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The mission of the Student Development and Services Division is to provide a welcoming and supportive environment which will enhance students’ ability to achieve their highest potential through education, programs, and services. Our activities and services strive to:
- Build community awareness of college programs and services
- Recruit and enroll a diverse student population
- Provide an environment that encourages learning beyond the classroom
- Develop student skills in decision-making, problem solving and leadership
- Encourage students to participate in community service, athletics, and cultural enrichment programs in the arts
- Recognize and encourage individual achievement
- Recognize alumni and include them in enriching programs and services
- Create opportunities for students to explore personal and career choices
The Counseling & Advising Center
Attending college is an exciting and challenging experience for students. So much is new: courses, people, learning and future opportunities. Along with the exciting, new experiences often come a variety of unexpected experiences. Whether a first-time, returning, or transfer student, there are often challenges to be managed: personal and family life, academics, time, and financial constraints. The Counseling and Advising Center supports students during these times and throughout their college journey. Staffed with dedicated professionals, the Counseling and Advising Center offers a full range of academic and personal support services. Counselors and staff work in conjunction with faculty to foster student growth and success. Services in the Center help students clarify and establish meaningful academic, career or personal goals and help them build and implement action plans to fulfill their goals. One-on-one, workshops, assessments and special groups support students as they sort through competing interests and needs to achieve their goals.
Services of the Center focus on:
- Academic advising and counseling
- Career counseling and information
- Transfer opportunities
- Physical, psychological and special learning needs
- Employment counseling and resources for full and part-time jobs and internships
- Personal counseling and development
- Referral to community agencies and resources
Academic Advising
The Counseling and Advising Center is a major resource for students adjusting to and navigating through college. The Center focuses on academic success and developing the necessary skills and understanding for students to select courses and successfully complete their degrees. Through group and individual advising students are introduced to the wide array of services provided by the college. Students are prepared for their initial semester at the college and equipped with the knowledge of important tools and tips to be successful. Further into their tenure, students are supported with ongoing advising regarding the choice of courses or the selection and change of major. Student learning styles are also assessed to understand strengths and needs, and help students improve needed skills.
Career Counseling
Counseling and Advising provides career counseling to support students’ academic and career success. Focused on student empowerment, career counseling is an information-based service striving to expand student awareness of self, career options and effective pathways to achieve selected careers. Services include career assessment, individual and group counseling, and programs such as “Dress for Success,” networking, and career expos. A four-step model is used and includes: 1. Exploring personal values, skills, interests and personal preferences 2. Exploring the variety and reality of careers 3. Relating academic majors to career outcomes 4. Building academic and career plans to enhance success.
Employment Counseling
Most TRCC students work full- or part-time while enrolled at the College. Many look to enhance the significance of that work in relation to long-term career goals. Employment counseling is focused on helping students increase their understanding of and effectiveness in searching for and obtaining employment. An online student employment service lists full- and part-time jobs, and internships at www.collegecentral.com/threerivers. It is free and open to all students and alumni, providing employment opportunities locally and across the state. Students have unlimited free access to this service which also provides tutorials on writing resumes, interviewing, and job search. Each student can house their resume on the site and allow open access to employers working with the college. Students also have access to online portfolio services to provide employers with examples of projects, art work, awards, etc. Individual appointments and group workshops for students help to write effective resumes, enhance and practice interviewing skills, and implement job search strategies. Employers are welcomed on campus to recruit students and attend Career Expos. Ongoing collaboration with faculty across disciplines also support student development of career awareness and job-search skills. Alumni are engaged to build networks for students seeking career information or employment in a variety of fields.
Personal Counseling
Counseling and Advising provides confidential counseling and support to all students. Counselors are available to respond to the wide variety of questions and concerns students experience as part of college or their personal life. Individual and group counseling focuses on building life and academic skills as well as support for overcoming learning challenges such as anxiety, motivation, focus, study skills, test-taking strategies, and time management. A variety of programs target at-risk students and assess their strengths and needs. Counselors then work with these students to develop learning plans to build effective strategies and outcomes. Counselors are also available for faculty and students when personal or emotional needs arise in class or on campus. Referrals are made to community agencies and services as appropriate.
Disabilities
In compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1992, the college offers support services and reasonable accommodations on an individual basis to qualified students with documented disabilities.
Students new to college will find these services different from those of high school, and will be responsible for self-identifying the need for academic and classroom adjustments, and providing necessary support documentation to obtain it. All students receive information on this process in the admissions acceptance packet and it can be obtained in the Counseling and Advising Center. Students with disabilities are encouraged to meet with a disabilities service provider several weeks before registering for classes in order to allow adequate time for processing their needs and communicating those needs to faculty. All information is confidential between the student andthe Counseling and Advising Center staff. Referrals to community resources for assessment are also available.
Community Resources and Referrals
Three Rivers Community College students can access support services pertaining to personal or family non-academic needs through a network of community based agencies. Student Support Services in the Counseling Center has resource and referral information to help students in a wide variety of areas. These include, but are not limited to, mental health, basic needs (housing, food, energy), money management, addiction, health care, family and parenting needs.
College Transfer
The Counseling and Advising Center provides students with information on transfer options to a variety of other educational institutions. This support includes:
- Individual transfer counseling and advising
- Group workshops on the process of transfer
- College Fairs with representatives from prospective transfer institutions
- Guaranteed transfer options to state and private colleges and universities
Transfer compacts with many state and private colleges are open to students who apply prior to the completion of 15-30 college-level credits. For other transfer students, counselors work to insure the completion of the maximum coursework at TRCC that will transfer to another college. Student Services Advisors and Counselors also provide information to incoming transfer students, helping them understand the transfer-in process for credits from other educational institutions.
Guaranteed Admission, Dual Admission, and Transfer Agreements
The following programs have been developed to guarantee admission and to help students transfer successfully to four-year universities. Additional information on these programs is available on the web or at our Admissions or Student Development offices.
Guaranteed Admission to the Connecticut State University System: Central, Eastern, Southern and Western
Graduates of an associate degree program within the Connecticut Community College System with a grade point average of 2.0 or higher are guaranteed admission to the university of their choice within the Connecticut State University System.
In the case of majors for which articulation agreements have been adopted, Community College students preparing for transfer should follow the terms of the articulation agreement regarding course prerequisites, grade point averages, and other requirements stated in the agreement. Graduates of the Community College will be admitted as juniors and will be expected to complete two years of full-time (or equivalent part-time) study at the university to be eligible for the bachelor’s degree. Graduates of the Community College must make application by the date and on the forms prescribed by the university, including the submission of all the required transcripts, documents, and fees.
Dual Admission Agreement with the Connecticut State University System: Central, Eastern, Southern and Western
Three Rivers and the Connecticut State University System have entered into an agreement for incoming Three Rivers’ students to dually enroll with a designated Connecticut State University. Students must apply for this dual admission program before they earn 15 college-level credits and must designate their school of choice at the time of application. Students are required to complete the Associate’s degree within five years of signing the compact and transfer to their designated college within two years of receiving the degree. Students are advised by both schools throughout their associate degree program. Students are guaranteed admission to the designated university upon completion of the degree with a 2.0 grade point average.
Articulation Agreement with Eastern CT State University Early Childhood Education:
Three Rivers’ graduates with an Early Childhood Education, A.S. will be waived up to 18 credit hours of coursework in Eastern’s Early Childhood Education program. Students are encouraged to meet with TRCC’s Early Childhood Education Program Coordinator and Eastern’s Education Department Chair to receive additional information.
Guaranteed Admission Program to the University of Connecticut
The Guaranteed Admission Program (GA Program) is an agreement between Three Rivers and the University of Connecticut. This program guarantees incoming Three Rivers’ students in Liberal Arts and Science programs admission to UCONN’s College of Liberal Arts & Sciences or College of Agriculture and Natural Resources upon completion of an associate degree with a 3.0 minimum cumulative average or UCONN’s School of Business with a 3.3 minimum cumulative average. Students must apply for the program prior to attempting 30 college-level credits and must complete the Associate’s degree within five years. In addition, an Intent to Enroll form for UCONN would need to be completed the beginning of the semester prior to transfer.
Agreement Between the Connecticut Community College System and the Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) Program at the University of Connecticut
This program is an agreement between the Connecticut Community College System and the Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) Program at the University of Connecticut guaranteeing admission into the BGS program upon the successful completion of the associate’s degree with an overall grade point average of 2.7 or better. Students are also guaranteed that they will begin studies at UCONN with junior level status.
Agreement Between the Connecticut Community College Nursing Program and Fairfield University, Central CT State University, Goodwin College, Sacred Heart University, Southern CT State University, University of Hartford, University of Saint Joseph, University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, and Western CT State University
The Connecticut Community College Nursing program has entered into agreements to provide seamless transfer for graduates of the Registered Nurse (R.N.) program to enter into a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.). You may only apply after you are accepted into the Nursing program. Please go to the following website for more details: www.commnet.edu/nursing/Educational_Opportunities.asp.
Admission Agreement with Albertus Magnus College - Undergraduate Adult Program
Three Rivers Community College graduates with an Associate of Science degree (A.S.) and a 2.0 g.p.a. may transfer to Albertus Magnus College (AMC) with up to 63 credits toward a Bachelor degree in Business Management. Students must articulate intent to enroll and complete the application process by meeting the admission criteria of two years work experience, providing two letters of recommendation, and agreeing to a review of discipline, criminal history, and accommodation needs. Program specific articulations for Accounting Transfer, A.S.and Business Administration Transfer, A.S.are in place. Courses graded below a “C” will transfer only with an earned Associate’s degree. An additional 9 credit hours of general education or elective courses may be taken at TRCC while attending AMC. Students will have the opportunity to meet with representatives from AMC on a regular basis.
Agreement with Bismarck State College - Electric Power Technology
The Community College System has entered into an agreement with Bismarck State College to offer Three Rivers students enrolled in the Technology Studies, A.S.to take online classes in Electric Power Technology at Bismarck State College as a career pathway in the energy industry. The courses will apply to the Associate’s degree program at the community college. This agreement is in conjunction with CL&P and includes a summer internship. Students need to contact Dan Courtney, Program Coordinator for Technology Studies, at (860) 215-9417 to review the application process.
Articulation Agreement with Charter Oak State College
Three Rivers Community College has an articulated agreement that students entering Charter Oak State College for a Bachelor’s degree may be awarded up to 90 credits to meet the General Education and other distribution requirements at Charter Oak. Students will be advised by a representative from Charter Oak State College in order to meet their degree requirements.
Transfer Agree with Fairfield University School of Engineering
The School of Engineering of Fairfield University will accept associate degree graduates from the Electrical Engineering Technology, A.S.and Mechanical Engineering Technology, A.S.programs at Three Rivers into its baccalaureate degree program in Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering provided that these transfer students have earned a grade point average of 3.0 or better (on a 4.0 scale). Students with a GPA between 2.5 and 3.0 will be considered on an individual-basis only. This transfer agreement requires that the student pass Fairfield’s specified bridge course (EG 32), which may be offered online, and pass Calculus I at Three Rivers with a grade of B or better before matriculation at Fairfield University. Fairfield agrees to transfer in most of the general education, science and engineering courses taken at Three Rivers, up to 66 credits.
Guaranteed Admission Agreement with Mitchell College Criminal Justice Program
The Guaranteed Admission Agreement with Mitchell College’s Criminal Justice Program allows Three Rivers Community College students who graduate with an Criminal Justice-Enforcement Option, A.S.up to 63 credits towards a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice at Mitchell College. Students must earn a minimum GPA of 2.0 upon completion of the associate degree in order to participate in the program. All credits earned in the degree program with a grade of C or higher at Three Rivers will transfer to Mitchell. Students enrolled in this program will be advised by both Three Rivers and Mitchell College throughout their associate degree program.
Guaranteed Admission Agreement with Mitchell College Early Childhood Education
The Guaranteed Admission Agreement with Mitchell College’s Early Childhood Education program allows Three Rivers Community College students who graduate with an Early Childhood Education, A.S. to transfer a minimum of 55 credits into the Early Childhood Education at Mitchell College. Students must earn a minimum GPA of 2.67 upon completion of the associate degree in order to participate in the program. Students need to be continuous in courses at Three Rivers and have a “C+” or better in all Early Childhood courses. Students admitted to Mitchell College are not guaranteed admission to the Teacher Certification program. Students enrolled in this program will be advised by both Three Rivers and Mitchell College advisors throughout their associate degree program.
Articulation Agreement with Post University -Sport Management
Three Rivers and Post University have established an agreement for Sports & Leisure Management to transfer to Post University’s baccalaureate degree in Sport Management. Students that earn an Sports and Leisure Management, A.S.and/or earn a “C” level or better in courses in the program of study will have all credits transfer toward the bachelor’s degree in Sport Management at Post University.
Articulation Agreement with Quinnipiac University - Department of Health Sciences
Three Rivers and Quinnipiac University’s Articulation Agreement promotes the transfer of students in TRCC’s Allied Health programs including Exercise Science, Pre-Radiology, and Pre-Allied Health. Students transfer into Quinnipiac University’s Health Science Studies Online Baccalaureate Degree Completion program. This program guarantees admission to Three Rivers’ students to Quinnipiac University’s Health Science Studies Online Baccalaureate Degree upon completion of the associate degree (60-68 credits) in an Allied Health program with a 2.5 minimum cumulative average. Students entering the program within two years of their graduation form TRCC will be eligible for a 10% discount off the published tuition price.
Guaranteed Admission Agreement with Sacred Heart University
The Guaranteed Admission Agreement with Sacred Heart University serves to assist students in a seamless transition from Three Rivers to the University. This program guarantees incoming Three Rivers students admission to Sacred Heart University upon completion of the associate degree with a 2.5 minimum cumulative average. Students must enroll in this program prior to earning 15 college credits and the Associate’s must be completed within four years with up to a maximum of 66 credits. Certain programs at Sacred Heart may require a higher grade point average, additional prerequisites or a separate admissions application to enter their program. Students enrolled in this program will be advised by both Three Rivers and Sacred Heart throughout their associate degree program.
Comprehensive Articulation and Transfer Agreement with the University of Bridgeport
This Comprehensive Agreement serves to assist Three Rivers’ graduates in A.A., A.S., and A.A.S. programs to transfer up to 66 credits into baccalaureate degrees at the University of Bridgeport. Students who graduate with the Associate’s degree and a GPA of 2.5 are guaranteed admission to the University of Bridgeport. Students completing the Guaranteed Admission will have application fees waived, expedited transfer admission, and seniority consideration for academic grants and on-campus housing. Students will have the opportunity to meet with the University of Bridgeport advisor each semester.
Guaranteed Admission Agreement with the University of Bridgeport
This Guaranteed Admission Agreement serves to assist Three Rivers’ graduates in Accounting Transfer, A.S., Business Administration Transfer, A.S., or Marketing/Transfer, A.S.programs into baccalaureate degrees in the School of Business at the University of Bridgeport. Students who graduate with the Associate’s degree and a GPA of 2.5 are guaranteed admission to the University of Bridgeport in the following degree programs: Accounting, Business Administration, Computer Applications & Information Systems, Finance, Marketing, International Business, or Management. All courses with a grade of “C” or better will be accepted for transfer credit. Students who complete the Bachelor of Science degree at the University have the possibility of earning a Master’s degree (MBA) with only one additional year of study.
Dual Admissions/Core to Core Transfer Agreement with the University of New Haven
The Dual Admission program allows for Three Rivers’ students with Associate degrees in Arts or Sciences to transfer into any of the University of New Haven’s Bachelor degree or Accelerated degree programs with junior status. Three Rivers’ graduates must have a 2.5 or better grade point average and complete the intent to enroll form prior to applying to University of New Haven. Students with grade point averages under 2.5 will be reviewed on an individual basis. Credit will be granted for transfer courses with a C grade or better; grades of C- or D may transfer with faculty or Dean permission. Financial grants to be awarded based on academic standing and enrollment status. Specific program to program agreements supersede this agreement. Both colleges will have designated advisors to assist students throughout the program.
Articulation Agreement with the University of New Haven - Criminal Justice Program
This articulation is an agreement between Three River’s Associate in Science in Criminal Justice and the University of New Haven BS in Criminal Justice (BSCJ) offered by UNH’s Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice & Forensic Sciences. Corresponding courses in the criminal justice program with a “C” grade or higher will qualify for transfer credit in addition to approved electives. Students may also enter into the Dual Admissions agreement listed.
Transfer Compact Agreement with the University of New Haven -Dental Hygiene Program
The Dental Hygiene Transfer Compact is an agreement between Three Rivers and the University of New Haven. This program provides for a smooth transfer from Three Rivers to the University of New Haven Dental Hygiene Program upon completion of the conditions for final acceptance, which include completion of the dental hygiene transfer compact General Studies Certificate or Associate in Science degree with a 2.7 minimum cumulative average and no less than a grade of C in all courses. All science classes must be taken within five years of transfer. Ten seats are reserved for TRCC transfer applicants. Students enrolled in this program will be advised by both schools throughout their program.
Dual Admission/Guaranteed Admission Agreement with the University of Saint Joseph
This agreement allows for Three Rivers Community College students to dually enroll with the University of Saint Joseph’s Weekend Program for Adult Learners during any semester to guarantee their admission into baccalaureate programs in the fields of Accounting, Management, Social Work, or Psychology. Academic advising and support provided by the community college and the University of Saint Joseph staff will help students to make a smooth transition based upon a planned program of study that will maximize transfer credits to their intended bachelor’s degree. Students must earn a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 and must enroll in the Weekend Program within two years of completing their associate degree. Once accepted into the program, students will be able to participate in USJ student activities and college events and will have access to USJ library and network center.
Connecticut College of Technology
The Connecticut College of Technology is a concept rather than a physical college. There are two discrete plans: a preengineering plan and a pre-technology plan. After successfully completing the specific curriculum requirements, the student will be accepted into an engineering program at the University of Connecticut or a technology program at Central Connecticut State University with advanced placement status. For more information see the College of Technology program of study or contact Professor Patrick Knowles at (860) 215-9445 for specific information and course availability.
Student Handbook
The Student Handbook provides information about the many college services available to students here at Three Rivers and includes a planner for the academic year. The Student Handbook is available online, in the Student Programs Office in F211, and at the Student Services Welcome Center.
Student Insurance
All full-and part-time students are automatically covered under the “School Time Only” Accident Insurance Plan offered through the Connecticut Community College system. “School Time Only” is defined as the time students are attending classes or participating in and traveling to an activity sponsored by the College.
Student Programs
Students can enhance their experiences at Three Rivers by participating in student activities and events, helping them develop leadership skills and create friendships. Student Programs coordinatesstudent activities on and off campus, and oversees the Student Lounge, Veterans Oasis Center, and Game Room. Student Programs advertises upcoming activities on their Facebook page (TRCC Student Programs Office), with flyers around campus, on the monitors throughout the campus, and produces The Campus Link, a weekly publication informing students of upcoming activities. A complete list of student organizations is available in the Student Programs Office (F211).
Student IDs can be obtained through the Student Programs Office in room F211 or at the Welcome Center Desk in room A113. The IDs can be used in the library to check out books and other materials and for Wellness Center check-in. Though these IDs are not mandatory, they are a helpful means of identification for students both on and off campus. Students may also receive discounts at area retailers when displaying their ID at the time of purchase. The Student Programs Office has a list of participating retailers. Lost IDs will be replaced, but a nominal fee may be charged for this service.
Veteran Services and Benefits
Eligibility for benefit use is determined by the Veterans Administration. Eligible students may use VA benefits to pursue a degree or certificate as approved by the Veterans Administration. Only students enrolled in approved degree or certificate programs may apply for educational benefits, with the exception of voc-rehab students and those using only the CT tuition waiver. Once a student has registered the College will certify the student’s enrollment to the Veterans Administration, if the courses fulfill program requirements. The VA will then pay the appropriate benefits to the student and to the college if using Chapter 33 (Post 911) or Voc-Rehab. Continued eligibility or benefits is contingent upon the student complying with College regulations, documenting continued class attendance, and confirming plan of study requirements. Only courses required for degree or certificate completion are covered by VA benefit programs. Additional courses selected by the student become the financial responsibility of the student. Advisem*nt sessions and personal counseling are available to veterans. Interested veterans should contact the Veterans Representative, Terri DeBarros in the Registrar’s Office (860) 215-9235, for further information and assistance. Additional information for veterans can be found in the Admissionsand Tuition, Fees and Refundssections in this catalog.
Oasis Center
The Oasis Center is a resource center for student veterans. It is a place where veterans can meet, offer support to one another, and obtain information about benefits and other services available to them. The Oasis Center is located in room F203.
College Cafeteria
The cafeteria is a popular gathering spot for students and staff. Breakfast items, hot meals, hamburgers, sandwiches, salad bar, fried food items, and snacks are available when classes are session. In addition to providing a comfortable dining area, the cafeteria serves as a general lounge and study space. The “Cyber Café” is conveniently located at the main entrance and provides additional quick food and beverage service during off peak times. Cash, credit and debit cards are accepted at both locations. ATM and vending machines are also available.
College Bookstore
The Bookstore is located at the main entrance of the college. Students may purchase required and optional textbooks, both new and used as well as placing special orders. The campus bookstore also stocks school supplies, reference books, imprinted clothing, software, backpacks, and snacks. Bookstore hours of operation are published in the schedule of classes each semester. Students can also visit the bookstore web site at www.efollett.com.
Health and Wellness Center
Our fully equipped Health and Wellness Center is available free of charge to everyone who is actively part of the college community. In addition to the cardiovascular and weight training rooms, the center includes a studio room that is used for a variety of credit and non-credit programs, health screenings, mini workshops and Student Activities sponsored events. Showers and lockers are available within the center. The operating hours are generally Monday - Friday 7:00am-7:00pm. This schedule may vary due to semester break, class schedules, or during the summer. Participants wanting to use the center are required to complete a liability form and wear proper workout attire. If you have any questions regarding the center, please call (860) 215-9047.
Art Gallery
Three Rivers Gallery is a contemporary visual art space with rotating exhibits featuring works of emerging and established artists. Student Art Shows are hosted annually in April through May. Through relevant exhibitions with diverse perspectives, and related educational programming, the gallery is dedicated to providing cultural enrichment to the college and the surrounding community. The gallery has the unique opportunity to explore challenging subjects and provide a venue for artists whose work is best suited to non-commercial spaces.
Parking
Three Rivers clearly designates and differentiates student, handicapped, and staff/faculty parking areas for the convenience and safety of all. Designated student lots are to be used on a first come, first serve basis. Three Rivers has four designated faculty/staff parking lots; one next to the mainentrance, the second across the street from the main entrance, a third parking lot adjacent to the Child Care Center between the main building and the Central Utility Plant (CUP) building, and a fourth behind the CUP building. During the day from 7AM - 6PM, these parking lots are to be used only by registered faculty and staff members. After 6PM on weekdays, the faculty/staff parking lots may be used as student overflow lots. Anyone who parks in State mandated handicapped spaces, fire lanes, entrances/exits, or Child Care Center drop off spaces for any other intended purpose will be immediately reported to either the Connecticut State Police or Norwich Police. Faculty, staff, and students who would like an escort to their vehicles can make that request at the main entrance security desk.
Lost and Found
The central location for processing, storing and releasing lost and found items is the Security Desk located in the main lobby. All lost items found on campus will be turned into the Security Officer at the Security Desk by the individual finding the item. Valuable items will be turned over to the Dean of Administration. Every reasonable effort will be made to identify the owner of the item turned in and notification will be sent to their TRCC email. Flash drives and computers will be turned over to the Information Technology Division in an effort to determine ownership of those items. Inquiries concerning lost items and claiming lost items should be addressed to the Security Officer at the Security Desk.
