The fall semester is quickly approaching at South Suburban College (SSC) and the time to register is now. Various options are offered to guide students on their path to success. The team is thrilled to welcome new and returning students to both the Main Campus in South Holland and to the Oak Forest Center. “We’re gearing up for another great school year and are eagerly awaiting the return of our students,” said SSC Vice President of Student & Enrollment Services, Deborah Baness King, Ph.D.
Back-to-school season can be challenging, especially for those concerned about financially affording higher education. To ease this burden, SSC offers a technology relief fund, which provides free laptops to students in need of a reliable option to access learning materials. “SSC students just have to fill out an application online,” King remarked. Once a student receives a laptop, it is theirs to keep throughout their term as a student, as well as once they graduate from the college.
In addition to free laptops, funds have been allocated to various programs that can aid students in their academic careers as well as their personal lives. The inclusion of a food pantry on campus ensures that students frequently have access to nourishment. Students who may be struggling to pay for necessities, such as gas and electricity in their homes, may apply for up to $500 of aid to cover applicable bills as they work toward earning their SSC degree.
Restructuring has taken place at the college to offer students a more robust experience. The Counseling Center, for example, now provides students with the same counselor throughout their time at SSC, adding a more personal touch to this service than in previous years. “We’ve taken a look at what we do and how we do it to ensure that everything we do is student-centered,” King stated. “We want to offer the best services to adult and traditional age students who are enrolling for the first time or returning to school.”
At SSC, every student is welcome, regardless of their proximity to either campus. In terms of flexibility, SSC offers the option to learn in-person, online, virtually and/or in a blended course environment. Various degree options are available for those who prefer to complete their education entirely online, as well.
SSC has also expanded educational options in the Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI) project, funded through the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB), to support qualified student participants. Areas include: Barber Technician, Forklift Operator, Community Health Worker, Nursing Assistant, Patient Care Technician and more. “We are here to serve our students, and we want them to take advantage of tuition-free programs,” King added. “Most of them are short-term programs that students can finish within a year.”
SSC staff members encourage prospective and current students to ask questions, get involved, and use the various resources available through SSC. “It's a great time to start or continue your education at South Suburban College,” King concluded. “We have many resources for students and a keen focus on their success.”
Registration is open for the Fall 2022 Semester, beginning on August 22. Early enrollment is encouraged to ensure students can register for the courses they prefer. For information about registration, transferring to SSC, and more, visit www.ssc.edu or call (708) 210-5718.
