Students who are seeking admission into a diploma or degree program at Sampson Community College are being encouraged by school officials to apply for admission.

Deadline is quickly approaching, with students being asked to apply on or before May 1 for the fall semester.

Students wanting to enroll on a course by course basis without seeking admission into a program of study are required to complete an online application and, depending upon the course(s) selected, may require transcripts of high school or previous college work. Special credit students are also asked to schedule a meeting with the director of admissions prior to enrolling.

SCC president Dr. Paul Hutchins says he feels Sampson Community has a lot to offer local students.

“Attending Sampson Community College has many advantages for students when compared to larger institutions,” Hutchins said. “In addition to lower tuition costs, students at SCC enjoy smaller class sizes, personal attention from faculty and staff, a growing number of programs to choose from, and support services that promote student success. One of the best reasons for choosing SCC for a student planning to eventually transfer to a North Carolina state university institution is that it will enhance your opportunity to transfer and graduate.”

For those students seeking admission into a program of study, they also need to complete placement testing and provide high school transcripts and transcripts of any post-secondary coursework they wish to have recognized by SCC. Specialized programs such as nursing and Basic Law Enforcement have additional requirements.

Additionally, the college provides a number of classes each summer in arts and sciences that may be transferred to institutions in the University of North Carolina System (UGETC classes) as well as private colleges.

“University students who come home this summer will have the opportunity to take college courses for about a third of what the same course would cost at a four-year institution,” Carole Phipps, division chair for Arts and Sciences, said. “Some of these courses will not require textbooks, lessening the financial burden of earning a degree. In addition, 84 percent of the transferable courses offered this summer will be in the online format, making it easier for students to take a couple of classes and still work part-time. New classes that will be available this summer in a face-to-face format are Creative Writing and Calculus III.”

According to Holly Brewington, director of admissions, students can apply for admissions at any time, but are encouraged to do so early to guarantee course selection.

“Students can apply for admissions at any time, but we encourage those who are interested in the summer semester to apply now so that they have enough time to complete the admissions and financial aid process,” Brewington explained. “New students who have completed the admissions process will register May 17 at the new student orientation starting at 9 a.m. Additionally, program advisors will help new students select classes that are of interest to them and applicable to their desired program of study. Students who are unsure of what degree to seek are welcome to take general education courses that will get them started on a path while they explore a variety of opportunities for their major.”

The priority deadline to complete admissions for fall semester is May 1, although the school will continue to admit students after the deadline. School officials urge students to apply early, as they risk the chance of not having enough time to complete the admissions and financial aid process.

Financial aid

According to Marleen Powell, director of financial aid, Federal Pell Grant Funds may be available for students during the summer semester. If a student has not previously applied for financial aid for the 2016-2017 academic year, they will need to apply online at www.fafsa.ed.gov and complete the 2016-2017 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Powell added, that before students can be awarded Summer Federal Pell Grant Awards they will need to make sure that they have successfully completed all admission requirements.

Students who are planning to begin attending SCC in the fall will need to complete a 2017-2018 FAFSA.

In addition to financial aid, students are encouraged to submit their application for the SCC Foundation scholarship by Saturday, April 15. By completing this single application, students will be eligible for all potential SCC foundation awards for the 2017-2018 academic year. SCC Foundation scholarships for the 2017-2018 academic year are awarded for the fall 2017 semester and the spring 2018 semester.

School officials say they work hard to provide a quality education for all those interested in attending Sampson Community College.

“The mission of the college is to provide accessible and affordable education, workforce training, and lifelong enrichment,” Blair Hairr, dean of student services, said. “We enjoy being a resource to the community and helping all individuals reach their academic and career goals.”

Student counselors assist students of Sampson Community College in the application process, as well as applying for financial aid.
Student counselors assist students of Sampson Community College in the application process, as well as applying for financial aid.

By Kristy D. Carter

[email protected]

Reach Kristy D. Carter at 910-592-8137, ext. 2588. Follow us on Twitter at @SampsonInd. Like us on Facebook.