Should Community Colleges Require Meningitis Vaccine for Admission?

Students may select the location for their post-secondary education from a variety of factors, including tuition costs, degree programs available and quality of education received. This is true for prospective community college students, as well as those looking at a possible four-year degree. One factor that may not be at the top of a searching student’s list is campus safety. However, staying safe while you are pursuing your degree is an important characteristic that contributes to the overall college experience. Fortunately, StateUniversity.com has you covered, with annual rankings that let prospective students know which college campuses are considered the safest in the country.

Choosing the Safest School

When StateUniversity.com begins its annual process of ranking U.S. colleges for safety, the first step is to take data directly from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Since private colleges do not have to report their crime figures to the FBI, some of these schools may not appear on the list. However, all schools that participate in federal student aid programs are required to report crime numbers every year, keeping most of the schools around the country under consideration for the rankings. For the 2011 rankings, about 450 of the largest schools in the United States were evaluated.

This video highlights the breadth and scope of college and university law enforcement volunteer efforts.

Crime reports for 2015 were considered when compiling the most recent

For veterans returning to the U.S. after military service, the transition can be hard. These young men and women must adjust to the “real world” environment, often without the support of other veterans who understand firsthand what they are experiencing. Fortunately, many community colleges across the country are recognizing the needs of the veteran population and answering the call by providing job training, as well as emotional and physical support for those who have selflessly served their country. Check out the many veterans’ services offered by community colleges nationwide today.

Cayuga Community College Offers Veterans Club

At Cayuga Community College in New York, veterans can find the camaraderie, resources, and support they need to succeed in the world of higher education. Syracuse.com reports that the Veterans Club on this campus was started by former marine Brian Knapp, who wanted to share information about available benefits and services with other vets. Knapp told Syracuse.com that while he has enjoyed his experience at community college since coming back from Afghanistan, he found the benefits maze somewhat confusing to navigate.

“I wanted to know about my benefits and that’s why I started the club,” Knapp explained. “I thought other people wanted to know too.”

In addition to educating veterans about the benefits available to them, Knapp said the Veterans Club also provides bonds for vets that have had similar experiences and want to share those experiences with others who understand.

“In the military, you have

Make this year your most lucrative year yet, by launching a degree program in one of the hottest career fields out there. Some of the most in-demand positions of this decade can be landed with a two-year degree from your local community college. Training is relatively short and cost-effective, and the potential in some of these fields provides plenty of prospects for the future. Check out the best careers that you can start with an associate degree.

Dental Hygienist

Still holding the top spot as one of the most promising careers of the decade, the job of a dental hygienist involves working directly with patients to provide education and preventative care. Dental hygienists typically work in the offices of dentists or orthodontists, keeping regular office hours. Many work part-time with flexible scheduling and job-sharing options available. According to U.S. News and World Report, the average annual salary for a dental hygienist is $69,280, and the outlook for job growth is excellent as more dentists add hygienists to their staff in order to increase the patient load.

Real Estate Appraiser

According to MyKelly.com, both commercial and residential real estate appraisers should enjoy significant job growth over the next few years. This position involves assessing all types of properties to determine the current value for resale or financing purposes. Appraisers must have a solid understanding of real estate principles and practices, as well as basic processes involved in appraisals and property sales. MyKelly.com

Community college campuses were home to many festive gatherings this holiday season, getting in on the holiday action. From festive concerts to service projects designed for the season, these schools show their students what the winter months are. Check out the fun, festive, family-oriented events available at some community colleges around the country.

Shop ‘til You Drop at Community College Craft Fairs

Arts and crafts abound at community colleges this time of year, offering Christmas shoppers the opportunity to pick up something truly unique for friends and family members. Auburn Pub reports that Cayuga Community College in Auburn, New York, recently hosted its annual Holiday Festival Craft Show, which features handmade clothing and accessories, holiday decorations, and fresh baked goods. The show celebrates its 39^th year in style, with live entertainment and food vendors to keep everyone in the holiday spirit.

St. Charles Community College in Missouri also hosted a holiday craft bazaar, according to a report on the school’s website. The show, which was free to the public, was held at the gym on the community college campus. Vendors offered an array of handmade goods, and some even provided free demonstrations of their craft. Shoppers found a wide selection of jewelry, quilts, photography, and other craft items. All of the crafters featured at the bazaar can also be found on Etsy, an e-commerce site for artisans and crafters to sell their wares.

Say “Cheese” at Mott Community College