests. If you need to retake Compass (get a permission slip from the IP Office) it will cost $10.00 for one section, or $20.00 to retake two or more sections.

International Student Activities













Sept 30th- Fall Fling
To learn more about student activities, Link to the ISA website

Campus Safety











* GRCC Safety Alert- Subscribe to GRCC Safety Alert and keep informed of Campus emergencies, safety issues and inclement weather emergency closures. This is a FREE service available to all GRCC students. Click here to learn more and to subscribe.
* Send a Red Flag- GRCC has an information reporting system. Please click here to report any suspicious behavior or security threats on campus. In a true emergency please call 911 first to contact the police, the fire department or to get emergency medical help.

Campus Resources
IP Advising on ANGEL
If you have any feedback or comments regarding this newsletter, please email ipadvising@greenriver.edu

Disclaimer: Green River Community College has made reasonable efforts to provide in this schedule information that is accurate at the time of publication. However, the college reserves the right to make appropriate changes in procedures, policies, calendars, requirements, programs, courses, and fees. When feasible, changes will be announced prior to their effective dates, but the college assumes no responsibility for giving any particular notice of any such changes. Nothing contained herein shall be construed to create any offer to contract or any contractual rights. Green River Community College does not discriminate against anyone based on race, ethnicity, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, age, religion, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, or status as a disabled person or veteran of war, in accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990, Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Students needing an alternative medium for communicating must contact Disability Support Services in Educational Planning, ext. 2631. Limitation of Liability: The college's total liability for claims arising from a contractual relationship with the student in any way related to classes or programs shall be limited to the tuition and expenses paid by the student to the college for those classes or programs. In no event shall the college be liable for any special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages, including but not limited to, loss of earnings or profits.