Home > Studentlife > Development

 

Student Development FAQ

Academic Counseling

Career Planning

Curriculum Change

Services For Students With Disabilities

Dual Admissions/Transfer

Federal Work-Study

International Student Services

Placement Assessment

Student Employment

Veteran Services

Withdrawl/Exit Counseling


Academic Counseling

How do I change my major?
You must call 614-6230 or go to Room A131 to make an appointment to see a counselor in Student Development.

When is the earliest date I can register?
At 12:01 a.m. on your designated start date. This date is provided to you by the Records & Registration Office.

What if I need help registering on Banner Web from home?
If you need assistance with Banner Web, contact the Records and Registration Office at 614-6250 during their normal business hours or email them at registration@niagaracc.suny.edu. The email will be answered during business hours.

What if I don’t pass my current courses?
You can change your schedule on Banner Web after you find out your current grades. In most cases, you would drop the advance course and add the course you need to repeat.

What if a course is closed?
You can choose another course from the alternatives listed on your advisement sheet. You can also check Banner Web periodically to see if the course has any openings right up until the first day of classes.

What if I need to change my schedule?
You have access to add/drop courses on Banner Web right up until the first day of class. After classes start, you can come to Drop/Add session to make adjustments. You do want to be careful to maintain at least 12 credits if you are planning on full-time enrollment.

When is payment due?
You will receive a bill in the mail. Payment dates are listed on the Records and Registration website and Banner.

If I signed up for classes, but never attended, do I still owe a bill?
Yes, once you choose your classes in Banner, you reserve a seat in each class and you will be responsible to pay for the classes. You must withdraw from your classes before the semester begins to avoid a bill.

If I am doing poorly in a class, what will happen if I withdraw from (drop) it?
During the first three weeks of a term, if you drop a class, it disappears from your schedule. It will not count for credits toward financial aid. After the first three weeks of the term, a “W” grade is given. These credits are viewed as “attempted credits”. Financial Aid may be reduced, check with the Financial Aid office, A117.

What is academic probation?
A student is placed on Academic Probation when he/she has too many attempted credits and too few earned credits and/or a low g.p.a. See the Academic Progress Chart in the college catalogue. This notification is a very serious warning that future classes must be completed successfully in order to return to good academic standing and to receive financial aid.

What is the Unschedule?
The Unschedule is a series of workshops and seminars designed to help you maximize your academic experience and to round out the more formal academic offerings of NCCC by providing you with personal growth opportunities in a variety of self-help areas. Various support services areas and academic departments provide workshops to enhance opportunities for student success. The Unschedule offerings can be viewed at http://www.niagaracc.suny.edu/pdf/unschedule.pdf.

Where can I go if I need personal counseling?
If you are in need of personal/emotional counseling you can go to the Wellness Center, C122. All inquiries are kept confidential.


back to top

Career Planning

How do I know if I am in the right curriculum?
Choosing the right curriculum is one of the most important decisions you will make in your college experience. Unfortunately most students have never been given any real guidance in how to go about the process. As a result many students select a major that isn’t appropriate for achieving their ultimate career goal or they may end up in a major in which they have little interest. If you think you are in the wrong major, there is a good chance that you probably are. Making a career choice is a process, it doesn’t just happen. Counselors in Student Development are available to discuss with you the components of the career planning process and the various resources available to help you with this very important decision.

How can I get assistance with career planning and career goals?
A variety of research tools are available to help students with career planning and decision making. Students can set up an appointment to meet with a counselor in Student Development (A 131) to go over various career choices.


back to top

Curriculum Change

What is a curriculum change?
A curriculum change is a procedure that officially changes your course of study. Students who want to change their curriculum must contact Student Development in A-131 (614-6230) and complete a change of curriculum application.  The application is also available on Banner Web under the Student Services and Financial Aid tab.  Click on Student Records and select Curriculum Change Application.

Are all of curriculum change requirements the same?
Each particular curriculum has it own unique entrance requirements. In order to ensure that you are taking the correct requirements for your intended curriculum, you should refer to the current NCCC college catalog and/or talk to your advisor. You can also make an appointment to speak to a counselor in Student Development (A-131).

What is the difference between the admission requirements and curriculum change requirements?
Admissions requirements and curriculum change requirements both outline pre requisite coursework for specific majors. Admissions requirements apply to new students not currently attending NCCC and curriculum change requirements apply to continuing students at the college who want to change their major.

My curriculum has several entrance requirements and I have met some of them. Can I be placed on a waitlist while I am taking classes to fulfill the rest of the requirements?
No, you must meet all entrance requirements before submitting a curriculum change application. Students are only placed on a waitlist when their requested curriculum is full and the department has instructed Student Development to create a waitlist.

Do Liberal Arts and Sciences major receive preferential treatment for curriculum changes if they have a concentration?
Students who have completed all of the entrance requirements are allowed to submit an application for a change of curriculum, regardless of whether they have a concentration. However, students in the various concentrations are advised by faculty members who are fully aware of the required qualifications that students need for entrance into allied health programs and nursing.

What does it mean to be on a curriculum change waitlist?
When the demand for a particular program is larger than the available number of seats for a particular semester, the Division Chair or Program Coordinator may allow a waitlist. Students are taken off of the waitlist and placed into the program as seats become open.

If I am on a Waitlist what should I be doing?
Students must be enrolled in classes for each semester (not including summer sessions) that they are on the waitlist. All earned grades will be used to calculate the student’s overall GPA. Most high demand programs require a minimum GPA of a 2.0 for entrance into the curriculum.

If I do not stay enrolled or I do not earn the required cumulative GPA, will I be removed from the waitlist?
Yes. Waitlists are reviewed at the beginning and end of each semester to ensure that all students have continuous enrollment and continue to meet all entrance requirements for the specified curriculum.

How can I get more information about the curriculum change process?

  • Make sure that your academic advisor knows your intended plans and preferred curriculum so that s/he can keep you informed of any updates regarded the curriculum change process or your intended program.
  • Attend the UNSCHEDULE information workshop: “So You Want to Go into Allied Health”. This workshop was specifically developed for students interested in: Animal Management Medical Assistant, Nursing, Physical Therapist Assistant, Practical Nursing, Radiologic Technology, and Surgical Technology. Stop by Student Development (A -131) to register.
  • Make an appointment with a counselor in Student Development (A-131).

 

What happens if there are changes in the program requirements prior to my entry into the curriculum of your choice?
If there are any changes regarding the curriculum change process or program requirements after you have submitted a curriculum change application you will be notified by Student Development. It is important to insure that your contact information in BANNER is accurate so that college officials can contact you.

Who can I speak to if I have more questions?
Your academic advisor and the Student Development department are two excellent resources to answer curriculum change questions.


back to top

Services for Students with Disabilities

I received Special Education Services in High School. What special education programs do you have at NCCC?
NCCC does not have special educational programs. Students with disabilities are in the same classes and have to meet the same requirements as all other students. We do provide reasonable accommodations for disabilities based upon appropriate documentation.

I had an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) in High School. What do I need to do to receive services at college?
You must contact the Office of Disability Services at 614-6285 to schedule an appointment to meet with the Coordinator of Disability Services. To prepare for your appointment make sure you bring the appropriate documentation with you.

What documentation is required?
Documentation will vary based upon your disability. Documentation needs to be current and relevant to how your disability affects your functioning within an academic setting. In most cases, if you have a learning disability, you will need to provide a copy of your IEP and psychological evaluation.

How will my instructors know that I receive extended time on my tests as well as other accommodations?
When you meet with the Coordinator of Disability Services at NCCC, your documentation will be evaluated to see what accommodations you are eligible for. You will be given an Accommodation Form that indicates your accommodations. You will give this form to your instructors.

Is there additional Financial Aid available for me because I have a disability?
Students with disabilities should apply for the same financial aid packages as all other students. You may also be eligible for services from VESID (Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities). VESID is a nationwide Federal-State program. Their role is to help a person with a disability prepare for a suitable occupation and education may be a part of this. Contact VESID directly at 716-848-8001 for further information.


back to top

Dual Admission/Transfer

What is Dual-Admission?
Dual-Admission is a special transfer program developed in conjunction with selected four-year colleges and universities. This program enables students to take advantage of some unique benefits. The Dual Admission program is available for only certain colleges and certain programs. To participate in the program, a student must be enrolled in the appropriate parallel NCCC curriculum and must meet the course and GPA guidelines of the four-year college. Additionally students must have earned less than 30 credits and NCCC must be the only college they have attended. If you would like more detailed information regarding colleges and programs included in the program go to www.niagaracc.suny.edu/admissions/dualadmission.php.

Are scholarships available when I transfer to a four-year college?
All the colleges you may be considering for transfer have the same state and federal financial aid programs that we have at NCCC. Additionally they may have other scholarships specifically for transfer students. The financial aid office at the four-year college will be able to provide you with this information. Additionally there are scholarships available through organizations that are not connected to any particular school. These scholarships may be based on need, academic achievement, or a variety of other criteria depending on the awarding organization. For more information on scholarship opportunities you can contact the Student Development or Foundation Offices at NCCC.


back to top

Federal Work-Study

What is Work Study?
Federal Work Study Program is funded through Federal Financial Aid. When students complete the FAFSA, they must indicate they are interested in FWS on the FAFSA application. A student’s Financial Aid package will only include FWS funds if the student is eligible and has indicated an interest in FWS.

How do I get a Work Study job?
If you are eligible for Federal Work Study, you must return your application to Student Development (A131) to be placed in a position. If placement is ongoing, you can make an appointment to see the Program Administrator. Otherwise, you will be contacted when the placement period begins.

What kinds of jobs are available?
There are essentially 5 types of positions for FWS. Please see the abbreviated job descriptions below:

  • Office Assistant: Filing, copying, typing, handling mail, answer phones, running errands on campus (*majority of positions on campus)
  • Monitor: Monitor patron behavior in computer lab or art gallery, assist students with basic computer operation in lab or ask patrons to sign in at Art Gallery
  • Library Shelver: Sort and shelve returned books in the Lewis Library
  • Intramural Recreation: Monitor recreation facilities, answer phones, running errands on campus
  • Student Life: Assist with campus events, copying, answer phones, running errands on campus

 

Does the money go toward tuition or does it come to me?
The money you earn through FWS goes to you in a paycheck every two weeks. You can pick up this paycheck at the Switchboard in the A-Building Lobby.

I worked. Why didn’t I get paid?
First, go to the Switchboard in the A-Building Lobby. Bring a form of identification with you as you may be prepared to show it when you ask the Switchboard operator if there is a paycheck waiting there for you. If there is no check for you, answer the following questions: Did I submit a timesheet to my supervisor in a timely fashion? Did I complete the AuthorizationTo Work and return it to the FWS Program Administrator? Did I complete and return my tax forms to Human Resources? If the answer to any of these questions is NO, then you know why you didn’t get paid. See your supervisor regarding your timesheet; see the Program Administrator regarding the other issues.


back to top

International Student Services

What are my options for employment in the US?
International students can work on campus if positions are available without any authorization from USCIS. Students should make an appointment with the Program Administrator in Student Development to discuss eligibility. Likewise, students seeking off-campus employment must make an appointment with the Program Administrator to discuss off-campus options, as the process for off-campus employment is more cumbersome than the process for on-campus employment. Part of this process includes completing the I-765 and paying a fee to USCIS. Completion of the application and payment of the fee does not ensure that the student will be authorized to work. Decisions for or against authorization are at the discretion of USCIS.

Can I get a second Associates Degree?
Yes, you can get a second Associates Degree at NCCC before transferring for a baccalaureate degree or terminating your status and going back to the country of your citizenship.

How long is my I-20 valid?
The I-20 remains valid according to the program beginning and end dates on page one as long as you do the following:

  1. Register for classes as a full-time student (unless you are a Canadian commuter; then you may attend part-time)
  2. Attend classes regularly and maintain good academic standing
  3. Come to Student Development every year and have the I-20 signed by the Program Administrator. There should be no more than one year in between the date of the last signature and the date of the most recent signature.

 

Will I be notified if I am out of status?
Yes, the Program Administrator will notify you if you are out of status. SEVIS will also be notified, and you will then be notified by USCIS as well.

How can I get a Social Security number?
The first step to getting a Social Security number is to go to your local United States Social Security Administration office to find out what documents are necessary to verify your identity. The next step is to make an appointment with the Program Administrator to further assist you with the process.


back to top

Placement Assessment

What is included in the assessment?
You will be tested in the areas of math, reading comprehension, and writing. Sample questions are available in the testing brochure and on NCCC’s website.

What do I need to bring?
You will need to bring photo identification and the testing fee. We will provide you with all testing materials such as scrap paper and a calculator for the math portion.

How long does it take?
The assessments are not timed, and you will work at your own pace. Plan to be at the Testing Center for approximately 2-3 hours if you are required to take all three portions of the assessment.

What if I don’t pass?
You will have the opportunity to retest one time. If you choose not to retest, you will be required to take applicable non-credit foundation classes your first semester.

What is the next step after testing?
Student Development will contact you regarding advisement and registration once you have completed testing and submitted all required immunization information to the Wellness Center (C122).


back to top

Student Employment

How can I find a job off-campus?
Student Development has a Job Locator on staff that is dedicated to helping students and alumni find jobs. In addition, NCCC has a Job Board featuring a wide variety of job opportunities submitted to the College by local employers.

Student Development also sponsors an on-campus Job Fair every semester. Nearly fifty employers attend, offering students and alumni the opportunity to apply for a variety of positions with their companies. Contact Student Development for current dates or check a copy of the Unschedule, available in Student Development.

How can I create a good cover letter and resume?
Professionals in Student Development are available to assist you with your cover letter and resume. The NCCC website features a number of helpful resources regarding cover letters and resumes, in addition to many workshops offered on these and other employment topics throughout the semester. Contact Student Development for current dates or view Unschedule offerings at www.niagaracc.suny.edu/pdf/unschedule.pdf.

What should I do during an interview?
Professionals in Student Development are available to assist you with your interview skills. You can set up a one-on-one appointment to do a mock interview and interview skills assessment or attend an Unschedule workshop on the subject. Copies of the Unschedule are available in Student Development.

What if I take a job and I hate it?
Don’t give up immediately. Give the job a chance. Sometimes we don’t like a job immediately because we don’t yet feel comfortable in the environment or because it seems there‘s too much to learn. Any job you take can help you to develop your transferrable skills – skills that will make you successful in any field! For example, people skills and organization skills are important in any job. Stay in the job for a while. No one says you can’t search for a new job while you do. Just be sure to give the employer two weeks notice before leaving so you can add another reference to your network.

How will I know what job I want to do for the rest of my life?
Student Development has Career Planning professionals available who can guide you in making this decision. Sometimes taking a self-evaluation will open you to options you never considered, while at other times taking an entry-level job in a field you’re interested in can help you to narrow down your options. Remember: You don’t have to decide today! In today’s evolving marketplace, it is common for a person to change careers over a lifetime.


back to top

Veteran Services

How do I apply for my veterans benefits?
Refer to "NCCC's Admissions and GI Bill Checklists" on the Student Development website or ask to speak to the Veterans Services Coordinator (A-131) for specific information.

When will I receive my GI Bill benefit payments?
Allow at least 8 weeks after your enrollment has been certified by the College for the first check to process. Generally, you can expect to receive a check by the end of the first month of school. Benefit checks are disbursed covering the prior month at the beginning of each new month during the enrollment period.

Why is my GI Bill check less than the monthly rate?
The most common reason a check may be less than the monthly rate is that the first and last check in an enrollment period are prorated based on the number of days in the month for which you are actually enrolled. Other reasons might include a deduction for an overpayment, or reduced training time after you received your award letter. If you have questions about your check amount, contact the Veterans Administration through the "Ask a Question" page on their website or call 1-888-442-4551.

Can I receive credit for military training?
Most veterans receive 2 Physical Education credits for completing basic training after submitting a DD214 to our Admissions Office for evaluation. It may also be possible to receive college credit for other military training. Transcripts from military or other colleges should be submitted to our Admissions Office immediately upon admission to NCCC.

For information about obtaining military transcripts:

back to top

Withdrawal/Exit Counseling

How do I withdraw from all of my classes?
You withdraw from the College by filling out a form in the Records & Registration Office. The form is also available on their website. You are encouraged to speak to a counselor in Student Development (A131) to discuss alternatives to and ramifications of withdrawing from all classes.

If I need to withdraw due to extenuating circumstances, will I still have to pay for the classes?
If you have circumstances, such as illness or a death in the family, you may file a request for bill cancellation. Supporting documentation is required. Check with the Cashier’s Office (A205) for details.


back to top

 

©