TRCC Student Handbook   TRCC Philosophy and Mission Welcome General Information Admission Academic Information Degrees/Certificates/Graduation Procedures and Regulations College Communications Services for Students Financial Aid Student Life Information Directory Three Rivers Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association (312-263-0456; 800-621-7440); www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org. It is the policy of Three Rivers Community College to maintain and promote equal employment and educational opportunity without regard to race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran’s status, or other non-merit factors. Three Rivers Community College is an affirmative action/equal employment opportunity institution. Inquiries concerning Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, Title IX of the Higher Education Act of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as Amended, the College Grievance Procedure, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1973, or any other matter concerning employment or educational bias should be made to: Human Resources Office Kristina McDaniel Three Rivers Community College 2080 Three Rivers Boulevard Poplar Bluff, Missouri 63901 Phone: (573) 840-9695 TTY: (573) 840-9407 Three Rivers Community College reserves the right to change any policies stated herein when deemed necessary. ^ TOP THREE RIVERS COMMUNITY COLLEGE PHILOSOPHY AND MISSION Three Rivers Community College is a public, comprehensive community college located in Southeast Missouri. The College serves a variety of higher educational needs for the residents of the college district and the surrounding area. The College has the philosophy that educational opportunities should be accessible and available regardless of economic, social, physical, and geographical barriers. In support of this philosophy, the college maintains an open admissions policy, actively develops financial aid resources, emphasizes quality in teaching and counseling for students, and offers classes off campus. Finally, the College believes that education is not only a preparation to earn a living, but is also a way of life. As part of its mission the college: 1. Provides programs for students who wish to transfer to institutions granting baccalaureate degrees. 2. Provides programs of occupational and technical education for students who wish to enter directly into employment upon completion of certificate or associate degree programs. 3. Provides programs of general and continuing education for individuals who wish to improve job performance, develop new skills and pursue personal interests. 4. Provides support services and student activities that contribute toward student development. 5. Provides community services that support and encourage civic, cultural, and economic development within the district. 6. Provides educational and collaborative partnerships with business, industry, labor, government, and other institutions, including secondary schools and other colleges and universities. ^ TOP WELCOME Dear Student: The faculty, staff, and administrators of Three Rivers Community College warmly welcome you to the College. We wish you the very best as you strive to achieve graduation or other academic goals. The “Three Rivers Community College Student Handbook” provides useful information and supplements the “Three Rivers Community College Catalog.” Please read it and be familiar with the information. Although your top priority should be succeeding in your studies, an important part of college education is becoming involved in college activities and programs. I encourage you to participate in the many organizations, programs, and challenges that are provided. In so doing, you will enhance your TRCC experience. The Student Affairs division is here to assist you in any way. We are at your service. If you have any questions or concerns during your stay at TRCC please let us know. You can reach the Vice President for Student Affairs office at (573) 840-9668 or e-mail rlee@trcc.edu. The Student Affairs offices are located in the Bess Activity Center. Sincerely, Randall E. Lee Vice President for Student Affairs ^ TOP GENERAL INFORMATION WHY PUBLISH A STUDENT HANDBOOK? The Three Rivers Community College Student Handbook has been prepared to provide students a brief explanation of TRCC’s policies and procedures. It is a brief, simple, accurate, and practical guide to assist with your academic success at TRCC. The handbook includes information concerning services offered by the various offices of the college. More detailed information may be found in the current college catalog. WHO, WHAT, AND WHERE IS TRCC? Three Rivers Community College is a public, two-year institution established in 1966 to provide equal educational opportunities to the residents of the College District and neighboring areas. The high schools included in the College District are: Butler County Poplar Bluff R-I Neelyville R-IV Twin Rivers R-X Carter County Van Buren R-I East Carter R-II Ripley County Doniphan R-I Naylor R-II Wayne County Clearwater R-I Greenville R-II AM I A RESIDENT OF THE COLLEGE DISTRICT? Information about residence of students is found in the current college catalog. WHAT BUILDINGS ARE LOCATED ON CAMPUS? Dr. H. Tudor Westover Administrative Classroom Building (Building A) houses classrooms, laboratories, and faculty and administrative offices. Rutland Library (Building B) and Occupational (Building C) contains the College Library, classrooms, laboratories, and faculty offices for career programs. Harry Crisp Sr. Technology Center (Building D) is utilized for industrial technology classes and the office for the career and workforce development, and tech prep offices. E.K. Porter Distance Learning Center is a two-story, 25,000-square-foot technology building housing two computer labs, interactive television rooms for distance learning, offices for professional staff, computer technicians and faculty, as well as space for a television studio and editing rooms. A conference room allows live meetings between the Poplar Bluff campus and off-campus sites. The Telecommunications Community Resource Center (TCRC) occupies two of five ITV rooms and one computer lab. The TCRC operates in collaboration with TRCC, the City of Poplar Bluff and the University of Missouri. Southeast Missouri State University also has an ITV room in the center. Arrettia and Herschel Bess Activity Center (BAC) is designed to accommodate activities and production in art, music, drama, intramural activities, physical education classes, varsity athletic events, meetings, and other activities and events. Arrettia and Herschel Bess Student Center (BSC) houses the cafeteria, recreation lounge, vending area, the Testing & Assessment Center, and Student Affairs offices (Activities, Advising, Financial Aid, Job Placement, Registrar, and Vice President for Student Affairs). Ben and Martha Bidewell Fitness Center is located in the Bess Activity Center. It is reserved for college fitness classes and contains various pieces of exercise equipment including cardio equipment, treadmills, stationary bikes, weight machines, and free weights. The Three Rivers Community College Early Childhood Learning Center (Building F) is located adjacent to the Crisp Technology Center. It houses a learning program for children aged 2-5 and also provides offices for the Educational Talent Search program. Nelson B. – Brent B. Tinnin Fine Arts Center (Building E) is a two-story structure containing 51,000 square feet with a seating capacity of 478 in the concert-quality auditorium. Adjacent to the auditorium are a secured art gallery and various seminar/meeting rooms. The facility contains the 8,000 square foot Telecommunications Community Resource Center. It also houses offices and classrooms for music, art and communications. Baptist Student Union (BSU) is on campus and is open to all students, faculty, and staff of the college. Rivers Ridge Student Housing Apartments provide on-campus housing for 192 students. TRCC Bookstore and Giftshop (BK) is a two-story building containing 4000 square feet. It contains general merchandise and textbooks. It also has an ATM machine. ^ TOP ADMISSION WHAT DO I DO TO BE ADMITTED TO THE COLLEGE? Three Rivers Community College has an open admission policy. The only requirement for admission to the college is a high school diploma or a General Equivalency Diploma (GED). Three Rivers has an open admission policy; however, admission to the college does not guarantee admission to a particular course or program of study. Steps for Admission to Three Rivers Community College 1. Prospective students should request a new student (admission) packet. This can be done in one of three ways: 3 Come in person to the Admissions Office located in the Bess Student Activity Center on the Three Rivers campus. 3 Call the Admissions Office at (573) 840-9605 or toll free at 1-877-TRY-TRCC. 3 E-mail the Admissions Office at trytrcc@trcc.edu. 2. Submit a Three Rivers Application for Admission with a $20 one-time, non-refundable admission fee. 3. Request your high school and college transcript be sent to TRCC or submit your GED scores (before registering for class). 4. Request ACT scores be sent to TRCC or make an appointment to take the ASSET test. If you have any questions on the Admission policy or procedure please call the Office of Admission at (573) 840-9605 or toll-free at 1-877-TRY-TRCC (ext. 605) or email trytrcc@trcc.edu. Send your transcripts to Three Rivers Community College In compliance with state and federal regulations, Three Rivers Community College requires each student to provide an official copy of his/her final high school transcript or General Equivalency results before registering for classes. A student who has attended another college or university must request official copies of each transcript be sent to the Office of Admissions. Prerequisite and transfer credits are not guaranteed until all transcripts are available for review. New students may be allowed a grace period of four weeks after the last day of registration to secure the required documents/transcripts. Failure to submit the required documents/transcripts may results in: • Financial aid ineligibility • Cancellation of classes • Inability to register for subsequent semesters Students who have questions about the following should contact the Office of Admissions: • Non-high School Graduates including dual-credit and dual-enrollment students • Unclassified Students who have already earned a degree • Visiting Students from another college or university If you have any questions regarding this policy please contact the Office of Admissions at (573) 840-9605 or toll-free at 1-877-TRY-TRCC (ext 605) or email trytrcc@trcc.edu. Returning Student If you have not registered for classes at TRCC within the last year please complete a returning student form and mail it to the Registrar’s Office. Returning students may register for classes using TRCC’s Rapid Reggie PLUS Online Registration and Student Information System. Students enrolled prior to Spring 2000 may call the Admissions Office to request a User ID and password at (573) 840-9605 or email webreg@trcc.edu. Visiting Student A student in good standing at a regional accredited college or university who wishes to enroll in the summer term only may be considered for admission as a visiting student. The student must complete a Visiting Student Form. This form must be signed by the Registrar of the college or university in which the student is enrolled and mailed to the TRCC Office of Admissions. International Student International students who are requesting I-20s for F-1 visas to study at Three Rivers Community College must fulfill the following requirements for admission to college: • Complete and submit International Admissions Application. • Submit acceptable results of the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) to establish the fact of proficiency in the English Language. • Complete, submit and have an Official Statement of Finances signed by the appropriate people. • Submit former high school and college or university academic records, which have been translated into English. • Submit a Transfer Clearance Form if the student is transferring from another school in the United States. This must be filled out by the international student adviser at the school the student is transferring from. Please make photocopies of all documents submitted to Three Rivers Community College. You may be required to present these to the consulate/embassy when you make application for your student visa. International students must enroll as full-time students taking a minimum of 12 credit hours during the spring and fall semesters. Students are required to meet with the Director of Admissions during registration and at the beginning of each semester to verify enrollment status. All application documents submitted to Three Rivers Community College become the property of the college and cannot be returned or reproduced. WHAT IS STUDENT ORIENTATION? New-student orientation is provided just before the beginning of Fall and Spring semesters. Students will be given information about various aspects of the college, including academic requirements, campus life, student services, financial aid, scholarships, etc. IS HOUSING AVAILABLE FOR STUDENTS? Yes, TRCC does have student housing. Rivers Ridge Apartments are located on the campus of TRCC. Information about leasing may be obtained by calling the Rivers Ridge leasing office at 573-840-9106 or e-mail housing@trcc.edu. HOW MUCH WILL IT COST TO ATTEND THREE RIVERS COMMUNITY COLLEGE? A list of tuition and fees is found in the current college catalog and the Schedule of Classes. WHEN MUST I PAY MY FEES? Payment deadline dates are published in the current Schedule of Classes. Please refer to this information. Students who have not made payment by 3:00 p.m. on the deadline date will be cancelled from all classes the next workday. If your class schedule is cancelled because of non-payment, you may re-register and pay fees during regular or late registration. All registration dates are published in the semester Schedule of Classes. A student who cancels a registration BEFORE the first day of the semester will be charged a $25 cancellation fee. Students who cancel after classes begin will be charged a $50 cancellation fee. A student may cancel early registration in the Registrar’s Office or at the off-campus sites in Malden, Sikeston, or Kennett. The deadline for paying the remaining balance of the semester fees is 45 days after the semester begins. The date will be published in the Schedule of Classes. If the published final payment deadlines are not met or specific arrangements have not been made with the TRCC Business Office, the student may be administratively withdrawn from all classes and the withdrawal status will be reflected on the transcript. Student grades and transcripts will be held until any outstanding balance is paid in full. A student will not be allowed to enroll for a new semester until all prior fees are paid. It is the responsibility of the student to make sure all financial obligations to the college have been met. A schedule of refunds is found in the semester Schedule of Classes. WHAT IF I AM APPROVED FOR FINANCIAL AID, A SCHOLARSHIP, OR A PELL GRANT? Questions about financial aid should be directed to the Financial Aid Office in the Bess Student Center. All award letters should be submitted to the Financial Aid Office. Further information about financial aid is found elsewhere in this handbook. HOW WILL I BE CLASSIFIED AT THE COMMUNITY COLLEGE? TRCC offers freshman and sophomore-level courses, and students are classified according to the number of semester hours they have earned. Students who have accumulated fewer than 30 semester hours are classified as freshmen, and those with 30 or more semester hours are sophomores. WHERE DO I PARK ON CAMPUS? A student parking lot is located in front of the Bess Activity Center, and the Tinnin Center. All students’ vehicles on the TRCC campus must display a TRCC parking permit. Parking permits can be obtained free of charge in the Business Office located on the ground floor of the Westover Administrative Building. Each student fills out a vehicle registration which will include the year and make of the car along with the license number. The upper-level parking lot is reserved for college employees. After 4:00 p.m. students may park in the upper-level parking lot. The upper-level parking lot is also reserved for handicapped individuals. Students with a TRCC handicapped parking permit may park in the upper lot. Please note that a TRCC parking permit is also required. If you have questions contact the Business Office at (573) 849-9662. Unauthorized parking results in parking fines. Please park in the student parking area only. Tickets are written for illegal parking and fines are charged. Failure to pay fines will result in withholding of student grade reports and transcripts. Fines are $25.00. After the third violation the vehicle will be towed at owner’s expense. Unauthorized parking in the Handicapped Zone results in a fine of $50.00. (Please be aware of the handicapped parking areas that are for “wheelchair only.”) The fine for failure to display a TRCC parking permit is $5.00. Visitor Parking Visitor parking spaces are for visitors not TRCC students. The visitor(s) must register at the switchboard in the lobby of the Westover Administrative Building. ^ TOP ACADEMIC INFORMATION WHO DO I CONTACT IF I HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT MY ACADEMIC RECORD? Students should contact the office of the Registrar with questions concerning their academic record. Please telephone 573-840-9665 or e-mail RegDesk@trcc.edu. WILL MY TRCC CREDITS TRANSFER TO ANOTHER COLLEGE? TRCC is accredited by the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and the Missouri Department of Higher Education. The accreditation, along with transfer agreements with four-year colleges and universities, assures the value of academic credits earned at TRCC. Credits earned toward a transfer degree at TRCC will be accepted by other schools, provided the grades are satisfactory and the courses are appropriate for the degree sought. (TRCC’s vocational courses are not intended to be transfer courses.) The nursing program is accredited by the National League for Nursing and the Missouri State Board of Nursing. The Medical Laboratory Technology program is accredited by the American Medical Association Committee on Allied Health Education and Accreditation. Due to the necessity to limit the number of students who enroll in these two programs, students applying will be accepted according to the approved selection process as outlined in the college catalog. All pre-professional teacher education courses are approved by the Missouri State Board of Education. TRCC’s business program is accredited by the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs. HOW DO I KNOW WHICH COURSES TO TAKE? ACT or ASSET test scores are required for correct placement into English and math courses. Advisors will be available during registration to assist you with course selection. The college catalog provides suggested courses of study. All returning students should see their advisors each semester for assistance in class selection. This is important to insure that the student enrolls in the correct classes needed for his or her program of study or degree. An advisor’s signature is required to enroll for more than 6 college credit hours each semester. If you do not know who your advisor is contact the Registrar’s office or Academic Advisor’s office. HOW DO I REGISTER FOR CLASSES? Registration forms and Degree Audits are available in the Registrar’s Office or at off-campus sites. Students must meet payment due dates or their schedules will be administratively withdrawn. Each semester a Schedule of Classes is made available so students will know the total course offerings for the semester. The course description in the college catalog identifies when each course will be taught by showing an F for fall, SP for spring, and S for summer. Students may register by mail to enroll for six or fewer college credit hours. Payment of total tuition and fees is required when registering by mail. Web registration is also available for returning students. Questions about web registration should be directed to the Registrar’s Office or e-mail webreg@trcc.edu. MAY I CHANGE MY SCHEDULE OF CLASSES AFTER I REGISTER? The “schedule change” dates are published in the Schedule of Classes. A $5 fee to drop a course is charged to the student’s account when classes begin. WHAT IS A CREDIT/SEMESTER HOUR? A credit hour/semester hour is earned by attending a non-laboratory class for at least 50 minutes a week in a regular semester (fall or spring). A three credit hour class meets for three 50-minute periods per week or meets for two one-hour and 15 minute periods per week or one three-hour period per week. One semester hour of credit is granted for two or three hours of laboratory per week. HOW MANY CREDIT/SEMESTER HOURS ARE CONSIDERED FULL TIME? Fifteen to sixteen semester hours are considered a normal academic load in a regular semester (fall or spring); however, twelve semester hours are defined as “full time.” An absolute maximum academic load during a regular semester is 21 credit hours, and the student must have the approval of the Registrar to enroll for this many hours. The fall and spring semesters are approximately 16 weeks in length. Six credit hours are considered full time (academically) during a summer session. TRCC’s summer session consists of two four-week sessions and one eight-week session. A student may earn up to 12 credit hours for the entire summer with permission from the Registrar. (Students should inquire about full-time status in the Financial Aid Office.) HOW DO I KNOW IF CREDITS FROM OTHER COLLEGES OR THE MILITARY TRANSFER TO TRCC? The Director of Admissions and Recruitment and the Registrar will determine credits accepted by transfer. Transfer credits will be accepted only from regionally accredited institutions. The courses accepted by TRCC from other institutions for a transfer student are included in the cumulative grade point average. MAY I DROP A COURSE AFTER CLASSES BEGIN? Students are encouraged to talk with the instructor before making a final decision to drop a course. Dropping a course may adversely effect financial aid and scholarships. The course will not appear on the student’s transcript if the drop is completed within the first week of classes in a regular semester. After this date and through the official last date to drop from a course, a “W” (withdraw) grade appears on the transcript. A “W” grade does NOT affect the grade point average. To officially drop a course, the student must complete a Change of Schedule form in the Registrar’s Office or at an off-campus site at Malden, Kennett or Sikeston. Failure to officially drop a course by the published deadline may result in an “F” in the course or courses. The student is liable for all fees that have been assessed and unpaid if proper drop procedures have not been followed. Further information is found in the current college catalog. WHAT IF I MUST WITHDRAW FROM COLLEGE? To officially withdraw from college, the student must contact the office of the Vice President for Student Affairs or an off-campus site at Malden, Kennett, or Sikeston to complete a withdrawal form. During this process all textbooks must be returned. Failure to follow the proper procedures to officially withdraw from TRCC will result in a grade of “F” in the courses. A grade of “W” is assigned to all courses from which a student officially withdraws. This grade does not affect the grade point average. However, it may affect your financial aid eligibility. Students will not be permitted to withdraw after final examinations have started. Whether withdrawing from a course or the college, it is the responsibility of the student to ensure that procedures are properly followed. WHAT IF I AM UNABLE TO COMPLETE THE REQUIREMENTS IN A COURSE BEFORE THE END OF THE SEMESTER? If extenuating circumstances prevent completion of course requirements by the end of the semester, the student may inquire about a grade of “I” (incomplete). The instructor of the course must grant the permission. An incomplete grade must be removed by the completion of the necessary course work within one regular semester, or the “I” grade will be changed to an “F.” The student will complete the course work at a time convenient to the instructor and pay a $5 change-of-grade fee in the Registrar’s Office when a grade is issued for the completed course. The student MUST have completed at least three-fourths of the course work for each course before an incomplete “I” grade will be considered. See your instructor if you wish to inquire about an “I” grade. MAY I AUDIT A COURSE? Students who do not desire credit for a course are permitted to enroll in a course on an “audit” basis. The student will not receive credit or a grade, but the audit status will be recorded. Students must register and pay regular college fees to audit a course. Regular attendance in the class is compulsory, but no examinations are required of auditors. Students may NOT audit a course and then switch to credit during the duration of the course. The registration status of “audit” may not be changed to credit after the schedule change period, nor can a student change from credit to audit after the schedule change period. CAN I RECEIVE CREDIT FOR CORRESPONDENCE COURSES? Correspondence courses are not available through TRCC. A student wishing to enroll in a correspondence course and transfer it as credit to TRCC must have the approval of the Registrar. No more than 12 credit hours of accredited correspondence work will be accepted toward a degree or certificate program at TRCC. A correspondence course does NOT satisfy the requirements for repeating a “D” or “F” grade. WILL TRCC ACCEPT CREDIT FROM CLEP EXAMS? Students who have completed fewer than 45 semester hours of academic work are eligible to receive a maximum of 30 semester hours credit from successfully completed CLEP exams. CLEP credit will not be allowed when a student has previous credit in a comparable or advanced course. The score on each exam accepted must equal or exceed the fiftieth percentile on the national college sophomore norms. Information about CLEP examinations may be obtained in the Testing and Assessment Center. MAY I REPEAT A COURSE IF I AM NOT SATISFIED WITH THE GRADE EARNED? Only grades of “D” and “F” may be repeated. The grade earned in the first attempt will remain on the transcript but will be cancelled for grade point purposes, and the second grade will be utilized for computing grade point average. Additional repeats will be figured in the GPA. Remember: Financial Aid will only pay for repeat courses one time. Students may NOT repeat courses if they have in the meantime completed advanced courses for which a proposed repeated course would be a prerequisite. WHAT GRADING SYSTEM IS USED AT TRCC? The grades A, B, C, D and F are issued to evaluate the quality of a student’s work. A grade of CR (credit) will be assigned for some courses. The noncredit grades issued are: W Withdraw AUD Audit I Incomplete NP No Pass If a grade of IP (In Progress) is assigned in a noncredit course, it signifies the student has not significantly progressed and should repeat the course. HOW CAN I FIGURE MY GRADE POINT AVERAGE? To determine the GPA, multiply the number of grade points for each grade received by the number of semester hours for that course. The points per credit are assigned as follows: A 4 points per credit B 3 points per credit C 2 points per credit D 1 point per credit F 0 points per credit The total of the points is divided by the semester hours attempted, excluding noncredit grades. WHAT CAN I DO IF I BELIEVE I RECEIVED THE WRONG GRADE? Questions about grades should be directed to the course instructor. If an error has occurred, the instructor must complete change-of-grade forms in the Registrar’s Office. WHEN WILL I GET MY FINAL GRADES? Final grades are processed and mailed to students as quickly as possible after the close of a semester. Grades are held by the Registrar if all admission requirements have not been met. If the college has not received the high school transcript or GED scores then grades will not be issued. The Business Office holds grades if all financial obligations to the college have not been met. Access to grades may also be gained from TRCC’s website at www.trcc.edu. Grades are mailed to the address indicated in the Registrar’s records. Change of address, name, and other personal information should be reported to the Registrar. WHAT IS AN ACCEPTABLE GPA? All students are expected to maintain a cumulative 2.0 or better grade point average. To remain in acceptable academic standing the student must maintain the following: Total Minimum Academic Academic Hours Acceptable Probation Suspension Attempted Standing GPA GPA 15 1.50 1.29-1.49 .0-1.28 16-30 1.70 1.49-1.69 .0-1.48 31-44 1.90 1.69-1.89 .0-1.68 45 or more 2.00 1.89-1.99 .0-1.88 A memorandum on the final grade report and a letter from the Registrar will notify the student of academic probation or academic suspension status. Students on academic probation are limited to 12-13 credit hours the next semester and are encouraged to seek extra academic help through the Student Support Services program located on the first floor of the library building. A first-time suspended student is eligible to enroll after one regular fall or spring semester. Students who wish to seek immediate waiver of suspension must complete an appeal-of-suspension form provided by the Registrar. The Admissions, Credits, and Academic Standing Committee will meet prior to the beginning of each semester to take action on submitted appeals of suspension. The committee will deny or approve the appeal. The next scheduled meetings are August 2004 and January 2005. Students who have been suspended more than once must appeal to the Admission, Credits, and Academic Standing Committee prior to any enrollment. HOW DO I REQUEST A TRANSCRIPT? A transcript request form is available in the Registrar’s Office, or the student may send a request in writing to the Registrar’s Office. The office must have the student’s full name, any other names the student may have had when he or she attended TRCC, social security number, and the last semester attended. Also, the office MUST have the student’s signature to release the student records. A $3.00 fee is charged for each transcript and a $5.00 fee is charged to FAX a transcript. ^ TOP DEGREES/CERTIFICATES/GRADUATION WHICH DEGREES DOES THE COLLEGE OFFER? The transfer degrees offered by TRCC are the Associate of Arts (AA) and the Associate of Science (AS). The college catalog has suggested courses of study for many university - parallel programs. The required courses are essentially the same. The electives will differ according to the selected major. There are several Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees offered at TRCC with specific courses of study. As a general rule, the AAS degree is not meant for transfer. However, a few programs have developed articulation agreements with four-year colleges and universities. Further information is found in the current college catalog. HOW WILL I KNOW WHAT COURSES I LACK FOR MY DEGREE/CERTIFICATE? During each registration period, the student receives a current Degree Audit (a computer printout) to be used by the student and advisor to determine a schedule for the next semester. The Degree Audit identifies all courses required for a particular degree or certificate. Please see someone in the Student Affairs office or your advisor if you have any questions. WHEN MUST I APPLY FOR GRADUATION? Candidates for graduation from Three Rivers Community College must make formal application in the Registrar’s office for the degree or certificate that they intend to receive. All students are encouraged to apply for graduation prior to the start of the next semester’s classes. This will allow the Registrar time to evaluate your credits to ensure you have scheduled the correct courses to allow you to graduate. If necessary you can add a class. Candidates must apply in the Registrar’s office according to the date published in the Schedule of Classes. Diplomas/Certificates will be issued following the fall or spring semester classes. All graduating students will pay a $40 fee per degree and/or certificate ($20 for short-term certificates). This fee applies to ALL graduating students, regardless if they attend the commencement ceremony or not. The fee is payable in the Registrar’s office. WHERE AND WHEN DO I PICK UP MY CAP AND GOWN? Cap and gown distribution is arranged by the Vice President for Student Affairs office. Students will be given a cap, gown, tassel, honor cord, if applicable, an information sheet, and graduation rehearsal instructions. All graduating students will be notified by mail regarding dates and times of cap and gown distribution. WHICH COLLEGE CATALOG IS USED TO EVALUATE GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS? The college catalog used to evaluate requirements for graduation is the year in effect when the student entered TRCC provided he or she had continuous enrollment at the college – OR – the student may choose to graduate meeting the requirements stated in the current college catalog, which is highly encouraged. MAY I GRADUATE IF I LACK A FEW CREDIT HOURS? TRCC allows students to complete up to six credit hours during the summer session following commencement in May to satisfy graduation requirements. If a graduation requirement is not successfully completed during the student’s final semester, he or she may repeat this requirement during the summer session. Students should consult the Registrar concerning the completion of graduation requirements. WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS TO GRADUATE WITH HONORS? The cumulative grade point average after the semester prior to graduation is utilized to assign Honors and Highest Honors for the list of candidates for graduation and the printed commencement program. After the final semester when graduation requirements have been met, the Honors notation appears within the graduation marker on the transcript. Students having a 3.50-3.74 GPA will graduate with Honors, and those with a 3.75 - 4.0 GPA will be designated as Highest Honors. HOW DO I CHANGE MY MAJOR AND/OR ADVISOR? A change in major or advisor should be reported to the Registrar’s office. To change your major, complete a “Change of Major” form in the Registrar’s Office. ^ TOP PROCEDURES AND REGULATIONS DO I HAVE TO ATTEND CLASS? The college faculty and staff feel that classroom attendance is a very important factor toward successful completion of college course work. Although responsibility for attending classes rests with the student, it should be understood that a student is expected to attend class in order to maximize the benefit of enrollment in the college. Each instructor establishes criteria and standards of achievement deemed necessary to earn a specific academic grade. The criteria should include a statement of the instructor’s attendance policy and should be placed in writing to be given to each member of the class at the beginning of the semester. MAY I REGISTER FOR CLASSES IF I STILL HAVE A BALANCE ON MY ACCOUNT? Students with unsettled indebtedness may not register at the college for a new term. During the period in which the indebtedness remains unsettled, no evidence of attendance or other official credentials can be obtained from the college. Diplomas or certificates will not be granted, nor credits transferred to another college until all accounts are settled. Indebtedness shall include tuition, parking charges, schedule change fees, and other charges incurred by the student and owed to the college. MAY I TAKE MY CHILDREN TO CLASSES WITH ME? Students are NOT permitted to bring children of any age to class, nor should children be left unattended in the halls, offices, library, or the Bess Activity Center. The college does NOT accept responsibility for the welfare of unattended children. Three Rivers Community College does provide childcare services for children who are two to five years of age. DOES TRCC HAVE A POLICY CONCERNING GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES? In the event a student believes he or she has not been fairly treated by a college employee, or has a concern about performance, action, or inaction of a member of the staff or faculty that affects the student, the student should initiate one of the following: 1. Academic Matters – The student should first discuss the problem with his or her instructor. If the matter is not resolved by this discussion, the student should bring the complaint, in writing, to the appropriate division chairperson. If the student is still not satisfied, the student may request the Vice President for Academic Affairs to rule on the complaint. If the Vice President for Academic Affairs deems it necessary, a faculty meeting will be convened to resolve the issue. 2. Non-Academic Matters – The student should first address his or her concern to the staff member directly. If the student is not satisfied, the matter should be brought to the attention of the staff member’s supervisor. If the student is still not satisfied, he or she should discuss the matter with the Vice President for Student Affairs. Should the matter still be unresolved, the Vice President for Student Affairs will appoint a committee to resolve the matter. 3. Discrimination and Sexual Harassment – The College does not tolerate discrimination or sexual harassment. Complete policies are available in the Human Resources Office. In the event of a complaint alleging discrimination or sexual harassment the student should contact the Director of Human Resources. WILL TRCC MAKE MY RECORDS PUBLIC? Directory information may be released by the college to interested parties unless the student files a written request with the Vice President for Student Affairs. Directory information may include the following: student’s name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, height and weight of athletic team members, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, and the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student. The federal law, commonly known as the “Solomon Amendment” requires colleges to provide directory-type information on currently enrolled students upon request from representatives of the Department of Defense for military recruiting purposes. The information released will include name, address, telephone number, year of birth, level of education (freshman, sophomore), and major. The student must be at least 17 years of age. Any student who desires that any or all of the above information not be released without his or her prior written consent must inform the Registrar or the Vice President for Student Affairs before the end of the first week of classes. The above information will become directory information or public information after the specified date. Forms to request withholding of directory information are in the Registrar’s office. WHO HAS ACCESS TO MY STUDENT RECORDS? The TRCC policy on privacy rights of students’ states that students shall have the right to examine their official records maintained in the office of the Registrar. Formal requests for the review of such records shall be made in writing and shall be granted as promptly as possible, but in no case shall access be delayed more than forty-five days. Faculty advisors, instructors, and administrative personnel having legitimate educational interests shall be permitted access to official student records. Officials of other educational institutions in which the student intends to enroll may examine the student’s records upon written request by the student. Student records shall be furnished in compliance with judicial order or pursuant to any lawfully issued subpoena. In emergencies, the College may release information from educational records to appropriate persons at the discretion of the Vice President for Student Affairs or the Registrar to protect the health or safety of students. The student records maintained by the Registrar’s office include current transcript, application for admission, high school transcript or GED scores, college transcripts, ACT or ASSET test scores, emergency medical information, and other necessary information. STUDENT CONSUMER RIGHTS INFORMATION Student Rights and Responsibilities: The financial aid applicant is responsible for obtaining, completing, and filing each year the proper financial aid application on a timely basis. The applicant has the right to seek and receive full information and counsel from the Director of Financial Aid in regard to any financial aid matter. The applicant must, without exception, report any of the following changes to the Registrar’s office: (a) withdrawal from college, (b) transfer to another college, (c) name change, or (d) address change or parent’s address change. If student loans have been received, an exit interview must be arranged with the Financial Aid office when graduating or withdrawing from Three Rivers Community College. Failure on the aid recipient’s part to conduct exit counseling will result in (1) a hold placed on student’s record, and (2) refusal of future financial aid awards. TRCC INFORMATION SECURITY PROGRAM This program is designed to set standards for developing, implementing, and maintaining reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect the security, confidentiality, and integrity of student information. Purposes: • To ensure the security and confidentiality of student information; • To protect against anticipated threats to the security and/or integrity of student information; • To guard against unauthorized access to, or use of, student information that could result in harm or inconvenience to any student; and • To comply with the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act and the related rules put forth by the Federal Trade Commission. DOES THE COLLEGE HAVE A SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY Sexual harassment refers to behavior, which may be perceived to be personally offensive and which interferes with morale and work effectiveness of faculty, staff, or students. It is the policy of TRCC that no member of the college community may sexually harass another. Any staff member or student will be subject to disciplinary action for violation of this policy. Sexual harassment is illegal under both state and federal law. In some cases, it may be susceptible to prosecution under Criminal Conduct Law. DOES TRCC SUPPORT A DRUG FREE SCHOOL? Three Rivers Community College prohibits the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession or use of alcohol and illegal drugs by students and employees on its property, or as any part of its institutional activity. Health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol range from temporary disorientation to permanent organ damage or death. The college will impose sanctions on students and employees, up to and including expulsion from college or termination of employment, and referral for prosecution for violations of College standards of conduct. Legal sanctions under local, state, and federal law for unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol extend up to seven (7) years in prison and/or a monetary fine. DOES TRCC HAVE A POLICY CONCERNING STUDENT CONDUCT? Every student who enrolls obligates himself or herself to accept and observe the rules and regulations formulated by the college. Students subject to disciplinary action are entitled to a hearing before the Discipline Committee if requested or required with final appeal to the President. In cases of expulsion, disciplinary action taken by the college against the student will become a part of the permanent record of that student. Copies of the discipline procedures are available in the Library and in the office of the Vice President for Student Affairs. Disciplinary action is generally limited to conduct which adversely affects the college’s pursuit of its educational objectives. However, the following misconduct is subject to disciplinary action: • Academic dishonesty such as cheating, plagiarism or forgery; • Forgery, alteration, or misuse of college documents, records or identification; • Obstruction or disruption of teaching, research, administration, disciplinary procedures, or other college activities, including its public service function, or of other authorized activities on college premises; • Physical abuse of any person on college-owned or controlled property or at college-sponsored or supervised functions, or conduct which threatens or endangers the health or safety of any such person; • Theft or damage to property of the college or property of a member of the college faculty, of a college student, or of a campus visitor; • Sexual harassment of students or staff; • Unauthorized entry into or use of college facilities; • Violation of college policies or regulations; • Use, possession, or distribution of alcohol, narcotics, or dangerous drugs except as expressly permitted by law; • Disorderly or immoral conduct or expression, breach of the peace and aiding or inciting another to breach the peace, or infringement upon the rights of others either on college-owned property or at college-sponsored or supervised functions; • Giving false or misleading information in response to requests from college officials, insubordination toward college officials, or failure to comply with directions of college officials acting in the performance of their duties; • Dressing or personally appearing in a manner which unduly disturbs a classroom, instructional activity, or other college activity; • Possession or use of firearms, explosives, dangerous chemicals or other weapons on college property or controlled property or at college-sponsored or supervised functions, except as permitted by law and college regulations. • Conduct that adversely affects the student’s suitability as a member of the academic community. MAY I SMOKE ON CAMPUS? The use of tobacco products is also prohibited inside or around the front doors of all buildings. All college buildings are smoke-free on the TRCC campus. Students may smoke at designated points adjacent to college buildings. ARE THERE SAFETY AND HEALTH REGULATIONS? Safety rules and regulations have been established by TRCC for the protection of students and the staff. It is essential that all safety rules and regulations be strictly adhered to. Students are required to follow the speed limit on campus, restrict their parking to designated areas, and observe NO SMOKING signs and other safety requirements as they may occur. Any student failing to comply with requirements may be temporarily suspended from participating in course(s) for which they are enrolled, and the registration of a student may be cancelled for willful, flagrant, or repeated failure to observe college regulations. The Missouri Department of Health has recommended that all incoming freshmen receive measles vaccine. This applies to all freshmen regardless of age, unless they have had a documented case of measles or received two doses of measles vaccine after their first birthday. DO I HAVE TO PROVIDE PROOF OF IMMUNIZATIONS? No.  However, if you live on-campus in Rivers Ridge Apartments, all residents are strongly encouraged to get a Meningitis vaccination.  There are indications that students living in residence halls may have a higher risk of contracting Meningitis and Hepatitis B.  The American College Health Association states that all college students should “consider vaccinations to reduce their risk.”  Your family doctor and area health clinics can give you more information and recommendations.  Rivers Ridge residents who choose not to get vaccinated will be required to sign a “Medical Release Waiver Form”.  Copies of this Form are available from the Director of Housing. Students may contact the Department of Health in their county for more information. ^ TOP COLLEGE COMMUNICATIONS IS THERE A PLACE ON CAMPUS WHERE I CAN MAKE COPIES? Students may make copies on the second floor of the Rutland Library for a nominal fee. WHERE DO I GO IF A VENDING MACHINE TAKES MY MONEY? If money is lost in a vending machine located on campus, the student should report it to the Business Office in the Westover Administration Building (Building A). WHAT ARE THE CAMPUS BULLETIN BOARDS? There are various bulletin boards around campus on which information or announcements relevant to the institution, students, and staff are placed. All items for posting on campus bulletin boards must have prior authorization from the Director of Advising and Retention. DOES THE COLLEGE HAVE A WRITTEN MEANS OF COMMUNICATING WITH STUDENTS? The office of the Vice President for Student Affairs publishes the “TRCC Raider Review” every week during fall and spring semesters. The publication contains special notices of interest to students and the week’s calendar of events. The Raider Review can be found in all buildings on campus and at the Bootheel Education Center in Malden, the Kennett Higher Education Center, and the Sikeston Area Higher Education Center. The College Catalog is published yearly and contains information of interest to students. Students may gain access to the TRCC Home page, including the Raider Review (www.trcc.edu) on the web for current college information. HOW DO I KNOW IF THE COLLEGE WILL BE CLOSED DUE TO BAD WEATHER? Although it is the intention of the College to remain open except during regularly scheduled holidays, there may be times when the College is forced to close due to inclement weather. Announcements of closing are made over the following radio and television stations: Poplar Bluff KAHR/KFEB KOKS KWOC – AM/FM KLID KKLR KJEZ – FM Kennett KTMO/KBOA Malden KTCB/KMAL Cape Girardeau KFVS-TV Zimmer Radio Group KGMO/KYRX/KAPE/KREZ Piedmont KPWB Doniphan KDFN/KOEA Dexter KDEX Farmington KREI Sikeston KBXB/KBHI/KRTW Jonesboro KAIT-TV Announcements will be made only if classes are cancelled. Class cancellation will also be placed on the website (www.trcc.edu). NO announcement means that the College is open. HOW DO I KNOW IF ONE OF MY CLASSES IS CANCELLED? If an instructor must be absent from a class, a notice will be posted on the TV monitor board across from the switchboard in the Westover Administration Building and outside the Student Affairs office in the Bess Student Center, in the Tinnin Center, and at the Security Station in the student parking lot. WILL THE COLLEGE TAKE TELEPHONE MESSAGES FOR STUDENTS? Telephone messages will be delivered to students in EMERGENCIES ONLY. Students are asked to advise friends and relatives not to call them at the college except in CASES OF EXTREME EMERGENCY. Public telephones are located in the Westover Administrative Building, Bess Activity Center, and the Rutland Library. IS THERE A LOST AND FOUND OFFICE ON CAMPUS? If you lose or find an item on campus please contact the Admissions Office in the Bess Student Center. WHAT IS THE STUDENT-RIGHT-TO-KNOW AND CAMPUS SECURITY ACT OF 1990? This legislation requires the institution to produce and make readily available the completion or graduation rates of certificate or degree seeking, full-time students entering the institution. See the Director of Admissions and Recruitment for this report. The crime awareness and campus security portion of the legislation requires publication of certain crime statistics. See the Vice President for Student Affairs for this report. A crime of any nature should be reported to the Vice President for Student Affairs (840-9668) and/or the on-duty security (840-9713) guard. TRCC has a security guard on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week. DOES THE COLLEGE HAVE A PHOTO AND VIDEOTAPE POLICY? The Three Rivers Community College Marketing and Public Relations office and the Vice President for Student Affairs office take photos and videotapes of students throughout the year. These photographs often include students in classrooms, study areas, residence halls, athletic events, and so forth. Three Rivers reserves the right to use these photographs as a part of its publicity and marketing efforts. Students who enroll at Three Rivers Community College do so with the understanding that these photographs may include them and may be used in Three Rivers Community College publications, both printed and electronic, and for publicity. ^ TOP SERVICES FOR STUDENTS HOW CAN WE HELP? Students are urged to seek personal advice and information from a wide variety of sources. Please refer to the college directory in this student handbook to find out where to direct your questions. DOES TRCC HAVE LIBRARY SERVICES? TRCC’s Rutland Library is open 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Friday, and 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Sunday during the fall and spring semesters. The hours during the summer session and between semesters are posted in the Library. The Library is located in Building C on the top of the hill across from the Westover Administration Building (A). Students may access full text magazine and newspaper data basis (Ebscohost) – some are available from home computers. For login information you may call 573-840-9655, email library@trcc.edu, or visit the Library and we will show you how the system works. For more information see www.trcc.edu/library. Students must show a valid TRCC ID card to withdraw materials from the Library. The ID card is available from the Admissions Office in the Bess Student Center. DOES TRCC OFFER CHILD CARE SERVICES? Yes, the TRCC Early Childhood Learning Center provides quality care and nurturing to children of students, staff, faculty, and the community in a clean, safe, attractive, and stimulating environment with planned activities for age appropriate growth and development. This includes a curriculum-based learning program and computer readiness skills. We serve children ages two through five, Monday through Friday, from 7:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. WHERE AND WHEN DO I GET TEXTBOOKS? Rental textbooks are available from the college bookstore across from the Crisp Technology Center and above the student housing apartments. To receive rental textbooks, students must have the printout of their Schedule of Classes, which is received from the Registrar’s office when registering, and a textbook card received from the Business Office. To receive a textbook card, students must pay $150 or one-half of the semester fees, whichever is the greater amount. Students who receive financial aid may have to pay less than this amount. Students will be charged a textbook rental fee of $12.00 per semester for each course in which textbooks are issued. Students pay all rental fees in the Business Office. Textbook rental fees are not covered by a waiver. All required payments must be paid before students may pick up textbooks. A textbook deposit fee of $25.00 is required of all students who use rental texts. When textbooks are returned in good condition, the deposit fee will be applied to student accounts, or refunded if all fees have been paid. Since books obtained through the rental system must be reused, it is essential that they be maintained in good condition. Any book that is returned in such a condition that it cannot be reissued must be purchased by the student at the replacement price. Textbooks must be returned by the last day of finals each session. If any textbooks are kept by the student beyond this day, there will be a charge to the student’s account of $50.00 per book or the actual replacement cost of the book if it has been used less than three years. WHERE DO I FIND A BOOKSTORE & GIFT SHOP? The TRCC Bookstore & Gift Shop is located east and slightly up the hill from the Rivers Ridge student housing complex at the south end of campus. The building contains approximately 4,500 square feet of floor space on two levels. The lower level (almost 2,000 square feet) is stocked with nearly 20,000 rental textbooks. The upper retail level (about 2,500 square feet) contains academic supplies and textbooks for sale, plus a wide variety of gift items, including TRCC shirts, shorts, windbreakers, lanyards, stadium seats, backpacks, note cards and more. The Bookstore & Gift Shop can most easily be reached by following the paved drive at the south end of campus leading to the Crisp Technology Center. The Bookstore’s paved parking lot is at the upper or retail level of the store. The TRCC Bookstore & Gift Shop is handicapped accessible. Hours of operation: • 7:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays • 7:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays WHERE DO I FIND A CASH MACHINE? A 1st Community Bank cash dispenser is located on the outside wall of the Bookstore’s lower level and is accessible 24 hours a day. WHERE DO I ASK ABOUT RECEIVING VA BENEFITS? Students may receive an Application for VA Educational Benefits in the Financial Aid Office. Each semester the student must inform the Financial Aid Advisor of his or her continued enrollment so the office may submit the paperwork to the VA Regional Office. WHERE MAY I HAVE CERTIFICATION OF ENROLLMENT PAPERS COMPLETED? The Financial Aid Advisor in the Financial Aid Office will fill out certification of enrollment papers or provide a letter to certify enrollment. Remember: VA students must fill out a certification and provide a copy of schedule of classes to the financial aid advisor prior to being certified. WHAT IS THE TESTING AND ASSESSMENT CENTER? The Testing and Assessment Center is located in the Bess Student Center. The Center administers a number of different tests and exams ranging from the ASSET placement assessment for new students to the CAAP exit assessment for TRCC graduates. A brief description of the testing services offered by the Testing and Assessment Center is listed below. Students should contact the office of Testing and Assessment with questions concerning the testing. Please telephone (573) 840-9667 for assistance. ASSET Placement Assessment Consisting of three 25-minute segments that test Writing Skills, Reading Skills, and Mathematics, ASSET is the assessment tool that TRCC uses to determine where to place entering students into the appropriate math and English classes. There is no cost for the test, but students taking the ASSET must have been admitted to the college and paid their $20 admission fee. Testing time: two hours. CAAP Exit Assessment - MANDATORY The College Assessment of Academic Proficiency (CAAP) is a battery of four exams in Reading, Writing, Mathematics, and Critical Thinking given to students in the semester of graduation. Each student who participates in CAAP is given at random two out of the four tests. Because CAAP is important in assessing the success and effectiveness of Three Rivers’ academic and vocational programs, all graduating students must participate. This testing session also includes the Student Opinion Survey, which measures the students’ level of personal satisfaction with their experience at TRCC. There is no cost for this test. Testing time: two hours. C-BASE Exam The College Basic Academic Subjects Exam (C-BASE) is required for all education majors in the state of Missouri. Students must pass all four sections of C-BASE: Writing/English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies for admission to a four-year degree program. C-BASE is offered in the months of January, March, June, September, and November. Testing fee is $45.00. Testing time: four hours. CLEP Tests The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) is a series of tests that students can take to earn college-equivalent credit. TRCC offers a number of different exams for credit. Please consult the college catalog for a list of current CLEP-eligible subject tests. CLEP is given on computer by appointment only. The testing fee is $12 payable to TRCC and $46 payable to CLEP. Testing time: two hours. Correspondence Tests Students involved in distance-learning classes can use the Testing and Assessment Center as an official exam proctor service. Students must make arrangements with their administering school to certify TRCC as their test proctor. Testing is free and by appointment. Testing time: varies by exam. Health Occupations Aptitude Tests Students wishing to enter the programs for Emergency Medical Technician, Medical Laboratory Technician, or Surgical Technician must take the PSB Health Occupation Aptitude Exam. Test dates and times are scheduled by appointment through the offices of the respective academic programs. Testing fee is $10. Testing time: three hours. NLN Nursing Pre-Admission Exam Candidates for entry into the Registered Nurse program must take the NLN exam. The exam is given on the last Saturday of February. (Deadline to register for exam, February 1.) The test fee is $30. Testing time: five hours. GED Exam TRCC is the official testing site for the GED high school equivalency exam. Students must apply for test admission with the state GED office in Jefferson City. There is a $20 application fee. Upon receipt of the admission form from the state, students must complete the eight-page GED Demographics Form at a local Adult Education and Literacy Center. To register to take the GED at TRCC, students must submit their state admission form, the completed demographics form, and a $20 testing fee to the TRCC Testing Office prior to the test registration deadline. For a registration packet, please call 573-840-9664. For more information about policies and procedures call 573-840-9667. WHERE CAN I FIND INFORMATION ABOUT JOBS? (840-9608) The Placement Office, located in the Bess Student Center, maintains updated listings of employment opportunities, both entry-level and professional. These positions may be full or part-time and are usually located within the college service area. “Job Openings” are posted on the campus bulletin boards by employer requests. For additional information and a referral stop by the Placement Office between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. and ask to view the Job Listings Referral Book. ARE THERE OTHER TYPES OF JOB PLACEMENT ASSISTANCE? Placement Registration File Students who have marketable skills or who are graduating may prepare resumes for the Placement Registration file. Resumes within the file will be forwarded to employers upon their request. After reviewing the file employers may directly contact students for an interview. Students who wish to utilize this service should stop by the Placement Office for additional information. On-Campus Interviews Businesses occasionally conduct employment interviews on the TRCC campus. Notices of these interviews will be posted on campus bulletin boards. Interested students need to contact the Placement Office to schedule an interview appointment. WHAT OTHER SERVICES ARE OFFERED BY THE PLACEMENT OFFICE? Pre-Employment Skills Workshops The Placement Office provides pre-employment skills workshops on resume preparation, interview techniques, and job search strategies periodically throughout the year. Resumes will be critiqued upon the student’s request. Mock interviews are scheduled by appointment with the Director of Placement and Career Advising. Career Advising The Placement Office has a variety of resources on various careers and occupational programs. Information on labor markets and employment projections are also available to assist students in the career decision-making process. Graduate Follow-Ups The Placement Office contacts all vocational students six months after graduation to see if they obtained employment and to offer life-long placement services. Results of these surveys are published in the annual Placement Report and are available to students through the Placement Office, Student Support Services, and the Rutland Library. WHERE CAN I GET INFORMATION ABOUT OTHER COLLEGES OR UNIVERSITIES IF I AM INTERESTED IN TRANSFERRING? The Director of Academic Advising and Retention, located in the Bess Student Center, maintains a catalog library of many four-year colleges and universities. These catalogs are available for a two-week checkout period for your information. Also, files are kept on various colleges in the Academic Advisor’s office. (Including applications, financial aid information, etc.) WHERE DO I GO IF I HAVE SPECIAL NEEDS? Special needs assistance is available for handicapped and disadvantaged students. The staff in Student Support Services works with students and college personnel to ensure that handicapped and disadvantaged students are receiving full benefits of TRCC services. Students in need of supportive services should contact Student Support Services located on the first floor of Westover Administrative Building. WHERE CAN I GO TO FIND HELP WITH WRITING ASSIGNMENTS? The Bedell Reading and Writing Center offers tutorial assistance to students who need to develop or polish basic skills necessary in writing across the curriculum. A qualified instructor and several trained tutors are available Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. to offer this academic service. Service is available on line as well as face-to-face. WHAT IS THE TECHNOLOGY LEARNING CENTER? The Technology Learning Center is located in the Administration Building, Room 113 across from the Business Office. Students may use the Technology Learning Center on a walk-in basis for tutoring in math, chemistry, physics, biology, and accounting. Computers are also available for student use. WHERE CAN I FIND PUBLIC ACCESS COMPUTERS FOR STUDENT USE? The Telecommunications Community Resource Center (TCRC) operates in collaboration with Three Rivers Community College, the City of Poplar Bluff, and the University of Missouri. The TCRC is located on the first floor, in the reception area of the E.K. Porter Center. Eight public access computers are available for use by the public on Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. For additional information you may call 840-9450. WHAT IS STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES? This program provides assistance to students who qualify to become better college students, stay in college, and graduate. You may join Student Support Services (SSS) by completing an application. Offices are located on the first floor of the Rutland Library. For additional information you may call 840-9650. FINANCIAL AID (840-9606) WHO QUALIFIES FOR FINANCIAL AID? Regardless of your family’s income, you should file a financial aid application. This does not guarantee that you will receive a Pell Grant; however, you may be eligible for another type of financial aid. HOW DO I APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID? Students must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This application is available in the Financial Aid Office located in the Bess Student Center. The instructions to complete the application are included. Please allow at least four weeks for the application to be processed before you receive any results (Student Aid Report or SAR). You can also apply on the Internet at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov. Please contact the Financial Aid Office for additional information or assistance. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A GRANT AND A LOAN? A grant is gift aid; it does not have to be repaid. A loan will require you to repay it as you would any loan. HOW SOON DO I GET THE MONEY I AM ELIGIBLE FOR? Students can expect their money about mid-semester. Pell Grants are applied to the student account in order to pay on existing balances. If your financial aid overpays your account, you will receive a check for the difference. HOW OFTEN DO I APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID? Students must apply for financial aid each award year. The award year runs fall, spring, and summer. It is recommended that you apply by April 1st before the fall semester in order to allow ample time for all paperwork to be processed before the fall semester begins. WHAT HAPPENS IF I DROP A CLASS AFTER MY PELL GRANT HAS PAID? You are expected to complete at least 67 percent of the semester hours you were paid for and make satisfactory academic progress. If you fail to pass at least 67 percent of your course load, you will be placed on financial aid suspension, and you will lose eligibility for financial aid. If this should happen, you will be notified at the end of the semester regarding procedures for reinstatement of your financial aid. For more details, you should refer to the Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy for Financial Aid in the College Catalog or contact the Financial Aid Office for additional information. WHAT HAPPENS IF I WITHDRAW FROM COLLEGE AND MY PELL GRANT HAS PAID MY ACCOUNT? If you withdraw from college and your Pell Grant has paid your account, you will be placed on financial aid suspension. Procedures for reinstatement of your financial aid will be sent to you at the end of the semester. For more details, you should refer to the Refund Policy for Financial Aid in the College Catalog, or contact the Financial Aid Office for additional information. WHAT IS FINANCIAL AID ELIGIBILITY AND ENROLLMENT STATUS? Initial financial aid awards are made based upon a projected full-time enrollment status (12+ hours/semester). When a Pell Grant is actually paid to a student’s account, the student is paid based upon the actual number of hours of enrollment at the time of payment. Actual award amount is based upon the award amount combined with the enrollment status. 12+ Full-Time 6-8 Half-Time (50%) 9-11 Three-Quarter (75%) 1-5 Less than Half-Time This proration applies only to Pell Grants. Student Loans, Federal SEOG, and Federal College Work-Study require a minimum of six semester hours of enrollment. Other types of loans or grants may require full-time enrollment. Questions regarding any of the Financial Aid programs, listed below, should be directed to the Financial Aid Office located in the Bess Student Center or by calling (573) 840-9606. Federal Pell Grant, Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG), Federal College Work Study (FCWS), Stafford Student Loans, Veterans Benefits, A+, Scholarships, Missouri Student Grant, Vocational Rehabilitation IS THERE A BOOKLET CONTAINING FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION? The U.S. Department of Education publishes the “Student Guide”, which is available in the Financial Aid Office located in the Bess Student Center. STUDENT LIFE WHERE DO I HAVE MY ID (IDENTIFICATION) CARD MADE? ID cards will be issued to all new students by the Admissions Office (this card should be kept as it can be used for more than one year if properly validated). Students will have the opportunity to have photos made for ID cards during registration. A fee of $2.00 will be charged for a duplicate ID card. Please keep your ID card and have it validated each semester in the Admissions Office. A valid ID card is required to check out books from the library. IS THERE FOOD SERVICE ON CAMPUS? Food Service provided by “On-the-Go” restaurant, which is located in the Bess Student Center. It is open from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on days that classes are in session, and 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturdays. IS TUTORING AVAILABLE? Tutoring services are available to assist any student who is having difficulty in a class. If a student is not doing well in a course, he or she should contact the instructor who will assist or will refer the student to the campus tutoring services. There is no charge for tutoring. Tutoring is coordinated by Student Support Services in the Westover Administrative Building (840-9650). IS A DEAN’S LIST PREPARED EACH SEMESTER? A Dean’s List will be formulated at the end of each semester. Students who are enrolled for 12 or more semester hours and earn a 3.5 GPA or better will have their name listed. DOES TRCC HAVE A STUDENT GOVERNMENT? All students who are currently enrolled as regular students are members of the TRCC Student Government Association. The association elects a President, Vice President and eight or more Senators to serve on the Student Senate. Officers are elected during the spring semester, and Senators are elected early in the fall semester. The Senate serves as the official voice of the Student Government Association and the entire student body. The Senate supervises all student elections, appoints committees, approves applications for new campus organizations, and works with leaders of campus organizations. Students serve on the following college committees: Administrative Council, Athletics, Buildings and Grounds, Commencement, Curriculum, Discipline, Library, Public Relations, Student Services, and Who’s Who in American Junior Colleges. Students have full voting privileges and serve with members of the faculty and administration. WHAT STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS ARE AVAILABLE? The following organizations are available to students: Alpha Beta Gamma This is a national business honor society that was established to recognize and encourage scholarship among college students in business curricula. Alpha Beta Gamma provides leadership opportunities, forums for the exchange of ideas, and the stimulation of interest in continuing academic excellence. To be eligible for membership in Alpha Beta Gamma, a student must be enrolled in a business curriculum and have a 3.0 GPA. (Sponsor: John Tiner) Ambassadors The mission of the TRCC Ambassador Scholarship Program is to promote the college to other students, prospective students, parents, counselors, and the community. The TRCC Ambassadors are official student representatives of the college. They provide services to the college and the community by participating in various events both on and off campus. (Sponsor: Marcia Fields) Marketing Management Association This membership is limited to students enrolled in Business Management. The purposes of the organization are to develop and demonstrate leadership and responsibility and to encourage participation in business events and competitive activities. (Sponsor: Martha Kirkman) Phi Beta Lambda This membership is open to students enrolled in business programs. The purposes of the organization are to develop business leadership, to strengthen self-confidence, to create more interest and understanding in the intelligent choice of business occupations, and to establish standards for entrance into business occupations. The local chapter, Zeta Alpha Mu, is affiliated with the national organization. (Sponsor: Julie Becker and Terri Smith) Phi Theta Kappa This is the international honor society for two-year colleges. TRCC’s Sigma Rho chapter was chartered in 1968. Members must be full-time students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. The organization recognizes intellectual achievement, provides opportunities for leadership, and stimulates cultural and creative interests. Membership is by invitation only. (Sponsor: Carol Lewis) Lambda Alpha Epsilon – American Criminal Justice Association (LAE) Promotes opportunities for the members by learning, establishing and maintaining high standards in law enforcement or police science. Membership is open to all law enforcement/police science students. (Sponsor: TBA) Student Senate The Student Senate serves as the official voice of the Student Government Association and the entire student body and is a liaison with the college administration. It is composed of a President, Vice President and eight or more Senators. (Sponsors: Courtney Barnett and the Assistant Director of Housing.) Three Rivers Community College - Aggies Students who are enrolled in agriculture programs may be active members of the TRCC Aggies club. The objectives of the organization are to promote professionalism in agricultural occupations, to develop leadership, and to develop confidence and ability among students of agriculture. (Sponsor: Joyce Rehkop) TRCC-MENC This organization is designed for music education students. Collegiate membership provides opportunities for personal and professional development in the field of music teaching. (Sponsors: William White and Cindy White) TRCC Student Nurse Association This organization is designed to aid in the development of the individual nursing student and to encourage students of nursing, as future health professionals, to be aware of health needs and to contribute to the improvement of health care of all people. Membership is open to both nursing and pre-nursing students. (Sponsor: Rhonda Meloy) Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Membership is open to all students enrolled at TRCC. The organization promotes fellowship and a relationship with Christ. It is an interdenominational Christian organization that is affiliated with the national organization of FCA. (Sponsor: Stacey Burkey) WHAT SPORTS ACTIVITIES ARE AVAILABLE? Men’s Baseball Women’s Volleyball Intramurals Men’s Basketball Women’s Basketball Cheer Team Women’s Softball DOES TRCC HAVE A CAMPUS MINISTRY? Yes, the Baptist Student Union (BSU) offers opportunities for interdenominational, spiritual growth. An interdenominational meeting called “Raider Revelation” is held every Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. and every Wednesday at noon in the Baptist Student Union building. Lunch is provided on both days free of charge. The Baptist Student Union and the weekly meetings are open to all students. (Baptist Student Union Director: Mike Arthur) ^ TOP INFORMATION DIRECTORY A + Financial Incentive Program Financial Aid Office 840-9175 Bess Student Center Academic Advising Academic Advisor 840-9609 Department Advisor Bess Student Center Academic Assistance Student Support Services 840-9650 1st Floor Rutland Library Accounting Lab Room A 113 840-9638 Activity Calendar Director of Student Activities 840-9112 Bess Student Center Address/Name Change Registrar’s Office 840-9665 Bess Student Center Admission- New Students Admissions Office 840-9605 Bess Student Center Add a Course/Drop a Course Registrar’s Office 840-9665 Bess Student Center Allied Health Coordinator 840-9685 1st Floor Rutland Library Art Gallery Director 840-9463 Tinnin Fine Arts Center Assessment Testing and Information Assessment Center 840-9667 Bess Student Center ASSET-Test Scheduling Admissions Office 840-9605 Bess Student Center Athletic Director 840-9611 Bess Activity Center Automobile Registration Business Office 840-9662 Administration Building BEC Malden 573-276-4577 Baptist Student Union Three Rivers Campus 686-1115 Books and Novelties College Bookstore 840-9610 Bess Student Center Business Office Administrative Building 840-9662 Caps and Gowns Vice President for Student Affairs 840-9669 Bess Student Center Career Advising & Planning Career Advisor 840-9608 Bess Student Center C-Base Testing Testing and Assessment Center 840-9667 Bess Student Center Changing Major Registrar’s Office 840-9665 Bess Student Center CLEP Testing Career Assessment Center 840-9667 Bess Student Center Closed Class List Registrar’s Office 840-9665 Bess Student Center Co-Curricular Activities Director of Student Activities 840-9112 Bess Student Center College Advancement Executive Director 840-9495 Tinnin Fine Arts Center Computer Lab Room A104 840-9648 Computer Lab Room A102 (Office Administration) 840-9644 Counseling Academic Advisor 840-9609 Career Advisor 840-9608 Bess Student Center Custodians Building beside Day Care 840-9649 (May also be paged from Adm. Affair’s office - Ext. 696) Degree Requirements Registrar’s Office 840-9665 Bess Student Center Distance Learning 1st Floor Administrative Building 840-9544 Drug Abuse Information Academic Advisor 840-9609 Bess Student Center Extended Learning 1st Floor Administrative Building 840-9690 Fees Business Office 840-9662 Administration Building Lower Level Financial Aid College Work Study Pell Grants Scholarships Student Loans SEOG Grants State Grants Workforce Investment Act Financial Aid Office 840-9607 Bess Student Center Food Services On-the-Go Pizza and Subs Cafeteria 785-9999 Bess Student Center GED Assessment Center 840-9667 General Information Bess Student Center Applications Test Scheduling Exit Exams (CAAP) Graduation Requirements Registrar’s Office 840-9665 Bess Student Center Harry Crisp Sr. Technology Center Three Rivers Campus 840-9689 Health Insurance for Students Vice President for Student Affairs 840-9669 Bess Student Center Housing Information Director of Student Housing 840-9106 Rivers Ridge Leasing Office Assistant of Housing Director 840-9112 Insurance Verification Registrar’s Office 840-9665 Bess Student Center Intramurals Coordinator of Intramurals 840-9611 Bess Activity Center Job Employment Director of Placement 840-9608 Bess Student Center KAHEC Kennett 888-0513 Lost and Found Admissions Office 840-9605 Bess Student Center Medical Assistance Vice President for Student Affairs 840-9669 Bess Student Center Organizations and Clubs Director of Student Activities 840-9112 Bess Student Center Orientation Director of Academic Advising & Retention 840-9609 Bess Student Center Parking Permits/Tickets Business Office 840-9662 Administration Building Raider Review Vice President for Student Affairs 840-9669 Bess Student Center Records and Transcripts Registrar’s Office 840-9665 Bess Student Center Refunds Business Office 840-9662 Administration Building Registration Registrar’s Office 840-9665 Bess Student Center SAHEC Sikeston 472-3210 Scheduling of Activities and/or Conference Room Bess Student Center 840-9669 Vice President for Student Affairs Scholastic Regulations Registrar’s Office 840-9665 Bess Student Center Security Officers 840-6713 718-0108 (Cell phone) Services for Students with Disabilities Student Support Services 840-9650 1st Floor Administrative Building Student Awards Ceremony Vice President for Student Affairs 840-9669 Bess Student Center Student Labs Accounting Lab Math Lab 840-9636 Harry L. Crisp Sr. Technology Center (D Building) Student Government Student Senate Advisor 840-9112 Bess Student Center 840-9106 Student Identification Cards (ID’s) Admissions Office 840-9605 Bess Student Center Emergency Messages Vice President for Student Affairs 840-9669 Bess Student Center Testing Assessment Center 840-9667 Bess Student Center Textbook Rental College Bookstore 840-9610 Traffic Fines Business Office 840-9662 Administration Building Transcripts Registrar’s Office 840-9665 Academic Bess Student Center Tutoring Student Support Services 840-9650 First Floor Westover Administrative Building Veterans Certification Financial Aid Office 840-9175 Bess Student Center Vice President For Student Affairs Office Bess Student Center 840-9669 Visually Impaired Students Student Support Services 840-9650 First Floor Westover Administrative Building Vocational Rehabilitation Financial Aid Office 840-9175 Bess Student Center Withdrawal from College Vice President for Student Affairs 840-9669 Bess Student Center ^ TOP