2010-2011 New Student Handbook.pdf

Welcome to College of the Canyons. As you may know, the College is already the choice of over 22,334 students in and around the Santa Clarita Valley. The College offers a wide variety of programs designed to assist our students in meeting their academic, personal, and professional goals. You can find information on programs, procedures, and College policies in this handbook. Information is also available in the schedule of classes, and the College catalog. Additionally, this year the student handbook features advice and resources that, if utilized, will enhance your experience at College of the Canyons.

Students enter the College with various levels of academic preparation and with a variety of personal and educational goals. Because student interest ranges from transferring to a university to the completion of a job-related certificate, the College has established comprehensive student assistance programs.

Financial Aid is available for students with established financial need. Programs such as EOPS can assist with academic preparation, the cost of books, and the transition to college life. Students with physical or learning disabilities receive assistance from DSPS. Of course, all students receive academic and professional advice from the Counseling department. Many students visit the Transfer Center and Career Center to receive information about their particular goals; and many students make use of the Student Health Center.

One of the best ways to ensure your success in College is to make use of the academic assistance services. At College of the Canyons the most popular is the TLC lab. Another popular pathway for success is to get involved in campus life. The Office of Student Development provides information on clubs and organizations, student government, and opportunities to volunteer in the community. In my judgment the very best way to succeed in college is to get involved with your faculty, fellow students, and campus life. Work hard to avoid the trap of being a commuter student. Join a club, volunteer, find a job on campus, and do extra projects with your favorite faculty member. When you achieve your goal you will look back on the experience and realize that you made the most of what is available at the College.

Whatever your goal, I am confident that you will find that College of the Canyons was a wise choice. You will find that the faculty and staff are committed to our students, and that the institution is one of the finest two-year colleges in the state.

Once again, welcome to College of the Canyons!

Sincerely,

Michael Wilding
Vice President, Student Services