WNCC students prepare to go back to school

Continuing its trend of slight but steady growth, Western Nevada Community College's expected enrollment will be a little more than 5,500 students this session.

With about 4,200 students enrolled now, Anne Hansen, director of marketing and information, said she anticipates more will register over the next two weeks.

"Especially in the rural areas, enrollment tends to come later," Hansen said.

Classes begin Monday and registration extends until Sept. 1.

Nearly 130 of the incoming freshmen registered so far are Millennium scholars and have enrolled for about 11 credits on average.

"That's good news. It shows that more high school graduates are being committed to higher education," Hansen said. "That's the whole point of the Millennium Scholarship."

The scholarships

Students attending the college register either by touch-tone telephone or over the Internet. It is more efficient, but Hansen said it can make students feel less connected.

For those who want more of a hands-on approach, the college is offering an advisement night tonight where students can talk with counselors and teachers about programs and individual classes.

"We want to put a face to the names," she said. "We want to be sure that we offer personal services still."

Hansen said entering freshmen and even their parents should attend tonight's gathering as well as anyone who needs personal attention or advice.

She said teachers from almost every discipline will be on hand as well as administrators and counselors. Information will be available on fee payment programs and financial aid.

IF YOU GO

What: WNCC advisement night

Where: Student services lobby in the Bristlecone Building

When: Today from 4 to 6:30 p.m.