It’s happening. Thousands of area students are getting ready to go back to school this fall to start or take their next step in a life-changing educational journey. I want to remind you that it’s not too late to join these students … students just like Collin, who I bumped into this morning as I walked through the Kirkwood parking lot. Collin looked lost and a little overwhelmed, so I walked with him and asked how I could help. He was interested in taking classes in the fall but he wasn’t sure where to start. We chatted as I walked him into the advising office and I left him in their capable hands … but the interaction stayed with me the remainder of the day.
My experience with Collin left me feeling energized and excited for the start of our classes at Kirkwood in a couple of short weeks. As president of Kirkwood Community college, I remember feeling excited and nervous, just like Collin, when I started my journey as a student at Kirkwood. There’s no way I could have known back then the incredible impact this institution, and the education I received here, would have on my future. And that’s what’s so great about community colleges like Kirkwood … it’s the perfect place to explore your interests, learn more about who you are, discover exciting career pathways and opportunities, and learn how to get there faster and more affordably. No matter where you are in life, Kirkwood’s ready to walk alongside you as you take your next step.
If you’re a recent high school graduate considering a four-year college, Kirkwood is a great place to start. You can spend your first two years in an incredibly supportive learning environment with small class sizes – for about half the annual cost you’ll find at four-year institutions.
If you’re a high school grad who has a specific career in mind, Kirkwood has dozens of exciting programs offering specialized degrees, certificates, and diplomas. These programs are designed to get students trained and into the workforce in just two years or less. Many of our graduates end up in high-demand fields with high-paying positions, often with no or low student debt.
If you weren’t quite ready for college right after graduating high school, but are considering enrolling now, why wait? Kirkwood understands the challenges you’re facing and has the resources and support you need to succeed. We make it easier for you to balance work, family, and education with multiple start date options throughout the year, as well as online, daytime, and evening classes.
If you started college but never graduated, Kirkwood’s got your back. You may worry about being academically ready to return, catching up on missed coursework, or how to fit classes into your already busy schedule. Our faculty and staff understand and are ready to help you every step of the way.
If you have been displaced or discouraged at work, Kirkwood can help you find your way to new and rewarding career opportunities. Our career services specialists, and industry partnerships with local employers, can help prepare and train you for in-demand jobs you’ll love.
Even if you didn’t graduate from high school, Kirkwood’s high school completion program can help you finally earn your diploma, and better prepare you for college and the workplace.
So, with our fall semester starting soon, now’s a great time to consider taking your next step at Kirkwood. I might not meet you walking across the parking lot like I did with Collin, but I’ll definitely be there as you walk across the stage at your future Kirkwood graduation.