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Top tips to prepare for virtual exams

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By Louisa Marine, Director, Institutional Technology and Virtual Learning

It’s that time in the semester: Finals are nearly upon us! And for those of you who are used to on-campus classes, they’re going to look a little different than normal. But, there’s no cause for alarm! Here are some simple tips to help you minimize stress as you prepare for virtual exams: 

Test Guidelines

Find all the information you need about your exam so that you feel ready.

  • What date and time will the exam be available?
  • How long do you have to take the test?
  • What types of test questions will you have to answer (multiple choice, essay, short answer, etc.)?

Check Your Technology

Make sure you have a charger available and all the necessary software before you begin an exam.

  • Need a computer? Make an appointment to use one at our Learning Centers.
  • Will you need headphones?

Testing Space

Choose a quiet spot where you will be able to focus.

  • If you do not feel you have a distraction-free location or a good internet connection, you can make an appointment to use our Learning Centers to take your test.

Study

Spend some time reviewing course materials and identifying what you don’t understand, so you can focus on those areas.

  • Make flash cards
  • Review old exams
  • Form a virtual study group
  • Use your instructor’s office hours to ask questions

Reduce Anxiety

If test taking makes you nervous, find an activity to alleviate these feelings beforehand.

  • Listen to music or a podcast
  • Read a book
  • Watch your favorite show
  • Do some breathing exercises

As this semester comes to a close, I wish you the very best in your studies and on your finals. I’m rooting for you!

New Entrepreneurship certificate program: Learn how to launch a business!

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By Ellen Lux, Director, Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

A common question we get from first-time visitors to the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) is, “How do I start my business?”  In response, the CIE, in collaboration with key business faculty, developed a 100% online, Entrepreneurship certificate program. In a series of six courses, we cover five essential smart business startup steps. Students walk away with a roadmap to launch their business. CIE advisors are available for additional coaching and mentoring upon completion of the program.

Benefits of this certificate program include:

  • 100% online to accommodate any schedule
  • Can be completed in less than three months
  • Interactive and fun! Features engaging assessments, trivia, discussions, videos and expert feedback
  • Students work on developing their business plan, not abstract “bookwork”
  • Taught by subject matter experts and business owners with first-hand experience who understand the challenges and benefits of business ownership
  • Students earn a certificate and college credit. Completing all six courses earns three elective business credits

Have you been thinking about starting a business, but don’t know how to get started?  Find out more about this exciting new educational program! 

 

Achieve your goals at any age through OU at the UC

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By Tricia Ashman, Oakland University alumna

I earned my associate degree at Macomb Community College in 1993. I planned to pursue my bachelor’s degree, but then life happened. I had a full-time job. I got married and was raising three kids. But, completing my degree was a personal goal.

In 2016, I met with Oakland University Academic Adviser Lindsay Zeig at the University Center (UC). Lindsay told me that Oakland University’s (OU) bachelor of integrative studies degree would allow me to transfer 88 credits, meaning I only needed to take 32 credits at OU. And, I could customize my courses for those 32 credits. I wanted to use my writing and interpersonal skills, so I chose communication and human resource development courses.

OU was a great choice for my bachelor’s degree. I was able to juggle my work and family commitments, taking evening courses at the UC with online courses. And, the OU faculty were incredibly understanding of my needs as a non-traditional student.

Earning my degree at 47 showed my kids it’s okay to accept life’s detours and it’s never too late to achieve your goals. With my OU degree and 30 years of professional experience, I’m ready to take on new career opportunities.

Learn more about Oakland University at the Macomb University Center: https://www.macomb.edu/future-students/choose-program/university-center/oakland-university.html

3 and 1 program: An easy and affordable path to a Ferris State bachelor’s degree

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By Katherine Woodson, Ferris State University alumna

This past August, I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Ferris State University. I started my amazing college journey at Macomb Community College. When I first came to Macomb, I was back and forth with what I wanted to do and where I wanted to transfer. Then, I heard about their fantastic partnership with Ferris State University!

The Ferris advisor I spoke to was extremely helpful and laid out everything I needed to do. I was so relieved to have such a straightforward plan for my education. I also love the 3 and 1 program they offered. This allowed me to spend three years at Macomb and one year at Ferris, keeping costs down while still giving me a remarkable education. Ferris’ teachers at the University Center were tremendously knowledgeable, and my overall experience was most certainly positive. I gained lifelong friendships and experiences through Ferris, and I am proud to be a Ferris State University graduate.

If you are a student at Macomb and are looking for what comes next, I would absolutely recommend looking into Ferris’ 3 and 1 program through the Macomb University Center.

Learn more about Ferris State at the Macomb University Center

Keep your future moving forward at UC open house

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By Michelle McGill, University Relations Administrator

Don’t let the uncertainty brought about by COVID-19 cause you to hit the pause button on your future! Macomb’s University Center is hosting a virtual open house, 5:30 to 7 pm on Tuesday, Oct. 6, that will introduce you to degrees and careers that thrive in any economy.

Macomb partners with the following 11 leading universities and colleges to offer bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees at our University Center on Center Campus: Central Michigan, Ferris State, Madonna, Michigan State (College of Osteopathic Medicine), Northwood, Oakland, Rochester, University of Detroit Mercy, Walsh, Wayne State and Western.

During the open house, you’ll learn how to manage your career in changing times, like this.  And representatives from our partners will be available to answer your questions about admissions, tuition, transferring credits and much more, including how classes will be delivered by each institution during winter 2021.

Register now to attend this exclusive event and be entered to win an Apple Watch! After you register, a Zoom link and password will be sent to you via email.

Your future deserves to proceed as planned. Don’t miss this opportunity to move it forward!  I’ll be there, and I hope you will be as well. See you October 6!

Building Performance and Energy Management: A smart future!

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By Lisa Richter, Professor of Facilities Design and Construction

Just as smartphones have changed the way we look at the world, smart technology is changing the way we live within it.

More and more buildings, new and existing, are being fitted with smart technology that controls temperature, humidity, lighting, security and other energy-related systems in an environmentally sound and economically efficient way.

If you would like to get in on the ground floor of this exciting field, I strongly encourage you to check out Macomb’s Building Performance and Energy Management (BPEM) program. It will provide the foundation to launch you into this growing field! I’m proud that this program is one of few like it in southeastern Michigan! Our program provides a unique, integrated approach to energy management, preparing you for a career optimizing the energy efficiency of residential, commercial and industrial buildings. If you want to enter a fast growing field that is creating a smarter future for us all, this could be the career for you!

Visit the BPEM program page on Macomb’s website to find out more or give me a call at 586.445.7191. I look forward to connecting with you!

You’ve got options! Learning Centers providing online and on-ground tutoring this fall

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By Ann Chirco, Manager, Center Campus Learning Center

Article originally posted June 24, 2020. Republished with updated information.

Here at the Learning Centers, we want to help you get the most out of your education. And even in these challenging times, we can help you learn, grow and adapt.

I’m excited to let you know that we are continuing to offer online tutoring services, this semester, to keep you at the top of your game! Tutors are available to provide live virtual support in several subject areas, including accounting, biology, chemistry and math.

Tutoring by discipline

In addition to virtual support, we are also offering a limited number of on-ground tutoring and testing services, available by appointment only, for currently enrolled Macomb students.

Ready to schedule an appointment? Here’s what you need to know:

  • Online tutoring services are available Monday-Thursday, 10am-8pm, and Saturday, 10am-3pm
  • Register for tutoring and create an appointment at http://macomb.mywconline.net
  • Have a question? Contact us at tutor@macomb.edu, 586.286.2203 (Center Campus) or 586.445.7400 (South Campus)

In addition to online tutoring, we’re always adding new resources to support you in your coursework. Check us out on Canvas for 24/7 access to handouts, videos and more!

We hope you have a happy, healthy and academically enriching fall semester!

FastTrack your advanced degree through Walsh at the University Center

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By Alexa Harris, Walsh student

When I started the transfer process at Macomb Community College, I received a great amount of guidance and support. I knew I wanted to obtain a bachelor’s degree in business, but I did not know where I wanted to go from Macomb. The University Center (UC) helped me make the best decision in continuing my education at Walsh!

I spoke with one of Walsh’s academic advisors at the UC who helped me outline a customized path to completing my bachelor’s degree in business management, focusing on my goals and future career plans. I also decided to enroll in its FastTrack program, which allowed me to complete graduate level courses toward a dual MBA and Master of Science in Management degree. Doing this gave me a head start in the master’s program while completing my undergraduate degree.

During this difficult time for everyone, I have been able to stay connected by using the Walsh Navigate Student app. I used the Study Buddies option to join a study group for each of my classes. Being provided a Zoom account has allowed my classmates and I to virtually meet and study for exams together. From Navigate Student to Walsh Connect, there are so many ways to get involved and connect with other students.

I have built great relationships with my classmates and professors during my time at Walsh. I participate in the book club organization and will soon be joining the Walsh Alumni Association!

I am looking forward to being able to say I am a Walsh alumna!

Learn more about Walsh at the Macomb University Center: https://www.macomb.edu/future-students/choose-program/university-center/walsh-college.html

What you need to succeed in your online classes

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By Michael Balsamo, Dean of Learning Resources

Macomb’s campuses may be closed for the time being thanks to COVID-19, but the college is virtually open for learning. Our new Virtual Campus on www.macomb.edu is your one-stop-shop for everything we offer online!

Get information on what tech requirements you need for online classes, how to get your textbooks and what online classes will be offered in the fall. You will also find information on how we’re virtually delivering  Student Support Resources to students.

Did you know that our Reading and Writing Studios are currently providing live tutoring online from 10 am to 4 pm, Monday through Thursday? And you can meet “face-to-face” with staff from both Career Services and the Office of Veteran and Military Services using Microsoft Teams on Office 365 – available free to students!

And after COVID-19, the Virtual Campus will still serve as your resource for online learning at Macomb.

If you have any questions about the Virtual Campus or online Student Support Resources, please email askanadvisor@macomb.edu.