Since last year, regional and national media have reported how community colleges boom when the economy weakens. This phenomenon and Riverland’s strategic initiatives to attract and retain students have led to a fall semester with record registrations. College enrollments fluctuate during the first several weeks of each semester due to variables such as students adding or dropping credits, or courses with ongoing or later start dates. Our truck driving program, for example, enrolls new students every month.

Our latest enrollment reports show that we have enrolled students in 4,330 more credits than on this same date last year. Our online course enrollments have increased significantly. Last year, online courses made up 17 percent of Riverland’s total enrollment. This year, online course enrollment shows steady growth with an increase of 3 percent equaling 20 percent of Riverland’s total enrollment. Yes, one out of every five Riverland students is taking a course online!

These are substantial increases, and I am extremely grateful to Riverland’s dedicated staff and faculty for serving more students as they begin working toward new careers or their higher education goals.

People of all ages are contacting us about starting or finishing their college education. Our next semester begins Jan. 11, 2010. Many of our programs allow new students to begin in January, so now is the perfect time to start the application process. The process is easy. First, complete an application form; second, pay a one-time $20 application fee; and third, provide a copy of a high school transcript or general equivalency diploma. Riverland accepts individuals who do not have a high school diploma or GED if they establish an ability to benefit during our college entrance assessment. Typically, applicants receive an acceptance letter about a week after completing these steps. Minnesota technical and community colleges, including Riverland, do not require the ACT or SAT for admission.

Accepted students should apply as soon as possible for financial aid by completing the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Our financial aid staff can assist applicants with this process. Each student receives a package of financial aid based on need. Financial aid includes grants, loans and work-study positions. Grants do not require repayment; loans must be repaid. Payments are not required until six months after the student graduates or stops attending college at least half time. Work-study aid pays students to work on- or off- campus up to 15 hours per week.

The final steps to becoming a registered student are completing an assessment of the applicant’s reading, math and writing skill levels; completing our online orientation; and attending an Advising and Counseling for Enrollment session, where counselors and faculty will help applicants select courses that are right for them.

Our admissions department is happy to help applicants through the process and explain all their education options at Riverland.They will also schedule a tour of our campuses in Albert Lea, Austin or Owatonna. For more information, visit www.riverland.edu.

Terrence Leas is the president of Riverland Community College. His column appears monthly.