College is rich on free day

In celebration of 40 years of success and community support, the college played host to more than 3,500 area residents during Free College Day on April 18. While many faculty and staff members volunteered to help make the event possible, Julie Haas, director, College Information and Publications, was responsible for the overall initiation and planning of the event.

“[Our goal was to] Say thank you to the community as part of the 40th anniversary,” said Haas, “And to help those who may not be familiar with the college.” Offering nearly 200 free 40-minute courses to the public along with plenty of cookies and punch, Free College Day started as a good idea and blossomed into a well received success.

“I went to a conference and another school had done this. I said ‘What a good idea,’ and brought it home,” said Haas. “I hope people [had] a good time.” Taking three classes at Free College Day, Amina Raja, attendee validated her desire to return to school.

“I wanted to try some classes before I enroll,” Raja said. “[The college is] very nice, it’s good to be back on campus.” The event’s atmosphere was inviting and inclusive, much to efforts of student, staff and faculty volunteers. “A lot of people showed and got good information…new and [former] students thinking about coming back,” said Allyson Price, Student Ambassador. “They learned a lot and had a lot of fun…I think it was very successful.”

While Free College Day was primarily geared towards potential students and community appreciation, it also offered children a chance to experience class in a college setting. Robert Hopson, student, learned about Free College Day and brought his family along. “I take courses here but this is for my son,” said Hopson. “[He’s taking] writing your own book by kids, for kids.”

Parents were offered the option of accompanying their child to class or leaving them in the exemplary hands of college volunteers. Some of the complimentary courses offered to prospective students and the community included art, floriculture, interior design, knitting, car care, résumé writing, video editing and languages.

Many attendees remained on campus after the final class was dismissed to enjoy the company of new friends and make plans for the fall semester. “I was excited [to come today] I’ve been accepted and I’m coming in the fall,” said Marisa Enriquez, attendee. “I’m a little nervous but I think [the college] will work out for me.”