KCC

NEWS

ISSUE 45

September 2013

Kilian Community College Issue 45 Page 2

“No one has a problem with the first mile of a journey… But it isn’t the start that

matters. It’s the finish line.” Julien Smith

Welcome to Kilian! No matter where you are in your journey, the faculty and

staff of Kilian Community College are here to empower you to Commit to Com-

plete your education. Many of us, and as a 2007 graduate of Kilian, I include my-

self, have walked through the doors of Kilian looking for an opportunity to change

our lives through the power of a college degree. Just like many of you, I choose

Kilian to be my trusted partner in my educational journey. I knew that at Kilian,

education was accessible, from the class schedules to the access to faculty and staff. I knew I would get the

support I needed to succeed, and that my education would be relevant for me, my employer, and for my fu-

ture education. I knew I was making a choice to better my future, and I’m so glad it all started at Kilian.

The journey can be difficult, and there are times road blocks make it seem impossible. But those are the

times that test our persistence, and make us stronger. Don’t give up on yourself, or your dreams. It’s so

worth it in the end. I promise. Wishing you all the best, always.

Wendi Van Beek, Dean of Student Services

Commit to Complete KCC is excited to announced a new student success program— the Commit to Complete initiative! Whether you are study-

ing for an associate degree or a certificate, your future will be much brighter with a college credential. You will earn more,

have job security and be more likely to find the job you want. Even if you are planning to transfer to a four-year school you

should first complete an associate degree.

We know that getting through school requires motivation and support, and Commit to Complete is here to help you make

that commitment, to yourself and to your future. It is a commitment from Kilian Community College faculty and staff to

empower you to reach your graduation goal. It is a reminder, and a nudge, to get you to graduation day. It is more than a

phrase you will hear on campus; it is a way to encourage yourself, and encourage others, to keep striving to fulfill your aca-

demic dreams.

In the first few weeks of this semester, watch for information on a Commit to Complete signing day event. It will be an op-

portunity to come together with faculty, staff, and other students to pledge to work towards your completion goal— com-

pleting your degree!

Kilian Community College Issue 45 Page 3

STUDENT SUCCESS CENTER

The Student Success Center (SSC) at Kilian is located on the second floor in room 207. The SSC is a place

open to all Kilian students. It is a center that offers many services. First and foremost, it is a place to get as-

sistance with course work. Tutors are available 6 days a week to assist you with writing, mathematics, study

skills and most course work students have at Kilian. The SSC also has computers that students can use for

school or fun.

FREE resources in the SSC are:

Individualized help

Student make up tests (call to see if the test is here)

Off site/distance learning college testing

Compass testing

Study rooms for small groups or individuals

Resources assigned by instructors

- videos

- papers

- journal articles

- more!

Calculators

Study skills information

Access to class syllabi

Assistance with accessing Library database articles or Moodle

Computer login password resets

Please drop in to see what we have to offer. We look forward to working with you.

“All that we are is the result of what we have

thought. The mind is everything. What we think we

become.” - the Buddha

Kilian Community College Issue 45 Page 4

Former Student News

Paze and Melissa Cook, recent graduates of KCC, have had an exciting

few months since completing their degrees. Melissa shared her thoughts

with us in a recent email to student services:

We are so thankful for Killian and Presentation and all they have done to

help us down our path. This journey, though pretty scary, was totally

worth it, and I know we would not be this successful without Killian and

Presentation. All of our instructors at Kilian pushed us to our highest level

of success, especially Jim Smorada. Even still to this day he tells us how

proud of us he is every time we see him. Next step is getting our Masters

at UND starting in May 2014. The sky is the limit when it comes to the Cooks. Thank you to all the staff at

Kilian for being the MOST amazing educators and friends.

Note-taking Strategies for Success

The fall semester can be challenging for students because of the summer break, or because of a longer

break between previous school experiences and this one. Whatever the case may be for you, simple strate-

gies like organized note taking can help you get your semester off to a great start. Follow these tips and

see the benefits of taking notes.

1. Taking notes helps you focus. Pay attention to what your instructor says, even after you’ve already read

the assigned chapters from your text.

2. 2. Format your pages. Whether you use a spiral notebook or a three-ring binder, use a new page for

each day’s lecture, and use a separate notebook for each class.

3. Use Keywords. Write keywords in bold, capitalized or underlined letters so they’ll stand out.

4. Develop your listening skills as you write. Don’t just hear the words—analyze them and figure out what

they mean in context of the classroom and outside of it.

5. Listen for verbal cues that what’s coming next or what’s just been said is very important. Phrases like

“the main point” or “don’t forget this” can help you tune into specific information.

6. If your instructor speaks louder and repeats or slows down certain words, chances are good that these

things are important.

7. Review your notes after class or at the end of the day. This helps you retain what you’ve learned!

Kilian Community College Issue 45 Page 5

Counselor’s Corner Welcome to a new year! There are times in everyone’ life when the world has gotten

stressful and possibly overwhelming. Maybe you have tried talking with friends and/or

family members during these times, but that just doesn’t seem to help. When this starts to

happen, it may be a good time to find someone who can be an impartial listener and pos-

sibly offer some new perspectives. A professional counselor can be this resource. Here

are some common reasons to visit the counselor: Personal growth- Emotional stress–

Relationship issues– Education issues– Loss– Trauma– Violence or abuse– Medical

concerns– Drug abuse.

The counselor’s office is also just a good place to let off some steam and find a friendly ear. Counseling services are

free to Kilian students, and no appointments are required.

Please stop by Gene’s office (Room 121) to say “hi” or ask him about any of these things. His office hours are Mon-

day-Thursday 12:30– 5:30.

Other times available upon request. Phone: 605-221-3121

Horoscopes Virgo (8/2323-9/22): Put your focus on people to heal relationships in September.

Libra (9/23-10/22): Don’t let others’ impatience get you down. Just smile!

Scorpio (10/ 23-11/21): Your situation isn't any worse or better than anyone’s.

Sagittarius (11/22-12/21): You might be feeling helpless about things this month.

Capricorn (12/22-1/19): Those near you need your cooperation. Think of them.

Aquarius (1/20–2/18): Your insights are solid, but share them with others gently.

Pisces (2/19-3/20): Academics will be a proud spot for you in September.

Aries (3/21-4/19): A good month for academic achievement. Perfect timing!

Taurus (4/20-5/20): Facing fears is the only way to get things done this month.

Gemini (5/21-6/20): Stick with easy options in September for happiness.

Cancer (6/21-7/22): Someone in your life needs you to try to understand them.

Leo (7/23-8/22): Don’t be extravagant- show someone how important he/she is.

Kilian Community College Issue 45 Page 6

Kilian has undergone some changes this summer, and when students return to campus this fall, or join us

for the first time, they will have the opportunity to use a new computer lab and extended SSC space up-

stairs. They will also finding a new study spot with natural lighting on the second floor.

President Mark Millage says these changes came about in part because

of need, but also because of the generous gifts provided by Kilian Com-

munity College donors.

“Since opening the DeGroot Family Science Center in 2011, we have

been challenged to find an appropriate use for room 200 (the old biolo-

gy lab at the top of the stairs),” he said. “This is a high traffic area of the

college, and a space that should be regularly utilized. Through some

internal brainstorming, as well as meetings with potential community

donors, we developed the concept of relocating a computer lab that

would become our primary teaching lab adjacent to the SSC.”

Adding a door between the Lab and SSC means that students can access these 16 new computers as an ex-

tension of the SSC when classes are not scheduled in the Lab.

President Millage explained that a $25,000 grant from Capital One, a $10,000 grant from the Larson Foun-

dation, and a $25,000 matching gift from the DeGroot Family Foundation enabled Kilian to begin these pro-

jects, but the renovations cost more than $125,000. Local business and individuals are supporting Kilian

with generous gifts that allow the college to continue making the improvements our students need.

These additions mean there will be a safer and quieter welcome space, enhancing the overall atmosphere

of the building. Construction has been going on throughout the summer, but the new paint job, carpet and

extended space, and comfortable computer lab make it all worth it. Please check out the new lab and think

of the donors as you enjoy your updated campus!

Kilian Community College Issue 45 Page 7

You’ll earn more! Students with an Associate’s Degree or Certificate can earn as much as $8,000 more per

year than a high school graduate. (US Census Bureau, 2005 data)

People change jobs up to 10 times in their working lives. A college credential always gives you an edge. (Rosenberg McKay, D. “How Often Do People Change Careers?” Guide To Career Planning since 1997 (2006))

Unemployment for community college graduates is typically 30% lower than for high school graduates. (Chronicle of Higher Education, September 2010)

You’ll help reverse a national trend in the declining number of college graduates & you’ll open doors for

your children - children of college graduates are more likely to graduate themselves! (With Their Whole Lives Ahead of

Them, A Public Agenda Report for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation)

You’ll be more likely to volunteer, vote, contribute to charity, serve on boards & run for office. (With Their Whole

Lives Ahead of Them, A Public Agenda Report for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation)

You’ll be an educated, prepared, and higher-paid employee, providing support for federal, state and local

governments and helping the national workforce be competitive and productive in the global economy. (With

Their Whole Lives Ahead of Them, A Public Agenda Report for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation)

Research links greater educational attainment to longer life, healthful eating, exercising and avoiding risk

factors. Why? People with higher education are quicker to change behavior in response to new evidence.

They tend to have higher incomes, making them more likely to have health insurance and live in safer neigh-

borhoods with better access to recreational facilities and grocery stores. (Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s Commission to

Build a Healthier America)

From the Community College Completion Corp (www.cccompletioncorp.org)

Start Your Business + Change the World

The Kilian Community College Student Success Entrepreneurship program will turn your passion into a

business reality. Learn how to write a Business Plan that POSITIVELY impacts your community and your

family. Work with current business owners to polish your plan and finances. Create marketing that brings

you customers. Explore and apply for business grants and loans. Compete to win two spaces in our Social

Business Incubator program so you can begin your business immediately! Contact Stacy Walters for more

information and to register. 605-221-3213 or 605-310-5691. Email swalters@kilian.edu. applications are

due September 10. Find them at www.kilian.edu.

Kilian Community College Issue 45 Page 8

Staff and Faculty News

Aaron Woodard, Kilian Adjunct Professor, “was awarded the Ardyce Samp Award at the Dakota History

Conference at Augustana College for his conference paper titled, “Divide and Conquer—Manuel Lisa Splits

the Sioux in the War of 1812.” His article “William Ashley and Jedediah Smith and the Arikara Battle of

1823” also will appear in the 50th anniversary edition of the nationally known academic publication Journal

of the West.”

Setting the PACE for your future

Kilian has developed a set of goals for students to achieve before they graduate. Those goals are as follows.

Personal Development

Thinks critically

Engages in quantitative reasoning

Finds and interprets information

Awareness of Diversity

Articulates the importance of culture

Demonstrates Global Awareness

Civic Engagement

Employs ethical and legal principles

Demonstrates professional and civic responsibility

Effective Communication

Writes and speaks clearly and decisively

Uses technology competently

We will be using the acronym PACE to describe these skills and qualities. You will be receiving a student planner

with a copy of these goals in the front. When using the planner, refer to these goals often to gain a vision for the

person you will become. You will be hearing a lot about PACE in the coming months. These skills and qualities will

be introduced and emphasized in the classes you take for all programs. All students need them in order to be suc-

cessful in any career; they are the identifiers of a college graduate. You will learn skills specific to your program

Overage dates

Returning students using Financial Aid can pick up overage checks on Sept 19. New students will receive

theirs on Sept. 26. A Kilian ID is required for this.

Kilian Community College Issue 45 Page 10

Baby news!

Christine Schelske and her husband, Jerry, recently welcomed Ma-

laina Denel to their family on July16, 2013 at 10:37 pm. She

weighed 5 lbs 2 oz, was 19-1/2 in. long. Malaina is six days old in

this picture.

Many students have worked with Christine over the past two years

during the financial aid application process, and Christine wanted

to share her happy news with you all, as she plans on staying

home with Malaina now. We all wish the Schelske family the best

and know that Christine will make a great mommy!

Fall Semester Events Schedule

Week 1 – Time Management lunch and learn

Week 2 – Study Skills lunch and learn

Week 3 – Commit to Complete event

Chamber Event

Week 4 – Test Taking lunch and learn

Week 5 – Midterms

Week 6 – Opportunity Fair/ Transfer Fair (Oct 1 date, but still tentative)

Banking Basics lunch and learn

Week 7 – Improve your Credit lunch and learn

Week 8 – ID Theft & Account Fraud lunch and learn

Week 9 – You Can Buy a Home lunch and learn

Week 10 – Movie Night

New Computer Lab

At right, the new

2nd floor computer

lab offers wireless

features and an up-

dated space for clas-

ses and homework.

The lab was com-

pleted during sum-

mer break. See page

6 for the complete

story on Kilian reno-

vations and the do-

nors who made it

possible.

ID Badges and Temporary ID cards

All students must wear their IDs while they are on campus. These cards

are used for identification purposes as well as SSC access cards. If you

do not have your ID on you, you may request a temporary ID at the

front desk. You will need to pay a $5 deposit for that temp ID before you

sign it out. If you do not return that ID, you will forfeit your $5. Stu-

dents may not use temporary IDs more than THREE times per semester.

Get your personal ID made at the front desk during normal business

hours. Your first ID is free (if you did not have one before), each subse-

quent ID is $5. Please inquire at the front desk with questions.

Kilian Community College Issue 45 Page 11

Street team gear and goods KCC launched its street team program this

summer at various events, and we’re looking

for your help to continue spreading the word

about Kilian! Street team members receive a

FREE T-shirt to wear while they are out and

about, promotional goodies to give to people

who ask them about Kilian, and the opportunity

to win prizes!

All you need to do is get a FREE T-shirt at the

front desk, pick up some of the give-away

goodies, snap a couple pictures of yourself

out in the community and register for prizes! You can go out on your own, but we encourage you to

attend events in a group. Recruit your KCC classmates and friends, or your family members to help

you promote the school you love!

When you have pictures to send, send them to mprokop@kilian.edu with the subject line STREET

TEAM to be entered for the prize drawing. We will keep you informed via email, so make sure your

address is current and that you check it often.

MESSAGES AT

THE FRONT DESK

If you need to contact your instructor, please

use the contact information in your syllabus.

We are

unable to notify your instructor if you are

going to be late or miss class. Please fill out

a FERPA release form if you want us to give

out your personal information when people

call here for you, or else we cannot even tell

them you are a student. If you have any

questions about this policy, see Wendi Van

Beek in Room 137.

VETERAN SERVICES

Counseling, outreach and referral services to

veterans and their families.

601 S. Cliff Avenue, Suite C

Sioux Falls, South Dakota

HEALTHCARE SERVICES

AVERA MCKENNAN FREE CLINIC

Provides primary healthcare to uninsured.

300 N Dakota Avenue

605-322-6800

SIOUX FALLS COMMUNITY HEALTH

521 N Main Avenue