Get documents about "Criminal Justice Career Day at LaGuardia
Document Sample
April 2011 Student
NEWS
Criminal Justice Career Challenging Expectations:
Day at LaGuardia Syreeta Gates
At 22 years old, Syreeta
Gates has founded The
On Wednesday, May 4, LaGuardia will host a Criminal Justice Career Day SWT (pronounced sweet)
from 1:00 to 4:30 p.m. in the Poolside Café. Students will get to hear from Life, a social venture to
criminal justice professionals, learn about a typical day at work, and find out empower young adults;
worked with non-profit
how speakers went from being students to successful professionals.
organizations on issues
like HIV-AIDS and youth
violence; and was
recognized at Glamour Magazine’s 2010 Women
of the Year Gala. Now, while taking classes at
LaGuardia, she is writing a book on social
File Your 2011-12 FAFSA entrepreneurship for Millennials, Just Be Cause,
which is due out this spring.
adline!
April 15th De
“When I began The SWT Life at the age of 18,
I wanted to be a young person creating change for
other young people,” said Syreeta, who resides in
South Jamaica. “I believed that young people can,
New & Continuing Students: Be Sure to Reapply! File Your 2011 - 12 FAFSA NOW! and should, be in the forefront of social change.”
Syreeta made her move into the forefront after
You must reapply for financial aid every available for you to reapply. If you wish to obtain a short stint at City Tech, where she realized that
academic year. When you reapply, you will be a PIN number to access and sign your FAFSA
GATES, continued p. 3
given the option to have your FAFSA partially “On the Web” application, go to www.pin.ed.gov.
completed for you by using information that has
been carried over from last year’s application. Foundation Scholarships Available
Apply online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. The LaGuardia Community College
The Office of Student Financial Services Foundation program recognizes academic
encourages all students to use the Internet to excellence and college or community service and
file, reapply or make corrections to their FAFSAs, considers students’ financial needs. Our Student News Editorial Policy
scholarships can supplement the funding of the The Student News is a college publication for the benefit of
as it guarantees speed as well as greater
cost of education. LaGuardia Foundation the student body. All articles accepted for publication are
accuracy. Our Resource Center, in C-109, is reviewed and edited as needed for style and length. The
DOLLARS & SENSE, continued p. 6 Division of Student Affairs and the Office of Marketing and
Communications produce the Student News collaboratively.
Inside Student News...
LaGuardia’s Student Gov’t FREE Legal Go Meatless
New Visual Advocates on Services from on
Identity Capitol Hill Single Stop Mondays!
page 2 page 3 page 4 page 10
From the Office of Student Affairs
What You Do Today Can Benefit the World Tomorrow!
Michael Baston,
Acting Vice President
“With realization of one's own potential and self-confidence in one's ability, one can build a better world.”
-- Dalai Lama
The resilience and solidarity displayed on This is important for you to keep in mind as Remember that what you do today matters.
campus during turbulent times continuously leaves you approach the midpoint of the spring semester. Every lecture you attend and campus event that
me in awe of the spirit that embodies the unique Some of you may be in certain courses solely you participate in helps you develop your view of
LaGuardia community. for the sake of fulfilling particular degree the world. Your professors and lecturers have so
I am particularly proud of the previous month’s requirements. You may not see an obvious much more to offer than facts and figures.
acts of altruism, which demonstrate that those of correlation between the subject matter and your Likewise, you are more than just LaGuardia
you who fill the halls and rush to class are earning career aspirations. While facing midterms, those students – you are global citizens who will draw
so much more than a degree. You are forming not of you who are having difficulties in your classes on your time at LaGuardia to become tomorrow’s
only a deeper knowledge base for your future craft, may be tempted to give up. leaders, humanitarians and visionaries.
but you are also developing a social consciousness You may feel that you have taken a wrong turn Now keep up the good fight and hit those
that will shape your values and the person that you on the road to success, but don’t let frustration or books.
become. fear of failure cause you to lose steam. Instead,
embrace the challenge.
Upcoming Table Talk Sessions in April Wednesday, April 27
Meet Acting Vice President 1 pm - 3 pm • C-Building Cafeteria
Michael Baston Thursday, April 28
and share your ideas, suggestions and concerns 5 pm -7 pm
M-Building Welcome Center
to improve the student experience at LaGuardia.
Launching LaGuardia’s New Message and Visual Identity
The Courage to QUESTION. The Drive to EXPERIMENT. The Will to CHANGE.
The process to strengthen LaGuardia’s brand has The logo is part of our visual identity. It visually
resulted in a stronger, unified message and a new visual represents who we are and what we stand for. The logo
identity. Our many audiences, students, faculty, staff and is designed to communicate the notion that LAGCC is
our partners and donors, as well as the media, will now a catalyst where individuals come together to learn,
hear one unified voice from members of the LaGuardia grow and shine. Visually this is conveyed with nine
community. arrows coming together in the center of the logo mark,
Our “new” messaging expands upon what we here at which represents introspection.
the College already know: that LaGuardia is unique The negative space at the center and between each
because we challenge expectations and dare to more, of the arrows forms an emanating star representing
inside and outside the classroom. infinite growth.
By highlighting the core values that everyone here at Nine arrows have been used to signify the College’s
LaGuardia has helped to build since 1971, we can tell the early days as Community College Number Nine.
singularly compelling story of the College that sets us The logo’s font provides a solid foundation while
apart from other colleges and universities, including the conveying modernity and strength.
for-profit institutions.
As we approach LaGuardia’s 40th anniversary of
opening the doors of higher education to all, we can
present this compelling, consistent message to the
public as we celebrate the milestones of our past, the
accomplishments of our present and our vision of the
future.
2 The Division of Student Affairs Newsletter for Students
Student Government Gates from p. 1
“The Hill”
Advocates on
school wasn’t right for her at that time.
Community service, however, was, and for the
next three years Syreeta worked for several non-
profit organizations aimed at young people. She
also joined Public Allies, an AmeriCorp-type
organization, where for one year she worked at
Safe, a non-profit organization.
In 2007, with a $1,000 start-up fund from
Youth Venture, she launched her own venture,
The SWT (“Serve We Trust”) Life.
Partnering with non-profits, the one-woman
operation began introducing projects in different
communities. Syreeta has worked with SAFE,
launching a campaign encouraging urban youth
to be tested for HIV-AIDS, and partnered with
Life Camp in Queens to organize Real Talk
Fridays, where leaders of various industries,
(L-R) Elizabeth W. Darnall (Director of Legislative Affairs), Gov. Sahakul Giri, Treasurer Moklasur Rahman, President including hip-hop pioneer Russell Simmons,
Alejandro Madi, Gov. Maria Munoz, Executive Secretary Daniese Betito, Gov. Gisele Santana, Vice President MD Hossan, talked to young people about careers.
Gov. Richard Sepulveda.
In 2009 Syreeta decided that it was time to go
From March 19 to 22 our Student Government pass along their message to the members of the back to school, and enrolled in LaGuardia’s labor
Association (SGA) participated in the 2011 Democratic Party. and community organizing program. The
National Student Advocacy Conference, sponsored The student governors also participated in a following year she entered the CUNY BA program
by the American Student Association for Service Learning Project that consisted of where she created her own major: urban youth
Community Colleges. The conference took place in collecting toiletry donations from the LaGuardia culture, while continuing classes at LaGuardia.
Washington, DC and its theme was “Raising the community and delivering the items to homeless “It is an ideal situation,” said Syreeta. “I can
Community College Profile with the New shelters in the Washington, DC area. In continue at LaGuardia where the classes are
Congress.” Eight of our 12 student governors conjunction with the Office of Student Life, SGA phenomenal and the professors have helped me
attended the conference and had the opportunity collected such a large quantity of donations that to expand my vision of The SWT Life, and I have
to participate in themed workshops specifically they were able to present them to two shelters. a major that fits perfectly with my career goals.”
geared towards student advocacy. Through the The administrators of the shelters were very “I would like to make a living giving to other
workshops, the students developed the language moved by LaGuardia’s generosity. people,” she said.
and style needed to speak with congressional staff
members on major issues that are critical to
community colleges (i.e. Pell Grants and student
loan availability).
On March 22 our eight student governors went Congratulations!
to Capitol Hill and met with Elizabeth W. Darnall,
Director of Legislative Affairs in the Honorable MLK Scholarship Winners
Carolyn Maloney’s office (D-14th District). They The Martin Luther King Scholarship
lobbied for increasing the maximum Pell Grant committee is proud to announce David Burgoa
funding and for the extension of the student loan and Andrew C. Greene as the recipients of the
grace period from six months to twelve months. 2011 Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative
They explained how essential Pell Grants are to low scholarships, designed to honor the legacy of
income, community college students who rely on service demonstrated by Dr. King. The Dream
Pell Grants to enable their pursuit of higher lives on in these recipients who have successfully
education. They also addressed the high rate of Our 2010-2011 SGA governors have been very balanced both academics and community
unemployment that we are currently facing and active in developing and implementing programs service to others. Their essays on “Intolerance
how extending the grace period for repayment of and events, on and off campus, representing the To Tolerance” were personal, insightful and
student loans would help thousands of students leadership, citizenship and advocacy values that inspiring.
who use loans to pay for their education. Elizabeth they believe in as leaders of the LaGuardia student
W. Darnall listened intently and assured the body.
students that she would support their efforts and
Foundation Scholarships
Did you know that application for LaGuardia Foundation Scholarships
View the Student Information Center's page at: is currently available online? Visit www.laguardia.edu/foundationscholarships
www.facebook.com/LAGCC.Student.Info.Center to learn more.
The Division of Student Affairs Newsletter for Students 3
Japan Relief Efforts Single Stop USA Staff Spotlight:
in
On behalf of the Japan Club and LaGuardia
students of Japanese descent, I'd like to thank all Evan Denerste
those who have extended their concern and
sympathy towards the people affected by the recent visitation rights, regained denied public benefits,
earthquake and tsunami in Japan. Your prayers and and assisted students with state and federal tax
support have carried us through this difficult time. disputes.
We continue to pray for all who remain missing and Evan’s services are particularly beneficial to
are suffering from this natural disaster. students because he not only teaches students
As of this writing, the death toll from the March about what their rights are, but he also empowers
11 earthquake reached 9,000 and there are still students to represent themselves in court. He
thousands of people listed as missing. Those who teaches students about the law, assists them in
have safely evacuated are enduring blustery weather understanding and preparing legal documents,
and cold snow showers in temporary shelters with a Many college students face significant life and helps them to navigate the legal system.
limited supply of fuel and food. challenges that make staying in school difficult. In general, Evan advises LAGCC students to
The uncertainty caused by the explosions at The Single Stop USA program offers free legal be sure to open all of their mail; keep complete
the nuclear power plant in the Fukushima services to students and their families as one of records and document everything, including
Prefecture seems to continue. Fear of radioactive many services provided to help students stay in telephone conversations; make sure to show up
fallout is beyond description for a nation that is well school. We are proud to introduce Mr. Evan on time for all appointments and court dates; file
aware of the tragic long-term effect of radioactive Denerstein, the attorney on staff with the Single taxes meticulously; and make sure to stay on top
materials of nuclear warfare.
Stop USA program at LaGuardia Community of student loans. Most importantly, he
In sum, the aftermath of the earthquake is
College. recommends that students never put off dealing
gradually affecting all areas of Japan and casts a
Even though the Single Stop USA program has with a legal matter. Students should consult an
dark shadow on the national economy.
been on campus for less than a year, in that short attorney or call 311 immediately if they need
Shortly after the earthquake, I started to hear
time, Evan has helped many students with a wide assistance.
worries and fears from Japanese students. So, with
variety of issues. For example, he has helped To learn more about the services Evan
advice from Dr. Kyoko Toyama, the Japan Club and
several individuals facing debt collection lawsuits, provides, contact us to make an appointment
I convened an emergency meeting. Colleagues from
various offices visited the meeting and offered their foreclosures and student loan defaults. He has also at (718) 482-5129. Our services are free and
firm support for students who may have emotional discharged students’ debt in bankruptcy, available to all students - including
and financial needs due to the earthquake. prevented evictions, obtained divorces and undocumented individuals - and their families.
We shared a common emotional predicament
that we have no means to support our suffering
compatriots in Japan. So, we grabbed a table and
started a donation desk in the E-Atrium, which Academic Advising 101
raised $1,048.22 in one single day. With help from
the Student Life staff, the Japan Club participated
Welcome to LaGuardia, new students! completed all basic skills courses. The Academy
in the school-wide donation campaigns on March
Here is an introduction to the Academic coordinators also facilitate academic success skills
23, 24, and April 7. I am grateful to those who
worked so hard to institutionalize our donation Advising process at the College. workshops to complement your classroom
efforts at LaGuardia and to those who shared their You have completed phase one of our three- experiences.
expertise to make sure that donations from phase Academic Advising Model: Pre- Phase three includes your second year and
LaGuardia will reach those in need in Japan. enrollment, where you were advised on your first beyond. In this phase, you will be working closely
Once again, a heartfelt thanks goes out to set of classes by the educational planners and with the departmental faculty in your major. These
the students, faculty, and staff of LaGuardia for Academy coordinators at New Student advisors are the faculty who teach the courses
providing comfort to the entire Japanese com- Orientation and advisement sessions. within your major.
munity at LaGuardia. It is heartening to know You are now in phase two: The First Year Each student is assigned a registration
that so many people are eager to help others in a Academies. This phase is about becoming a appointment date, based on their cumulative
country thousands of miles away. Together, let us successful college student in your first year and credits found on their DegreeWorks audit. This is
continue to hope for recovery in Japan and that beyond. Most of you should be registered and the first day you are eligible to register for the
the spirit of compassion among citizens of attending a New Student Seminar (FSM) following semester. The best time to register is on
different nations continues to grow. Course, which is designed to assist you with this day!
acquiring skills to meet the rigors of college. The Remember to seek advisement to assure that
-Tomonori Nagano, instructor of your New Student Seminar class is you are selecting the proper courses for your major.
Mentor of the Japan Club also your advisor for your first semester at Students with less than 30 credits, or who are still
LaGuardia. Your instructor/advisor will advise enrolled in a basic skills course (such as MAT 095
you for Session II and fall semester classes and or 096, CSE 095 or 099, ENG 098 or 099, and all the
clear you for registration. ESL courses), are required to meet with an advisor
The First Year Academy coordinators, who in B-100 before registering.
Coming Soon... are now located in B-Building room 100, provide The First Year Academy Coordinators have
A new easier way to register for classes! academic advising to any first year students who moved to a new location. We are now located
are not in a New Student Seminar or specialized in the B-Building, Room 100. Come and visit
program such as ASAP, COPE, BMEC or College us in our new location!
Discovery, until they reach 30 credits and have
4 The Division of Student Affairs Newsletter for Students
April 2010
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
REMINDER
1 2
Things can change - The date, time, location of events are subject to change. Disaster Relief Efforts Disaster Relief Efforts
for Japan for Japan
Check your LIVE student e-mail account for these types of announcements. 10:00am - 7pm 10:00am - 7pm
M-Lobby, E-Atrium, C-Lobby M-Lobby, E-Atrium, C-Lobby
LINKS TO CLICK Line C3 Percussion Group
Become familiar with the LaGuardia “I am a Student” webpage. This page provides 8:00pm - 9:30pm
Little Theater
you with vital links to the abundant student resources that are at your disposal.
www.laguardia.edu/students
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Disaster Relief Efforts Disaster Relief Efforts Disaster Relief Efforts Sustainability Conference Disaster Relief Efforts
for Japan for Japan for Japan 9:00am - 3:00pm E-242 for Japan
10:00am - 7pm 10:00am - 7pm 10:00am - 7pm 10:00am - 7pm
M-Lobby, E-Atrium, C-Lobby M-Lobby, E-Atrium, C-Lobby M-Lobby, E-Atrium, C-Lobby International Day: Passport M-Lobby, E-Atrium, C-Lobby
to the World
2:00pm - 4:00pm E-Atrium Spring Transfer Fair
12:00pm - 6:00pm
Creative Writing E-Atrium
Read-a-thon
2:30pm - 5:30pm
Cobblestone Courtyard
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
University of Nevada - Las Global Conversations: Cell Talks New Vocals Works
Vegas Information Desk Earth Day and 2:30pm - 5:00pm E-242 by Young Artists
10:00am - 2:00pm E-Lobby Sustainability 8:00pm - 10:00pm
10:30am - 1:00pm E-242 Little Theater
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
Spring Break - No Classes Spring Break - No Classes Spring Break - No Classes Spring Break - No Classes Spring Break - No Classes Spring Break - No Classes
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
Spring Break - No Classes Official Withdrawal Event Last Day to Officially Call to Worship and Express Spring 2011 Job Fair Immigration Awareness
10:00am - 6:00pm E-Lobby Withdraw from a course 2:00pm - 4:00pm Atrium 9:00am - 2:00pm Atrium Week: Trip to Ellis Island/
Statue of Liberty
Immigration Awareness Official Withdrawal Event Immigration Awareness Philosophy Panel - Asian 9:00 am - 5:00pm
Week: Experiences and 10:00am - 6:00pm E-Lobby Week: Immigration Debate: Heritage Celebration Ellis Island
Perspectives The Dream Act 10 am - 11:30 am Poolside
Immigration Awareness
10:30am - 2 pm Poolside 2pm - 4:30pm Poolside
Week: Student Stories
Immigration Awareness
Film Screening of 11:45am - 1 pm Poolside LaGuardia Speakers Series Week: Take Action!
"El Norte" CUNY Transfer Information Presents: Victoria Brown Immigraton Reform
2 pm - 4 pm E-242 1pm - 4pm E-Lobby 3pm - 5pm E-501 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm E242
Coming in May... IMPORTANT NOTICE:
Live @ LaGuardia accounts will automatically
May 30th - College Closed/No Classes- enjoy! deactivate after 180 days of inactivity.
Reminders To reactivate: simply log on to your LIVE account
using your user name and your default password.
• Any outstanding Immunization records MUST
be submitted to the Health Services Center or Remember: After deactivation your account will
you will risk getting WA grades (administrative no longer receive important information. You can
withdrawals) for all Spring courses. avoid deactivation by logging in regularly. Keep
yourself up-to-date with information by utilizing
• If you're planning to change your Spring Session II Live@LaGuardia.
classes - do it now! Your account is key to your success at
LaGuardia!
The Division of Student Affairs Newsletter for Students 5
Dollars & Sense from p. 1
Scholarship awards range from $500 to $3,500 The Tuition and Fees Deduction may be Attention Student Borrowers!
per year. We invite you to attend an Information beneficial to you if you do not qualify for the If you are graduating, drop below six credits, or
Session on, American Opportunity, Hope, or Lifetime are leaving LaGuardia Community College, and
DATE: Tuesday, April 26 Learning Credits. you have an outstanding Perkins or Direct Loan,
PLACE: Enrollment Services Center Federal regulations require you to complete an exit
(C-107 Media Room) CUNY Scholar Support Prepaid Card counseling/interview. The exit counseling/
TIME: 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm Get Your Financial Aid Faster and Easier! interview serves to remind you of your rights and
or 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm responsibilities, and gives you the opportunity to
Students eligible to receive financial aid
speak with a financial aid counselor about any
may receive payments on a CUNY Scholar Support
You can also apply at www.laguardia.edu/sfs/ questions that you may have regarding your loan.
Prepaid Card. This is not a credit card; it is a
inst_scholar.aspx. For assistance in completing prepaid “MasterCard” card accepted at any store
your application please go to our Resource Center What will happen if you leave the college
or ATM where MasterCard debit is accepted. without taking an exit counseling/interview?
in room C-109. Student payments will be automatically deposited • Your school records, including your academic
to the card and can be used immediately. Sign up transcript and diploma will not be released until
Free Tax Preparation for the CUNY Scholar Support Prepaid Card at you complete this requirement.
Earn your maximum refund! Completely free www.cuny.edu/scholarssupport.
tax preparation and E-file submission through Perkins Loan Borrowers: You must take the online
this special IRS approved program. Complete Check your Financial Aid Status via exit Interview at www.lagcc.cuny.edu/financialaid.
your taxes with us, and you are automatically
The CUNY Portal - eSIMS Direct Loan Borrowers: Complete your exit
entered to win a brand new iPod! For more
The CUNY Portal is a gateway to CUNY counseling online at: www.dlservicer.ed.gov
information, see our ad on p.12.
applications, services and CUNY resources. With
a single sign-on, you can access many CUNY Don’t Default on Your Student Loan
Financial Aid and Taxes
With tax time upon us, we would like to applications. Now you can check your student If you default on your student loan, you will face
remind you that the U.S. Government considers information, financial aid application status (both the following serious consequences:
financial aid - minus the cost of tuition, fees and Federal FAFSA and State TAP), financial aid
books - taxable income. You should keep your awards, view and fix errors, link to the Education • Your loan will be reported to national credit
Bursar and Bookstore receipts as well as the Department’s Online Entrance Interview for Direct bureaus and it will damage your credit
check stubs from your financial aid checks to Loans, and link to the interactive loan request page rating;
determine what portion is to be reported on your – all through the CUNY Portal. • A defaulted loan can make it more difficult
tax form if you will be filing a tax return. to buy a home or a car;
- Go to www.cuny.edu. • Legal action can be taken against you;
Students who participated in the Federal Work - Click “Log-in” at bottom left of navigation bar
Study program should have received their 2010 • Your wages can be garnished;
-Type in your Username and Password. • Your income tax refund can be withheld;
W-2 forms indicating the amount to be included Click the “Log In” button. (If you do not
as wages for the year. • You may not be eligible for additional
have an account, click “Register Now!” student aid.
Remember that while financial aid spans the to get a username and password.)
academic year (September 2010 – August 2011 - Click the link to “CUNY’s Online Center”
for example), the tax year works on a 12-month For information about Student Loan
for Admissions and Financial Aid under Repayment options:
calendar (January 1, 2010 - December 31, 2010). the “Apply to CUNY” section.
The financial aid you received from January 1, - Click Financial Aid on the left of the Federal Direct Student Loan borrowers can visit
2010 through December 31, 2010 should be navigation bar. the NSLDS website: www.dlservicer.ed.gov
reported on your 2010 tax return. Financial aid - Click on Application Status – this will lead
received in Spring 2011 should be reported on Perkins Loan borrowers can visit the
you to FAFSA and TAP applications Educational Computer Services, Inc. website:
your 2011 tax return. - Click on Award Summary to view a display of
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) www.ecsi.net
Pell, TAP, campus-based aid and Direct Loans
publications # 970 provide detailed explanations
of tax benefits for education. This publication is You will also find links to: Visit the Student Financial Services
free and can be obtained at the IRS website, • Guide to Financial Aid Resource Center (C-109)
www.irs.gov. • FAFSA on the web
• Higher Ed. Services Corporation (HESC) • File your FAFSA online & automatically receive
American Opportunity Credit: This credit • Summary of Financial Aid Programs a PIN number from the Dept. of Ed.
can help parents and students pay part of the • Federal Tax Benefits for Tuition and Fees • Link to the TAP application
cost of the first four years of college. The • Preventing Financial Aid Scams • Take online loan entrance & exit interviews
American Recovery & Reinvestment Act modifies • Identity Theft Prevention • Link up with other government websites for
the existing Hope Credit for tax years 2009 & your financial aid questions
2010, making it available to a broader range of Federal Work Study Grant - Use It or Lose It! • Re-authenticate your PIN for security purposes
taxpayers. Eligible taxpayers may qualify for the Use your Federal Work Study award for 2010-11. • Apply for a FAFSA PIN number
maximum annual credit of $2,500 per student. Why pass up the opportunity to obtain great work • Secure your PIN
Lifetime Learning Credit: This credit can experience? As soon as you get your new award • Check for Institutional scholarships, as well as
help pay for undergraduate courses – including letter for FWS for 2010-11: external scholarships
courses to improve job skills – regardless of the • Come to Student Financial Service • Download direct deposit application forms
number of years in the program. Eligible (C-107) or call (718) 482-5935;
taxpayers may qualify for up to $2,000. • Sign up for a FWS Orientation/Placement Monday - Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Tuition and Fees Deduction: Students workshop;
and their parents may be able to deduct • Be sure to bring your award letter to the Direct Deposit Through Any Bank
qualified college tuition and related expenses workshop. Why wait for checks in the mail? With direct
of up to $4,000. This deduction is an adjustment deposit your money will be available to you
to income, which means the deduction will If you have any questions, please contact immediately!
reduce the amount of your income subject to tax. Manual Ayala, at (718) 482-5015.
6 The Division of Student Affairs Newsletter for Students
Dollars & Sense
Direct deposit of your financial aid checks into Frequently Asked Financial Aid Questions
your bank account can be arranged by completing
and submitting the Student Financial Assistance, 1. How do I know that I should be filing as an 7. Must I fill out the Free Application for
Direct Deposit Request/Authorization form, which independent student? Federal Student Aid/FAFSA to receive a
is available at the Bursar's window (M-building, You are an independent student if you are: student loan?
basement lobby). • 24 years old or older at the time of filing, and/or Yes
• A veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces, and/or
Pell/TAP Queries? • Married, and/or 8. What is TAP?
(800) 433-3243 General information • Have a dependent for whom you provide more TAP is New York State's Tuition Assistance Program,
about Federal Aid than half of the support. which provides grants to students to assist them in
(888) 697-4372 paying tuition. Families with New York State Net
or www.hesc.com Information about 2. What types of financial aid can I apply for? Taxable Income of $80,000 or less qualify to receive
CUNY TAP application You can apply for Federal grants and loans through TAP grants. TAP awards range from $225 to $5,000.
www.hesc.org TAP or Loan status the FAFSA. The grants consist of:
(888) 697-4372 Stafford Loans New York State offers the following financial aid
a. Federal Pell Grant programs:
or www.hesc.com b. FSEOG Grant • Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)
c. Federal Work Study • Part-Time TAP (PTAP)
(847) 688-6888 Selective Service
or www.sss.gov The loans consist of: • Child of Veteran Award
• Child of Deceased Police Officer/Firefighter Award
(888) 442-4551 or a. Federal Direct Loan • Nursing Scholarships
www.va.gov/education VA Education Benefits b. Federal Perkins Loan • Persian Gulf Veterans Tuition Award
• Vietnam Veterans Tuition Award
(800) 647-8733 or 3. What is a Federal Pell Grant?
oig.hotline@ed.gov Report grant fraud to This is an award for undergraduates that comes from 9. What is College Discovery (CD)?
Ed. Dept's Office of the Federal Government and does not have to be This program provides eligible students with
Inspector General repaid. concentrated and specialized counseling, remedial
(877) 382-4357 or instruction, tutorial services and financial aid
www.ftc.gov/scholarshipscams 4. What is Federal Supplemental Educational stipends for educational expenses. In accordance
Report fraud to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)? with state education law and CUNY policies, students
FSEOGs are awarded to undergraduate students with are eligible for admission to the program if they are:
exceptional financial need - those with the lowest • Economically disadvantaged.
(866) 653-4261 FTC teletype for the hearing Expected Family Contribution (EFC) numbers. • Educationally disadvantaged.
impaired Federal Pell Grant recipients receive priority for • Graduated from an approved high school or
FSEOG awards. attained a New York State high school equivalency
Enrollment Service Center Hours diploma (GED) or the equivalent.
Monday - Thursday 9:00am - 7pm 5. What is Federal Work Study (FWS)? • Did not previously attend a college or university.
Friday, Saturday, Sunday CLOSED Federal Work Study is a program that allows you to • Resided in New York City for at least one year
gain valuable work experience and receive financial prior to the first day of classes.
assistance toward your education. To apply for FWS
You can be certified for the College Discovery
you must complete the FAFSA application. If eligible,
Program after the college has reviewed the
you will receive an award letter in the mail, along with
information you submit on your FAFSA and TAP
further instructions about the FWS workshop you
applications.
will be required to attend in order to confirm your
work assignment.
10. How do I find out the status of my
Financial Aid Waiver Appeals 6. How do I apply for a student loan? financial aid application?
You can check on the status of your FAFSA applica-
Academic Year 2010 - 2011 You must complete a FAFSA application and take
the borrower’s entrance counseling quiz at tion via the web at www.fafsa.ed.gov. You must have a
www.dlservicer.ed.gov. Once completed, print out Federal PIN number to access your information. To
Financial aid waiver appeals will only be obtain a PIN number, go to www.pin.ed.gov. To check
approved by the Waiver Appeals Committee the results of the quiz, go to the Office of Student
Financial Services website at www.lagcc.cuny.edu/ the status of your TAP application, go to
within the current academic year. Documents www.hesc.org. You must have a state user ID and a
financialaid and download the Federal Direct Loan
supporting the appeal must be attached to the PIN number to access your information.
application. Bring both the completed loan
appeal form for review. application and test results to the Office of Student You may also check the status of your financial aid
The dates for supporting documentation Financial Services in C-107. You must wait for the through the CUNY Portal at www.cuny.edu. KEEP
must be within the current academic year that Office of Student Financial Services’ approval to e- YOUR PIN NUMBERS IN A SECURE PLACE!
the appeal is being requested. The decision of sign your Master Promissory Note (MPN). You must
11. What is the CUNY Portal?
the committee is final. have a PIN number to sign the MPN. Once you
e-signed your MPN, you will receive a Disclosure The CUNY Portal is a gateway to all things CUNY:
Notice from the Department of Education, college websites, information about applying to
TAP and Title IV Appeals CUNY, registration information, financial aid status,
Submission Dates approximately 10 days before the scheduled
disbursement date. The Disclosure Notice will events, campus directories and more. The CUNY
indicate the approved gross loan amount(s), fees, net Portal makes it easier and faster to find what you
Spring 2011 No later than need. You must register on the CUNY Portal website
loan amounts and anticipated disbursement dates.
July 11, 2011 All loans are disbursed in at least two disbursements. to gain access to your information.
You can also go to http://web.laguardia.edu/sfs/
Students can only apply for a one-time waiver payments.aspx to see the approximate dates of
for TAP. disbursement for your loan and other financial aid See the May 2011 Student News for more FAQ’s
checks.
The Division of Student Affairs Newsletter for Students 7
Health April is...
Sexual Assault
Corner Awareness Month
The month of April has been designated Sexual
Health Services Center April 2011 Events Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) in the United
Cover the Uninsured Tuesday, April 5 E-Atrium 10:00AM – 5:00PM States. According to the National Sexual Violence
Last Chance MMR Clinic Wednesday, April 13 E-360 10:00AM – 6:00PM Resource Center, the goal of SAAM is to raise
public awareness about sexual violence and to
Department of Human Wednesday, April 13 M-Building Lobby educate communities and individuals on how to
Resources Food Stamp Program 10:00AM – 4:00PM
prevent sexual violence.
Elmhurst Hospital Center Thursday, April 28 M-Building Lobby Sexual assault and abuse is any type of sexual
Smoking Cessation Program 10:00AM – 4:00PM
activity that you do not agree to, including:
AMERIGROUP - Child & Family Mondays, Fridays M-Building Lobby • Inappropriate touching
Health Plus Insurance Enroll. 1, 4, 8, 11, 15 10:00AM – 4:00PM • Vaginal, anal or oral penetration
• Sexual intercourse that you say no to
AIDS Center of Queens County Mondays, Thursdays Health Services Center MB40
Free HIV and STI testing 11, 14 11:00AM – 4:00PM • Rape
• Attempted rape
Health First Child & Family Fridays 1, 8, 15 E – Building Lobby • Child molestation
Health Plus Insurance Enroll. 10:00AM – 4:00PM
Health Plus Child & Family Tuesdays, Wednesdays E – Building Lobby Sexual assault can be verbal, visual, or anything
Health Plus Insurance Enroll. 5, 6, 12, 13 10:00AM – 4:00PM that forces a person to join in unwanted sexual
contact or attention. Examples are voyeurism,
Steinway Child & Family Wednesday, April 6 M-Building Lobby when someone watches private sexual acts;
Services, Inc. CAPE Program 10:00AM- 4:00PM
exhibitionism, when someone exposes him or
Metro Plus Child and Family Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays C- Building lobby herself in public; incest, sexual contact between
Health Plus Insurance Enroll. 4, 5, 7, 11, 12, 14 10:00AM - 4:00PM family members; and sexual harassment. It can
HIP Child and Family Health Thursday, April 7 E -Atrium occur in different situations: in the home by
Plus Insurance Enrollment 10:00AM – 4:00PM someone you know, on a date, or by a stranger
Fidelis - Child & Family Mondays, Thursdays E-Building Lobby in an isolated place.
Health Plus Insurance 4, 7, 11, 14 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Rape is a common form of sexual assault.
Educate yourself on “date rape” drugs, which can
Affinity - Child & Family Wednesdays C- Building Lobby be slipped into a drink when the victim is not
Health Plus Insurance 6 , 13 10:00AM – 4:00PM
looking. Never leave your drink unattended, no
Health Services Center Tuesdays, Thursdays M - Building Lobby matter where you are. Attackers use these drugs
Outreach Activities 5, 7, 12, 14, 26 10:00AM – 4:00PM because they make the victim unable to resist
Hispanic AIDS Forum Tuesdays 5, 12 Health Services Center MB40 assault and because they cause memory loss.
Free HIV Testing for Everyone 11:00AM – 4:00PM Rape and sexual assault are never the victim’s
Neighborhood Health Providers Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays C – Building Lobby fault, no matter where or how it happens.
Child & Family Health Plus 4, 5, 11, 12, 25 4:00 AM – 8:00 PM If you are sexually assaulted, it is not your fault.
Atlantis Health Plan Wednesdays, Thursdays C – Building Lobby Don’t be afraid to ask for help or support. Help is
Insurance Enrollment 7, 13, 14, 28 4:00 AM – 8:00 PM available. You can contact the College’s Health
Services Center located in room MB-40 at (718)
Well Care Child & Family Mon, Tues, Wednes M – Building Lobby
Health Plus 4, 6, 11, 12, 25 4:00 AM – 8:00 PM 482-5280 or you can call these organizations:
United Health Care Child & Mon, Tues, Thurs E – Building Lobby • National Domestic Violence Hotline
Family Health Plus 4, 5, 11, 12, 28 4:00 AM – 8:00 PM 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Please note that the Health Services Center reserves the right to change venue and or location without prior notice.
or 1-800-787-3224 (TDD)
• National Sexual Assault Hotline
1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
There are organizations and hotlines in every
state and territory. These crisis centers and
agencies work hard to stop assaults and help
victims. You can find contact information for these
organizations at http://www.womenshealth.gov/
violence/state/.
How can I help someone
who has been sexually assaulted?
You can help someone who is abused or who has
been assaulted by listening and offering comfort.
Go with her or him to the police, the hospital or
counseling. Reinforce the fact that he or she is not
at fault and that it is natural to feel angry and
ashamed.
8 The Division of Student Affairs Newsletter for Students
Free Student Success Workshops - Upcoming Spring 2011
Sponsored by the First Year Academies and the Center for Counseling, Advising & Academic Support
Time Management Skills in 30 minutes or less! Geared for evening
students, everyone will walk away with helpful hints. For those who don’t
have class at 5:45, there can be an extra 15 minutes for questions.
Monday, April 18 5:15- 5:45 Room MB10 E. Olivares
DegreeWorks Training (by advisors): Learn to use LaGuardia’s degree audit
and academic tracking system! It allows you to view your progress and make
plans for the future.
Monday, April 18 12:00-1:00 Room C126 A. Abramov
Do You Have an Attitude? We all have different thoughts, feelings, beliefs
and opinions about the various aspects of our lives, including our academic
lives. The attitudes we hold have a direct impact on our ability to succeed.
What attitudes do YOU have about your ability to succeed in school? Do you
expect to fail, “barely pass” or succeed with flying colors? Do these attitudes
affect your ability to study effectively, complete assignments on time, and
approach your assignments with enthusiasm? Come to this workshop to
explore ways to move past attitudes that sabotage success!
Tuesday, April 5 5:00-6:00 Room MB10 M. Hodge &
S. Cevallos
Thursday, April 7 1:00-2:00 Room E400 M. Hodge &
S. Cevallos
WHAT IF…
DEFINED BY A SPIRIT OF COURAGEOUS IDEALISM, LaGuardia
was described in its first Middle State evaluation report as “one of
the more exciting urban ‘garden spots’ in America,” by Middle
States lead evaluator Dr. Harry Bard, president of the Community
College of Baltimore. LaGuardia received the highest accreditation
possible by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle
States Association a mere three years after opening its doors in
1971.
Thanks to that legacy of collaborative cooperation, LaGuardia ABOVE:
has since been accredited by Middle States for each successive five LAGUARDIA’S FIRST MIDDLE
STATES SELF-STUDY REPORT.
year evaluation period. As we continue to move forward with the
current, ongoing Middle States evaluation process, President
BELOW:
Shenker’s recipe for success back then is a timeless one: “Since TODAY, THE COLLEGE COMMUNITY
the College opened in the fall of 1971, members of the faculty, CAN LEARN ABOUT LAGUARDIA’S
MIDDLE STATES ACCREDITATION
administration, and student body have PROCESS ONLINE.
joined hands and worked diligently
toward creating diversified,
challenging academic programs. What is
Such an outstanding endeavor Middle States
by all segments of our College and why does it
has been richly rewarded by matter?
receipt of the highest level of Middle
States accreditation possible.”
LEARN MORE by visiting
www.laguardia.edu/middlestates
The Division of Student Affairs Newsletter for Students 9
Become a Veterinary Technician Donation Day
Animals give people unconditional love, and What types of jobs can a veterinary technician “Donation Day” is a simple idea I came up with
many people wonder what the best way is to show hold? The field of work for a veterinary technician to contribute to LaGuardia’s humanitarian efforts.
love and appreciation in return. One way, is to has many opportunities. Besides working in Twice a year everyone entering the campus is
study the field of Veterinary Technology. If you are private clinics and animal hospitals, some encouraged to make a financial donation to help
considering a career as a veterinary technician, veterinary technologists and technicians work in offset the effects of catastrophic disasters
you are in for one of the most rewarding careers research facilities, zoos, biomedical research, worldwide. In collaboration with the Bursar and
out there. If you love animals and would like to be wildlife medicine, livestock management, Business offices, Student Life spearheads this
able to help them in more ways than just petting, pharmaceutical sales, and increasingly, in fundraising activity. Sealed cans are placed in high
hugging, and feeding, then becoming a vet tech is biosecurity and disaster preparedness. The U.S. traffic areas where the Student Government
the right choice. Department of Labor expects a substantial Association, Student Advisory Council members
So you may be wondering, what exactly does a increase in the number of jobs available for and other dedicated students volunteer to solicit
Veterinary Technician do? A veterinary technician veterinary technicians. funds.
helps veterinarians provide medical care to Where can you go to become a credentialed After Chancellor Matthew Goldstein requested
animals and run veterinary practices or research veterinary technician? Right here at LaGuardia that each campus have a Catastrophic Disaster
laboratories. Veterinary technicians perform many Community College! The College has an American Relief Coordinator, I was appointed such by
of the same duties for a veterinarian that a nurse Veterinary Medical Association accredited Associate Director of the Student Life Office, Irene
would perform for a physician. Under the program, which when completed, will allow you to Sosa. At first clothes and canned goods were
supervision of a veterinarian, they may perform sit for the national examination. The program is collected for hurricane victims in both New
laboratory tests such as urinalysis and blood competitive, and it boasts a very high pass rate on Orleans and Haiti. However, soon it became
counts, assist with dental care and cleanings, the national exam. Presently, all of our graduates apparent that the most effective way to help was to
expose and develop radiographs, prepare tissue have found employment in their areas of interest. raise money. The first “Donation Day” was called
samples, perform and maintain anesthesia, take If you have any questions regarding the “Dollar Day,” but I quickly realized that many
blood samples, record patients' case histories, Veterinary Technology program, please feel free to people contributed more than a dollar. The
assist in surgery, and play a large role in client contact us at (718) 482-5470. generosity of LaGuardians facilitated the name
education. change from “dollar“ to “donor!”
So far this fundraising tool has assisted people
in Indonesia, Haiti, Italy, the Philippines, Chile,
Pakistan and Japan. Since the fall 2008 semester
Green Week at LaGuardia “Donation Day” has become an institutional part
of LaGuardia’s culture and will possibly become
From April 12 - 14, LaGuardia's Sustainability Council will be giving away CUNY–wide.
eco-friendly products, offering Green Education workshops, and unveiling For more information on Donation Days,
sustainable projects during our 2011 Green Week events! Show your support by contact: Jeffery Kazembe Batts, LaGuardia
participating. Be sure to visit LaGuardia’s Sustainability Web site for updates: Disaster Relief Coordinator, Student Life
Ext. 5195
http://www.lagcc.cuny.edu/sustainability/
Go Meatless
on Mondays!
The LaGuardia Sustainability Council is proud Meatless Mondays, a non-profit initiative of the
to announce that our dining services, MBJ, is now Monday Campaigns, in partnership with the John
offering Meatless Monday specials in our Hopkins’ Bloomberg School of Public Health, is
cafeterias. designed to improve the health of citizens and our
Eliminating meat from your diet once a week planet by encouraging people to consume less
can not only help reduce your risk of chronic meat in a conscientious and measurable way.
preventable conditions like cardiovascular disease, To learn more about the movement, including
diabetes and obesity but it also reduces pesticide meatless recipes you can make at home, please
pollution, water pollution, greenhouse gas visit: http://www.meatlessmonday.com/
emissions and rain forest degradation. While you're there, why not pledge to go
LaGuardia now joins the over 40 colleges and meatless one day a week?
universities nationwide who have joined the
Meatless Monday international movement.
10 The Division of Student Affairs Newsletter for Students
Watch for the next issue of Student News in May 2011!
