Transitions seeks to aid and challenge students

Single parents, displaced homemakers and women who speak English as a second language can learn more about what the Transitions program has to offer them June 5 and 6 at information sessions from 10 a.m. to noon in Board Room AC2359.

According to the MHCC supported Transitions webpage, Transitions is a three-month program which helps students with career planning and goals, college preparation, getting to know MHCC and its resources, developing time management and study skills and applying for scholarships.

Cecilia Pelayo, a former Transitions student was the first in her family to go to college. She said the program helped her a lot, including the financial help she received when the program helped her win needed scholarships to pay for college.

Pelayo said that when she first heard of the program, she “thought it was not for me, it was for other people,” adding that, “I found the program very helpful.”

Transitions Coordinator Elizabeth Perry said the program “provides an organized way of looking at oneself – look at oneself honestly and recognize accomplishments, build self-esteem.”

Students in the program take three classes: Transition to College, Life Transitions and Life and Career Planning. All 3 classes are mandatory.

According to the webpage, it is a challenging 7-credit college program. Students must be ready to focus, attend class regularly and be prepared for 8 to 10 hours of homework each week.

The program is not recommended for those in a serious personal crisis, taking a lot of classes or wanting to begin college at a fast pace. But for those who meet the qualifications of the program, there is lots of support from staff. “I love it, love it so much. I really feel passionate about what I do,” said Perry.

Office assistant Jenny Ruelas said there are several openings in the program for this summer. For admittance to the program, students must first attend an information session, where they will receive a registration packet. A registration session will follow where completed packets will be reviewed.

Perry can answer questions concerning the information session and the Transitions Program. She can be reached at 503-491-7680. More information can be found on the MHCC website under the Student Services tab.