[image1]Getting students to learn about the programs and departments at Northwest Vista College isn’t easy. One such event that helps expose students to many of the programs at the college is Major Mania.
The Sept. 19 event, which was hosted by the Career and Transfer Services (CaTS) team, is held twice a year in the fall and spring. Hundreds of NVC students attend and are encouraged to get stamps from the different display tables for a chance to win a prize when they leave. The theme this year was “Major Mania: Expedition Possible.”
The event also allows students access to advising information that will help them to be successful. At the CaTS table many students followed the example of the NVC employees and were encouraged by Jo Garcia, coordinator of CaTS, to complete a “one goal.” This allows students to clearly identify their educational objectives at NVC. Many indicated that an associate degree, graduation, or career options such as teaching were their one goal. The one goal flags will be posted in the CaTS Center to inspire others to complete their goals.
[image2]“It is so inspiring to hear all of the amazing things students want to do,” Jo said. “You can see that passion, perseverance and excitement and that is what it is all about.”
Many of the students who attended Major Mania were amazed of what they learned.
“This was an eye-opening experience for me,” said Laura Sweet, 18. “I’m now thinking of switching my major to Advance Water Treatment. I never took the time to look up the information before on the different programs.”
Some of the NVC academic and workforce areas go all out to make their tables look welcoming with candy, displays and giveaways.
Zak Cernoch, NVC director of Workforce Education Performance and Development, said too often students are not aware of the Workforce Education programs at NVC and Major Mania helps expose students to these programs.
[image3]“Having a large presence at Major Mania helps us to bring students to our table and introduce them to many of our programs that are in high demand in the job market,” he said.
Through programs like Major Mania and other events run by the CaTS, NVC has reduced the number of undeclared majors to less than one percent in the past year. In 2005, 22 percent of NVC students did not have a declared major; in 2011 this number was 0.1 percent or 19 students.
To get involved in the next Major Mania in the spring, contact Jo Garcia, CaTS coordinator at 486-4127 or email her at mgarcia1193@alamo.edu.