Free online college prep course aims to help students succeed at Ridgewater
May 25, 2021
WILLMAR and HUTCHINSON, MN – If you’re thinking about going to college but aren’t sure you are prepared, College YES! just might be the summer answer you’ve been looking for.
Ridgewater College and the Glacial Lakes Adult Basic Education (ABE) program have teamed up for a free, two-week online college preparation course to develop skills for student success.
From July 26 to August 6, the 10 a.m. one-hour class will meet virtually Monday through Friday. It will require five hours instructor-led online time each week, plus about three hours of weekly homework.
“Many times, the transition to college can be confusing and overwhelming, especially for students who don’t have parents who went to college or other support systems to help them navigate this transition,” explained Stacy Griffey, Ridgewater College director of equity, inclusion, and student success/diversity officer. “We are so excited to partner with ABE to offer this class to help new college students navigate challenging processes, learn about campus resources, and develop study skills so that they can start college on the right track.”
Students will learn about Ridgewater College, financial aid, career exploration and campus resources. Students will also practice using the online learning platform used at Ridgewater for tasks like submitting homework, taking quizzes, and accessing resources. In addition, College YES will help students brush up on academic skills like college-level writing.
ABE’s Ann Trochlil is excited about improvements for the program going into its third year. In addition to successful completers receiving a $200 book stipend for the Ridgewater Bookstore like other years, this year there’s an added bonus. “Students who successfully complete all the requirements are able to enroll in Ridgewater’s three-credit On Course class for free to set them up for the next successful steps,” she said. It’s a value of approximately $575. On Course teaches students everything from good study habits and time management practices to strategies for creative and critical thinking.
Students without a computer or internet access can still participate. No problem. ABE has a limited number of Chromebooks that students can check out and students who don’t have home internet or WIFI can access it at either Willmar or Hutchinson campus of Ridgewater.
“We really hope people take advantage of this great opportunity or tell someone you know who could benefit,” Griffey said.
The deadline for enrollment in the College YES program is July 22. Due to the 40-student limited, those interested should act now. To enroll or request more information, call 320.231.8480 or email [email protected]. Participants are not limited to the Willmar or Hutchinson areas.