Life4U 2010-2011

Which ACC campusis right for you?

p. 31

Surfing the Webp. 26

Postcards from Student Lifep. 7

Get involved inyour Community

p. 28

Get involved inyour Community

Charting a new CourseConsidering transferring to another college?

p. 60

SeekingFinancial Aid

Treasurep. 4

2010–2011 1

Plan, promote and enhance campus happenings with Campus Life. Join the Campus Activity Funding Board or the Student

Activity Advisory Board and cultivate your campus.

Looking for some statusfaction?

austincc.edu/SL

FIND YOUR MOTIVATION AND UPDATE YOUR STATUS

WITH STUDENT LIFE

WATCH JASON’S

STORY ON SLTV

2

is an ACC student produced magazine that provides useful and engaging content intended to orient students. The magazine is both a communication tool for the Office of Student Life and a real world learning experience for students in the areas of design, writing, photography, and advertising.

Aloha. This magazine is your invitation to take a trip with Student Life as your guide. Throughout this guide you will find examples of Austin Community College students who have accepted that invitation and have enriched their college experiences by accomplishing wonderful things during their time here, and you will find information about how you can do the same.

The theme of traveling to a warm and exciting destination is a perfect metaphor for what you will find when you walk into a Student Life office and start the process of getting involved with the ACC community. You will find surprises and opportunities. You will find programs, events, and activities that will be fun, will change your perspective, and will possibly define your path. And, you will find knowledgeable and caring professionals who are dedicated to giving you all the information and resources you need to complete your journey.

The students who produced this magazine accepted the invitation to get involved by joining the student publications program. They wrote, designed, photographed and collaborated to produce this professional magazine that reflects both their talents and the richness of ACC .

It has been a pleasure working with these students, and I encourage you to follow their lead.Take the first step of your journey by walking into your campus Student Life office.

Matthew ConnollyLife4U Adviser

Chris Scott Senior DesignerRussell Toynes DesignerSarah Neve Senior WriterDevon Tincknell WriterSarah Vasquez WriterHanlly Sam Senior PhotographerKarissa Rodriguez PhotographerAutumn Mackey ArtistMatthew Connolly Adviser

Lori Blewett SL Comm. CoordinatorCheryl Richard SL Director

STAFF ACC Board of Trustees

Special Thanks

Visit the President’s websiteaustincc.edu/pres

Visit the Board of Trustees’ websiteaustincc.edu/board

Teodora ErbesThe Student Life TeamShweiki Media

2010–2011 3

FINANCIAL AID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

FIRST YEAR EXPERIENCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

INTRAMURAL SPORTS AND RECREATION . . . . . . . . 12

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

CAMPUS GOVERNANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

DIVERSITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

CAMPUS LIFE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

STUDENT MEDIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

SERVICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

WEB SURFING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

CYPRESS CREEK CAMPUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

EASTVIEW CAMPUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

NORTHRIDGE CAMPUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

PINNACLE CAMPUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

RIO GRANDE CAMPUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

RIVERSIDE CAMPUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

SOUTH AUSTIN CAMPUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

ROUND ROCK CAMPUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

HIGHLAND BUSINESS CENTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

TRANSFER GUIDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

STUDENT HOUSING GUIDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Table of

Contents

NSeeking

TreasureFinancial Aid

4

Whether you are a newly graduated 18-year-old looking to knock out some basics or an older student looking to increase your earning power with a degree, one thing is always the same for everyone who decides to enroll at an institute of higher education: You have to figure out how to pay for it. The new Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act that was included in the health care bill that passed March 2010 aims to simplify the FAFSA. The act switches student loans over to the Direct Loan program where the lender is the U.S. Department of Education instead of a bank or credit union. Even with the new changes, applying for financial aid can be complicated. When you’re digging through every piece of paper you have ever saved for old tax information for your FAFSA and searching the Internet to no avail to understand which deadline you need to worry about, it’s easy to lose the new semester

momentum. However, if you understand the basics of applying, this mandatory, bureaucratic, deadline driven buzz kill doesn’t have to destroy an otherwise exciting and enjoyable new semester.

Step One: The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) (Required)

The FAFSA is exactly what it sounds like, a free application for federal student aid. There is really no way to get around

filling one of these out. They are long (upwards of 100 questions), and if you aren’t one of those hyper-organized people

with an accordion folder of all your important documents, you’re going to be searching for some papers. The FAFSA will

determine the amount you and your family are expected to contribute. If you want any kind of loan or aid, including

Pell grants, this is where you start. Aid is awarded on a first-come-first-served basis, so it’s recommended that students

submit their form as close to January 1 as possible.

There are a few options for filling out the FAFSA. You can do it online (FAFSA.ed.gov), or you can mail in a paper form

(available in the ACC financial aid offices). The upside to applying online is that it is faster, and you are assigned a PIN

number, so when you inevitably have to stop mid-form to spend two hours walking your mom through faxing you her tax

information, you can enter your PIN and pick up where you left off.

Things to know—

You will need the previous year’s W-2 forms•

ACC’s financial aid staff can help answer questions about any of the paperwork you have to fill out.•

If you are under 24, even if you are independent on your taxes, you will also need your parents’ tax information, and •

their Social Security numbers.

2010–2011 5

(this test is available to those who, for whatever reason, do not have a high school transcript or a GED) to the Admissions and

Records office. Having everything squared away will streamline your application process.

Things to know—

You cannot receive aid from two schools during the same semester.•

You cannot receive aid if you are currently in active default status on prior federal student loans.•

All transfer students must submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges.•

There is one Financial Aid Institutional Application for the fall/spring semesters, and another for •

summer semesters. Make sure you have the right one.

Step 3. Additional documents (As necessary)

If you are married (which includes separated but not divorced), you have to have your spouse’s tax information, Social •

Security number and driver’s license number.

You will need current bank statements.•

You will need the code for the school you are applying. Austin Community College is 012015.•

Step 2. The Financial Aid Institutional Application (Required)

This is a different form, and until it is submitted to the ACC financial aid office, your financial aid application is not done.

Once you fill out the FAFSA, you need to make sure that you have a declared major in a field that leads to an associate

degree or certificate at ACC. You also have to submit a high school transcript, GED certificate or Ability to Benefit test scores

Once the forms are turned in, and the Admissions

office has all the information it requires, it might still be

necessary to submit additional paperwork in order to

finish your application, or to ensure that you get all the

A signed copy of your tax return and a signed copy of your parents’ or spouse’s tax return if •

applicable.

Earned income and untaxed income information•

Postcards fromStudent Life

Get to know your

Student Life.

2010–2011 7

Student Life offers ACC students a chance

to explore their interests, give back to their community, and develop

skills, all the while helping boost their academic resume, and making

them a more well rounded and desirable transfer or job applicant.

Whether it’s working on the student newspaper, running for office

with the Student Government Association, or playing soccer on one

of the intramural teams, having a connection to the school beyond

class has been shown to increase student success.

Keep reading to meet some of the current and former ACC students

involved in Student Life and find the group that is right for you.

You will find their stories and learn some fun facts about them.

You will also find that they are as diverse as the ACC community.

There is a place for everyone in Student Life.

Q: If you were stranded on

a desert island, what book,

movie, and album would

you have to have?

First Year Experience

“ I’ve learned a lot about underused resources students have at the college”– LaShawn Powell

8

LaShawn Powell, 34, started at ACC in the Fall 2008. Powell and her husband Richard are both full time students at the Cypress Creek campus who live in Cedar Park with their three-year-old son Zion.This fall will be Powell’s second semester as an Orientation Leader

for The Orientation Program (TOP) that produces the mandatory orientations incoming students attend before they begin taking classes. As an Orientation Leader, she presents them with information about the resources available at ACC. By doing this, Powell says that she has learned about taking advantage of the often underused resources students have at the college such as the Learning Lab. Powell and her husband, who is also an Orientation Leader, met

during Powell’s five years of active duty with the Army and the Air Force Reserves. She is hoping to start a Female Veterans Association at ACC.Having completed her basics, Powell is applying for the nursing

program in the fall.

The First Year Experience is made up of a collection of Student Life programs intended to make new students’ first year at ACC rich and rewarding.

New students should keep an eye out for Welcome Week activities that take place at the beginning of each semester. Each campus offers a variety of Hawaiian themed activities and refreshments, and Student Life staff members will answer any questions students may have about ACC.

TOP is the mandatory orientation new students attend before they begin classes at ACC. The student leaders and guest speakers help incoming students learn about the campuses they will be attending and introduce helpful information about the college such as who to talk to about important issues such as financial aid, parking, and registration.

The VIP lounge, an ACC specific social media website, is new this year. Orientation Leaders will offer guidance and helpful information to first year students year-round through social media updates, videos, contests, and more.

Students may sign up for orientation when registering for classes, and for those interested in becoming more involved, there are paid internship and hourly student positions available.

Ease transition with First Year Experience

LaShawn PowellMy desert island picksBook- Memoirs of a Geisha

Movie- Kung Fu Hustle

Album- Sade’s Love Deluxe

2010–2011 9

10

“I’m responsible for thoroughlyunderstanding what our goals are”– Cristina Vasquez

Clubs and Organizations

2010–2011 11

Student clubs and organizations provide students with a myriad of opportunities to connect with each other and further develop ACC experiences. In addition to bolstering transfer applications and resumes, being active within ACC is a great way to expand cultural and academic horizons. By working with a club or organization related to their degree plan, students can get hands-on experience in their future job market.

Students who can’t find the club or organization they want, can start their own by stopping by any SL office. Starting a new club requires a minimum of three students to fill the positions of president, secretary and treasurer, plus a faculty or staff advisor. Clubs must host at least one event per year while organizations are required to host one per semester.

For a list of available clubs and organizations, visit the Student Life website.

Get involved with Clubs and Organizations

Cristina “Krissy” Vasquez, 23, started at ACC in 2006 and is the Principal Investigator for The Austin Space Aces. This program was chosen to participate in the NASA microgravity experiment at the Johnson Space Center in Houston. The group has built a Smart Resistive Exercise Device (SRED) for free weight simulation in microgravity. If it is successful, astronauts will be able to exercise in zero gravity and counteract losing bone density. Now at Texas State University, Vasquez continues her interest in science and technology as a electrical engineering major. She is still working on the experiment with Professor John Underwood at the Rio Grande Campus.

“I’m responsible for thoroughly understanding what our goals are and making sure everyone is on the same page. I’m also the lead contact with NASA,” Vasquez said.

Cristina VasquezMy desert island picks

Book- Boyce and DiprimaDifferential EquationsMovie-Monty Python Life of BrianAlbum- Stevie Ray Vaughan’s Greatest Hits

12

“I got to meet peoplewho have similar interests.”– Brice Gump

Intramural Sportsand Recreation

2010–2011 13

Student Life programing supplements the education students are getting and helps round out the ACC college experience. Playing sports and engaging in group recreation is a great way to foster personal development. The Intramural Sports and Recreation program provides participants with the opportunity to have fun, make new friends, and experience friendly competition.

Kinesiology and Personal Fitness Trainer majors in particular will benefit from the program, but all students have something to gain from the self-motivation skills fostered through teamwork. Most team members do not meet each other until the teams are formed.

Students can participate in a variety of sports including basketball, soccer, volleyball, bowling and Blazer tag. Registration usually opens during the beginning of the semester, and spots fill fast, so keep an eye out for the announcements on the Student Life website.

Experience friendly competition with Intramural Sports

Brice Gump, 20, moved to Austin from the small town of Coppell four years ago and decided to take classes while he was here. He was active in SGA and the Center for Public Policy and Political Studies when he discovered Student Life also offers intramural sports.Gump had played sports in high school, and with intramurals, he got the

opportunity to play soccer again for two semesters. His undefeated team, the Twisters, even won in the championship game during the 2009 Fall semester tournament. Although playing soccer will not directly help him with his future plans in business administration, participating in intramurals added to his time at ACC.“I just think it was a really fun experience while I was here,” said Gump. “I got to meet people who have similar interests.”Gump still talks to the teammates he met through the program and also had a class with one of them.

Brice GumpMy desert island picks

Book- The Perks of Being a Wallflower Movie- The Beatles’ Yellow Submarine Album- Sublime self-titled

14

Leadership Development

“The reason I started taking classeswas to be an example for my sons.”– Avy Gonzalez

2010–2011 15

Students involved with Student Life have many opportunities to develop their leadership skills. Participating in any of the many Student Life programs helps students develop skills that transfer into the job market and add to their co-curricular profile, which will then strengthen resumes.

Sigma Alpha Pi will be hosting events, and there is something for everyone to learn about leader-ship with Student Life. Whether you are an accounting major who works for CAB finding fund-ing for student interests, or a journalism major working as an editor for the Accent, students can get involved, and learn what it takes to lead a group or organization.

Strengthen your skills with Leadership

Last year’s Student Life Servant Leader Award winner, Avy Gonzalez,

47, moved to Austin from southern Florida with his wife Janet and two

sons, Marco and Alex, in 2005. “The reason I started taking classes was

to be an example for my sons,” Gonzalez said.

“The award was for the student who had been the most influential on

issues affecting students,” Gonzalez said.

After an early career as a record producer, in which he produced seven

Billboard Top 20 charting records between 1987 and 1991, Gonzalez

worked in financial planning.

Since he has been at ACC, Gonzalez had served as SGA

parliamentarian, is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, founded and

became the first president of the Center for Student Political Studies,

and worked as a student representative on the Administrative Services

Council and the Student Success Initiative.

Gonzalez also served as Co-Chair for the mascot search committee, and

will be working in the marketing department at ACC next semester.

Avy Gonzalez

My desert island picks

Book- Art of War by Sun Tzu

Movie- The Godfather

Album- Don’t Let Me Be Lonely Tonight

James Taylor

16

Campus Governance

“ I want to get involved. I wanted to meet people.”– Dylan Pera

2010–2011 17

For the politically minded students, getting connected with Campus Governance is a way to help represent the student body’s point of view and act as a voice to ACC’s Shared Governance system. Campus Governance is divided into many committees such as the Shared Governance committees and the Student Activity Fee Advisory Committee (SAFAC) where the Student Government Association (SGA) collaborates with faculty and staff on important ACC issues and policies.

Students can participate in SGA by running for office, voting in student elections, attending meetings, or by contacting their campus senators about concerns. Other senators represent particular student interests and groups including distance learning, non-traditional students, minority students, international students, students with disabilities and veterans. Students can visit the SGA website to locate contact information for each member.

Shared Governance Committees offer recommendations regarding the administrative process, procedures and guidelines of the ACC administration. For example, the SAFAC committee offers input and recommendations about the Student Life budget and the Student Activity Fee that each student taking credit courses is required to pay.

Students can learn more about getting involved at austincc.edu/orgref.

Dylan Pera found SGA after he decided he wanted to get involved.

After Pera looked at the list of clubs offered by Student Life, this

22 year old decided to see what this organization was all about.

After Pera attended a meeting and saw all the excitement and

participation, he wanted to be a part of it.

“It was a perfect way to do it because not only am I benefitting

myself through my co-curriculuar profile, leadership skills, orga-

nization skills, prioritizing and just getting stuff done in a benefi-

cial way, but I’m also representing students,” said Pera.

Pera has had opportunities to be face to face with ACC President

Dr. Stephen Kinslow through SGA to discuss students’ issues.

Also, he accomplishes what he organizes and what he prioritizes

instead of procrastinating constantly.

With the help of what he has learned through SGA, he will con-

tinue to excel after ACC.

Dylan Pera


Book- A Wrinkle in Time

Movie- Momento

Album- Renagades

Rage Against the Machine

Represent students’ voices with Campus Governance

“I just want to get to know everybody”– Stephanie Aiken

Diversity

18

There is no typical ACC Student. Annually, over 40,000 students come here from all walks of life. They are all ages, genders, races, religions, and sexual orientations.

Student Life promotes this diversity in all of its programming.

The Diversity Ambassador club as well as the Student Activity Advisory Board (SAAB) Diversity Committee encourage students to embrace and learn about all cultures through programs, presentations, and events on all campuses. Funded by Student Life and organized by students, Unity Jam is a day of activities celebrating differences and exploring cultures.

Diversity has long been a cornerstone of our success, so reach out to Diversity activities while at ACC.

Embrace all cultures with Diversity

Stephanie Aiken


Movie- Remember the Titans

Album-

2010–2011 19

Live at Radio City Music HallDave Matthews

Stephanie Aiken, 21, decided to attend ACC after her brother suggested it as a great transitional place before she transfers to an university. Aiken volunteered for Student Life’s Project: Build a Park because she wanted to give back to the community. Afterwards she met with Student Life Coordinator John Jacobs to discuss how she could get more involved with Student Life, and he suggested Diversity Ambassadors.

Diversity Ambassadors believes in embracing people of all different walks of life and evoking thought. When Aiken walks into a room, she tends to sit around people who are polar opposites of her.

“I just want to get to know everybody,” said Aiken. “Not only has it helped me become a lot more outgoing ... but it helps me be outgoing in a socially conscious and sensitive way.”

Aiken interviewed to become a Diversity Ambassador for this past year after being a volunteer and eventually served as the president of the club.

20

“It’s challenged me to force myself to be more professional”– Ailena DiBenedetto

Campus Life

2010–2011 21

Student Life’s Campus Life initiative includes annual events, activities, and student recognition aimed at promoting student engagement at ACC.

As part of Campus Life, the Campus Activity Funding Board, a student run group, distributes funding for clubs, groups and individual students to help enhance the college experience by providing students with the money to pursue their interests.

Students can also get involved with Campus Life by working with the Student Activity Advisory Board (SAAB) on each campus. SAAB is a group of student leaders, volunteers, faculty and staff who create social, multicultural, recreational and educational activities for ACC students as well as the larger campus community.

Enhance your experience with Campus Life

Ailena DiBenedetto, a 32-year-old finance major, chairs the Campus

Activity Funding Board (CAB). After living in Alaska with her three

children Shane, 9, Ryen, 7, and Jade, 5, DiBenedetto earned a real estate

license, but decided she was more interested in continuing her education.

As CAB chair, DiBenedetto is responsible for overseeing meetings with

the other members of the board. The funding board is both run and

funded by students. The board looks over the applications and decides

what they can approve. Students and student groups request funding

from the money distributed from student activity fees.

Students involved with CAB learn to manage a budget and distribute

funds, as well as learn valuable skills for finance and business majors.

“It’s challenged me to force myself to be more professional,” DiBenedetto said.

Ailena is applying to the University of Texas, and is engaged to former

ACC student Jared Mendoza.

Ailena DiBenedetto


Book- Anything I read with my 5 year old

Movie- Brick City

Album- Accidentes de Longitud y Latitud

Maneja Beto

22

“it turned me into a working writer”– Christopher Smith

Student Media

2010–2011 23

Build your portfolio with Student Media

Christopher Smith, 28, graduated from Texas A&M in 2005 with a

bachelor’s degree in Anthropology. After working as an archeologist,

Smith realized his degree couldn’t take him any further in his career,

and he wasn’t interested in a higher degree in that field.

Though he enjoyed writing, he had not considered it as something

he would study or do professionally. In 2009, he enrolled at ACC

with a writing-heavy course list and became a writer for the Accent.

After spending a semester as Campus Editor, and last semester as the

Assistant Editor, Smith is now the Editor-in-Chief.

“The most amazing thing about working for the Accent, is that it

turned me into a working writer … It’s given me a place where I know

my stuff will be in print if I keep working. I feel like it’s okay to send

out story ideas to magazines now.”

Smith has also been published in Austin Monthly and the ACC

literary journal, the Rio Review. He is currently looking into applying

for graduate school in both journalism and creative writing programs.

For students looking to have their work published, there is no better opportunity than Student Life communications and the student media program. Student Media has paid and non-paid positions available for students interested in photography, Web and print design, multimedia production, marketing, and writing. While working for ACC’s student publications such as the award winning Accent newspaper or the magazine you hold in your hands, students are given the opportunity to have their work put in print, build their portfolios, and gain real world skills in media fields. While working with Accent, students can participate in out of town trips for writing, photography, and design competitions and attend professional seminars on everything from media ethics to Web design.

For those who prefer working with the magazine format or have a real eye for design, Life4U magazine is an award winning student publication that will help bolster a portfolio and resume. Student Life communications also offers internships in the areas of marketing, design, and multimedia production. Students can get involved either by stopping by the new media lab at the Round Rock campus or any Student Life office.

Christopher Smith


Book- The Complete Short Stories

of Ernest Hemingway

Movie- A Love Song for Bobby Long

Album- Nirvana’s Greatest Hits

24

“I wanted to be part of something greater” – Christina Chapman

Service

2010–2011 25

Student Life fosters civic engagement and social responsibility within the ACC community by hosting events that allow students to serve. One of the biggest volunteer events of the year is Project: Build a Park. Last year student and community volunteers spent a day clearing the Greenbelt’s hike and bike trails.

The Student Activity Advisory Board’s Community Service committee will provide community service opportunities and community engagement initiatives for students. To get involved and lend a hand, stop by your campus Student Life office.

Lend a hand with Service

Christina Chapman, 23, came to ACC to receive her GED. After she received the highest GED test score in her class, Phi Theta Kappa awarded her a scholarship. However, Chapman wasn’t quite sure what to think about this international honor society. She thought it was a fraternity, but after attending Phi Theta Kappa’s orientation, her view of this organization changed.

“Everyone was really cool and it seemed like everyone was doing really good stuff,” said Chapman. “I wanted to be a part of something greater and be a part of that community.”Members of Phi Theta Kappa participate in various community service activities which include volunteering for the Talking Books Program, several walks for causes and Student Life’s annual Project: Build a Park.Chapman was the Public Relations Officer last semester and plans to stay

a member. With this organization, she has received several scholarships, made life long friends and found a family she feels she’s never had before.

Christina ChapmanMy desert island picks

Book- The Tao of Pooh

Movie- Batman Returns

Album- Origin of SymmetryMuse

26

Web SurfingWeb Surfing

leechblock.htmlYou might have noticed that Twitter and Facebook are absent from this list of web resources. That’s because they’re more distracting than an entire preschool of yodeling gymnasts. LeechBlock allows you to designate problem websites and then prevents you from spending more than an allotted time on them. Your status in Farmville is bound to suffer, but your GPA will thank you.

wolframalpha.comEveryone uses Google, but when the real web savvy nerds want to find a fact, they fire up the computational powerhouse that is WolframAlpha. While less user friendly than the big G at first, after you browse through Wolfram’s examples and get used to its style, it will shoot out the facts you need without making you trudge endlessly through website after website. It’s pretty good at math too.

linkedin.comIf Facebook is the online representation of who you are socially, LinkedIn is the online representation of who you want your boss to think you are. This website allows you to post an ever updatable resume, connect with people you know professionally, request recommendations that you can show future employers, and list all the companies and projects you have been involved with. LinkedIn has more than 65 million registered users, and can be used by employers looking to hire, as well as job seekers looking to research a company. Get a LinkedIn profile, set your facebook to private and make sure that when someone Google’s your name they find a professional Web page highlighting all your accomplishments, and not a picture of you on Lake Travis holding a plastic cup and wearing a bikini.

wikipedia.orgCiting Wikipedia makes you look lazy and inept, but no one is going to deny what a valuable research tool it is. We all use it, but when using it academically, it helps to pay more attention to what’s at the bottom of the page. Wikipedia articles are compiled by amateur authors who cite their sources, which are then linked at the bottom of the page. Follow those links to treasure troves of information that

you can actually cite.

Besides Google, the website that is also a verb, the Internet has tons of helpful websites for students that make everything from citing sources for a paper to forcing you to stay off of Facebook while you study easier. Here is an overview of some of the must bookmark sites that all students should know.

GENERAL TOOLS

easybib.comPrior to Al Gore inventing the Internet, bibliographies were a real hassle. Competing styles required different formats, and who could keep track of the various citations needed for magazine articles, books, interviews, and other rare media formats? Thanks to tools like Easybib, students don’t have to worry about such trivialities any longer. Select your source, fill in the blanks, and there’s your citation. It’s as easy as the name implies.

thesaurus.comCollege students need to use good words. Wait, let’s try that again. Academicians should be compelled to adopt superb vocabulary. Knowing when to retire “interesting,” “extreme,” and ten million other over used words is the first step to writing at the college level. Just make sure you understand the meaning of the words you’re using, otherwise you’ll come off as more than a bit pedantic.

merriam-webster.comThe best way to guarantee you know how to properly use the words you’re choosing is to look them up. Merriam-Webster has brought their established print reputation to the Internet by creating one of the most informative dictionaries on the Web. It’s much more reliable than Urban Dictionary to say the least.

babelfish.yahoo.comPero, que haces cuando no hablar una lingua? Anyone taking a language course will quickly learn that Babelfish is a double edged sword. The website is a useful tool that can help you figure out what you’re trying to say in an unfamiliar language. Yet, using it to translate large blocks of texts or neglecting to double check the translation leads to problems. Use it as a resource, not a crutch.

sparknotes.comNot that you should snooze through British Literature of the Middle Ages, but the harder an assigned reading is, the more valuable SparkNotes becomes. Reading through a summary can augment the reading that you’re certainly already doing for the class and help you to better understand the text that you definitely read on your own.

ratemyprofessors.comGiven ACC’s large body of adjunct faculty, not every professor is rated on the site. But if you do find a professor that you’re considering, sifting through lazy students’ complaints and earnest praise can help you get a feel if this teacher will be talking over your head the whole semester or leading a fun and engaging class. It also tells you if your professor is hot if you’re into that sort of thing.

Transfer101.org This is a great website for Texas community college students interested in transferring to Texas four-year schools. Everything is broken down into four steps, from picking a university that’s right for you, to actually applying and getting aid at your new school. For more information on transferring check out the transfer guide on page 60.

ACADEMIC TOOLS

28

LEARN A LITTLEAs a college student, extra classes might seem like the last thing you would want to do with your free time. However, most students’ schedules are filled with basic requirements rather than interesting activities. Through ACC, the University of Texas, and local community centers, Austinites can learn how to cook Thai food, do yoga, perform improv, and many, many more activities. Classes are a great place to meet people who share your interests, even when they’re as obscure as cave exploration or Japanese fencing.

Both Austin and ACC are overflowing with opportunities to get involved, get connected, and have fun. Being involved with the community in a city the size of Austin is a great way to increase your sense of belonging. Involvement with clubs, organizations, and activities is only limited by your willingness to go out and find them. And if there isn’t a group already pursuing your particular interest, chances are that Student Life can supply you with the resources to start your own.

Community Involvement

Community Involvement

2010–2011 29

STAY IN SHAPEWhether we’re jogging along Lady Bird Lake, exploring the Barton Creek Greenbelt, or taking a dip in Barton Springs, Austinites have the luxury of enjoying a wonderful surplus of sunshine. Hiking up Mount Bonnell or relaxing in Austin’s many parks is as informal as it gets, but those seeking a little more structure can find plenty of opportunities to meet people and stay fit. There are weekly social bike rides, pickup kickball games, and of course, plenty of action at Pease Park’s volleyball courts.

LOVE LIVE MUSIC

Pick up a copy of the Accent, Onion or Chronicle, and you’re all but guaranteed to see at least one touring act passing through town that catches your fancy. But to really get involved, keep an eye out for local acts and smaller shows. That band you saw open for Crystal Castles might be playing a smaller venue this week, providing a perfect opportunity to meet other locals and support the scene. Getting to know the bands, fans, and other folks who share your passion, be it traditional bluegrass or hardcore punk, is one of the biggest rewards Austin has to offer.

LEND A HANDThere are many personal benefits to being involved in the community, like health, friends, and recognition, but the biggest reward of all comes from the least self-serving activities. Austin has many individuals and institutions in need of assistance, and by pitching in you can get a lot more back than mere resume fodder. Check with your local office of Student Life for current service opportunities. There really is no better way to get something out of the community than giving back to it.

BE A TEAM PLAYERStudent Life Intramural Sports and Recreation’s teams run the gamut from volleyball to Blazer Tag and are a great way to meet fellow students. Both UT and Austin’s Parks and Recreation department have a variety of sports leagues suited to all ages and open to the community. Even more relaxed sports like bowling and disc golf abound in town, with leagues and clubs designed to facilitate competition and community.

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Meet new students and learn the ins and outs of college with First Year Experience. Through TOP and special events, Orientation

Leaders help you develop a success network on campus.

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2010–2011 31

Opened in 1991 . Located in Cedar Park, northwest of Austin . Student Head count: over 5,300

Cypress Creek Campus






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CypreSS Creek1555 Cypress Creek Road

Cedar Park, Texas 78613512.223.2000

Campus DireCtory:Texas Relay 711Administration .........................................223.2000Admissions ................................................223.2022Advising..................................................... 223.2010Assessment ................................................ 223.2010Bookstore .................................................. 335.8363Career Center............................................ 223.8111Cashier .......................................................223.2024Computer Lab ...........................................223.2034Counseling ................................................ 223.2010Financial Aid ............................................223.4243Learning Lab .............................................223.2040Library .......................................................223.2030OSD ............................................................ 223.2014Police (Campus) .......................................223.2008Student Life ............................................... 223.2128Support Center .........................................223.2026Testing Center ..........................................223.2075

GettinG there:No Capital Metro service currently stops at this campus. The No. 383 bus gets as close as possible, stopping near the Lakeline Mall, but the stop is still over two miles away.

Website links:austincc.edu/cypcedarparktx.usleandertx.org

major proGrams:Real EstateCriminal JusticeMolecular DiagnosticsPhlebotomy Technician

sl info:Office: Building 1000, Room 1121Phone: 223.2128Website: austincc.edu/SL

Miguel Amunatigui (left) tutors Cassandra Harrell (right) and helps her complete an assignment for College Algebra.

Adjunct Professor Fred Parsons introduces himself to his College Algebra class during the first day of class.

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2010–2011 33

Located in Cedar Park, the Cypress Creek Campus serves a wide range of students from the northwest quadrant of the Greater Austin area. Students attending this campus have the opportunity to study many programs including Criminal Justice, Real Estate, and a wide variety of science classes. Students interested in science fields will find numerous classes and resources available at Cypress Creek, such as Chemistry and Microbiology labs. The campus is also home to ACC’s Real Estate program, where students can study real estate laws and obtain licenses to become agents. Students at Cypress Creek also have the chance to participate in an annual art show and community blood drives facilitated by the Blood and Tissue Center of Central Texas. In addition to serving student needs, the campus serves the needs of Cedar Park and Leander as a community center. The Cedar Park and Greater Leander Chambers of Commerce hold expos and job fairs at the campus to increase the opportunities available to both students and residents of the area.

Cypress Creek Campus serves Cedar Park’s educational needs

Writing tutor Will Zech (left) gives Egbe Jevas (right) advice on a paper he is writing for an English class. Zech is one of many tutors who work in ACC Learning Labs which are located on every campus.

A student from Adjunct Professor Fred Parsons’ College Algebra class laughs at a story Parsons tells the class.

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and keep your energy throughout the semester.

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2010–2011 35

Opened in 1999 . Located in central-east Austin . Student head count: over 4,000

Assistant Professor Sandra Pepper explains proper use of the kitchen equipment as Culinary Arts major Amanda Covington looks on.

Lourdes Castillo, Tracy Huynit, and Tracy Miller look over their notes in their Clinical Licenced Vocational Nurse Training class.

Don Quinonez, an Engineering General major, reads over his textbook before Chemistry class.

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Learn to help and serve others at Eastview CampusIf you’re looking for a glimpse of the future on the east side of Austin, look no further than Eastview Campus. Best known as the home campus for students training in nursing and EMT certification, it is located on Webberville and Govalle Road. It is the only ACC campus that has two buildings that are across the street from each other with a skyway connecting them. Eastview is well known for its Health Science programs, fostering careers in Radiology, Dentistry, Pharmacology, and Phlebotomy as part of the Medical Lab Technology program. Dental students have the advantage of access to an on staff dentist. When students are doing their internship, they can see actual patients as part of the process depending on the time of year. Also the campus of choice for the professional foodie, the Culinary Arts program is a facet of EVC that stands out. Workforce Solutions is also partnered with ACC at this campus, and they work with Capital Idea helping people file for unemployment or retrain to reenter the workforce. For eligible applicants, they provide grants to help pay for a semester’s tuition at ACC.

Student Mike Cunningham holds a pan as Assistant Profes-sor Sandra Pepper loads it with meat in Basic Food Prepara-tion class.

Pharmacy major, Erin Skehan reads over her Chemistry Lab manual before her class watched the safety video.

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2010–2011 37

eaStvieW3401 Webberville Road

Austin, Texas 78702512.223.5100

Campus Directory:Texas Relay 711Administration ......................................... 223.5102Admissions ................................................ 223.5150Advising..................................................... 223.5188Assessment ................................................ 223.5188Bookstore ...................................................927.1619Career Center............................................ 223.5188Cashier ....................................................... 223.2274Computer Lab ........................................... 223.5112Counseling ................................................ 223.5188Financial Aid ............................................223.4243Learning Lab ............................................. 223.5114Library ....................................................... 223.5109OSD ............................................................ 223.5159Police (Campus) ....................................... 223.5120Student Life ............................................... 223.5526Support Center ......................................... 223.5214Testing Center .......................................... 223.5145

Getting there:Capital Metro bus #17, #300

Website links:austincc.edu/evcaustincc.edu/aacc

Major Programs:Child DevelopmentHealth SciencesCulinary ArtsFire Protection TechnologyOffice Adminstration

SL Info:Office: Building 2000, Room 2158Phone: 223.5526Website: austincc.edu/SL

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Donate your time and talents to your campus and community.Volunteer with other students on projects to beautify the city,

tutor school kids or raise awareness on social justice issues.

FIND YOUR POTENTIAL AND UPDATE YOUR STATUS

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2010–2011 39

Northridge CampusNorthridge Campus

Northridge CampusNorthridge Campus

Opened in 1989 . Located in north Austin . Student head count: over 10,100

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Expand your horizons at Northridge Campus

Serving a little over 10,000 students last fall, Northridge has ACC’s highest enrollment. Home to a wide variety of degree specialties, Northridge is perfectly suited to students of many interests. In the campus recording studio, students eager to break into music or Commercial Music Management can get their hands on the knobs and levels, mastering their fellow students’ vocals to a perfect pitch. The Choral/Vocal program at Northridge, whose ACC Choir performed in Carnegie Hall in April 2010, provides those singing students an opportunity to perform in a choir ensemble or work on solo skills. For the more computer oriented students, Northridge’s Visual Communications program offers degrees or certificates in Animation, Graphic Arts and Illustration, and is home to the widely popular Gaming Institute for anyone who has their heart set on being the mastermind behind the next big game. For students that are a little more down to earth, the Physical Science department is about 610 feet down. Northridge is home to a 610 foot deep well that is used in partnership between ACC’s Environmental Science and Technology departments and Austin area secondary schools to teach students about local geology and environmental science. So, whether one wants to write opera, develop code, or dig deep into the natural world, Northridge campus has you covered.

Juanita Dawn, a Pre-Pharmacy major, uses a syringe to drop liquid onto the scale in order to accurately measure the weight of the liquid.

Nhi Mai , Duy Mai and Khang Pham (left to right) socialize in a hallway before their class starts.

Accounting major Tina Le takes notes about musical notes during her Piano I class.

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2010–2011 41

northridge11928 Stonehollow Drive

Austin, Texas 78758512.223.4000

Campus Directory: Texas Relay 711 Administration .........................................223.4700Admissions ................................................223.4730Advising..................................................... 223.4782Assessment ................................................223.4807Bookstore ..................................................834.9366Career Center............................................ 223.4719Cashier .......................................................223.4225Computer Lab ...........................................223.4736Counseling ................................................ 223.4719Financial Aid ............................................223.4243Learning Lab ............................................. 223.4813Library ....................................................... 223.4744OSD ............................................................223.4726Police (Campus) ....................................... 223.4705Student Life ............................................... 223.4611Support Center .........................................223.4845Testing Center .......................................... 223.4735

Getting there: Capital Metro bus #1M, #174, #142

Website links: austincc.edu/nrgaustincc.edu/cmusicaustincc.edu/photo Major Programs: Commercial Music ManagementPhotographyAnimationChoral/VocalEnvironmental Science SL Info: Office: Building 1000, Room 1112Phone: 223.4611Website: austincc.edu/SL

T’asia Williams, Jessica Smith, and Cristina Murryfield (left to right) conduct an experiment during their Biology lab class. The class was gathering data measuring the weight of various liquids.

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Connect with other students through Clubs and Organizations. Join a club or start a new one. Create your own college experience

with other students who have common interests.

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2010–2011 43

Pinnacle CampusPinnacle CampusPinnacle

CampusPinnacle Campus

Opened in 1990 . Located in southwest Austin . Student head count: over 3,600

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pinnaCle7748 Highway 290 West

Austin, Texas 78736512.223.8001

Alexander Carroll, Kimberly Fair, Panda Nicholas, Jonathan Christie and Alexis Bach (left to right) study for their History I final exam in the student lounge located on the ninth floor.

Campus Directory: Texas Relay 711 Administration ......................................... 223.8102Admissions ................................................ 223.8120Advising..................................................... 223.8108Assessment ................................................ 223.8189Bookstore ..................................................288.2303Career Center............................................ 223.8121Cashier ....................................................... 223.2274Computer Lab ........................................... 223.8115Counseling ................................................ 223.8108Financial Aid ............................................223.4243Learning Lab ............................................. 223.8138Library ....................................................... 223.8113OSD ............................................................223.8300Police (Campus) ....................................... 223.8014Student Life ...............................................223.8232Testing Center ..........................................223.8002

Getting there: Capital Metro bus #333

Website links: austincc.edu/pin Major Programs: Distance LearningComputer Information Technology SL Info: Office: First Floor, Room 108 CommonsPhone: 223.8232Website: austincc.edu/SL

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2010–2011 45

Nestled among the trees of southwest Austin stands the Pinnacle Campus which focuses on academic transfer and selected workforce programs like Accounting, Business Administration, Computer Information Systems, and Computer Science and Management. Pinnacle is also home to ACC’s Distance Learning program, a series of classes offered online that allow students to complete coursework and study material on their own time, and then submit it digitally. The advanced technology at Pinnacle isn’t just reserved for telecommuting students. The campus has a state-of-the-art television studio and production facility capable of video teleconferencing and satellite feeds. Here, Student Life provides entertainment, a community library of books donated by students, faculty, and staff, and hosts events for the campus such as the semiannual Art Show. Beginning in the fall, students will be able to park in the new parking lot which will provide an additional 440 parking spaces.

Explore your options at Pinnacle Campus

Crystal Hartley (left) explains her concept for her drawing to Associate Professor Katharine Sheehan (right) and fellow classmates for her final project in a Drawing II class.

Austin Robb (left) knocks off Cameron Rich’s (right) hat to try to distract him as he wins their game in the SL Lounge.

Biology major Tiffany Truong sketches a drawing during her Drawing II class.

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Fight for student rights and represent the student body with Campus Governance. Run for office, tackle important issues

and leave a legacy for ACC students.

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STORY ON SLTV

2010–2011 47

Rio Grande Campus

Rio Grande Campus

Rio Grande Campus

Rio Grande Campus

Rio Grande Campus

Rio Grande Campus

Opened in 1975 . Located in downtown Austin . Student head count: over 8,200

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Embrace your creativity at Rio Grande Campus

A short hop from the bustling culture and nightlife of Austin’s downtown, Rio Grande Campus is the de facto destination for students looking to foster their creative spirit. Featuring sculpture and ceramic workshops, ACC’s only dance studio, and two performance theaters, Rio Grande has plenty of space for students to sculpt, craft, create, and move. All of ACC’s dance classes are hosted at Rio Grande as well as upper division theatre. Aspiring actors can hone their craft on stage in the numerous productions put on at Rio Grande, while those looking to work behind the scenes will love the set building freedom afforded by the scene shop. The perks of being centrally located unfortunately mean that parking can be a bit sparse, but with the new seven story parking garage, students should find their walking distance dramatically shortened. Opened in summer 2010, the former Austin High School gymnasium behind Rio Grande Campus will be open to offer more classrooms and faculty offices. Earlier in the year, ACC Board of Trustees purchased an additional three tracts of land across Rio Grande Street. However, the plan on how the school will use this land is still being developed.

Danny Montalvo (left) and Angel Rodriguez (right) complete a group assignment using data from an experiment testing sounds on different elements for their General Physics I class.

Petra Kelsey asks David Potter, an adjunct professor who teaches physics, for clarification on a class assignment in General Physics I.

Brytish Jordan studies and prepares an assignment for her Spanish class in the annex building hallway.

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2010–2011 49

rio grande1212 Rio Grande

Austin, Texas 78701512.223.3000

Art student Johanna Hauser draws the west entrance to the Rio Grande Campus for a class assignment. Hauser is taking physics and drawing classes at ACC to prepare for getting a master’s in architecture at the University of Texas this fall.

Campus Directory:Texas Relay 711Administration .........................................223.3000Admissions ................................................223.3030Advising..................................................... 223.3137Assessment ................................................ 223.3139Bookstore ..................................................474.2607Career Center............................................ 223.3138Cashier ....................................................... 223.2274Computer Lab ...........................................223.3082Counseling ................................................ 223.3137Financial Aid ............................................223.3455Learning Lab .............................................223.3367Library .......................................................223.3067OSD ............................................................ 223.3142Police (Campus) .......................................223.3007Student Life ................................................223.3114Testing Center .......................................... 223.3164

Getting there:Capital Metro bus #3, #9

Website links:austincc.edu/rgcaustincc.edu/crw/rioreview.htmlaustincc.edu/danceaustincc.edu/drama

Major Programs:DanceDramaHuman ServicesLegal Assistant

SL Info:Office: Main Building , Room 101.1Phone: 223.3114Website: austincc.edu/SL

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Appreciate learning outside the classroom with Diversity.Celebrate the differences that challenge your comfort zone

with activities and events throughout the semester.

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2010–2011 51

Opened in 1984 . Located in southeast Austin . Student head count: over 7,200

Riverside CampusRiverside Campus

Riverside CampusRiverside Campus

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riverSide1020 Grove Boulevard

Austin, Texas 78744512.223.6000

Trent Temple uses a blow torch to shape a metal art piece he is creating for his Art Metals class, one of the welding classes offered to students. The art piece was created for his final project.

Campus Directory: Texas Relay 711 Administration ........................................ 223.6000Admissions ............................................... 223.6020 Advising.....................................................223.6201 Assessment ................................................223.6015 Bookstore ..................................................385.5727 Career Center........................................... 223.6095 Cashier ....................................................... 223.6174Computer Lab ...........................................223.6010 Counseling ................................................223.6051 Financial Aid ........................................... 223.4243 Learning Lab .............................................223.6037 Library ...................................................... 223.6006 OSD ........................................................... 223.6244 Police (Campus) ...................................... 223.6044 Student Life ...............................................223.6338Support Center ........................................ 223.6026 Testing Center ......................................... 223.6242

Getting there: Capital Metro bus #4, #20, #331, #350

Website links: austincc.edu/rvsaustincc.edu/elcentromcbl.pbworks.com Major Programs: Building Construction TechnologyGame Design SpecializationHeating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration TechnologyPersonal Fitness TrainerWelding Technology SL Info: Office: Building G, Room 8130Phone: 223.6338Website: www.austincc.edu/SL

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2010–2011 53

Southeast Austin’s Riverside Campus is home to several unique programs that are well suited to students who enjoy working with their hands or are eager to learn a trade. In addition to hosting a large section of the Computer Aided Design (CAD) classes, Riverside offers specific instruction in Automotive Technology and Heating and Air Conditioning Technology. ACC’s Welding and Construction Management classes are also taught at Riverside, providing students with an opportunity to get hands-on experience fusing two pieces of metal together with heat. Of course working with metal can be aesthetically pleasing as well as utilitarian, which is why Riverside offers a certificate in Jewelry Making. Appropriate for Riverside’s physical approach to learning, many of the Kinesiology classes are based there as well. With the rise of green initiatives around the globe, this campus offers Continuing Education courses in renewable energy. In addition to Riverside’s hands-on, trade-based classes, the campus houses the ACC Honors program. It was also built on the grounds of what used to be Austin Country Club, and is the only campus with its own golf course.

Get hands-on experience at Riverside Campus

Cori Wilbanks creates a jewelry piece as her final project in a jewelry class taught by Professor James Lynn.

Students from the Introduction to Blueprint Reading for Welders class complete their final exam.

Miguel Suarez loosens a cap to try and find the source of a leak during an Automotive class.

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Get creative with Student Media. Write for the Accent newspaper, help design the Life4U magazine, or land a marketing internship

and build your portfolio.

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2010–2011 55

Opened in 2006 . Located in south-central Austin . Student head count: over 3,800

South Austin Campus

South Austin Campus

South Austin Campus

South Austin Campus

South Austin Campus

South Austin Campus

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South auStin1820 W. Stassney Lane

Austin, Texas 78745512.223.9100

Daniel Brown utilizes a light box to sketch a drawing for a Basic Animation class taught by Adjunct Assistant Professor Richard Smith. Brown, an Illustration major, was preparing his sketches for his final exam project.

Campus Directory: Texas Relay 711 Administration ........................................223.9100Admissions ...............................................223.9150Advising....................................................223.9140 Assessment ............................................... 223.9162 Bookstore .................................................445.7437 Career Center...........................................223.9168 Cashier ...................................................... 223.9170Computer Lab ..........................................223.9242 Counseling ............................................... 223.9141 Financial Aid ........................................... 223.9147 Learning Lab ............................................223.9243 Library ......................................................223.9180 OSD ........................................................... 223.9163 Police (Campus) ......................................223.9142 Student Life .............................................. 223.9173 Testing Center .........................................223.9240

Getting there: Capital Metro bus #3, #103, #311

Website links: austincc.edu/sacaustinschools.org/campus/crockett/ Major Programs: Visual Communications English for Speakers of Other Languages SL Info: Office: First Floor, Room 1121Phone: 223.9173Website: austincc.edu/SL

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Find your focus at South Austin Campus

The South Austin Campus serves as a south location for students who are interested in Visual Communication classes among other programs. Students seeking an associate degree in 2D or 3D animation, graphic design, or computer illustration, can attend classes at SAC. This campus is also home to the English for Speakers of Other Languages department. ESOL classes offer instruction in writing, grammar and oral communication to students whose first language is not English. This program also offers classes for deaf and hard of hearing students taught in sign language. This allows students to attend classes without the use of an interpreter. ACC has also partnered with AISD’s Crockett High School located across the street from the campus to operate the Crockett-ACC Automotive Center. Automotive classes are available to both high school and college students through the center.

Visual Communications major Brittny McElroy scans in one of her sketches for her final exam project for Basic Animation.

Angelica Gonzalez, a Dental Hygiene major, studies for her College Algebra final exam.

A student from Oen Hammond’s Portfolio Development for Graphic Design class cuts out an envelope she designed.

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Opened in 2010 . Located in Round Rock, north of Austin .

Round Rock Campus

Round Rock Campus

Round Rock Campus

Round Rock Campus

Round Rock Campus

Round Rock Campus

Campus Directory:Texas Relay 711Main Number ................................... 223.0000Administration ..................................223.0001Admissions .........................................223.0018Advising ............................................. 223.0009Assessment ......................................... 223.0142Bookstore ...................... austin.bncollege.comCareer Center .................................... 223.0009Cashier ................................................223.2274Counseling ........................................ 223.0009Computer Lab .....................................223.0120Financial Aid ......................................223.4243Learning Lab ......................................223.0206Library ................................................223.0104OSD .....................................................223.0047Police (Campus) ................................223.0050Student Life ........................................ 223.0137Support Center ..................................223.0013Testing Center .................................... 223.0142

Getting there: No Capital Metro service currently stops at this campus.

Web links: austincc.edu/rrcaustincc.edu/centers/roundrock.php

Major Programs:NursingAutomotive TechnologyRadiologyWelding Technology

SL Info: Office: Building 2000, Room 2117.00Phone: 223.0137Website: austincc.edu/SL

The ACC Round Rock Campus is the newest ACC campus. The first phase of the construction will open its doors to students this fall 2010 semester. The 274,431 square foot campus will house 5,000 students in this phase, making this the largest construction project ACC has ever taken on. The new campus will have a state-of-the-art hospital simulation lab, urban green spaces with walkway interconnected buildings for pedestrian traffic, and an outdoor amphitheater. Students participating in various programs such as nursing, automotive technology, and biotechnology will now have the option to take their courses at a northern location.

Opened in 1988 . Located just north of downtown Austin .

Highland Business Center






The Highland Business Center, located across the street from Highland Mall, is unlike any of the other campuses. This is where the GED program is based as well as the Adult Education department. Along with the GED testing, HBC is also home to the continuing education classes that are non-credit programs for students who wish to further their career or personal skills. HBC is the headquarters for all of ACC’s legislative and government interactions and administrative offices. As an ACC student, there is a good chance you will visit this location at least once.

Campus Directory:Texas Relay 711 Main Number ..................................... 223.7000Adult Education ................................. 223.5123 Continuing Education ....................... 223.7542 Getting there: Capital Metro bus #7, 10, 300, 320, 339, 350

Web links: austincc.edu/hbc austincc.edu/npo austincc.edu/abe

Major Programs: Adult Education Continuing Education Center for Community-Based & Nonprofit Organizations

Students come to ACC for millions of reasons, but many start their degree here with the hopes of finishing it at a four year university. Advisors and information on transfer is available from both ACC and any university you might have your sights on, but even with that helping hand, the process of getting from point A(CC) to point B can be a complicated one. Here are some things to keep in mind.

Not everyone enters ACC with a clearly developed plan, and even those that do often change their mind. When you’re young and fresh out of high school, community college might seem like something you’re just sort of doing rather than a means to an end. Taking classes and investigating interests is a great way to figure out what you want to do with your life, but it is also important to remember that everything you do at ACC leaves a paper trail. Withdrawals don’t look great on a transcript, but a string of Fs not only makes a bad impression, it tanks your GPA. When picking classes and setting up your schedule, a dose of realism is absolutely essential. Sure, you can tell yourself you’re really going to buckle down this semester, go to your 7:30 a.m. classes, and handle 18 credits just fine, but biting off more than you can chew causes problems. Be realistic about how much you can handle, and if you get in over your head, talk to your professors. If there is nothing you can do, make sure to withdraw before the deadline. Watch out with those withdrawals though, Texas law limits you to six in your undergraduate career. After that, they turn to Fs and your GPA adjusts accordingly.

What, me transfer?

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Even if you’re not sure where you want to go or what you want to do, thinking about transfer options from the start is a smart move. If you’re a born and raised Texan who is dying to move out of state, you can probably skip classes like Texas Government which aren’t going to transfer to colleges in California. Similarly, once you get an idea of what degree you want to aim for or find a school that tickles your fancy, sit down with a counselor (at ACC or your prospective college) and get an overview of how the transfer process works. Understanding how your credits will transfer can save you a lot of time and money. Classes like Nutrition Science can count as a biology credit at some universities, but not others. Find out what your degree requirements are as soon as you get a major in mind, and then start ticking those basic requirements off your list while you’re paying ACC’s cheaper tuition rates.Of course, co-curricular activities matter too. Being involved with campus organizations, volunteering in the community, and otherwise strengthening your resume are things that you should give attention to now, not when you’re getting ready to apply and realize you don’t have anything to show except a 3.0 GPA, just like everyone else you’re competing against.

Sooner or later, anyone interested in transferring is going to have to bite the bullet and start sending out applications. Many local colleges visit ACC’s campuses or offer open houses on their own, and visiting the schools you’re considering is a great idea. Not only can you get a feel for campus life, you can sit down with an advisor and get an understanding of what you need to do to transfer. In the end though, completing the transfer process just requires taking the time to sit down at a computer and fill out the forms. Requesting transcripts, getting letters of recommendation, and assembling a portfolio all take time, so avoid leaving these things to the last minute. Also, read through all the information carefully to make sure you know when the deadlines are and what fees are required. Of course, just because you get accepted doesn’t mean you can rest on your laurels. Read your acceptance letters carefully and call a counselor to make sure you understand what your next step should be. Fees will need to be paid, orientations attended, and classes selected before the transition from ACC to a four year program is finally completed.

Eye on the prize

Taking the leap

2010–2011 61

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One way to find that perfect place, but not really the most effective, is to just wait for it to fall into your lap. Maybe your friend’s sister’s coworker’s boyfriend’s step-mom has a cute little garage apartment in Hyde Park that she is looking to rent out, and you can just stumble into it. Maybe, but not likely. Equally dicey is driving around and looking for “For Rent” signs. If your heart is set on a certain neighborhood, it’s not a bad idea, but otherwise you’re going to put a lot of miles on your car for not much of a return.

A few years ago craigslist was a great way to match yourself up with some new roommates who happened to share your love of Tai Chi, X-box, and organic gardening. Now that it has become the go-to housing hunter for ages 18 to infinity, the success rate has diminished somewhat. A well written ad with a picture for some place cute and affordable is going to get about 50 responses in the first 15 minutes. That’s a lot of competition for your little e-mail to fight against. Some details about who you are and where you are from go further than generic promises and pleasantries like “I’m totally chill, drama-free, and I always do my dishes.” Anyone who says they always do their dishes is lying.

Apartment locator services are free, they drive you around to different complexes until you find one you like, and often they know what apartments are offering specials. It’s true that they work with a certain listing of complexes, and won’t take you to every single complex in Austin. Find someone who works in the area you want to live, and tell them what you are looking for. It’s a lot faster than waiting for something to fall in your lap, and a lot more efficient than combing through all the postings on craigslist.

Get Lucky

craigslist.org

Apartment Locators

FindinG your pLace…

A close proximity to fast food restaurants but not grocery stores will negatively impact your diet. Living 20 minutes away from any friends or nightlife spots is going to curtail your social life. A neighborhood that is annoying, noisy, or unsafe is just going

to be a bad time. Where you live is a decision that you want to put some thought into. Fortunately, ACC has eight campuses spread throughout the greater Austin area including new state of the art facilities in Round Rock, so any part of town you choose to live in will be relatively close to a campus. However, that still leaves a lot of options and decisions needing to be made, and whether you opt to live in jam-packed student apartments with rowdy neighbors coming out your ears or in tranquil peace in a north Austin studio with just you, your laptop, and your cat, there are some things you need to consider.

StudentGuidetoHouSinG

— Devon Tincknell’s ADvice

2010–2011 63

Now that you have a place to call your own, why not give it your own personal touch? Whether your personal tastes range from chic sophistication with a flair for fancy throw pillows to a more manly futons and pizza boxes ensemble, adding your own flair will make living in your new place a much more enjoyable experience. Creating the right atmosphere takes work and there are a few basic steps to follow in order to do just that.

Before you rush out to drop thousands of dollars on put-it-together-yourself furniture at Ikea, it’s not a bad idea to see what you can get second hand. Couches, futons, mattresses, and bed frames, all of varying quality and condition, abound on craigslist. Come May, when students graduate and leave their lives in Austin behind, craigslist becomes a veritable fire sale of used furnishings. Lots of them are dirt cheap and need to go IMMEDIATELY! Remember, just because you’re in college doesn’t mean all of your furniture has to be made out of milk crates.

When you’re putting together your place, it’s important to make sure you’ll be able to get school work done there. Reading textbooks in bed often ends up as a nap, so it’s a good idea to have a not-so-comfortable chair or couch where you can pound through those reading assignments, as well as a desk where you can type up ten page term papers. If you’re living alone, you’ll pretty much be in control of your home environment, but if you plan to save on rent by living with roommates, it can get tricky.

When it comes to living with others, similar schedules tend to be much more important than long standing friendships. Your party animal best friend who loves listening to his music loud is maybe not the best choice. They say opposites attract, but when it comes to living under the same roof, it’s better to stick to your own kind. Quiet studious types should seek out the same, and neatniks and slobs mix like oil and passive aggressive water.

While rushing from work to school to social engagements, it’s easy to neglect the growing mountain of dishes in the sink or the overflowing hamper. Setting aside one day a week to tidy up not only keeps your place from becoming a revolting pigsty that friends refuse to set foot in, it also helps you unwind, relax, and get your head together. Pick a day where you don’t work, find some good upbeat music, and just put forth enough effort to keep yourself from living in a landfill.

Studying

Getting Furniture

Cleaning

Roommates

Make it your own…

64


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Life4U 2010-2011

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Transcript of Life4U 2010-2011