Spring 2024 classes are underway! CCV is offering in-person classes at eight academic centers across the state as well as hundreds of online options. The excitement for the new semester is palpable at the CCV-Winooski academic center, which is bustling with students finding their classes, faculty connecting with new and familiar faces, and staff helping to answer questions.
We had a chance to talk with students, faculty, and staff about being back in the center for the first week of classes and any advice they have for new students. Here’s what they had to say:
“It’s good to have the energy back in the building and online. Reach out to your advisor, reach out to your instructor, frequently and often as needed, because that is by far the best way to ensure success this semester.”
Ian, staff
“I feel really good, I really like the environment, I think the community is really nice and welcoming… take it one day at a time, it’s not as difficult as it may seem, and it gets easier.”
Sammy, student
“I’m getting a lot of core classes down…this is a free and flexible way to figure out what I want to do”
Reagan, Free Degree Promise student
“The art classes are so great. I love my art teachers. The instructors are incredible and very talented, and they really care about students. I didn’t have a great time in [high] school. I had this bias toward teachers, and I left that at the door coming here. You can get financial aid and different assistance as you need it. It’s a great stepping stone. ”
Alexandra, student
“I’m not exactly sure what I want to do but I feel like if I’m supported here at a community college and exploring different subjects that I’m passionate about then that would be better than going to a four-year college and starting a student loan and paying a bunch of money …it’s a really good opportunity to have a good foundation and then move to a focused school in whatever I’m interested in.”
Liam, Early College student
“Take any class that sounds interesting, even if you don’t think you’ll use it in the future. If you’re interested in it, follow it, because that’s what community college is all about.”
Amelia, student
“I feel great. I finished my undergraduate degree in my childhood bedroom during the pandemic, so it’s pretty awesome to be in a classroom. It’s a really good experience.”
Samara, student
“[Students] don’t have to have it all figured out. They should ask questions of anybody. Many of our students are the first person in their family to go to college. We have many staff members who are the first people in their family who went to college. We didn’t have it figured out, and they don’t need to have it figured out. You should just ask.”
Marianne, staff
“I’m psyched, I’m invigorated, I’m excited about being here and meeting the students and getting going and having a fresh start. Really what I like the most is the diversity of the student body. They come with a lot of different perspectives from different ethnic backgrounds and different cultural perspectives. I teach elsewhere in Vermont and I just don’t get that level of diversity.”
Ben, faculty
“I came here years ago and never finished, but I’m back and ready. I’m excited. I’m not gonna lie, I didn’t sleep the night before my first class. I was nervous because I’m 30 years old and haven’t been in school for a very long time. But sitting in the classroom and looking around, there are so many different ethnicities and ages. I feel comfortable in the classroom.”
Nikki, student
“As long as you have a good schedule planned out for yourself, it’s gonna work out. Sometimes things are fast-paced, but if you work out a specific schedule things will be okay.”
Ranjana, student
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