Contributed by Dr. Qiaoying (Joy) Zhou
NVC’s Math and Engineering Department chair
As part of the tradition, a meaningful meeting was held between the Math and Engineering Department and advisors on the other side of the lake on Sept. 29, 2023. The primary objective of this gathering was to foster stronger connections among these key stakeholders and share important updates to ensure a smooth registration process for students in preparation for the Spring 2024 registration,
During the meeting, our Math DE coordinator (Greg Ward), Engineering Coordinator (Thomas Pressly), and advisors engaged in open and constructive discussions to assist students with math placement and academic planning. This collaborative exchange of ideas helped build a sense of unity and purpose among the attendees.
The meeting also served as a platform to disseminate vital information regarding changes to the Spring course offerings, Multiple Measures, Math Path Map, and Academic Support in our Math Labs. Advisors were equipped with the latest information to guide and support our Math and Engineering students in making informed decisions for their academic success.
Thomas noted that “Engineering and other STEM students now have many opportunities for involvement and engagement. STEM Students can apply to the internship programs through FUERTE (for students who are planning to transfer to St. Mary’s University) and Plus+STEM (for full-time students).
Students can participate in STEAM Blast Oct 10-12 and/or join the NVC Engineering Club on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. in CESC-101 for hands-on activities and peer-to-peer interactions. Also, engineering students are all encouraged to take ENGR 1304 (for students who are majoring in mechanical engineering and plan to transfer to UTSA) or ENGR 1201 (for all other engineering transfer students) at Northwest Vista College as early as possible in their studies.”
On the math side, Greg emphasized on two key changes:
Getting college algebra STEM students placed into Math 1414 where they will be better prepared for the calculus sequence rather than the much less rigorous Math 1314.
Providing advice to students who are placed at the college level based on multiple measures. Many multiple measures students have low TSIA scores indicating that they may be better served in a co-req or developmental course.