Today marks the summer solstice, the first and longest day of summer. Having moved here four years ago with my family, it did not take long for me to fully embrace the summer months in Minnesota! Summer, regardless of how you are spending your time, ushers in a new mindset open to exploring knowledge, opportunities, and possibilities. As Malcom X said, “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” We have several opportunities for you to explore at North Hennepin Community College.
Visit us during Minnesota State Week June 24-28 to learn more about NHCC and apply for free. Attend an in-person or virtual information session where you can learn more about our academic programs, student resources, financial aid, and campus life.
Enroll in one day by attending a Kickstart Enrollment event on July 8, 18, 23 and 29. Our friendly staff will be available to assist you with where you are in the process, from application to registration. At Kickstart, you can choose your own adventure and tailor your visit to your needs. RSVP for a session at nhcc.edu/kickstart.
Starting this fall, new and returning students may be eligible for free college tuition through the North Star Promise Scholarship program. The NSP is a last-dollar program that covers all tuition and fees that remain after scholarships, grants and tuition waivers have been applied. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or Minnesota Dream Act Application to find out if you are eligible. Visit nhcc.edu/NSP to learn more.
We are excited to share three new programs starting this fall that may pique your interest, including Public Administration; Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; and Cybersecurity.
If you are passionate about making a positive impact on an organization and community, consider a career in Public Administration, where leaders in government, nonprofit, or the private sector address important societal issues by shaping and implementing policy, projects and programs. Upon completion, students will be prepared for entry-level jobs and/or can transfer credits to Metropolitan State University’s Human Services Leadership and Administration bachelor’s degree program.
The 10-credit DEI Certificate is a great supplement to any career or program of study. Courses will be offered in-person, online or both. Students will complete two courses and one internship and/or immersion experience. Learn foundational concepts such as social determinants of health, strategies for recognizing unconscious bias, cultural competency, intersectionality and gender equality. Nursing student Armonhd Foster is pursuing the DEI Certificate to help him be an advocate for BIPOC populations in health care. He said, “What I enjoyed about the immersion experience was getting hands-on experience. If you are considering taking the immersion experience, you will learn something new, and you might come away with a completely different understanding of history.”
The Cybersecurity Certificate at NHCC prepares graduates for entry-level careers in computer network and information security. This certificate can be a gateway to building foundational skills and learning about careers. The field of cybersecurity is growing rapidly, and with additional industry certifications or a bachelor’s degree, graduates can increase their career opportunities.
Embrace the summer as an opportunity to start exploring your future today.
Rolando García is president of North Hennepin Community College. Send commentary to rolando.garcia@nhcc.edu.