Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura Colleges A -Z See page 10 Fall 2007 Volume 1 Issue 1 Start College With All A’s See page 2 Oxnard Regional Fire Academy See page 3 Design, Create, Innovate: Ventura Engineering See page 5 MoorparkDedicates 40th Year to the Environment See page 7 NON PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID OXNARD, cA PERMIT NO. 232 Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura Colleges 255 W Stanley Ave Suite 150 Ventura, california 93001 ECRWSS RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMER Start Your Career at a Ventura County Community College Your Future Begins Here! Ventura College Oxnard College Moorpark College V E N T U R A C O U N T Y C O M M U N I T Y C O L L E G E S .. Just $20/unit for California residents ...................................................................................................... ................................................................................ ................................................................................................ 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VENTURA COLLEGE Admissions/Recordswww.venturacollege.edu/admissions email: vcadmissions@vcccd.edu (805) 654-6457 Counselingwww.venturacollege.edu/counseling email: vccounseling@vccd.edu Outreach/Tourswww.venturacollege.edu/phototour www.venturacollege.edu/aboutvc (805)-654-6449 OXNARD COLLEGE Admissions/Recordswww.oxnardcollege.edu/apply email: ocadmissions@vcccd.edu (805) 986-5810 Counselingwww.oxnardcollege.edu/counseling email: occounseling@vcccd.edu (805) 986-5816 Outreach/Tourswww.oxnardcollege.edu/gettingstarted email: ocpass@vcccd.edu 805-986-5926 MOORPARK COLLEGE Admissions/Outreach/Tourwww.moorparkcollege.edu/outreach email: mcoutreach@vcccd.edu (805) 378-1409 Counselingwww.moorparkcollege.edu/couns email: mccounseling@vcccd.edu (805) 378-1428 Registration/Recordswww.moorparkcollege.edu/records email: mcadmissions@vcccd.edu 805-378-1429 CAMPUS INFORMATION www.vcccd.edu Publisher: Dr. James Meznek, chancellor, Ventura county community college District Editor: Alisa S. Moore Writers: Jeanne M. Brown, cathy Garnica, Alisa S. Moore, Laura Lyjak, Rosemary Britt, Karen Anderson Tatum, David horowitz, Tim champardé Graphic Designers: Barbara harvey, Janeene Nagaoka Photographers: Kim Ramseyer, Freeform Photography, Daniel Arnold, Alisa S. Moore The Ventura county community college District is a public community college district serving residents in Ventura county. The District’s three colleges – Moorpark, Oxnard, and Ventura – offer programs for transfer to four-year colleges and universities, occupational and vocational training, basic skills instruction, as well as community service, economic development, and continuing education for cultural growth, life enrichment, and skills improvement. Each of the colleges provides a wide range of general programs and services to students, as well as focusing on its own unique and specialty areas. More than 32,000 students are served each semester. Ventura county community college District 255 W. Stanley Ave., Suite 150 Ventura, california 93001 805-652-5500 805-652-7700 fax www.vcccd.edu Visit Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura Colleges on the web at : www.moorparkcollege.edu www.oxnardcollege.edu www.venturacollege.edu Administration: Dr. James M. Meznek Chancellor/Secretary to the Board Dr. Eva conrad President, Moorpark College Dr. Richard Durán President, Oxnard College Dr. Robin calote President, Ventura College VCCCD Board of Trustees Dr. Larry O. Miller, chair Mr. Robert O. huber, Vice chair Mr. Stephen Blum, Esq., Trustee Ms. cheryl heitmann, Trustee Mr. Arturo D. hernández, Trustee Ms. Lorraine hawes, Student Trustee Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura colleges are accredited by the Accrediting commission for community and Junior colleges of the Western Association of Schools and colleges, 10 commercial Boulevard, Suite 204, Novato, cA 94949, (415) 506-0234, an institutional accrediting body . recognized by the council for higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education. Contents Features 2 Advising, Application, Assessment, Aid Start College With All A’s 7 Moorpark College Dedicates its 40th Academic Year to the Environment 8 Ventura College Promise: A free year of college for new high school grads 14 Going the Distance with Distance Education With VCCCD’s Distance Learning Program, the sky’s the limit 16 When You Need a Hand, We’re Here to Help! Support Services assist students with disabilities STUDENT SNAPShOTS 4 Michele covello – Anthropology student, Moorpark STUDENT SNAPShOTS 8 claudia holden – criminal Justice, Ventura VCCCD Programs 3 OC Regional Fire Academy Provides next generation of California firefighters 4 Move Over Indiana Jones There is still plenty to be discovered FAcULTY SPOTLIGhT 4 Andrew Kinkella – Anthropology instructor, Moorpark 5 Design, Create, Innovate: VC Engineering ALUMNI PROFILE 5 Marcos Garcia – Mechanical Engineer, Ventura FAcULTY SPOTLIGhT 5 Michelle Millea – Engineering professor, Ventura 6 OC Digital Film and Video Production ALUMNI PROFILE About the Cover: 6 Emilia Pablo – Broadcast Journalist, Oxnard Moorpark College alumna Michele Covello, Ventura College alumnus Marcos Garcia and Oxnard College alumna Gladys Rodriguez 9 Follow Your Art were photographed at the beautiful and Your creative career can thrive with a little planning historic Camarillo Ranch, site of the Camarillo House built in 1892 and home of In Every Issue the magnificent Camarillo White Horses. The Ranch is maintained by the Camarillo Ranch Foundation, Incorporated, as a BE YOUR PERSONAL BEST nonprofit public benefit corporation. Cover photos by Alisa S. Moore with permission of 10 VCCCD A to Z the Camarillo Ranch Foundation. career Focus 805-652-5500 I Ventura County Community College District I www.vcccd.edu CareerFocus I Fall 2007 I career Focus Feature Advising, Application, Assessment, Aid Start college with all A’s ducation is a complicated endeavor these days whether you are a new or returning student to Moorpark College, Oxnard College or Ventura College. To be successful, you need good Advice on Applying for Admission, undergoing Assessment, and receiving Financial Aid: Four important “A’s” every good student must earn! Dora Washington, Ventura By Tim champardé and Alisa S. Moore Start with Good Advice To start college, ADVICE from an Academic Advisor/Counselor should be everyone’s first A. “I was so foolish right out of high school,” one student explains. “I didn’t know what I wanted to do. So I took a bunch of stuff, but those classes didn’t work for me. I really wish someone would have told me what to do before I started.” Wasted time. Wasted money. Success today requires planning. Ensure success by building a positive relationship with a college counselor. It’s a free service, so take advantage of it! Even if you attended another college, see a counselor before doing anything else. “I have a bachelor’s degree and want to get into the nursing program,” said a student. “A friend told me that I had to go to the Assessment Center, take four tests, and then talk to a counselor. When I met with the counselor, I found out that I didn’t need the tests. My grades from my other college were recent enough for what I needed. Not only did I waste time in line waiting to test, and time taking the tests, but I spent a lot of money for babysitting while I was doing all that!” Where to Start Academic Advisors/Counselors are available to assist in the Counseling Office and in the Extended Opportunities Programs and Services (EOPS) office, the offices for students with disabilities (Educational Assistance Center at VC and OC, or ACCESS at MC), and through CalWORKs. First, a counselor will explain how to APPLY for ADMISSION online or in person at the Office of Admissions and Records. Moorpark College counselor and academic advisor Mike Johnson, shown with international student Francisco Valenzuela of the Philippines, says, “Regular advice from a counselor can speed up your progress toward an associate degree or transfer.” Assessment: Get into the right classes, right from the start! Your advisor/counselor may recommend ASSESSMENT TESTING. Completing assessment testing puts you in the right mathematics and English classes, so you avoid the stress and the wasted time and money of being in a class for which you are over or under qualified. Oxnard College matriculation counselor David Lopez said assessment tests often determine the difference between college success and failure. “Students can just walk in, sit down and take the tests here at the computerized assessment center,” he said. “It’s critical whether they’re thinking about earning an associate degree, a certificate for a vocational program or to transfer to a university. Moorpark also uses online assessment. At Ventura College, students meet with the assessment specialist to take their assessment tests.” Using all available information, a counselor will then help the student build a personalized Education Plan for their first two semesters. “We want our students to know exactly what courses they have to take to achieve the goals they have specified,” Lopez said. Applying for Aid – There’s money out there! And your counselor will direct you to your college’s Financial Aid Office, where the staff can help you apply for Financial Aid: including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), scholarships, and the California Board of Governors Fee Waiver (BOGW). As Dora Washington, the Ventura College Director of Financial Aid, shown here with VC student Lorena Marquez of Santa Paula noted, “Far too many students assume they are not eligible for financial aid. There is a lot of money out there – just waiting for you to apply for it! You never know what help you might be passing by.” Whether you go to school full or part time; take classes for pleasure or toward a specific certificate or degree; will finish at the community college or follow a transfer guide to continue somewhere else—academic advisors/counselors can point out the advantages and disadvantages of all the options. You’ll be able to maximize your learning experience at the Ventura County Community Colleges. It’s your report card! So, take this “report card” filled with all A’s to your nearest counselor and get started at VC, MC or OC. Here’s to your success! CF Ventura College: (805) 654-6400 • Advising/Counseling: www.venturacollege.edu/counseling/ • Application: www.venturacollege.edu/apply • Assessment: www.venturacollege.edu/ matriculation/activities.htm • Aid: www.venturacollege.edu/finaid Mike Johnson, Moorpark David Lopez, Oxnard On the Web with the Ventura County Community Colleges: Moorpark College: (805) 378-1400 • Advising/Counseling: www. moorparkcollege.edu/couns • Application: www.moorparkcollege. edu/apply • Assessment: www.moorparkcollege. edu/assess • Aid: www.moorparkcollege.edu/finaid Oxnard College: (805) 986-5800 • Advising/Counseling: www. oxnardcollege.edu/baseprograms/ counseling/index.asp • Application: www.oxnardcollege.edu/ apply • Assessment: www.oxnardcollege.edu/ studentservices/matriculation/index.asp • Aid: www.oxnardcollege.edu/finaid I Fall 2007 I CareerFocus Ventura County Community College District I www.vcccd.edu I 805-652-5500 OC Firefighter Academy instructors train the firefighters from Cabo San Lucas. Above photos were taken at a training exercise on the busy San Jose Del Cabo Highway. OC REGIONAL FIRE ACADEMY Provides Next Generation Of Firefighters To Protect California Oxnard College Firefighter Academy cadets extinguish a simulated car fire at the Camarillo Airport facility Academy graduates Jim Dornan, Mark Seastrom, James Smith and Joe Herrick – all professional firefighters at various southern California fire departments and agencies – work as academy instructors training new cadets In the nearly ten years that the Oxnard College Regional Fire Academy has been in existence it has produced hundreds of firefighters who form the first line of defense for life and property in California. This past year raging wildfires destroyed acres of Moorpark-area ranchland and the “Day Fire” ravaged watershed in the Los Padres National Forest, a point made clear to the cadets hoisting hoses and ladders at the Camarillo Airport-based fire academy. Following the April graduation of nearly 40 cadets, academy facilitator James Petersen and Fire Technology department chair Gary W. Morgan quickly prepared for the summer academy class of cadets. The 33 cadets train for 12 weeks during a rigorous Monday through Friday program to develop the academic and physical skills needed to successfully compete for a firefighter position and to complete probationary requirements. During a recent training session, the cadets hurriedly pulled on their fire gear – including heavy boots and fire helmet – as instructors Mark Seastrom and Joe Herrick timed the drill. “If this were a real fire (response) you would be looking at loss of property, loss of life,” yelled 1999 academy graduate Seastrom, now working as a firefighter and paramedic with the Ventura County Fire Department. “This is a whole new game, gentlemen. This won’t fly in the real world.” A 1998 graduate of the firefighter academy who now works for the City of Arcadia Fire Department, Herrick explained, “I would hate to be the one responsible for something happening to a civilian – or a fellow firefighter – because of my lack of attention to detail.” Both Herrick and Seastrom are military veterans who wanted to become firefighters and were attracted to the academy because of its reputation for success among its graduating cadets. “Eventually, Seastrom plans to earn his bachelor’s degree. “Because of my training here I feel there are endless opportunities to advance as an engineer or captain in the profession.” Academy graduates are employed in every Fire Department in Ventura County and many departments in California. Graduates are also employed in Texas, Wisconsin, Connecticut, Oregon, and the state of Washington. Out-of- state students have applied to the program from Alaska, Nevada and New Mexico but most applicants are predominately from Ventura County and other Southern California areas. In January, Academy instructor Paul Houdeshell Feature careerF o c u s 805-652-5500 I Ventura County Community College District I www.vcccd.edu CareerFocus I Fall 2007 I trained future firefighters in Cabo San Lucas as part of the academy’s outreach. Retiring after more than 30 years in the fire service he predicted a major turnover of professional firefighters retiring now through the year 2020. James Smith, who attended the Oxnard College Regional Firefighter Academy in the fall of 2000 after attending Moorpark College for a time, said it was his lifelong dream to become a fireman and follow in his father’s footsteps. He now works in the Federal Fire Service at the Navy Base at Ventura County. “This is not just a job; this is a profession,” said Smith, who also works as an instructor at the academy. “When people call us they’re expecting trained professionals.” The OC Regional Fire Academy is a cooperative program that was established between Oxnard College and the California State Fire Marshals office in 1997 to provide an educated recruiting base for fire departments in the state of California. As an accredited California State Fire Marshal program that provides certificates from the California Specialized Training Institute, National Wildfire Coordinating Group, California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection as well as the California State Fire Marshal, the academy goes through an extensive accreditation process every five years, according to Capt. Gary W. Morgan. CF “There’s no question that when many of my contemporaries retire there is going to be an urgent need to replace those fire professionals. Job prospects for the profession are going to be pretty high and at the Oxnard College Regional Fire Academy we have the training and the expertise to get them into the profession.” Oxnard College Fire Academy instructor Paul Houdeshell training in anthropology at Moorpark College can prepare you for any career that involves working on the interface between cultures and can lead to some of the world’s most interesting work; the study of existing life ways, archaeological excavation and interpretation, primate behavior, genetic research and social research into economics, politics, law, religion, art and music. With fulltime faculty John Baker and Andrew Kinkella, and a cohort of adjunct anthropologists, Moorpark College offers transfer preparation as well as an archaeology Associate in Arts degree. Professor Andrew Kinkella has “tons “of digging experience and has been teaching at Moorpark for three years. He has a BA in anthropology from UCSB, a Masters in anthropology from CSUN, and is working on his doctorate at UC Riverside. I have spent 12 summers in Belize, working at various ancient Maya cities. I have also worked in Germany, Baja, Guatemala, Mainland Mexico, and throughout California. The door is open to students who want to dig, says Kinkella. We do field classes all year and specialized projects in the summer. What jobs can graduates get after MC’s program? We already have several graduates working in Cultural Resources Management which involves evaluating potential archeological sites and sometimes mitigating the effects of development projects upon them. What’s the range of salary? You will not get rich doing archaeology. In a room of people, you may have the highest education but make the least money. Luckily, when people hear you are an archaeologist, you become the coolest person in the room! A CRM person will make around $50,000. What is your field’s career outlook for the future? The more we turn land over for building, the more we will need archaeologists to make sure we aren’t digging up ancient burial grounds. Contact professor Kinkella at akinkella@vcccd.edu or professor Baker at johnbaker@vcccd.edu Dig into Anthropology at Moorpark College Dig into Anthropology at Moorpark CollegeAndrew Kinkella at the entry to the Underworld - exploring Maya cave archaeology in Belize. Kinkella often takes Moorpark College archaeology students to Belize with him. Michele Covello “Archaeological field work is hot and dusty, with bugs, bees and snakes. I love every minute of it” Why did you come to MC? My children were finishing high school, so it was time to figure out what I wanted to do now that I was not going to be a full-time mom. What are you studying? I am an archaeology major, planning a transfer to a UC or CSU for a BA. We are currently excavating a Chumash shell midden (trash pile) near Point Mugu. We have found shell beads and broken stone tools. In the lab class we sort it out, identify it, catalog it and analyze it. Describe an interesting field experience. We went to an cemetery that had been inadvertently disturbed. We collected human remains that had been scattered, so that they could be reburied. The cemetery was small and dated to the early 1900’s and we spent the day picking up bone that was on the surface of the ground, and screening piles of dirt for any remains that were under the surface. We even found coffin handles and a set of fake teeth. STUDENT Spotlight An archaeological survey made necessary by an airport construction project in Auburn, Maine, has uncovered parts of ancient tools that are thought to date back 9,000 to 11,000 years. Pointed brown stones —possibly used to clean animal skins — are believed to date to the time following the most recent ice age, between 9,000 B.C. and 7,000 B.C. When the glaciers retreated, they would have left behind a wide-open tundra populated by animals and people hunting them. From Yahoo News - May 14, 2007 In May, 2007, Belgian archaeologists discovered the intact tomb of an Egyptian courtier who lived about 4,000 years ago in Mina, a town near Cairo. The archaeologists found Henu’s mummy wrapped in linen in a large wooden coffin and a sarcophagus decorated with hieroglyphic texts addressed to the gods Anubis and Osiris. The tomb contained well-preserved painted wooden statuettes of workers making bricks, women making beer and pounding cereal, and a model of a boat with rowers. From Reuters - May 20, 2007 ............................................................................ Do you have what it takes to be an Anthropologist? Anthropologists need a wide range of personal characteristics. Intellectual curiosity and creativity are fundamental personality traits. Objectivity, having an open mind, and systematic work habits are important in research. Perseverance is essential for an anthropologist, who might have to spend years studying artifacts from an ancient civilization before making a final analysis and interpretation. Excellent written and oral communication skills also are necessary for this profession. Source www.Bls.Gov What it is Anthropology? Anthropology is broadly described as the study of humanity - our physical characteristics as animals, and our unique non-biological characteristics, our culture. The subject is generally broken down into: physical (biological) anthropology, cultural (social) anthropology, and archaeology. FIELDS oF AnthropoLogy • Physical anthropology includes the study of fossil human beings, genetics, primates, and human adaptability and variation. • Cultural anthropology focuses on the non- biological, behavioral aspects of society; such as the social, linguistic, and technological components underlying human behavior. • Archaeology is the study of the physical evidence of past human societies recovered through excavation of material remains. I .................................................................... ANTH M01 Biological Anthropology ANTH M01L Physical Anthropology Lab ANTH M02 Cultural Anthropology ANTH M03 Archaeology ANTH M04 Chicano Culture ANTH M05 Archaeological Field Methods ANTH M07 Peoples and Cultures of the World ANTH M08 Culture and Communication ANTH M11 The Anthropology of Magic, Witchcraft and Religion ANTH M60I The Chumash and Their Neighbors ANTH M60J Egyptology: Archaeology of the Land of the Pharaohs A degree in engineering can cover a lot of territory – from mechanical and electrical to chemical, structural and environmental, to name a few. Engineering jobs are structured, technical and detail-oriented, and often on the cutting edge of new technologies that demand innovative, visionary thinking, says Diane Ballor a human resources senior associate with Albert Kahn Associates, Inc., which employs mechanical, electrical and structural engineers. Job growth in engineering-related fields is expected to increase 12.5 percent over the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Starting salaries for engineers average $45,000-$55,000 or even more, depending on the degree and specialty. “Iwas a Product Development Engineer at Inovati up in Goleta when you interviewed me in April,” said Marcos Garcia with a smile. “They are the inventors of kinetic metallization. My job was to invent new stuff, using their technology. We were using it to develop coatings for industry based on this new principle. I was having a blast – I’d come in in the morning and design something, then I’d go in the back and build it and test it. But I got a new job in Camarillo, working for Argon ST. My new title is Development Engineer, and I am responsible for Argon St product development for the Navy.” Argon ST was recently awarded a range of government contracts that involve the development of “intelligence surveillance reconnaissance support to enhance warfighting capacity,” according to their website. After graduating from Santa Paula High School (SPHS), Marcos worked on the Patriot Missile System for three years in the Army. His work trained him in electronics and mechanical systems. After the Army, he joined Technicolor in Camarillo as a shop technician and then was promoted to the mastering room producing DVDs and CDs, where information is lazer etched onto a glass substrate for the production process. He learned a great deal about the many aspects of manufacturing processes and about managing other technicians. And at Technicolor, he met his first mentor, Jovan Kovacevic, a refugee from the Bosnian war. Jovan had been a professor in Serbia and then worked at the United Nations as a technician regulating the diamond industry. The former professor encouraged Marcos to pursue (A) Preparing the sample (B) Transporting the steel substrate to the Kinetic Metallization machine (C) Verifying the position of the sample prior to spraying the powder Taken by Inovati Product Development Engineer Daniel Arnold, these photos track Marcos setting up a spray task. The task consists of spraying Tungsten Carbide Cobalt powder onto a thin steel piece of metal. The goal is to develop a coating for a customer who wants to spray this metal powder as a wear resistant liner for large stainless steel tubes. A B C Marcos Garcia – Mechanical Engineer, Ventura College 805-652-5500 I Ventura County Community College District I www.vcccd.edu CareerFocus I Fall 2007 I Alumni Profile careerF o c u s Why Engineering? “Virtually everything you use, an engineer was involved in the design. You can go in any direction with engineering, which is why I think it is such an exciting field.” What is your Professional Background? “I received my bachelor’s and master’s of science degrees in Civil Engineering from the UCLA. I then worked with the Naval Civil Engineering Laboratory, where I was involved in several significant research projects, including designing emergency replacement windows for aircraft carriers, determining the properties of the sea floor three miles below sea level for burying cables and other insertions, and modeling the behavior of soil-structure interaction during earthquakes.” What brought you to VC? “Teaching has its own rewards. The students that I work with here are among the best and the brightest. They are goal oriented and dedicated. They come to Ventura College from a whole range of different academic backgrounds. Here, all students can find a strong support system and camaraderie. From VC, these students can go anywhere. Community college students who transfer to a university are well prepared and tend to get as good or better grade point averages than those who began their education at the institution as a freshman.” What does the program entail? “While at VC, engineering students take a challenging but rewarding road. I teach Intro to Engineering, Engineering Graphics, Engineering Materials, and Engineering Statics. There are other courses taught by adjunct faculty. We have good facilities and equipment. Our materials lab has equipment comparable to what you would find at a university.” What does it take academically to be an Engineer? “Engineering requires a bachelor’s, a master’s, or a doctorate. For the student looking for an associate’s degree in Engineering as an end goal, engineering technology would be a better path. Of course, completing the program at VC but not continuing their education would still give them knowledge and skills that many employers would value.” CF Top Ten Reasons to Choose a Career in Engineering: job satisfaction varied opportunitieschallenging workintellectual development social impact financial security prestige professional environment understanding how things work creative thinking by Dr. Raymond B. Landis, Dean Emeritus, College of Engineering, Computer Science and Technology at CSU Los Angeles, cited in Studying Engineering, A Road Map to a Rewarding Career (3rd ed.) Dr. Landis notes that while it is significant that engineering graduates receive the highest starting salary of any discipline (bachelor’s degree level), engineering also provides many opportunities to better society, including working in the environment and in medicine, finding new sources of energy, and improving the standard of living in underdeveloped countries.” • • • • • • • • • • engineering and to return to school. “So, on January 1, 2001, I gave notice at Technicolor and started at Ventura College. I always liked math, so I took a trig class to get back into academics.” “While I was at Ventura College, I was really active. I was doing management at the Coffee Cart, started the student chess tournaments, participated in EOPSSA and MESA (Math, Science and Engineering Achievement), founded the student chapter for SHPE (Society for Hispanic Professional Engineers) and integrated all the science clubs so they could raise scholarship moneys as a group. But when I was on ASVC (Associated Students for Ventura College) I started to learn about team building and leadership. Those skills have really helped me in my career.” “I had a great time taking the engineering and physics classes at VC! We had fun in those classes: we would build a scale out of food and then eat it! I used carrots, rice cakes, thin red vines and a block of cheese. In almost every class, we used equipment that is vital to and usually donated by industry partners. Even the older equipment was really important to my training. I use the brand new versions of those pieces of equipment in my job today.” After receiving his associate’s degree in liberal studies from Ventura College in 2003, Marcos transferred to the University of California at Santa Barbara (UCSB). The first VC student to do the summer INSET program, he did research in materials science. Marcos earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from UCSB in 2006.. “I never really was encouraged to go to college when I was in high school,” said Marcos. “Meeting Jovan changed my life. Now I mentor young people through the MESA program at SPHS and hope to spark them to achieve their life’s dreams. Education opens the doors – with education and dedication, anything is possible!” CF Design, Create, Innovate: Michelle Millea – Professor, Engineering, Ventura College Marcos with Engineering Professor Michelle Millea, one of his favorites! VC Engineering! Digital Film and Video Production at Oxnard College Oxnard College and UC Berkeley graduate Emilia Pablo at the Univision studio The Television Production program at Oxnard College is training future broadcasters for jobs in front of the camera and behind the scenes and former OC students Emilia Pablo and Azucena Gomez are living proof that job opportunities await those who combine a solid academic background with hands-on experience. Television production in the 21st century is a rapidly evolving profession for those seeking employment in all aspects of digital film and video production. Students who take courses in screenwriting, video production, digital editing, directing, lighting and audio production have the option of earning an Associate of Arts degree, transferring to a four-year program or getting into a career right away. Azucena Gomez works at the Telemundo station affiliate in Los Angeles and recently gave a group of Oxnard College television production students a tour of the facility. “Students who have completed OC’s Television Production program have transferred to USC, UCLA and CSUN among other schools,” said television production specialist Kitty Merrill. She and television/ digital arts instructor Andres Orozco regularly keep in touch with Oxnard College alumni who are now working in the industry for ABC affiliates, Fox Sports West, and Warner Brothers. Orozco, a professor of television and multi-media at Oxnard College since 2001, emphasized that the continuing mission of OCTV is to provide programming, transmission, telecourses, production and most importantly, student instruction. Benefiting from that instruction is Emilia Pablo, who in 1996 first came to Oxnard College and who has excelled in broadcast journalism. She earned her associate of arts degree in English at Oxnard College transferred to UC Berkeley, eventually earning a masters degree in the International Journalism program through the university’s Graduate School of Journalism. Ms. Pablo credits Oxnard College for providing the academic foundation she needed to succeed at the university. “I was accepted to ALL the universities the counselors helped me apply to and I decided to attend UC Berkeley…After receiving my BA and while working in my first job in television, I decided to take more classes and training at OC’s TV department on my days off. My work and projects at OC got me into UC Berkeley’s Graduate School of Journalism.” A few years ago Oxnard College faculty and staff honored Ms. Pablo for her journalistic accomplishments while working for ABC News affiliate KEYT TV 3 and the Ventura Star’s La Estrella publication. She is now working for the Univision affiliate TV station in Las Vegas and interviews Oscar de la Hoya and other celebrities for a growing Spanish- speaking audience. “Emilia is one of many examples of the incredible potential that exists in all of our students if we fulfill our mission and encourage our students to take advantage of every educational opportunity that comes their way,” said Dr. Lynn Fauth, the Oxnard College English professor who first encouraged Ms. Pablo to attend UC Berkeley. “My professors had high expectations, pushed my limits and motivated me; they helped me open my eyes to the world of opportunities,” said Ms. Pablo. “Now I am constantly being recruited by other TV stations (in the English and Spanish-speaking market).” Her career options aren’t limited to the media, however. She’s also received job offers from law Emilia Pablo with David Montesino, another successful journalism grad from OC enforcement agencies – at the state and federal level – as well as opportunities to teach at universities. “But I plan on continuing to work in the field of TV broadcast news,” she said. “I just love it.” Over the years there have been many changes to the OCTV (Oxnard College Television) production facility at Oxnard College and four years ago the studio had a major facelift made possible by the Kellogg Foundation ENLACE grant and OCTV fundraising. Emilia Pablo interviews Oscar de la Hoya, champion boxer According to television production specialist Kitty Merrill, OCTV first went on line in 1986 with a hard wire connection to Jones Intercable that enabled it to be broadcast locally on cable. In 2003 OCTV began programming 24 hours per day with locally originated programming and telecourses in conjunction with CNN, and a satellite feed from the California Community College Satellite Network. Oxnard College Television now airs student-produced shows and educational programming on Channel 15 in Oxnard and Port Hueneme on Time Warner Cable. OCTV is still the only community college television channel in Ventura County, giving students enrolled in TV classes at Oxnard College a unique educational experience. The most recently student-produced programming is OC FYI, which premiered in April on OCTV featuring Oxnard College counselors Everardo Rivera, Gloria Espinosa Lopez and students Jeannette Viveros and Associated Student Government president Sergio Lagunas. The show, which is produced by Oxnard College’s Digital Video Workshop class, TV R102 and 104, features various aspects of the college experience as well as interviews with successful OCTV alums. The combination of faculty and student anchors makes this show unique, says Executive Producer Kitty Merrill. “The students in the class wanted a show that could relate to student concerns, and show viewers the kind of caring attitude that makes OC a special place,” she said. CF I Fall 2007 I CareerFocus Ventura County Community College District I www.vcccd.edu I 805-652-5500 Moorpark College Dedicates its 40th Academic Year to the Environment Moorpark College holds, as part of its mission, facilitating critical thinking both inside and outside of the classroom, as well as preparing students to be responsible members of the global community. One of the greatest challenges before us as students and citizens is safeguarding the environment and addressing the effects that our actions have on the biosphere. The academic year 07/08 is dedicated to inquiry, dialogue, and action toward the goal of protecting and sustaining our environment. We hereby designate this “The Year of the Environment: From Awareness to Action.” Among the activities planned are: guest and faculty lectures; an art show featuring 30 years of environmental cartoons, an environmental technology trade show; a vegetarian theme for National Nutrition month in March and competing in the nationwide Recyclmania Lori Clark is an environment science faculty member. She has a bachelor’s degree in Conservation Biology and a master’s degree in Marine Environmental Science. At Moorpark, Clark is developing an environmental technician certificate program. Technician’s salaries start at about $35,000. An environmental health and safety engineer median salary is $56,000. “I have always been fascinated with the impact of a dense population on the natural environment, especially the impacts of waste and pollution on natural systems,” she says. email lclark@vcccd.edu Philosophy professor Jerry Caplan says“ Our relationship to the planet, the ecosystems, the biosphere have at their root a philosophical question: Are we simply a member of the biosphere along with other members, like plants, animals, etc., or are we the most important part for whose sake the rest exists? The answer to this question drives much of how we treat the environment.” “I accept the verdict of mainstream science that we face a global warming crisis if we don’t alter many of our harmful habits and attitudes regarding pollution, energy consumption, and waste. We have a moral duty to do everything in our power to restore health to the planet.” email:jcaplan@vcccd.edu Lori Clark and Jerry Caplan are co-chairing The Year of the Environment: From Awareness to Action at Moorpark College. contest from February through April. The year of the environment will officially end on Earth Day, April 22, 2008. Most events will be free and open to the public. Complete details will be available in August at www. moorparkcollege.edu/yearof Goals of the the Year of the Environment • To develop an appreciation for the natural world. • To foster environmental stewardship by raising campus awareness about the relationship between human activity and the environment. • To become aware of the risks associated with unsustainable lifestyle choices regarding the environment. • To encourage informed dialogue and participation in the political processes that impact environmental policy development. • To provide opportunities to plan and carry out campus green projects. • To disseminate information learned during the Year of the Environment to the campus and community it serves. Biology faculty member Katherine Courtney has a bachelors in botany and two masters degrees one in ecology and molecular biology.During college she worked for the Department of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service. Courtney’s plans for the Year of the Environment include bringing in biologists from the Santa Monica Mountains National Park for seminars on local wildlife and developing more students internships with the park service. “It is important that people understand that they are a part of nature and not separate from it. More importantly we are absolutely dependent on the ecosystems for our air, food and water,” she says. email kcourtney@vcccd.edu English professor Beth Gillis-Smith cooridnates the One Campus One Book project which features Living Downstream, by Sandra Steingraber this year. As a cancer survivor and a concerned scientist, Steingraber makes the connection between the high cancer rate and the terrifying concentrations of environmental toxins in her native rural Illinois. Gillis-Smith says the book is a very compelling personal story. email egillissmith@vcccd.edu Theatre professor Katherine Lewis will produce a 50 minute multi-media performance piece in October entitled “O Mother Earth, O Father Sky”, for the year of the environemnt. “We will use the poetry and prose of Native Americans, as well as visual images, to celebrate the beauty of the natural world and to convey the concept that we are part of this world. Many of my students and I are distressed at the the destruction and pollution of Nature, currently associated with modern society.” email: klewis@vcccd.edu Biology faculty member Jana Johnson heads the Butterfly Project at America’s Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College. The zoo houses the secondary captive rearing site for the endangered Palos Verdes blue butterfly. The primary site is in San Pedro on federal land. The butterfly can be seen along with the zoo’s 150 other animals Saturdays & Sundays 11am- 5pm. “These butterflies were thought to have been extinct for 11 years. “We plan to release around 3000 in 2008. It is goung to be huge... The students working at the Butterfly Project will be the conservation biologists of tomorrow,” Johnson says. email jjohnson@vcccd.edu Gary Wilson is a faculty member at America’s Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College which includes the Exotic Animal Training and Management Program . The EATM program prepares students to care for endangered animal species and to educate about wildlife and conservation.Wilson has a masters in Biological Sciences, a bachelors in Environmental and Evolutionary Biology, and has trained dolphins, sea lions, and belugas for the US Navy; and handled lions and tigers for public appearances. During the Year of the Environment Wilson will coordinate exotic animal presentations on and off campus. “I have loved the time I have spent interacting with animals and nature. We need to take care of the planet to insure the survival of all of nature including ourselves,“ he says. email gwilson@vcccd.edu “Ever since high school, I knew I wanted to be a police officer. I love my job! I am not good at being stuck behind a desk, and I am pretty athletic, so being a police officer is perfect for me,” said Claudia Holden, a Ventura College student who is now a Deputy Sheriff for Ventura County. Claudia completed the Sheriff’s Academy through Ventura College in January 2003, after taking classes at Ventura College in Criminal Justice. She took some time off to work as a security officer and then in customer service. She will finish her Associate’s Degree this fall. “I only have two more classes to go: English and History,” she noted, “and with the AA comes a raise!” “I work in the jail at the Government Center right now, ensuring the safety of the inmates, transferring them to court or to medical care, but very soon I will be out on patrol. I can’t wait! One of the great things about being a police officer is the confidence you gain from such thorough training. Through the Academy, I received hands-on training from people out in the field. We have quite a few women graduates in the program, and we are well qualified to hold our own.” Students interested in Criminal Justice at Ventura College can proceed in a variety of professional directions. The Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice prepares them to go into professions such as Probation, Correction, Parole, Animal Control, Code Enforcement, work as Police or Reserve officers, work as an entry-level paralegal or even start their preparation for law school. Most of these professions will require further training. A student does not need to take any Criminal Justice classes to attend the Ventura County Criminal Justice Training Center, but if they complete the Academy they will earn 18 additional college credits towards the Associate’s degree. “There are so many options associated with this training: I can work at the Hall of Justice, be a court bailiff, be out on patrol – it is up to me. The job opportunities provide good salaries, flexible work hours and great benefits. I love the fact that every day is different and exciting. I am always learning something new!” CF Ventura College Promise: Claudia Holden Criminal Justice/Sheriff’s Academy Deputy Sheriff Claudia Holden is completing her Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice at Ventura College while working at the Ventura County Jail. A Free Year of College for New High School Grads Christina Bogarin and 2006-2007 Ventura County high • Complete a Financial Aid Victor Bautista don’t school graduates, regardless of Application (FAFSA) know each other, but they family income, will have their have a lot in common. enrollment fees covered during • Apply for the Ventura Both are Ventura College their first year of attendance College Promise and be students and each had their at Ventura College. This same enrolled in Ventura College first year of college fees paid promise is extended to students within twelve months in full by the Ventura College who have successfully completed of high school (or GED) Foundation. Christina and their GED requirements or who completion Victor are among the first have completed the coursework Christina, from Camarillo, has recipients of the Ventura College for high school but have not yet set her sights on being a nurse – Promise. passed their exit exam. a challenging undertaking that Designed to remove the Expenses covered by the requires years of preparatory economic barriers to education Ventura College Promise include classes and then completion for graduating high school the per-unit cost of classes for of the demanding nursing seniors, the “promise” is that all summer/fall/spring or fall/ program. She said, in a letter achieving my goal of becoming Victor Bautista, a recipient of the Ventura College Promise scholarship, plans to be the first in his family to graduate from college. spring/summer semesters, written to the Ventura College the Health fee, the Student Foundation Board, “Thank Center fee, and the cost of you for the opportunity you an Associated Student Body have given me to better my card. There is no minimum future. With the help of your or maximum number of units scholarship, the possibility of that must be taken, and no minimum grade point average or assessment score that must be met. To qualify, the applicant must: • Identify an educational goal • Take the college’s assessment examination • Work with a Ventura College counselor to develop an education plan a nurse is even closer within my grasp…This will…motivate me only to try harder to succeed in continuing my education.” Victor, from Ventura, will be the first in his family to graduate from college, an achievement he is very proud of. His major is computer technology, and he told Ventura College President Robin Calote and Ventura College Foundation Chairman Tom Anthony, “Your help will make my dream come true.” CF Christina Bogarin was one of the first Ventura College Promise winners. She wants to be a nurse. For more information on the Ventura College Promise, visit www. VenturaCollege.edu and click on Ventura Promise or call the Ventura College Foundation at 805-654-6461. I Fall 2007 I CareerFocus Ventura County Community College District I www.vcccd.edu I 805-652-5500 ByLauraLyjakandAlisaS.Moore Follow Your A.rt Your creative career can thrive with a little planning Feature careerF o c u s Hannah FitzGerald of Ojai, above, was a triple winner at the Ventura College Art and Photography Spring 2007 show. Below, Moorpark student and architect Mary Anne Cradeur, with one of her sculptures. Sure, it requires talent to make a career out of art. But even more than that it requires courage. Courage to follow your convictions, ignore your doubts and smile politely when the well-meaning person asks, “Shouldn’t you choose a more practical career?” Your job as a visual artist is to create something from the spark of your imagination that ignites again in the mind of viewers. Never an easy task, but certainly more difficult if you’re worrying about paying the rent or putting food on the table. Many artists require another source of income – at least in the beginning. It might be an unrelated job simply to pay the bills. Or it might be an art-related job such as teaching or managing a gallery. In addition to finding generally that a second job comes more easily with education, having a fine arts education can help immensely with both the first job and the second! At the three Ventura County Community Colleges, fine arts are alive and well! The business side of art Paying the bills often requires artists to engage that pragmatic left side of the brain. Geoffrey Gorman, founder of GG+A, an artist career development firm, offers suggestions for artists to succeed in the business side of their profession. Gorman’s tips include: • Set goals – for the next year, the next five years and for your career. • Keep up with the day-to-day tasks that move you toward your goals, such as updating your resume, photographing your work, and keeping accurate records of your inventory. • Know where the market for your work is. Read journals and newsletters related to your medium and find out which galleries are interested in the kind of art you produce. • Create a mailing list of buyers, galleries, dealers and art professional who might have interest in your work. • Network with your peers and find role models and mentors. Pursue your passion The three women, although still in school, are working artists. Hannah FitzGerald, still at Ventura College, is selling her commercial photography work, exhibiting her interactive pieces, and assisting with wedding photography. Mary Anne Cradeur has her bachelor’s degree in architecture, and is taking classes at Moorpark College. She combines her loves of architecture, structure and painting to create three dimensional works and sculpture. Gladys Rodriguez transferred from Oxnard College to CSU Los Angeles and is showing her paintings in a gallery in Santa Monica and preparing for a local show as well. All three live their passion for their art. CF Oxnard College graduate Gladys Rodriguez discovered her talent for art and painting while she was earning her Associate Degree in Liberal Arts & Sciences in 2006. See these Web sites for more information about careers in art Right on the Money Web site www.rightonthemoney.org/shows/415 artist/index.html New York Foundation for the Arts www.nyfa.org National Association of Independent Artists www.naia artists.org/ ArtJobOnlinne www.artjob.org ArtCareer.net www.artcareer.net/ About.com/drawing and sketching http://drawsketch.about.com/cs/resources/bb/bybartcareers.htm According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, median annual earnings of salaried (however, many artists are self-employed) fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators, were $52,250 in 2006. Art directors, whose job description reads: “formulate design concepts and presentation approaches, and direct workers engaged in art work, layout design, and copy writing for visual communications media, such as magazines, books, newspapers, and packaging” earned a national average of more than $70,000. The middle 50 percent of artists earned between $23,970 and $48,040. Pay Day 805-652-5500 I Ventura County Community College District I www.vcccd.edu CareerFocus I Fall 2007 I Be Your Personal Best If earning a college degree is one of your life goals, why not get started? By Rosemary Britt and Alisa S. Moore Some adults who enroll at the community college have a great job with a future, a nice family and…an unmet goal of earning a college degree. At some point, they have come to realize that if they are ever to hold that degree, it’s time to get started. Some go back for personal reasons like needing to finish something that felt undone. They find that education equips them to open doors and be confident. With the Ventura County Community Colleges, class scheduling is convenient, counseling and financial aid are available, and all three colleges have child care centers for students with children. Is earning a college degree a goal for you? The Ventura County Community College District has campuses in Ventura, Oxnard, Moorpark and a center in Santa Paula. Classes are offered during the day, the evening and on weekends. If getting to on- campus classes is a problem for you, look at the wide range of courses available through the Distance Education programs at each college (see pages 14-15). Are you not really sure what you would study if you went to college? Why not call one of the colleges and make an appointment with a counselor? They specialize in helping people choose their direction and stay on course. With almost 90 academic programs available through the VCCCD, there is bound to be a program that suits you. If you’ve been out of school for years and feel like you are a little rusty in math or English, VCCCD offers developmental classes and computer skill labs to help you polish your skills. If you get started and discover you need some help, VCCCD offers tutoring to help you get up to speed. If a lack of money is holding you back, call the Financial Aid Office at any VCCCD campus to explore your options. There’s a good chance one of their financial aid officers can put together an aid package to make college part of your life. If you need to go to college to meet your life goals, don’t allow yourself to accept any excuses! Oxnard, Moorpark and Ventura Colleges can help you meet your goal of becoming a college graduate. CF College Initials/Name: Vc:VenturacollegeOc:OxnardcollegeMc:Moorparkcollege Ventura County Community College District A-Z Curriculum College Program Description Sample Earnings National median earnings. CA may be higher. Accounting MC, VC, OC Perform various accounting tasks in small businesses, large corporations, banks, hospitals, Tax Preparer $53,870 schools systems and government agencies. Addictive Disorders OC Provide support in alcohol/drug counseling, individual and group counseling, crisis Program Administrator intervention and referral and case management $83,500 Agricultural Plant VC Inspectors inspect agricultural commodities. processing equipment & facilities, fish & logging Agricultural Inspector $41,600 Science operations, to ensure compliance with the laws Administrative Assistant VC Providesupportbyperformingclericalfunctions,receivingvisitors,arrangingcallsandmeetings,etc. AdministrativeAssistant$30,000Agriculture VC AgTech:WorkwithAgscientistsinfood,fiber&animalresearch,production,andprocessing,assistwithanimalbreeding,helpwithtestingtoimprovecropyield&qualityAgricultural&FoodScienceTechAgEngineer:Applyknowledgeofengineeringtechnologyandbiologicalsciencestoagproblemsconcernedwithpower&machining,structures,soil&waterconservation& processingAgriculturalEngineer$66,500$31,200 American Ethnic Studies VC Transfer preparation Anatomy VC Teach for medical, biological and veterinary studies See Education Anatomy/Physiology VC See Physiology Anthropology MC, VC, OC Anthropologists study contemporary cultures. Anthropologist $60,890 Archaeology MC Archaeologists study ancient cultures Archeologist $66,500 0 I Fall 2007 I CareerFocus Ventura County Community College District I www.vcccd.edu I 805-652-5500 Curriculum College Program Description Sample Earnings National median earnings. CA may be higher. Architecture Art/Fine Art/Ceramics Asian American Studies Assistive Computer Technology/ Developmental Studies/EAC/ Learning Skills Astronomy/Astrophysics Bilingual/Cross Cultural Studies/ English as a Second Language Biological Sciences/Biology Biotechnology Bookkeeping Business: General Information Systems Management Chemistry Commercial Art VC MC, VC, OC VC VC MC, VC MC, VC, OC MC, VC, OC MC, VC VC MC, VC, OC MC, VC VC Architectural Drafters prepare detailed drawings of structural features of buildings or drawings of relief maps Architects (civil) plan & design structures such as residences, office buildings, theatres & factories Art careers include teaching, art criticism, or historic preservation or the creation of paintings, sculptures and more. Transfer Preparation Training for students with disabilities for work in computer fields careers include Astronomer, Technician, Engineer and relevant management positions. college preparation, Transfer preparation Biological scientists study living organisms and their relationship to their environment organisms. Operate and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment, monitor experiments, calculate and record results. Keep financial records by calculating, posting and verifying numerical data Perform various entry-level tasks in businesses such as banking, manufacturing, law, entertainment, defense, computer/electronics Formulate design concepts and presentation approaches, direct workers engaged in art work, layout design, copy writing, for visual communications media Drafters $41,600 Architects $66,500 Fine Artist $41,600 Atmospheric Scientist $97,200 Biological Scientist $69,908 Biotech $45,000 Bookkeeper $34,000 Payroll clerk $36,200 General Manager $107,850 Pharmaceutical chemist $57,050 Art Director $59,000 Automotive VC, OC Performautomotiverepair,servicesandpartsmanagement,cleanaircertification(emissioncontrols)anddiagnosticworkAutotechnician$45,000Automotive Body Repair and Paint OC Performentry-levelworkinbody,fender,andcollisionrepair,collisionrepair,andautomotivegraphicsAutorepairtech$40,000 Workwithequipmenttocontrolchemicalchangesorreactionsintheprocessingofindustrialproductsandmore. Chicano Studies VC TransferPreparationChild Development MC, VC, OC Theoreticaltrainingandhands-onexperienceinprovidingpreschool,infant/toddlerorschoolagechildcarechildcareWorker$20,910CNC Machine Operator VC OperatecomputercontrolledmachinesorcomputercontrolledrpiecesanddesignsonmetalorplasticMachineToolOperators$37,400 Communications MC courseworkincludesspeech,writing,graphics,photography,radioandtelevision.PublicRelationsSpecialist$43,800Computer Information Systems Administrative Ass’t, Executive Ass’t, Office Personnel MC, VC, OC hands-ontraininginarangeofofficesupportsystemsDatabaseAdministrator$70,350Computer Network Systems Engineering MC hands-ontrainingonnetworkinghardwareandsoftware.computerSupportSpec.$48,890Computer Science Programming MC, VC cSisconcernedwiththedesign,modeling,analysis,andapplicationsofcomputersystems.computerProgrammer$72,800 Construction Technology: Building Inspection or Construction Management Criminal Justice Academic or Academy Dance VC MC, VC MC, VC Plan and direct the construction of commercial buildings Serve as a police officer, probation/parole surveillance, correctional officer and loss prevention specialist. People who study dance may decide on a professional career on stage, television or films. Others become teachers. construction Inspector $52,800 construction Manager $93,250 Police Officer $62,780 Dancer/choreographer $35,670 Drafting Technology/CAD Electronic Drafting & Manufacturing or Industrial Design & Manufacturing Economics MC, VC MC, VC, OC Design a variety of products that require drafting, engineering, and computer animation renderings Economists study how society distributes resources, researches energy costs, inflation, interest rates, business cycles, taxes, and more. Mechanical Drafter $43,000 Economist $87,570 Education MC, VC Education courses provide an introduction to teaching as a career. K-12 Teacher $44,000 Emergency Medical Technology MC, VC Theoretical training and hands-on experience to prepare for the EMT exam EMT/Paramedic $27,460 805-652-5500 I Ventura County Community College District I www.vcccd.edu CareerFocus I Fall 2007 I Curriculum College Program Description Sample Earnings National median earnings. CA may be higher. Engineering MC, VC Theoreticaltrainingandhands-onexperienceforworkasacivil,electricalormechanicalengineeringtechnicianEngineeringTech$43,430 English MC, VC, OC The study of English offers a basic understanding of reading and writing skills and an appreciation of literature. Adult Literary Specialist $39,520 English as a Second Language MC, VC, OC Employment Preparation, college and Transfer Preparation Environmental Science MC, VC, OC Theoretical training and hands-on experience in this multidisciplinary field that covers the Environmental Technician $35,600 Environmental Studies physical, biological, economic, and legal aspects of the environment. Environmental Technology Executive Assistant VC Executive Assistants provide high level support, research and prepare reports at the direction Executive Assistant $50,000 of a cEO or other administrator Exotic Animal Training and Management MC Theoretical training and hands-on experience for work with animals in zoos, animal parks, clinics, wildlife facilities, and the entertainment field Animal Trainer $22,880 Fashion Design & Merchandizing VC Design clothing and accessories. create original garments or design garments that follow well established fashion trends. May develop the line of color and kinds of materials. Fashion Designer $70,000 Fire Technology (Pre-Service) OC Students are prepared for training as firefighters, carrying out emergency duties – fire suppression, rescue, first aid, hazardous materials clean-up Biohazard Specialist $57,000 Fire Technology (Administrative Fire Services) OC Training for administrative assistants to fire chiefs and as staff assistants to fire protection engineers. Program meets requires of the calif. Fire chiefs Association Administrative Fire Services Division and university preparation Administrative Assistant to Fire chief $48,000 Geographical Information MC, VC computer mapping that records, stores, analyzes and displays geographical information. cartographer $46,000 Systems Basic Competency Agricultural Applications Geography MC, VC Geography is the study of land, sea, and air, and the distribution of plant and animal life. Urban/Regional Planner $52,500 Geology MC, VC Geology is the study of the earth and its physical, chemical and biological forces. Geologist $83,200 German VC See Modern Languages Graphics MC Theoretical training and hands-on experience in advertising; printing, and desktop publishing Graphic Designer $45,850 Guidance Workshops VC college and Transfer Preparation Health Education VC Work with programs designed to encourage healthy lifestyles, policies and environments for health Educator $40,300 individuals and communities. Health Information Technology VC, OC Process and maintain medical records of hospital and clinic patients in a manner consistent with medical, administrative, ethical, legal, and regulatory requirements of the heath care Information Tech $39,500 system Health Science/Health Sciences Administration VC Plan, direct, or coordinate medicine and health services in hospitals, clinics, managed care organizations, public health agencies, or similar organizations. Medical & health Service Managers $87,300 History MC, VC, OC historiansstudythepastandworkinresearch,teaching,publishing,andthemedia.historian$56,000Home Economics Hotel and Restaurant Management VC Farm and home Management: Advise, instruct, and assist individuals and families engaged in Manager $54,000 agriculture, agricultural-related processes, or home economics activities. Teacher See Education home Economics Teacher: Teach courses in child care, family relations, finance, nutrition, and related subjects as pertaining to home management. OC Theoretical training and hands-on experience for culinary positions in hospitality industry Restaurant Manager $70,000 Human Services VC Assistants: Assist professionals to provide client services and support for families Assistants $37,000 Social Workers: Provide social services and assistance to improve the social and Social Workers $58,200 psychological functioning of children and their families and to maximize the family well-being and the academic functioning of children. Humanities VC Transfer Preparation Interdisciplinary Studies VC Transfer Preparation Interior Design MC, VC Interior designers select colors, furniture, fixtures, appliances and floor and window treatments for living areas. Designer $44,750 International Studies VC Multidisciplinary study of economics, business, political science in a global environment See business, education, political preparation for business, education and politics science Italian VC See Modern Languages Japanese VC See Modern Languages Journalism: Print + Broadcast MC, VC Investigate and write for newspaper and magazines, television, radio and web-based news, Reporter $37,000 and public relations. Library Instruction VC Manufacturing Technology VC Mathematics MC, VC, OC A Mathematics degree leads to careers in research, education, business, industry, and Mathematician $64,270 government. Leadership VC collegeandTransferPreparationLegal Assisting OC Atrainedparalegalassistsanattorneyinpreparationofcasesfortrialorarbitration;completeslegalresearchParalegal-Litigation$75,000collegeandTransferPreparationSeecNcMachining Marine Studies OC Theoretical training and hands-on experience in entry-level marine studies Marine Research Project Director $70,000 I Fall 2007 I CareerFocus Ventura County Community College District I www.vcccd.edu I 805-652-5500 Curriculum College Program Description Sample Earnings National median earnings. CA may be higher. Mechanical Inspection VC Inspectnonagriculturalrawmaterialsorprocessedpartsorproductsfordefects,wear,anddeviationsfromspecificationsInspector$29,100 Medical Assistant VC Perform administrative and clerical duties under the direction of physician Medical Assistant $28,800 Medical Transcription VC Transcribe recordings by physicians and other healthcare professionals to produce a variety of medical reports Medical Transcriber $38,650 Microbiology VC Investigate the growth, structure, development, and other characteristics of microscopic organisms, such as bacteria, algae, or fungi. Microbiologist $66,500 Microcomputers: Business Applications Modern Languages French, German, Hebrew Italian, Japanese, Spanish Multimedia Music Natural Resources Nursing/Nursing Science Nutritional Science Physical Education Physical Science Physics Physiology Political Science Psychology Radio/Television Radiologic Technology VC MC, VC, OC MC, VC, OC MC, VC VC MC, VC MC MC, VC VC MC, VC VC MC, VC, OC MC, VC, OC MC MC See Business and See computer Sciences Prepare students to work in teaching, translating, diplomacy, library services and publishing. Theoretical training and hands-on experience in art, graphics, programming, performing arts, journalism, music, radio, the web and TV The Music Department offers classes for the aspiring professional and anyone eager to appreciate music. Technicians: compile data under direction of foresters; train and lead forest workers in forest propagation, fire prevention and suppression. Scientists: Manage, improve, and protect natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the environment. care for the medical and emotional needs of patients in a variety of health care settings. Theoretical training and hands-on experience in nutition as an essential aspect of health and fitness. careers include physical therapy, coaching, teaching, athletic training, and sports medicine. Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, statistics, and research and development in these fields. The Physics major provides the basis for applied physics, astronomy, biophysics, environmental science and more. Soil and Plant Scientist: conduct research in crops and agricultural plants and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, and mineralogical composition of soils Veterinarian: with additional study, Diagnose and treat diseases and dysfunctions of animals. The study of how people are governed. Possible careers include political campaign advisor, lobbyist, and community development. The advanced degree psychology graduate works in research, teaching, counseling, and in clinical settings. Theoretical training and hands-on experience in commercial or public radio or television Take x rays and administer non radioactive materials into patients’ bloodstreams for diagnostic purposes Translator $71,000 Multi-media Artist and Animator $50,360 Musician $45,240 conservation Technicians $30,000 conservation Scientists $64,800 Registered Nurse $63,330 Dietician/ Nutritionist $53,370 Umpire $26,310 Phy. Therapist $53,872 Technician $44,600 Manager $109,500 Physicist $91,490 Plant & Soil Scientist $60,300 Therapist $62,400 Veterinarian $83,200 Teacher-Postsecondary $73,140 clinical Psychologist $68,450 Film/Video Editor $46,590 Radiologic Technologist $52,430 Paramedic VC SeeEMTPhilosophy MC, VC Developskillsinanalyticalandcriticalthinkingandwritingthatareexcellentpreparationforprofessionalcareers. PostsecondaryTeacher$63,950Photography MC, VC Theoreticaltrainingandhands-onexperienceinpreparatinforworkasacommercialphotographercommercialPhotographer$39,700 Real Estate VC Sales:Rent,buy,orsellpropertyforclients. Broker:Operaterealestateoffice,orworkforcommercialrealestatefirm,overseeingrealestatetransactions. Sales$47,000Brokers$85,200Recreation VC conductrecreationactivitieswithgroupsinpublic,private,orvolunteeragenciesorrecreationfacilities. RecreationWorkers$27,000Sign Language MC, VC Signlanguagefacilitatescommunicationbetweenhearinganddeaforhard-of-hearingpersons. Interpreter$38,960Sociology MC, VC, OC Sociologyisthestudyofsocietyandhumansocialinteraction.Sociologist$60,580 Spanish VC, OC See Modern Languages Speech MC, VC Oral communication competence is the most highly prized and sought after skill in the Lawyer $104,330 professional world. Study Skills VC college and Transfer Preparation Supervision VC Oversee other workers – varies by business and responsibilities Supervisor from $40,000 up Television MC, OC Theoreticaltrainingandhands-onexperienceleadingtopositionsincommercialtelevision, filmmaking,andnewscastingFilm/VideoEditor$49,600Theatre Arts MC, VC Theoreticaltrainingandhands-onexperienceinacting,directing,writing,set,light,sound, andcostumedesign. Director$87,000Water Science VC WorkwithenvironmentalaspectsofwaterandwastetreatmentPlantOperator$49,900PlantManager$62,400Welding VC JoinmetalcomponentsorrepairfabricatedmetalproductsWelder$41,600 805-652-5500 I Ventura County Community College District I www.vcccd.edu CareerFocus I Fall 2007 I Going the Distance By Karen Anderson Tatum and Alisa Sparkia Moore Whether you are a touring rock star, a stay-at-home mother, employed full- time, or you live too far to commute, you can still attend college. It does not matter who you are or what your situation may be. It is not important where you are, what day of the week, or what time it is, you can choose to attend any of the Ventura County Community Colleges… NOW! The Distance Education programs at Ventura College, Moorpark College and Oxnard College offer a new perspective on convenient education. The convenience and flexibility of these programs allows students to accomplish much more than in a traditional class setting. Distance learning students find that they not only successfully learn course material but they also learn how to manage their time wisely and to become more self-reliant. Distance courses at the Ventura County Community Colleges are designed for students who prefer to learn at their location according to their schedule. They receive the same breadth and depth of material and earn the same college credit as students in the classroom. Students may complete or earn college credits toward associate degrees, diplomas and certificates by taking distance learning courses. “I am impressed with the greater capability of our on-line programs to add interactive features to our online classes,” said Oxnard College Interim Executive Vice President of Oxnard College Interim Vice President of Student Learning Dr. Lyn MacConnaire and OC Academic Senate president Dr. Scott Corbett Student Learning Dr. Lyn MacConnaire. “More and more our faculty are finding ways to create small group question and answer sessions, discussions and even cooperative student projects.” She credited OC history instructor Dr. Scott Corbett with taking the lead in increasing the online course offerings that fulfill the needs of students seeking a college education through the internet. According to Ventura College Assistant Dean for Distance Education Heather Untalan, the majority of VCCCD distance education classes are offered through the Internet, but some classes use videotapes on television or audiotapes. “The VCCCD is constantly increasing the number of classes and degrees that can be obtained through distance education,” she said. “This fall, the colleges will be offering more than 135 classes in more than 40 different subjects that will be delivered through distance education. Students will connect with the VCCCD and the World Wide Web using their home computers.” Students who take distance education courses at any of the three colleges can earn general education credits for University of California and California State University transfer and apply those courses towards all the appropriate degrees and certificates offered by the colleges. Mission Possible VCCCD Distance Education programs enhance and support the mission of the colleges by delivering a comprehensive selection of college courses via the Internet and other electronic communications systems. They maximize educational and training options for all students, enabling them to achieve their academic goals and meet the challenges and opportunities posed by new careers, new technologies and life transitions. Maintaining Close Connections Even though it is called Distance Education, most students do not think of themselves as distant. In fact, many students experience a strong sense of community and presence in online interaction. Assistant Dean Heather Untalan, Ventura College 1. Student-centered learning: It’s all about you! Students are empowered to learn on their own and even to teach one another, working together toward learning goals more effectively. 2. Improved writing skills: Online courses usually require more writing than traditional courses. In an online course, all of your communication is done electronically. From general discussions, requests for clarification or assistance, answers to directed questions, group projects, to assignments, quizzes and tests, you will be writing instead of speaking. Top 10 Reasons to Get Caught in this Web of Learning 3. Geared to lifelong learning: The online environment fosters self-motivated education. Students direct their own use of Internet links, search engines, discussion boards, chat, e-mail, and other media. 4. Enriched course materials: World-class resources may be accessed, viewed and studied 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 5. On-demand interaction and support services: Help is only a mouse click away in an online course. 6. Immediate feedback: Online students generally have great access to instructors. 7. Flexibility & convenience: Online learning includes ample opportunities for students to pursue coursework at any time that fits into their busy lives. Learning can occur anytime, anywhere. 8. An intimate community of learners: Online students generally get to know their instructors and “coursemates” because of all of the varied and shared communications. 9. Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura Colleges, including the online courses and programs, are accredited. 10. Affordability & financial aid: You benefit by paying some of the most affordable prices for the best quality education. You may even qualify for financial aid; almost half of all students do! CF I Fall 2007 I CareerFocus Ventura County Community College District I www.vcccd.edu I 805-652-5500 with Distance Education With VCCCD’s Distance Learning Program, the Sky’s the Limit Dean Tim McGrath, Moorpark College The distance learning instructor is ever- present through technology, acting as a facilitator of your learning by providing direction to your studies while helping you to apply the learned information. Moorpark College’s Dean of Student Learning Tim McGrath, who heads the college’s Distance Learning curriculum noted, “Online learning may not be for everyone. While it is an excellent choice for some, others will always struggle with learning independently. But, if, after comparing your personality and habits to those of successful distance education students as described in this article, you’ve discovered that you have a lot in common, online classes may be the perfect option for you.” In addition, the most important point is that online education can be done well. It has many tangible benefits for students who want to achieve their educational and professional goals on their terms and on their unique schedules. In particular, distance education can provide adults with a second chance at a college education, reach those disadvantaged by limited time, distance or physical disability, and update the knowledge base of workers at their places of employment.” E-quipped for Learning Distance learning is different than taking a traditional face-to-face course on campus. You need to be computer literate and a bit Web-savvy. You need access to a computer, a good Internet connection, and a private time and place to work. You need to be a self-starter and able to set and stick to a schedule. Students also are required to have a valid e-mail address. In addition, depending on the course or program in which you enroll, certain courses may require additional software. Some courses are offered by Telecourse, rather than by the internet. In general, Telecourses require students to have a television and a VCR. Some telecourses are offered by checking out a prerecorded set of tapes In addition, students should have access to a telephone or e- mail to provide communication with the instructor. Hybrid courses combine some aspects of Telecourses and Online Courses, or may have some class time on campus and the remainder done by online or television work. Is Distance Learning For You? • Do you have a strong desire to continue your education or to earn a degree? • Are you a self-directed learner? • Do you have good organizational skills? • Do you have the ability to plan ahead, be detailed in your work, and adhere to deadlines? • Can you assimilate information well from written materials? • Do you know how to locate and use a variety of learning resources? • Are you comfortable with the concept of “distance learning,” where knowledge is attained and enhanced by phone, mail and/or Internet? • Can you devote at least six to 15 hours (per course) per week to your studies? Orientation May Be Required Completion of an orientation session is required for many courses. Depending on the type of course for which you register (internet, tele/audio, hybrid) you may be required to complete an orientation session developed specifically for that course’s delivery method. For more information about college credit courses available on the Internet, contact the Counseling Offices at Moorpark, Ventura and Oxnard Colleges. CF Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura Colleges offer a wide range of online classes. Moorpark also offers Honors courses online and Learning Communities, featuring combined online courses. Students can find courses in the following subjects available at one or more of the colleges for Fall 2007: o Accounting o Anthropology o Astronomy o Art Appreciation o Biology o Business, including Accounting, Business Law, Communications, Management, o Career Development o Child Development o Computer Networking & Programming o Criminal Justice o Cyberspace Law o Economics o English, including Composition, Playwriting, Literature o Environment & Natural Resource Management o Graphics o Health and Wellness o Health Care Ethics o History o Humanities o Intro to Western Civilization o Journalism o Learning Strategies o Literature o Management o Math, including PreAlgebra, Algebra, Statistics o Medical Terminology o Multimedia o Music Appreciation o Nuitrition o Philosophy o Physiology o Physical Education o Political Science o Psychology o Sociology o Spanish o Theatre, including Intro to and History o Transfer Guidance For information on specific courses available at each college, visit: www.venturacollege.edu/distancelearning/index.htm www.moorparkcollege.edu/online www.oxnardcollege.edu/collegenews/OCTV/Telecourses/ webstar_telecourses.asp 805-652-5500 I Ventura County Community College District I www.vcccd.edu CareerFocus I Fall 2007 I When you need a hand, We’re here to help! VCCCD provides Support Services to Assist Students with Disabilities ByDavidhorowitz,LauraLyjakandAlisaS.Moore Everyone can use some extra help now and then. Thousands of VCCCD students have learning difficulties which require additional support, and there are offices at each of the three colleges to help. At Ventura and Oxnard the office is called the Educational Assistance Center (EAC); at Moorpark, the Accessibility Coordination Center & Educational Support Services (ACCESS). Each office provides free support for students who qualify, including special equipment; classroom assistance; and special accommodations for test-taking. Documenting a disability often is as simple as submitting existing medical and/or psychological information. Students who suspect they might have a disability can schedule testing with a specialist. EAC/ACCESS office personnel are committed to making students feel comfortable while meeting their diverse needs. All three offices offer similar services, including: • Specialized classes in learning strategies and skills, • Registration Assistance • Certified Sign Language Interpreters • Assistive Computer Technology • Alternative Testing Procedures • Tutoring • Academic, Personal, and Disability Related Counseling • Special Parking Permits • Assistive Devices • Assessment of Learning Skills • Instructional Materials and Media in Alternate Formats. Other services and accommodations may include: • Mobility Assistance • Employment Services • Specialized courses such as adaptive physical education and the use of assistive computer technology. Students with a history of delayed academic achievement or a great deal of difficulty mastering basic skills may wish to look into the special instruction and services provided by the offices, even if they have not been diagnosed previously with a disability. An assessment of learning skills can be administered to determine whether a student qualifies for extra academic support services and/or instruction. Learning skills classes provide group and individual instruction that teach to the student’s dominant learning style. This allows students to learn at their own pace and to gain skills that they can apply in their approach to other college classes. CF VC graduate, Isabel Arreola, blind since childhood, now attending Sacramento State University, is majoring in psychology. OC graduate Joel Garcia, profoundly deaf all his life, is a junior at Gallaudet University – the historic liberal arts university for the deaf and hard of hearing. MC graduate Jamie Gruttemeyer, Miss Ventura County 2007, is transferring to CSU Long Beach this fall. She has a learning disability that requires extra time to take tests. Ventura College: EAC According to Nancy Latham, EAC Coordinator, in addition to diagnosis and counseling, students will find additional help at the Assistive Technology Training Center (ATTC), which provides instruction in computer access to students with a broad range of disabilities, using the latest assistive technology available. Students learn to use such access strategies as speech synthesizers, voice-input systems, alternate keyboards, specialized word processing programs, mouse alternatives, Braille printers, and other technology appropriate to their learning needs. Specially trained instructors and support staff are available. Ventura College has implemented campus-wide assistive technology availability for students with disabilities. It’s Good to Have a Plan Actively involved in the development of individual educational plans, EAC/ACCESS staff can help students determine their educational goals. They are also available to meet with parents, students and advocates to outline the services that are available and the procedures to qualify for assistance. For more information about VCCCD’s support services, contact: Ventura College: Phone: (805) 654 6300 TDD: (805) 642 4583 www.venturacollege.edu/eacenter/ vceac@vcccd.edu Oxnard College: Phone: (805) 986 5830 TTY: (805) 488 8022 www.oxnardcollege.edu/ studentservices/eac/index.asp Moorpark College Phone/TTD: (805) 378 1513 sdattile@vcccd.edu www.moorparkcollege.edu/ access/ All Types of Assistance are Available Oxnard College: EAC Leo Orange, EAC Coordinator, said their program offers support services to ensure inclusion, integration and full participation of people with disabilities. Staff members assist students with early registration, tutoring referrals, note takers, interpreters for deaf students and computer classes designed to meet the needs of deaf and hard of hearing students. A deaf services specialist who can interpret American Sign Language manages the schedules of licensed interpreters who assist students in the classroom. They also support the Deaf Oxnard College Students which sponsors a special presentation open to the entire college during the “Deaf Awareness Day” held each fall. The OC Library has a reading machine in the Learning Center for making books on tape. Moorpark College, ACCESS Director Sherry D’Attile, ACCESS Director, explained that ACCESS has a range of classes and labs that help students understand their diagnosis in order to receive appropriate accommodations and services; understand the laws protecting their rights; be able to serve as their own self advocates; develop the skills and strategies necessary to successfully complete their educational goals, become proficient with assistive technology, gain confidence, self-awareness, and self- acceptance, and obtain knowledge of careers which would fit their individual strengths. I Fall 2007 I CareerFocus Ventura County Community College District I www.vcccd.edu I 805-652-5500 For Information on all Ventura College Events, call 805-654-6462 or visit the Calendar of Events on www.VenturaCollege.edu Theatre VC Theatre September 21 - 23, 28 - 30: One Act Play Festival November 9 - 11, 16 - 18 Dracula Guthrie Hall September 27: Teatro de las Americas (Spanish Language Theatre) Dance VC Theatre December 7 - 9: Fall Dance Dept. Concert Lectures: VC Theatre Topic: International Relations September 26 October 17 November 14 One Book, One Campus, One Community Events, Selected Book: The Monkey Wrench Gang All October Ventura College Arts & Lecture Series will be monthly, TBA Music All at the VC Theatre October: 6th: Master Chorale Concert Faculty Guest Artist Series: 9th: Grand Piano Soirée 10th: Soundwaves: Electronic Music by O. Powers 12th: VC Faculty Windwood Quintet 13th: Cascada de Flores – World Music Series 20th: Ventura College Community Orchestra 26th - 28th: Opera & Musical Theatre November: 28th: VC Choir Concert 29th: VC Jazz Group Concert 30th: VC Chamber Ensemble Concert December: 1st: VC Composers Concert 15th: Ventura College Community Orchestra Concert Art Galleries September 4 - 28: Gallery 2: Miya Hannan, Mixed Media New Media Gallery: Tari Kerss, Fiber Art October 9 - November 2: Gallery 2: One Book, One Campus: A View From Above; Mark Abrahamson, Aerial Photography New Media Gallery: One Book, One Campus II A Faculty/Student Collaboration Painting, Drawing, Printmaking & Photography November 13 - December 7: Gallery 2: Lauren Mantecon, Abstract Painting November 13 - 16: New Media Gallery: Student Art Sale All Student Work, All Media November 27 - December 11: New Media Gallery: Friends of the Arts All Media Art Sale to Raise Money for Art Scholarships VENTURA COLLEGE ............................................................ • VC, OC and MC all have transfer guarantees with many UC and CSUs. All rank high for both the number of and the success of their students who transfer. • High School students may qualify to attend VC, MC and OC enrollment fee free and work toward their high school diploma and their Associate’s Degree or transfer credits simultaneously. Register for fall classes now. Get started at www.vcccd.edu/apply NURSE Rene McMurray (VC) will attend CSU Channel Islands ........................ BIOLOGIST ........................ Eric Villalon (VC) will attend UC Davis University of California tuition - $8,000/yr California State University tuition - $3,500/yr OC, VC, MC Enrollment Fees - $600/yr .............................................................. Begin Your Future At A These students each saved thousands of dollars by beginning their University Degree at Moorpark, Oxnard or Ventura College. .............................................................. ENGINEER Daniel Strengier (MC) will attend UC Berkeley ............ TEACHER Christina Burke (MC) will attend UCLA ........................ COMPUTER SCIENTIST Seyed Aminirad (MC) will attend Berkeley ........................ NURSE ........................ Diane Rampersaud, nursing program at Moorpark College ACCOUNTANT ........................ Roberto Brooks (MC) will attend Cal Poly SLO MUSIC THERAPIST Joyce Kim (MC) will attend CSU Northridge ........................ ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Pardeese Ehya (MC) will attend UC Santa Barbara ........................ PHYSICIAN Eva Moser (VC) will attend UC Davis ........................ MUSICIAN Louis Lopez (VC) will attend CSU Northridge ........................ TEACHER Michael Nava (VC) will attend CSU Channel Islands ........................ PHYSICIAN ........................ Greg Sandoval (VC) will attend UC Davis URBAN PLANNER Donald Nielsen (VC) will attend Cal Poly SLO ........................ PHILOSOPHER Candace Turbyville (OC) will attend CSU Humbolt ........................ ACTOR Esteban Lopez (OC) will attend Notre Dame ........................ CEO Jose Luis Hernandez (OC) will attend UC Berkeley ........................ TEACHER ........................ Evelyn Padilla (OC) will attend CSU Channel Islands MATHEMATICIAN ........................ Joshua Pereyda (OC) will attend Univ of California MARINE BIOLOGIST Gabriela Navas (OC) will attend UC Santa Barbara ........................ CHILD CARE SPECIALIST Lola Wemberly-Jenkins (OC) will attend CSUCI ........................ All of the students pictured here are 2007 scholarship recipients. You can be a winner too!