Grant for CCC Summer Program Benefits Several Students

Wednesday, August 01, 2007

Plattsburgh - Nine students are attending Clinton Community College this summer, as a result of a grant from the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (NYSHSEC). The Summer Academic Success Program is a 6-week program with a very serious approach to working with selected participating students in order to give them the best possible route to being successful in college.

Karen Burnam, Director of Admissions and writer of the grant for the College explained, “The Summer Academic Success Program is an exciting opportunity for this group of students to clarify their educational and career goals while completing 7 credits toward their degree program.”

The SASP is designed as a residential program. Students live in campus housing during the designated six weeks, thus assuring they are free to participate in all planned classroom activities, study time, workshops, and social events. The students agree to and must complete, two courses needed to continue their studies, plus they attend a class entitled, On Course – Strategies. The other courses offered include communications, math and meteorology.

Other campus services made available to the SASP students include, tutoring, counseling and advisement, wellness, career planning, and financial aid.

When the students were asked how they feel about the opportunity, “So far,” Marshall Zins said, “it’s an opportunity to realize our own goals.” Morgan Guay added, “It’s an awesome opportunity to get back on track.” “I think the structure has helped me stay on track,” explained Andrew Adams, “it’s easier to apply yourself.”

The group admits that they have all ‘clicked really well,’ or ‘bonded’ and enjoy how well they get along with each other. They study as a group and feel everyone will succeed because they want to, and therefore will strive to do it.

Director of Student Development, Lauren Touhey, noted, “Most nights, I hear the students in the lounge of the residence hall talking about class, an upcoming exam, or simply enjoying each other's company by watching a movie. It is really great to see how this program has allowed the students to become more connected and engaged. Many of the students have discussed their academic and even professional goals, and this program gives them the tools necessary to achieve those goals.”

Catherine Eloranto, the On Course instructor who meets twice a week with the student group explained, “My role is to empower students to be more successful in school and in life by taking personal responsibility for their education, discovering the self-motivation necessary to succeed, and by making wise choices in pursuing their goals.”

Vice President for Student Services, Dr. Stephen St. Onge said, “ I am very proud of this group of students who are standing proudly behind their goals and their dreams for a future enhanced by education and learning. For all of those involved in this project, students, faculty and staff, we are assured that by caring for students and supporting them both socially and academically, we can make a difference.”

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